Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Sukkur. Sukkur Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 75 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of SKZ:
- Can you legally enter Pakistan? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Taxi / Auto-rickshaw, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the PKR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Sukkur:
Start with Sukkur Barrage. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Sukkur. Then, if time allows, make your way to Sadh Belo Island. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Sukkur.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SKZ, check out Relax in the General Waiting Area or Enjoy Airport Cafe Refreshments to keep yourself occupied.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Sukkur Airport into town:
- Taxi / Auto-rickshaw: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 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.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Indus Restaurant and Mirchi Restaurant & BBQ Sukkur are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sukkur.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe Sukkur and Departure Lounge Snack Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Sukkur Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Sukkur, budget roughly $18 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $3 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Sukkur.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SKZ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Sukkur and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at SKZ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Sukkur’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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at SKZ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Pakistan also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sukkur with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Sukkur may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.