If you’ve got a layover in Surkhet, don’t let it go to waste sitting at SKH. The city, in Nepal, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of SKH:
- 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 60-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Surkhet from SKH
From SKH, the local transport gets you to Surkhet in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at SKH 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 Surkhet for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Surkhet:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Surkhet, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Surkhet, here are two things worth checking out:
Bulbule Lake Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Deuti Bajai Temple is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SKH, you can spend time at SKH Airport Passenger Waiting Area or try Aircraft Spotting at SKH Tarmac. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Surkhet Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Surkhet: Hotel Rajdurbar & Resort Restaurant and Surkhet Café & Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for SKH Airport Refreshments Counter or Terminal Tea & Coffee Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SKH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Nepal and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at SKH
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 SKH.
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
A layover in Surkhet with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Surkhet 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.