Bangalore05 Jan 23 1 Traveller Economy
Showing 2 Bagdogra to Bangalore Go First Flights - Starting at Just ₹ 16900
About Bagdogra
North-East India and the Himalayas are a trendy tourist destination in India, for all the right reasons. Bagdogra is a hill station near the foothills of Himalayas and in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Bagdogra is considered as the gateway to the North-East and the Himalayas. This small hill station is so beautiful; you'll love being here even if it is for a couple of hours. It's the perfect place for all you nature lovers out there. You can either laze around and admire the scenery or take a walk around the town to explore it.
The hill station is a perfect holiday spot. It's also like paradise for tea lovers since tea gardens surround it. River Teesta also flows through the town, which makes it the ideal place to indulge in river rafting. Or you can sit by the river and embrace solitude for a while. You pass through Bagdogra to get to Darjeeling, Sikkim, Siliguri and Bhutan. Bagdogra will make you fall in love with it. Apart from sightseeing and river rafting, there are quite a few activities that you can opt for in Bagdogra. It's not the most popular vacation destination, but you will surely not regret spending time in this town.
Bagdogra is connected to all major cities in the country. It is pretty easy to reach Bagdogra by flights, trains and road, too. The Bagdogra Airport connects to domestic routes from Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai and Guwahati. You can also quickly get a bus or taxi from the neighbouring cities to Bagdogra.
Make sure you do add Bagdogra to your itinerary when you plan a trip to the North-East. You will love this small town for its lush green surroundings and the beautiful weather. The people, too, are quite friendly and helpful. Even though there is very little that you can do in Bagdogra, it is worth stopping by. If you have a long layover at Bagdogra airport, you can make the most of it by going sightseeing somewhere near the airport. Since it is a small town, you won't have to worry about making it back on time for your flight. But if you are going to Darjeeling, Bhutan or Shillong and the town falls on your way, make sure that you do visit this town.
Best Time to Visit Bagdogra
July to February is the best time to visit Bagdogra. While the hill station witnesses monsoon from July to October, the winter sets in from November to February. This is the ideal time for you to witness the beautiful, scenic hill station. The temperature can fall to as low as 5 degree Celsius. You can see the snowy mountains that surround the town and be mesmerized by the beauty of it. The summer is also quite pleasant in the City, and the maximum temperature touches 38 degree Celsius.
Places to Visit in Bagdogra
Check out the Coronation Bridge that is 37 km from Bagdogra. It is on the way to Gangtok from Bagdogra, and the view is just beautiful. The Surya Sen Park in Siliguri, which is close to Bagdogra, is a bright picnic spot. The park sees quite a few families on vacation spending quality time with each other while enjoying the view. Madhuban Park, which is 24 km ahead of Bagdogra in Siliguri, was established by the Indian Army. This is yet another picnic spot that tourists love. You'll even spot deers, peacocks and rabbits in the park, along with butterflies.
The Umrao Singh Boat Club in Siliguri has a lot of activities in store for you, including boating. They have a huge variety and different shapes of boats for tourists. You can get in touch with your spiritual side at the ISKCON temple in Siliguri and at Kali Mandir in Binnaguri which is also quite close to River Teesta. You can visit the temple and combine it with river rafting at the river. You can also visit Salugara Monastery while you are here.
Bagdogra has no hotels since it's only a pitstop to get to the other neighbouring cities and Bhutan. You can, however, book a hotel room in Siliguri or Darjeeling or any of the nearby towns. The bus services to Bagdogra are widespread, so you won't have to worry about travelling to and from the City.
Things to do in Bagdogra
Bagdogra is the gateway to reaching Darjeeling, Sikkim, Bhutan and everything North-East. You can take a cab or a bus to visit Siliguri, which is the nearest City to this hill station. If you have a couple of hours left to catch another flight, you can get around the town in less time. Since Bagdogra is just a pitstop, you will find fewer tourist things to do, but the hill station is entirely worth it. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Bagdogra has the most beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains that surround it.
If you do have time on your hands, make sure you go river rafting at River Teesta. Or you can admire the river and meditate by the river for a while. You can also visit the Coronation Bridge that is quite close to the river stream. Whether you are with your friends or family, be assured that you will have a great time here. You can also visit the Salugara Monastery and the Kali Mandir to offer your prayers and to enjoy your solitude.
Even if you don't feel like indulging in any activities, grab your favourite book and get engrossed in the stories amid the best of what nature has to offer to you. You can also put on your headphones, play your favourite music and get lost in the tranquillity of the hill station. If you are on a solo trip, you will love spending time here in Bagdogra, even if it is for a little while. Bagdogra is quite accessible to most cities in the North-East, and travelling will not prove to be troublesome for you.
Food and Restaurants in Bagdogra
If you are travelling via plane, you have to try the restaurant that is inside the Bagdogra airport. It is run by the Bagdogra Airport Restaurant Workers Co-operative Society Ltd, and it serves a unique dish that grabbed headlines for all the right reasons. The airport serves you chicken cutlets that are made in Bagdogra style and are a one-of-its-kind dish. All foodies must try this out at least once. The restaurant can seat up to 150 people, and you'll be treated to a runway view as you finish your meal. It won't even burn a hole in your pocket.
