For travelers with a layover in Tezu, the proximity of TEI to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via Taxi / Auto-rickshaw, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Tezu, 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: Tezu is roughly 30 minutes from TEI 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.
Transport from Tezu Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Tezu Airport into town:
- Taxi / Auto-rickshaw: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
Exploring Tezu on a Layover
If you head into Tezu, here are two things worth checking out:
Parshuram Kund is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Tezu.
Tezu Local Market (Tezu Bazaar) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
If you’d rather stay inside TEI — 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 Waiting Lounge
- Aircraft Observation Area
Eating Well on a Tezu Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Tezu: Hotel Amba Restaurant and Green View Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Canteen & Tea Stall or Snack & Coffee Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Tezu might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at TEI
Luggage storage options at TEI 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 Tezu for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TEI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Tezu 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at TEI
Long overnight layover? Your options at TEI include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in India also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Tezu with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Tezu 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.