Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Palembang gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from PLM to the city takes roughly 100 minutes by LRT Palembang, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at PLM:
First, verify that you can enter Indonesia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the LRT Palembang takes about 100 minutes into Palembang, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — IDR is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What to See and Do in Palembang
For a layover visit to Palembang, we’d suggest Ampera Bridge (Jembatan Ampera) and Benteng Kuto Besak. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Palembang. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside PLM — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Sriwijaya Air Business Lounge
- Local Souvenir Shops
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Pempek Vico and Martabak HAR are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Palembang.
- At the airport: Solaria and Pempek Ekspress will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How to Get Into Palembang
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LRT Palembang | ~100 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~120 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the LRT Palembang is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Palembang Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Palembang:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $6 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $21 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Palembang.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at PLM may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Palembang’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PLM, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Palembang itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Indonesia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PLM
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at PLM, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Palembang with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Palembang may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.