Marina's Motel is one of the best restaurants near the airport if you are craving for Chinese or Continental cuisines. The staff is quite friendly, and the restaurant has a very cosy ambience. Bagdogra also has a solution to your biryani cravings. Naz Biryani House is known for serving and cooking the most delicious biryani, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. For a quick bite, you can head over to Hunger Stop restaurant near the airport. You can even try the dessert here.
The Gourmet Central Family Restaurant and Bar is approximately 11 km away from the airport. It has a charming decor with cosy seating and friendly staff. It is also one of the best restaurants in the town. Do make sure that you try the food at the airport restaurant though. You can also opt for street food or the local chai, which will be available quite easily. Don't hesitate to try out the local street food, too.
How to reach Bagdogra (Transportation)
By Air
The Bagdogra Airport is well-connected to major domestic routes from Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bangalore and Chennai. The flight connectivity is quite functional, and getting to Bagdogra is not very difficult. You can get pretty good flight deals online and cheap flight tickets, too.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is in Siliguri, which is 5 km away from Bagdogra. There are no direct trains or buses to Bagdogra, and you will have to change a taxi or bus from Siliguri to reach the hill station.
By Road
There are lots of transport options and services are available to reach the town. You can opt for whichever suits your convenience. The transport is quite affordable, too. The roads are also quite smooth and won't be uncomfortable for you. You will also find a lot of convenient options to go to other neighbouring cities of the North-East and the Himalayas. Travelling by road is also one of the best options. The journey will surely be a treat for the eyes and the soul.
About Bangalore
India's very own IT hub, Bangalore, is the centre for the high-tech industry. The city is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in India thanks to the innumerable employment opportunities and development scope. Already known to be one of the biggest cities in India, Bangalore's charm also comes from the crazy nightlife and grand architectural structures. The flight connectivity from Bangalore to the other metro cities in India as well as international locations is top-notch. Although the traffic might be the biggest concerns for residents or even individuals travelling to Bangalore, the city's vibrant spirit continues to attract more and more crowd. Not to mention how pleasant weather further adds more charm to the city.
Best time to visit Bangalore
Bangalore enjoys the most pleasant weather in the whole country. Considering how the city is in the Southern regions of India, which is usually hot in summers, Bangalore doesn't face the pesky heat. Rather it continues to relish a moderate temperature, making it ideal for every season. The summers in the city are between February to May with April and May experiencing peak temperatures. The max the temperatures soar up to is 36 degree Celsius. Luckily though, since the city does not face humidity, it is mostly got and dry during summers.
Monsoons begin early in Bangalore from late May or early June. The city experiences heavy rains, especially between June to August. However, rains bring about a scenic charm to the city as the greenery is amplified.
Winters can get super cold with the temperatures dropping down to 12 degrees Celsius. The peak winter months in Bangalore are from November to January. December is easily the coldest month in the city. In fact, winter mornings can be pretty chilly but romantic at the same time. Interestingly, Bangalore does face erratic weather which could either be a spike or a drop in the temperature. Nevertheless, you can enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere all-round the year.
Places to see in Bangalore
Vidhana Soudha and Vikasa Soudha - The two structures are government properties with impeccable modern construction and intriguing architecture. Although the Vidhana Soudha and Vikasa Soudha are separated to handle different legislative avenues of the city, the place brings about a rich charm, making it a must-visit place in the city.
Seshadari Iyer Memorial - The distinctive red sandstone used to construct this building in Cubbon Park easily stands tall as a tourist attraction. It's basically a public library as well as the Bangalore High Court. Aside from the lawful activities that take place, the complex is also given a recreational touch with toy trains and theatres to entertain kids.
Bangalore Palace - Constructed by the illustrious Maharajas of Mysore, the Bangalore Palace has yet again found prominence as a tourist attraction and is open to tourists. The place has had to undergo a string of renovations following which, they have been able to bring forth an eclectic palace with interesting historical artefacts. The location is definitely interesting, especially since it sheds light in the life of Tipu Sultan. Not to mention how the embellished walls and archways further give it a royal feel that would only add to your merriment.
The Bull Temple - Nestled in Basavanagudi is this typical Dravidian-styled temple that is famous for the colossal bull statue. What makes the statue so special is the fact that it has been carved out of a single boulder, making the temple just as legendary as the statue. Every year, local farmers flock over to the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings for a fruitful harvest.
Maha Bodhi Society Temple - This temple is relatively new in the city and is basically a replica of the historic structure at Bodh Gaya. The Buddhist stupa is famous for its spiritual teachings, training and peaceful ambience. The same can be experienced at this temple too. The temple grounds reverberate a serene tone of comfort while the quaint setting makes for a tranquil experience.
Bannerghatta National Park - A little away from the city centre, the Bannerghatta National Park is the perfect escape you can ask for from the city's excessive traffic. The national park plays home to tigers, bears, elephants, lions and many more wild animals. You can actually sign up for a safari, and the tour guides would take you through the various segments of the national park. The park also comes with a zoo where some beautiful birds, leopards, jackals, etc. reside.
The city of Bangalore is surprisingly filled with a tremendous number of temples and spiritual setting. Aside from the ones mentioned above, there are many more artful temples, churches and structures that will blow your mind. Plus, the national park, zoos, gardens and other such expanses of green spaces would further leave you spellbound.
