Kempegowda International Airport

Kempegowda International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but an impressive gateway to the "Silicon Valley" of India, where high technology meets rich culture. Travellers here are greeted by a striking combination of futuristic architecture and natural elements, fully justifying Bengaluru's title as the "Garden City". The new Terminal 2 stands out in particular; it resembles a luxurious botanical garden with bamboo structures and waterfalls rather than a conventional airport terminal. This place transforms the wait for a flight into a relaxing walk amidst greenery, setting the tone for your entire journey through the region.

Airport Features and Highlights

Kempegowda Airport is renowned for its innovative approach to passenger comfort and environmental sustainability. It is the first airport in India to run entirely on solar power, highlighting its commitment to sustainable development.

A key attraction is Terminal 2, known as the "Terminal in a Garden". Its design incorporates natural materials: rattan, brick, and specially treated bamboo. Inside, thousands of plants, artificial waterfalls, and hanging gardens create a unique microclimate. This space has been recognised as one of the most beautiful in the world by UNESCO.

Other advantages include:

• Transport Accessibility: An efficient network of air-conditioned Vayu Vajra buses connects the airport to almost all districts of the city, offering a comfortable and affordable transfer.
• Technology: The airport actively implements contactless technologies and biometric systems to speed up pre-flight formalities.
• Shopping and Leisure: A vast Duty Free zone, diverse lounges, and restaurants serving local South Indian and international cuisine allow you to spend your time profitably before departure.

To ensure your trip through Kempegowda International Airport goes smoothly, save these useful contacts. Here you will find all the necessary information to communicate with various airport services.

• Official Website: You can always find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official portal: www.bengaluruairport.com.
• Helpline: For information on flights, services, and general enquiries, you can call: +91 80 2201 2001. A toll-free number for calls within India is also available: 1800 102 5555.
• Airport Address: KIAL Rd, Devanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560300, India.
• Email: For general questions and feedback, you can write to: feedback@bialairport.com.
• Airport Social Media: Follow the news and get quick answers on the official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
• Lost & Found: If you have lost an item within the terminal building, contact the Lost & Found service via email: lostandfound@bialairport.com. In case of lost checked baggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For quick assistance and answers to questions, you can use the 24-hour helpline or write to the support chat on WhatsApp at: +91 88849 98888.

You can get to Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) from Bengaluru in several ways, suitable for any budget and comfort level. The choice of the best option depends on your time, amount of luggage, and personal preferences. When planning your trip, be sure to account for the city's famous traffic jams.

Public Transport: The most popular and economical option is the specialised Vayu Vajra buses operated by BMTC. These comfortable air-conditioned buses run around the clock on numerous routes, connecting the airport with all key districts of the city. The fare is low, and finding a stop is easy. A direct metro line to the airport is nearing completion, and in the future, this will become another convenient method.

Taxi and Transfers: The most convenient, though more expensive method, is a taxi or ride-hailing app (such as Uber or Ola). This is the ideal choice if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or in a group. The journey from the city centre usually takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, but travel time can vary greatly depending on traffic. It is recommended to use official prepaid taxi counters at the airport or book a car in advance via an app to avoid inflated prices.

Car Rental and Parking: For those who value independence, car rental is available. However, driving in the busy traffic of India can be stressful for an unaccustomed driver, so many tourists prefer to hire a car with a driver. If you are travelling to the airport in your own vehicle, both short-term and long-term parking zones are provided on the premises.

Recommendations: The main advice is to leave early! Due to unpredictable road conditions, it is better to allow at least 3-4 hours for the road before your flight time. Although Kempegowda Airport is the main hub for the region, for travel to neighbouring cities such as Mysuru or Salem, you can also consider alternative air hubs, for example, Tirupati Airport.

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bengaluru features two modern passenger terminals — Terminal 1 (T1) and the new Terminal 2 (T2). Before travelling to the airport, it is extremely important to check your ticket or the airline's website to know exactly which terminal your flight operates from, as they serve different destinations and carriers.

Terminal 1 is the original airport building, which currently handles the majority of domestic flights within India, as well as some international ones. The terminal structure is intuitive: the departure zone with check-in counters and security checkpoints is located on the upper floor, while the arrival zone with baggage claim is on the lower floor. T1 offers passengers a wide selection of shops, restaurants, and business lounges.

Terminal 2, also known as the "Terminal in a Garden", is an ultra-modern facility serving primarily international flights, as well as domestic flights of certain airlines (e.g., Vistara and Air India). Its main feature is a unique eco-concept with an abundance of greenery, bamboo installations, and water features, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere. This terminal is an attraction in itself and offers passengers a unique experience.

The terminals are located at some distance from each other, so walking between them is not envisaged. For passenger convenience, a free shuttle bus runs around the clock between T1 and T2. Finding the shuttle stop is easy by following the signs in the arrival zones of both terminals. Navigation inside the buildings is simple and clear, with all signs duplicated in English.

To complete all formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3-4 hours before an international one. During peak hours, the time for check-in and security checks may increase. Main recommendation — always confirm your terminal in advance. This will allow you to plan your time correctly and avoid unnecessary haste.

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is a relatively young but already iconic aviation hub of India. Its history began with the need to relieve the old HAL airport, which could no longer cope with the growing passenger traffic amidst the rapid development of Bengaluru as the country's technological capital. Construction of the new air harbour began in 2005, and the official opening took place on 24 May 2008. Initially, the airport was called Bengaluru International Airport, but in 2013 it was renamed in honour of the city's founder — Kempe Gowda I.

The airport's development proceeded at an accelerated pace. Just a few years after opening, it became obvious that the initial capacity would soon be exhausted. This led to the first major expansion phase: in 2013, the then-only Terminal 1 was significantly enlarged and modernised. The next step was the construction of a second runway, which was commissioned in late 2019, allowing the airport to handle more flights and increase operational efficiency.

