Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Rajkot gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from RAJ to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Taxis / Auto-rickshaws, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave RAJ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for India. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Rajkot takes about 30 minutes by Taxis / Auto-rickshaws. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Rajkot, we’d suggest Kaba Gandhi No Delo and Watson Museum & Jubilee Garden. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
If you’d rather stay inside RAJ — 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:
- Rajkot Airport Executive Lounge
- Souvenir & Book Kiosk
Transport from Rajkot Airport to Downtown
From RAJ, the Taxis / Auto-rickshaws gets you to Rajkot in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxis / Auto-rickshaws offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Rajkot
If you make it into town, Thakar Lodge is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try The Grand Thakar.
Inside RAJ
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Local Sweets & Savouries Counter works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Rajkot might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$5 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$20 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Rajkot, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at RAJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Rajkot 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.
Storing Your Luggage at Rajkot Airport
Luggage storage options at RAJ 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 Rajkot for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, RAJ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Rajkot count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave RAJ. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.