Things to do in Bangalore
Adventure sports - Bangalore's young crowd with a thirst for adrenaline rush makes is a prime hub for adventure sports. Right from cruising through the highway roads on a motorcycle to taking up camping and dirt bike riding, there is a massive market for such outdoor activities which you will definitely enjoy. Kayaking, rock climbing, go-karting, even hiking, are all things that you can do when in Bangalore.
Cave exploration - From the city, you can meet up a bunch of fellow cave explorers and head to Savandurga, Anthargange or Siddarabetta. These caves are not too far from the city and definitely worth the wanderlust.
Hiking and trekking - Bangalore is surrounded by some pristine hills with gorgeous waterfalls. You can probably take a day from your trip to spend on trekking up one of the peaks. Nandi Hills is the closest to the city and can easily be completed in a day. Perhaps you can also set camp and enjoy the cool mountain breeze.
Brewery hopping - One of the best things about the city is the plethora of breweries and clubs. Bangalore certainly has a nightlife that can well be on par with that of Mumbai or Delhi. Toit is one of the famous breweries that seems to be expanding its roots from the IT city to other metropolitan cities.
Food and Restaurants in Bangalore
Just head straight to Indira Nagar and go exploring! Delve into the hip vibe of Indira Nagar as the street with its impeccable dining and dynamic nightlife serenades you. All you've got to do is just walk up 100 Feet Road and let the fancy pubs anAd food hubs entice you with their popularity. Some important names to know though, Arbor, Toit, Windmills, Brewklyn Brewery, while you're in Bangalore.
How to reach Bangalore
By Air
One of the major challenges of Bangalore is the transportation. More like, the excessive traffic that makes travelling to the city and within the city a tad bit difficult. By air, you can reach Kempegowda International Airport, which is located in Devanahalli. The airport is 40 km away from the central city (MG Road); however, due to their terrible traffic, reaching the city from the airport gets challenging. The airport has close to 10 domestic airlines and about 21 international airlines with flights coming in and leaving the city. This has enabled Bangalore's flight connectivity ideal with the rest of the cities in India and the world. Bangalore covers close to 50 destinations, within India as well as internationally. Further, the airport also serves as a focus city for three major domestic airlines , namely, SpiceJet, GoAir and IndiGo.
From the airport, there are numerous ways of transport options that one can choose from. There are regular government-affiliated bus services as well as AC Volvo buses to the city. Plus, cab services De also prevalent, so travelling to the city is not an issue.
By Rail
There are two central railway terminals in Bangalore namely Bangalore City Railway Station and Yeshwantpur Junction. The two railway stations are well-connected with the rest of the country's major cities. Although the travel time by train is a little more as compared to flights, the railway is usually the last resort considered by people. A traveller from Mumbai will spend 24 hours on the train to reach Bangalore whereas if the individual will spend only 18-20 hours if travelling from a bus. You must find out which railway station would be ideal for your trip and accordingly book your tickets to Bangalore on the Indian Railways' website. You can also make your bookings on other platforms or visit the railway station to purchase it from the counter.
By Road
Travelling to Bangalore by road might actually be a fun trip. You can either get your own vehicle out to drive down to the city, or you can opt for public transport such as private or public buses. Cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mangalore, Madurai, Coimbatore, Madgaon have sleeper buses available that could take less of your travel time as opposed to trains. The last stop is the Kempegowda Bus Station, popularly known as KSRTC or Majestic Bus Stand. The vast bus stand has intercity buses as well as transport facilities for interstate travel.
About Go First
Go First is one of the most preferred airlines by passengers in the country. It commenced operations in 2005 and went on to become the fifth largest airline in India. It was founded by Jehangir Wadia, who is the son of industrialist Nusli Wadia. Go First started its operations using an Airbus A320. In the beginning, the airlines only operated to four cities that included Goa and Coimbatore. The airline operates 330 daily flights to 38 destinations, of which 27 are domestic cities, and 11 are international. The airline has hubs at major airports like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Kannur International Airport. The international flights only take off from its major hubs. Go First launched its inaugural flight to Phuket in 2018 and also has a direct flight to Phuket without any layovers.
Go First became the fifth largest airline in the market after the end of Kingfisher Airlines. In fact, back in 2009, British Airways also showed interest in buying a stake in Go First. The airline's growth has been slow but quite impressive, too. You can book a Go First flight on the go quite literally. The airline offers you a ton of options to choose the right flick as per your budget and time. You can either book your tickets online, on their website, or through travel agents. You can even call up the call centres or get a ticket at one of the Go First counters. Its main aim is to offer an efficient means of air travel that won't burn a hole in your pocket. Not to mention, they also keep you updated on the flight status and any ongoing or upcoming offers. You can also pre-book your seats at a nominal price, so you travel in comfort. The airline also has international SIM card offers on its website for its passengers.
The airline has 57 aircraft in service, 15 Airbus A320-200 aircraft and 42 Airbus A320neo aircraft. Both of the aircraft can accommodate 180-186 passengers. Go First earned the title 'Best Domestic Airline for Excellency in Quality and Efficient Service by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association in 2008 and also went on to winning the 'Best Performing Airline' in Asia and Africa in 2011. The airline strives to and makes sure that it increases efficiency. You will also come across quite a few offers for citizens and students who are boarding a Go First flight. The airline is also known for its punctuality. You can never be late if you are on a Go First flight unless there are climatic restrictions or emergencies.