The most significant event in the airport's recent history was the opening of Terminal 2, which began serving domestic flights in January 2023, and later international ones. This terminal, nicknamed the "Terminal in a Garden", has become the true hallmark of the airport. Its unique concept combines advanced technology with abundant greenery, bamboo structures, and waterfalls, giving passengers a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. The project has received numerous international awards for design and sustainability.

Over its short history, Kempegowda Airport has set several records and achieved recognition. It consistently ranks among the top three busiest airports in India by passenger traffic. Interesting fact: the airport was one of the first in the country to actively implement biometric technologies for boarding (DigiYatra), significantly speeding up pre-flight formalities. Thanks to constant modernisation and a focus on passenger experience, BLR regularly receives high marks in global Skytrax service quality ratings.

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru offers passengers modern infrastructure and a wide range of services to make your wait for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminals, you will find numerous restaurants and cafes offering both local Indian cuisine and popular international fast-food chains. For shopping enthusiasts, there are numerous shops, including Duty Free, where you can purchase perfumes, cosmetics, and other goods, as well as clothing boutiques, souvenir stalls, and electronics stores.

For comfortable relaxation before departure, the airport provides premium lounges (VIP lounges). Access is open to business class passengers or for a separate fee for all visitors. Here you will be offered snacks, beverages, fresh newspapers, and a quiet atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous gadget charging stations will allow you to stay connected at all times.

Financial matters are easily resolved at Kempegowda Airport: ATMs and currency exchange counters are at your service, located in both the arrival and departure zones. In case of unforeseen health situations, a 24-hour medical centre and several pharmacies are available, where you can receive qualified help and purchase necessary medicines.

Travellers with children will appreciate the special mother and child rooms, equipped with everything necessary for baby care, as well as play zones where young passengers can have fun. For passengers with reduced mobility, a full range of services is provided: assistance with accompaniment, provision of wheelchairs, specially equipped toilets, and parking spaces. It is recommended to book such services in advance through your airline.

If you have a long layover, you can stay at the transit hotel located directly on the airport premises, or at one of several hotels nearby, which are served by shuttles. For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms are available, equipped with everything necessary for meetings and work: from meeting rooms to photocopying equipment and workstations with internet access.

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (BLR) offers an impressive variety of establishments for every taste and budget, allowing passengers to enjoy both global hits and authentic local cuisine. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or a full dinner, you will certainly find a suitable option.

Dining establishments are conveniently located both in the public area (landside) and in the departure zone after security control (airside). In the arrival and check-in area (landside), you will find several cafes and fast-food restaurants, ideal for those meeting passengers or arriving at the airport early. However, the largest selection awaits passengers in the departure zone (airside), especially in the modern Terminal 2, which is famous for its "garden" style food court.

For those short on time, international coffee chains (such as Starbucks and Costa Coffee), kiosks with fresh pastries, sandwiches, and juices are scattered throughout the airport. If time permits, you can settle into one of the full-service restaurants offering dishes ranging from Italian pizza to Asian noodles. Food courts are an excellent compromise, offering a variety of cuisines at moderate prices.

We strongly recommend trying South Indian cuisine, for which the region is famous. Look for places serving traditional breakfast items, such as masala dosa (a crispy crepe with potato filling), idli (steamed rice cakes), or vada (spiced lentil doughnuts). This is a great way to experience local gastronomy right at the airport.

Passengers with special dietary needs have nothing to worry about. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are widely represented in most establishments, reflecting the culinary traditions of India. Halal options are also available, but it is better to confirm their availability at the specific restaurant. For gluten-free options, it is recommended to speak directly to the cafe or restaurant staff for precise information on dish ingredients.

The price range varies from budget food courts to premium restaurants. Most establishments in the departure zone operate around the clock (24/7) to serve passengers of international and night flights. Cafes in the public zone may close for the night. Thus, you will always have the opportunity to have a snack, regardless of your flight time.

When planning a departure from Kempegowda International Airport, it is worth arriving early. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 3-4 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2-2.5 hours. The airport in Bengaluru is a large and busy transport hub, so queues for check-in and security can be significant, especially in the morning and evening hours.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your phone. Security services at airports in India work very thoroughly. Be prepared to remove all electronic devices from your hand luggage, including laptops, tablets, and power banks, for separate scanning. Strictly following staff instructions will help speed up the screening process.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your priorities. Window seats will allow you to enjoy the views, especially if you are flying during the day. Aisle seats ensure easy access to the lavatory and the ability to stretch your legs. Airlines often offer seats with extra legroom (for example, at emergency exits) for an additional fee — this is a good option for long flights.

Hand luggage rules are standard: liquids in containers not exceeding 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Pay special attention to power banks — they are permitted only in hand luggage, and there are restrictions on their maximum capacity. Be sure to check the current requirements of your airline before departure.

Passengers with a transfer at Kempegowda should clarify in advance whether they need to collect luggage and check in again, especially when changing from an international flight to a domestic one. The airport is modern and offers many cafes, shops, and lounge areas where you can comfortably spend time waiting for your next flight.

When passing through customs control upon arrival from abroad, be prepared to present your passport and possibly fill out a declaration. If you have goods subject to declaration, or if you are in doubt, use the "Red Channel". Customs officers may selectively direct luggage for additional screening.

To save money, book a taxi from the airport via official apps or prepaid counters in the arrival hall — this will help avoid inflated prices. You can also bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control. Free Wi-Fi at the airport will help you stay connected without roaming charges.

If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline's counter for the latest information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. Use this time to relax in one of the numerous waiting areas or visit the Duty Free shops.