There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Ranchi into a quick city adventure. From IXR, the Taxi/Auto-rickshaw can get you into town in around 70 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Ranchi, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for India vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Ranchi is roughly 70 minutes from IXR via Taxi/Auto-rickshaw. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from IXR to Ranchi
The most straightforward way into Ranchi is the Taxi/Auto-rickshaw, which takes about 70 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 90 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Auto-rickshaw is usually the smarter call.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at IXR 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 Ranchi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Ranchi layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$4 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$19 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ranchi, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Ranchi, here are two things worth checking out:
Jagannath Temple is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Ranchi Lake (Bada Talab) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside IXR — 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:
- The Lounge, Birsa Munda Airport
- Airport Retail Stalls
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Yellow Sapphire and Kaveri Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ranchi.
- At the airport: Cafe Coffee Day and Airport Food Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at IXR, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Ranchi itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for India that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at IXR
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, IXR 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
A layover in Ranchi 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 Ranchi.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.