Fleet Size of Go First
Go First has two types of aircraft in service, the Airbus A320-200 and Airbus A320neo. The airline got its first A320neo aircraft in 2016 and went on to sign a memorandum of understanding with Airbus for 72 more aircraft. It has 15 A320-200 aircraft that can accommodate 180 passengers. There are more than 42 Airbus A320neo aircraft that accommodate up to 186 passengers. The aircraft only has economy class, but it also has offers that can enable you to pre-book a seat as per your convenience.
Baggage Allowance
Go First has certain baggage allowance restrictions that every passenger must follow. The airline also makes sure that they keep the passengers informed about all of the rules and regulations. The maximum limit for your check-in baggage is 20 kg, and cabin baggage cannot exceed 7 kg. However, if your luggage is exceeding the limit, you will have to inform the airline in advance and also pay a nominal fee for baggage allowance. You can do it through their website or approach the call centre to help you with the process. If you are travelling with an infant, you are allowed one extra cabin baggage not exceeding 7 kg. You will not have to pay extra for it. Make sure you get your web check-in done in advance online, so you don't have to wait in the queue at the airport. Though there are very few times that a passenger's luggage gets lost, the staff is quick to help you locate your luggage and help you with the whole process. You will also have to ensure that you are not carrying explosive or combustible gases or anything that has been restricted by the airline. A list of things to not carry in your check-in baggage comes with your ticket to ensure that you give it a read. You can also not pack your power banks and portable charges in your check-in luggage. Make sure you carry all your electronics and chargers in your cabin baggage. If you have ticked all of these boxes before reaching the airport, you can get your boarding pass quickly and chill at the airport lounge, near your gate, till it is time to board the flight. It also means less hassle for the passengers who are next in line.
In-flight Services
Go First has quite a few in-flight services for its passengers. If you are registered under Go Business, you will get to take advantage of facilities like free meals, pre-booking seats that have greater legroom as compared to the other seats, priority boarding and increased baggage allowance. The airline also publishes its own magazine called Go Getter, which you can access during your flight. The airline does not have any other in-flight entertainment services apart from the magazine. The airline does not provide earplugs, chewing gums or cotton, if you are sensitive to high altitude, so you will have to carry your own. They also don't serve alcohol in the flight, but they do let you carry your own food inside the aircraft. Serving alcohol is also strictly prohibited in the aircraft. If you are carrying a bottle of water, make sure it is not over 100 ml.
Popular Routes and Top Cities for Go First
Go First connects to various domestic and international routes daily. It connects to 11 international destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Singapore, Male, Kuwait City and Dubai. It connects to domestic cities like Goa, Delhi, Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Kannur, Hyderabad, Guwahati, Chennai, Chandigarh, Bagdogra, Leh, Lucknow, Jaipur, Jammu, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Patna, Ranchi and Port Blair. Go First has over 330 flights operating daily to various cities, both domestic and international. The staff is also quite friendly and will guide with whether or not you can explore the city to kill time during long layovers. One of the best features of the airline is that it sticks to the Go First flight schedule. You will rarely experience a delay in flights unless there is an emergency of sorts. Even if there are delays, the airline makes it a point to inform you well in advance so you can plan your commute accordingly.
Why Travel by Go First?
Go First is known for its punctuality and efficiency. Not only does it offer low fares to passengers, but it also offers the best services. You can book a Go First flight in a few easy steps and all by yourself. If you have missed your connecting flight due to late arrival, the staff tries to accommodate you in the next flight so you can reach your destination on time. You can check the Go First flight schedule and their flight status on the website. You will also SMS alerts from the airline quite frequently till you board your flight. You can also easily complete your web check-in a day before your flight. The website is very user-friendly, and if you are still unsure, you can call up the call centre to ask one of the executives to help you out. If you are travelling by Go First, make sure you reach on time because the staff and the airline are quite punctual. If you have a lot of luggage, it is all the more important that you reach before time so you can get your luggage sorted. The airline offers services that you can use to either get discounts on your fares or pay extra to use the premium facilities. If you sign up for the premium services, you can get priority over choosing your seat, baggage and free meals. You will also get access to the VIP lounges at the airport after you are done with your security check and other formalities.
Go First aims to make travel fun, convenient and affordable to its passengers. Its reputation has grown strong over the years, and it is surely making its way up to the top. It is one of the most preferred airlines among customers for all the right reasons. In addition to the services that you get as a premium passenger, Go First also offers international SIM on its website. If you are travelling internationally, you can look this up on their website and choose a suitable plan depending on your travel plans. You can avoid being hassled by phone company stalls at the international airports to try and sell you their phone plan.
