A layover in Simara is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Simara Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Local Bus, 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.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of SIF:
- Can you legally enter Nepal? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi / Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the NPR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Transport from Simara Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Simara is the Taxi / Local Bus, which takes about 30 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 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Local Bus is usually the smarter call.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SIF may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Simara’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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Simara:
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 Simara.
Exploring Simara on a Layover
For a layover visit to Simara, we’d suggest Parsa National Park Buffer Zone and Patharaiya Temple. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SIF, you can spend time at Simara Airport Waiting Area or try Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Simara: Hotel Ichha Restaurant and Simara Highway Dhaba. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Simara Airport Tea Stall or Airport Quick Bites. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at SIF, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Simara itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Nepal that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SIF 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 Simara count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave SIF. 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.