Passing through Pokhara Airport? A layover in Pokhara is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Pokhara, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Nepal vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Pokhara is roughly 30 minutes from PKR via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Pokhara Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Pokhara, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Pokhara.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at PKR can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Pokhara for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How to Spend Your Time in Pokhara
Two recommendations for your time in Pokhara:
Start with Phewa Lake Boating. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Lakeside Pokhara Stroll & Shopping. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
If you’d rather stay inside PKR — 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:
- Pokhara International Airport Viewing Area
- Airport Cafe & Waiting Area
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Moondance Restaurant and OR2K Pokhara are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Pokhara.
- At the airport: Pokhara Airport Canteen and Airport Coffee & Quick Bites will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PKR.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PKR for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Pokhara or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Pokhara is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Pokhara.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.