About Bangalore Airport
The Bangalore Airport, popularly known as the Kempegowda International Airport, is the international airport that serves the city of Bangalore, which is the capital of the state of Karnataka. It has completely replaced the HAL airport which previously served the city of Bangalore. The airport is spread across 4,000 acres and is about 40 km from the Bangalore city centre. In fact, it is close to the Devanahalli village. The airport has been christened after the person who founded the city of Bangalore, Kempe Gowda I. The Kempegowda International Airport is the country's first fully solar-powered airport, which is serviced by CleanMax Solar. The Bangalore Airport is known to be the third busiest airport in India, with respect to passenger traffic. It stands behind Delhi and Mumbai in the race. The Kempegowda International Airport is also the 29th busiest airport, as recorded by Asia. The airport has recorded to accommodate approximately 33 million passengers. There are two runways and a passenger terminal that the Bangalore Airport harbours. The domestic and international services and operations take place at T1 while T2 (second terminal) is in the works for expansion.
About Bangalore Airport Terminals
The airport has an integrated terminal which connects both domestic and international passenger operations. The single integrated terminal can accommodate 20 million passengers on a yearly basis. While the check-in counters and baggage claims are on the ground level, the departure gates are all located on the first level. The gates have been segregated in such a way that one side of the segment is dedicated to domestic departures while the other side is reserved for international departures. The gates 41 and 42 accommodate to serve the world's largest passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380. The ground level also has Plaza Premium Lounge and VIP rooms available. The airport also has facilities of a day hotel, in case there are flights or layovers that will take more than 10 hours. Currently, the airport is undergoing expansions for the second phase. They are working to build Terminal 2. The project has been undertaken by a renowned architectural firm, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. The construction of the second phase is being undertaken by Larsen & Toubro. The plan is to extend the airport's capacity to accommodate an additional 20 million passengers in a year.
About airport authority
The Bangalore Airport is owned and operated by Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), which is a public limited company. BIAL has been granted permission to operate the airport for 30 years by the Government of India. The airport does have the option to work for 30 additional years depending on whether the venture wishes to take it forward. The consortium is co-owned by private and public ventures where the Karnataka State Industrial Investment and Development Corporation (government entity) owns 13 per cent. At the same time, the Airports Authority of India has 13 per cent. Meanwhile, the 74 per cent is taken over by private entities, Fairfax Financial holding 54 per cent and Siemens Projects Ventures with 20 per cent.
Facilities at the Bangalore Airport
WiFi services: The Bangalore airport has good WiFi connectivity, which you can avail from all terminals. The WiFi service is available for 45 minutes, and the procedure to acquire it is quite simple too. There are paid WiFis as well, which you can avail at the airport.
Sleeping lounge: The good thing about the Bangalore airport is how it has a special sleeping lounge. The airport has made sleep pods available which is located close to the arrival check-in hall. If you have flight delays or a lot of time to kill before boarding, you can head to the sleeping lounge and take a power nap. The information desk can guide you to the pods.
Multi-faith rooms: The airport also provisions multi-faith rooms for prayers. You can ask the information desk to direct you to the prayer rooms. They have been strategically located within the terminals to make connectivity easy for passengers.
Smoking zone: There are a few smoking zones in the airport. To keep the terminals smoke-free, the airport has reserved some rooms for smoking. You can also find shops selling cigarette boxes.
Buggy services: The airport has special buggy services to traverse within the terminals. The buggy services are usually for senior citizens, passengers with mobility issues, expectant mothers and more. You might even get to receive some complimentary buggy service which you can find at the departure gates and security check area.
Baby care rooms: For people travelling with children and infants, there are baby care rooms also available. For women who need to tend to their baby's needs and require some privacy for the same, you can visit the child care centre. The place has been maintained perfectly. Not to mention, the services also include a changing table and products to help with infants.
Wheelchair assistance: Aside from buggy services, you can also find wheelchair assistance. These can be found at the gates of all the terminals. A dedicated drop-off zone is also available at specific points in the departure and arrival gates.
Restaurants and cafes: Bangalore airport has many food establishments and joints. From the famous ones such as KFC, Burger King, Subway, Domino's, McDonald's to local restaurants with impeccable food, you can find them at the airport.
Local connectivity: If you are a passenger of foreign descent, you can get hold of local SIM cards and burner phones. The positive of getting hold of a temporary Indian SIM is that you can avail the WiFi services at the airport too. Plus, it would be easy to connect with the required contacts outside of the city as well.
Baggage Services: The airport offers baggage services too ranging from trolleys, luggage porter services and baggage wrapping services. Basically, you wouldn't have to worry about your luggage at Bangalore airport.
VIP lounge: Bangalore airport has reservations for VIP lounges and upscale lounge services. VIP lounges are usually reserved for passengers who have a specific premium membership with airlines. You can get access to some of the other upscale lounge and areas where one can wait and relax. The services in these places are quite top-notch, and the experience is mostly extravagant. VIP rooms and a Plaza Premium lounge is available at the airport. It is reserved for premium travellers with first-class and business class flight tickets.
Top airlines flying from the Bangalore Airport
After New Delhi and Mumbai, Bangalore's Kempegowda airport is the third busiest airport in India, in terms of passenger traffic. Over the year, the airport actually witnesses over 33 million passengers, which explains why the demand is so high. Not to mention how the aircraft movement is close to 658, with domestic and international airlines flying in and out of the city. The airport is divided into two terminals and has domestic and international airlines operating from the airport. The Bangalore airport serves as a pivotal space for domestic airlines such as AirAsia India, Alliance Air and IndiGo operating from the city. The airport also witnesses strong connectivity with airlines such as Air India and SpiceJet, flying in and out of the city. It is their focus city. Cities such as Agatti Island, Gulbarga, Bagdogra, Port Blair, to name a few, have direct flights flying from the Bangalore airport with dedicated airlines. The top domestic airlines operating from the city are Air India, Air Asia, GoAir, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Star Air, TruJet and Vistara.
