Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru

Welcome

Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR) is an anomaly in Indian aviation: often referred to as the "terminal in a garden," it features high ceilings, abundant greenery, and even water features. This botanical atmosphere contrasts sharply with the standard terminal experience. As a bustling tech hub, Bengaluru's airport prioritizes vegetarian, South Indian, and craft-coffee offerings, catering to the city's diverse travelers, though its layout demands that you plan itineraries carefully.

At a glance

With 37.2 million passengers per year and two primary runways, BLR is a significant player in Indian aviation, nestled 30 km north of Bengaluru city center. Home to major carriers such as IndiGo, AirAsia India, and Vistara, the airport is a gateway to both domestic and international destinations. Terminals T1 and T2 house a range of services, from South Indian culinary delights to luxurious lounges.

Terminals & layout

BLR's Terminal 1 serves carriers like Air India and Akasa Air, while Terminal 2 hosts international giants such as British Airways and Qatar Airways. T1 retains a more traditional, bustling airport vibe. T2, however, is celebrated for its "terminal in a garden" aesthetic, making it a standout for anyone interested in design and a quieter atmosphere.

Getting to and from the city

The airport is located in Devanahalli, 30 km from Bengaluru, translating to a 60-120 minute journey depending on traffic. Options include airport taxis like Meru and KSTDC, ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber, and the economical BMTC Vayu Vajra buses, which range between ₹250-300 and operate through the night, providing a crucial link to various city loci such as Majestic and Electronics City.

Traveller essentials

Security at BLR, particularly in T2 during peak morning hours, can be a formidable hurdle. Arriving earlier than usual is advisable, especially at times when queues are long. For those driving, parking costs range from ₹250 for two-wheelers per day to ₹1000 for car parking at T2 for the first 24 hours. Duty-free and retail outlets like Flemingo Duty Free are available, albeit often noted as lackluster compared to international standards.

Dining & shopping highlights

Culinary experiences at BLR emphasize local flavors, with idli, dosa, and filter coffee readily available at outlets like Adyar Ananda Bhavan in T1. In T2, you'll find street foods by Punjab Grill and Tiffin by Taj, catering to diverse palates. While international chains like KFC and McDonald's are present, they can't compete with the more localized fare in terms of value and authenticity.

Lounges

BLR features several lounges across its terminals, including the 080 Lounge at both T1 and T2, accessible for ₹1500. Additionally, the Plaza Premium Lounge in each terminal provides an upscale waiting experience, and the Air India Maharaja Lounge in T2 offers a quiet retreat for eligible passengers. Frequent flyers often find T2’s lounges less crowded due to its layout and size.

Insider tips

• Insider: Opt for flights out of T2 for a serene departure experience, thanks to its garden-like ambiance.
• Time: Arrive extra early for morning departures in T2; security lines are notoriously long.
• Money: The KIA buses offer the best price-performance for late-night travel, linking to key city areas and running through most of the night.
• Avoid: Skip the generic burger chains and head to Adyar Ananda Bhavan in T1 for authentic South Indian fare.
• Local: T2’s art installations integrate regional motifs, worth a leisurely walk to enjoy.
• Quiet: Use T2’s café seating areas for work; they offer better Wi-Fi and are less crowded compared to lounges.
• Insider: Book rideshare only upon reaching the pickup zone to avoid driver cancellations due to navigational confusion.
• Time: Domestic-international connections require ample layover time due to terminal transfer distance and security checks.