A layover in Rawala Kot is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Rawalakot Airport sits just 50 minutes from the city center by Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside RAZ
A few things to sort out before you leave RAZ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Pakistan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Rawala Kot takes about 50 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is PKR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Rawala Kot, we’d suggest City Center Walk and Local Market. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside RAZ — 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:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Transport from Rawalakot Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Rawala Kot is the Taxi, which takes about 50 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 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Eating Well on a Rawala Kot Layover
For food in Rawala Kot, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at RAZ, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Rawala Kot might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$3 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$18 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at RAZ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Rawala Kot itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Pakistan that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at RAZ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Rawala Kot’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.
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 RAZ.
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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Rawala Kot exploring the streets or relaxing at RAZ, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.