The city also favours as a hub to various international airlines. There are many airlines that fly in and out of Bangalore airport. The international airlines such as Air Arabia, Air France, Air India Express, Air Mauritius, British Airways, Cathay Dragon, Emirates, Ethiopian Airways, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Kuwait Airways, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Royal Nepal Airlines, Saudia, Silkair, Singapore Airlines, Srilankan Airlines, Air Asia Thai and Thai Airways, operate from the Kempegowda International Airport.
How to reach the Bangalore Airport
Kempegowda International Airport lacks a connection with the main city as it is approximately 40 km away from the city centre. In fact, due to immense traffic on the road, it is quite challenging to reach the airport from the city. Hence, it is essential to book a vehicle or use some of the domestic modes of transport to reach the city. Currently, the road is the only way to reach the Bangalore airport. The government had planned to bring forth a link between the city and the airport with metro stations. Called Namma Metro, the link was supposed to cut down the travel time tremendously and avoid the road traffic. However, the project never took off and was eventually scrapped.
By Road
To reach the Bangalore airport, the city's National Highway 44 is the route to pick. A few years ago, a six-lane flyover was built, which enhanced the connectivity and reduced the travel time too. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), as well as the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), have reserved buses operating from the city to reach the Kempegowda International airport.
About Bagdogra
North-East India and the Himalayas are a trendy tourist destination in India, for all the right reasons. Bagdogra is a hill station near the foothills of Himalayas and in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Bagdogra is considered as the gateway to the North-East and the Himalayas. This small hill station is so beautiful; you'll love being here even if it is for a couple of hours. It's the perfect place for all you nature lovers out there. You can either laze around and admire the scenery or take a walk around the town to explore it.
The hill station is a perfect holiday spot. It's also like paradise for tea lovers since tea gardens surround it. River Teesta also flows through the town, which makes it the ideal place to indulge in river rafting. Or you can sit by the river and embrace solitude for a while. You pass through Bagdogra to get to Darjeeling, Sikkim, Siliguri and Bhutan. Bagdogra will make you fall in love with it. Apart from sightseeing and river rafting, there are quite a few activities that you can opt for in Bagdogra. It's not the most popular vacation destination, but you will surely not regret spending time in this town.
Bagdogra is connected to all major cities in the country. It is pretty easy to reach Bagdogra by flights, trains and road, too. The Bagdogra Airport connects to domestic routes from Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai and Guwahati. You can also quickly get a bus or taxi from the neighbouring cities to Bagdogra.
Make sure you do add Bagdogra to your itinerary when you plan a trip to the North-East. You will love this small town for its lush green surroundings and the beautiful weather. The people, too, are quite friendly and helpful. Even though there is very little that you can do in Bagdogra, it is worth stopping by. If you have a long layover at Bagdogra airport, you can make the most of it by going sightseeing somewhere near the airport. Since it is a small town, you won't have to worry about making it back on time for your flight. But if you are going to Darjeeling, Bhutan or Shillong and the town falls on your way, make sure that you do visit this town.
Best Time to Visit Bagdogra
July to February is the best time to visit Bagdogra. While the hill station witnesses monsoon from July to October, the winter sets in from November to February. This is the ideal time for you to witness the beautiful, scenic hill station. The temperature can fall to as low as 5 degree Celsius. You can see the snowy mountains that surround the town and be mesmerized by the beauty of it. The summer is also quite pleasant in the City, and the maximum temperature touches 38 degree Celsius.
Places to Visit in Bagdogra
Check out the Coronation Bridge that is 37 km from Bagdogra. It is on the way to Gangtok from Bagdogra, and the view is just beautiful. The Surya Sen Park in Siliguri, which is close to Bagdogra, is a bright picnic spot. The park sees quite a few families on vacation spending quality time with each other while enjoying the view. Madhuban Park, which is 24 km ahead of Bagdogra in Siliguri, was established by the Indian Army. This is yet another picnic spot that tourists love. You'll even spot deers, peacocks and rabbits in the park, along with butterflies.
The Umrao Singh Boat Club in Siliguri has a lot of activities in store for you, including boating. They have a huge variety and different shapes of boats for tourists. You can get in touch with your spiritual side at the ISKCON temple in Siliguri and at Kali Mandir in Binnaguri which is also quite close to River Teesta. You can visit the temple and combine it with river rafting at the river. You can also visit Salugara Monastery while you are here.
Bagdogra has no hotels since it's only a pitstop to get to the other neighbouring cities and Bhutan. You can, however, book a hotel room in Siliguri or Darjeeling or any of the nearby towns. The bus services to Bagdogra are widespread, so you won't have to worry about travelling to and from the City.
Things to do in Bagdogra
Bagdogra is the gateway to reaching Darjeeling, Sikkim, Bhutan and everything North-East. You can take a cab or a bus to visit Siliguri, which is the nearest City to this hill station. If you have a couple of hours left to catch another flight, you can get around the town in less time. Since Bagdogra is just a pitstop, you will find fewer tourist things to do, but the hill station is entirely worth it. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Bagdogra has the most beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains that surround it.
If you do have time on your hands, make sure you go river rafting at River Teesta. Or you can admire the river and meditate by the river for a while. You can also visit the Coronation Bridge that is quite close to the river stream. Whether you are with your friends or family, be assured that you will have a great time here. You can also visit the Salugara Monastery and the Kali Mandir to offer your prayers and to enjoy your solitude.
Even if you don't feel like indulging in any activities, grab your favourite book and get engrossed in the stories amid the best of what nature has to offer to you. You can also put on your headphones, play your favourite music and get lost in the tranquillity of the hill station. If you are on a solo trip, you will love spending time here in Bagdogra, even if it is for a little while. Bagdogra is quite accessible to most cities in the North-East, and travelling will not prove to be troublesome for you.
Food and Restaurants in Bagdogra
If you are travelling via plane, you have to try the restaurant that is inside the Bagdogra airport. It is run by the Bagdogra Airport Restaurant Workers Co-operative Society Ltd, and it serves a unique dish that grabbed headlines for all the right reasons. The airport serves you chicken cutlets that are made in Bagdogra style and are a one-of-its-kind dish. All foodies must try this out at least once. The restaurant can seat up to 150 people, and you'll be treated to a runway view as you finish your meal. It won't even burn a hole in your pocket.
Marina's Motel is one of the best restaurants near the airport if you are craving for Chinese or Continental cuisines. The staff is quite friendly, and the restaurant has a very cosy ambience. Bagdogra also has a solution to your biryani cravings. Naz Biryani House is known for serving and cooking the most delicious biryani, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. For a quick bite, you can head over to Hunger Stop restaurant near the airport. You can even try the dessert here.
The Gourmet Central Family Restaurant and Bar is approximately 11 km away from the airport. It has a charming decor with cosy seating and friendly staff. It is also one of the best restaurants in the town. Do make sure that you try the food at the airport restaurant though. You can also opt for street food or the local chai, which will be available quite easily. Don't hesitate to try out the local street food, too.
How to reach Bagdogra (Transportation)
By Air
The Bagdogra Airport is well-connected to major domestic routes from Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bangalore and Chennai. The flight connectivity is quite functional, and getting to Bagdogra is not very difficult. You can get pretty good flight deals online and cheap flight tickets, too.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is in Siliguri, which is 5 km away from Bagdogra. There are no direct trains or buses to Bagdogra, and you will have to change a taxi or bus from Siliguri to reach the hill station.
By Road
There are lots of transport options and services are available to reach the town. You can opt for whichever suits your convenience. The transport is quite affordable, too. The roads are also quite smooth and won't be uncomfortable for you. You will also find a lot of convenient options to go to other neighbouring cities of the North-East and the Himalayas. Travelling by road is also one of the best options. The journey will surely be a treat for the eyes and the soul.
About Bangalore
India's very own IT hub, Bangalore, is the centre for the high-tech industry. The city is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in India thanks to the innumerable employment opportunities and development scope. Already known to be one of the biggest cities in India, Bangalore's charm also comes from the crazy nightlife and grand architectural structures. The flight connectivity from Bangalore to the other metro cities in India as well as international locations is top-notch. Although the traffic might be the biggest concerns for residents or even individuals travelling to Bangalore, the city's vibrant spirit continues to attract more and more crowd. Not to mention how pleasant weather further adds more charm to the city.
Best time to visit Bangalore
Bangalore enjoys the most pleasant weather in the whole country. Considering how the city is in the Southern regions of India, which is usually hot in summers, Bangalore doesn't face the pesky heat. Rather it continues to relish a moderate temperature, making it ideal for every season. The summers in the city are between February to May with April and May experiencing peak temperatures. The max the temperatures soar up to is 36 degree Celsius. Luckily though, since the city does not face humidity, it is mostly got and dry during summers.
Monsoons begin early in Bangalore from late May or early June. The city experiences heavy rains, especially between June to August. However, rains bring about a scenic charm to the city as the greenery is amplified.
Winters can get super cold with the temperatures dropping down to 12 degrees Celsius. The peak winter months in Bangalore are from November to January. December is easily the coldest month in the city. In fact, winter mornings can be pretty chilly but romantic at the same time. Interestingly, Bangalore does face erratic weather which could either be a spike or a drop in the temperature. Nevertheless, you can enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere all-round the year.
Places to see in Bangalore
Vidhana Soudha and Vikasa Soudha - The two structures are government properties with impeccable modern construction and intriguing architecture. Although the Vidhana Soudha and Vikasa Soudha are separated to handle different legislative avenues of the city, the place brings about a rich charm, making it a must-visit place in the city.
Seshadari Iyer Memorial - The distinctive red sandstone used to construct this building in Cubbon Park easily stands tall as a tourist attraction. It's basically a public library as well as the Bangalore High Court. Aside from the lawful activities that take place, the complex is also given a recreational touch with toy trains and theatres to entertain kids.
Bangalore Palace - Constructed by the illustrious Maharajas of Mysore, the Bangalore Palace has yet again found prominence as a tourist attraction and is open to tourists. The place has had to undergo a string of renovations following which, they have been able to bring forth an eclectic palace with interesting historical artefacts. The location is definitely interesting, especially since it sheds light in the life of Tipu Sultan. Not to mention how the embellished walls and archways further give it a royal feel that would only add to your merriment.
The Bull Temple - Nestled in Basavanagudi is this typical Dravidian-styled temple that is famous for the colossal bull statue. What makes the statue so special is the fact that it has been carved out of a single boulder, making the temple just as legendary as the statue. Every year, local farmers flock over to the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings for a fruitful harvest.
Maha Bodhi Society Temple - This temple is relatively new in the city and is basically a replica of the historic structure at Bodh Gaya. The Buddhist stupa is famous for its spiritual teachings, training and peaceful ambience. The same can be experienced at this temple too. The temple grounds reverberate a serene tone of comfort while the quaint setting makes for a tranquil experience.
Bannerghatta National Park - A little away from the city centre, the Bannerghatta National Park is the perfect escape you can ask for from the city's excessive traffic. The national park plays home to tigers, bears, elephants, lions and many more wild animals. You can actually sign up for a safari, and the tour guides would take you through the various segments of the national park. The park also comes with a zoo where some beautiful birds, leopards, jackals, etc. reside.
The city of Bangalore is surprisingly filled with a tremendous number of temples and spiritual setting. Aside from the ones mentioned above, there are many more artful temples, churches and structures that will blow your mind. Plus, the national park, zoos, gardens and other such expanses of green spaces would further leave you spellbound.
Things to do in Bangalore
Adventure sports - Bangalore's young crowd with a thirst for adrenaline rush makes is a prime hub for adventure sports. Right from cruising through the highway roads on a motorcycle to taking up camping and dirt bike riding, there is a massive market for such outdoor activities which you will definitely enjoy. Kayaking, rock climbing, go-karting, even hiking, are all things that you can do when in Bangalore.
Cave exploration - From the city, you can meet up a bunch of fellow cave explorers and head to Savandurga, Anthargange or Siddarabetta. These caves are not too far from the city and definitely worth the wanderlust.
Hiking and trekking - Bangalore is surrounded by some pristine hills with gorgeous waterfalls. You can probably take a day from your trip to spend on trekking up one of the peaks. Nandi Hills is the closest to the city and can easily be completed in a day. Perhaps you can also set camp and enjoy the cool mountain breeze.
Brewery hopping - One of the best things about the city is the plethora of breweries and clubs. Bangalore certainly has a nightlife that can well be on par with that of Mumbai or Delhi. Toit is one of the famous breweries that seems to be expanding its roots from the IT city to other metropolitan cities.
Food and Restaurants in Bangalore
Just head straight to Indira Nagar and go exploring! Delve into the hip vibe of Indira Nagar as the street with its impeccable dining and dynamic nightlife serenades you. All you've got to do is just walk up 100 Feet Road and let the fancy pubs anAd food hubs entice you with their popularity. Some important names to know though, Arbor, Toit, Windmills, Brewklyn Brewery, while you're in Bangalore.
How to reach Bangalore
By Air
One of the major challenges of Bangalore is the transportation. More like, the excessive traffic that makes travelling to the city and within the city a tad bit difficult. By air, you can reach Kempegowda International Airport, which is located in Devanahalli. The airport is 40 km away from the central city (MG Road); however, due to their terrible traffic, reaching the city from the airport gets challenging. The airport has close to 10 domestic airlines and about 21 international airlines with flights coming in and leaving the city. This has enabled Bangalore's flight connectivity ideal with the rest of the cities in India and the world. Bangalore covers close to 50 destinations, within India as well as internationally. Further, the airport also serves as a focus city for three major domestic airlines , namely, SpiceJet, GoAir and IndiGo.
From the airport, there are numerous ways of transport options that one can choose from. There are regular government-affiliated bus services as well as AC Volvo buses to the city. Plus, cab services De also prevalent, so travelling to the city is not an issue.
By Rail
There are two central railway terminals in Bangalore namely Bangalore City Railway Station and Yeshwantpur Junction. The two railway stations are well-connected with the rest of the country's major cities. Although the travel time by train is a little more as compared to flights, the railway is usually the last resort considered by people. A traveller from Mumbai will spend 24 hours on the train to reach Bangalore whereas if the individual will spend only 18-20 hours if travelling from a bus. You must find out which railway station would be ideal for your trip and accordingly book your tickets to Bangalore on the Indian Railways' website. You can also make your bookings on other platforms or visit the railway station to purchase it from the counter.
By Road
Travelling to Bangalore by road might actually be a fun trip. You can either get your own vehicle out to drive down to the city, or you can opt for public transport such as private or public buses. Cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mangalore, Madurai, Coimbatore, Madgaon have sleeper buses available that could take less of your travel time as opposed to trains. The last stop is the Kempegowda Bus Station, popularly known as KSRTC or Majestic Bus Stand. The vast bus stand has intercity buses as well as transport facilities for interstate travel.
About Go First
Go First is one of the most preferred airlines by passengers in the country. It commenced operations in 2005 and went on to become the fifth largest airline in India. It was founded by Jehangir Wadia, who is the son of industrialist Nusli Wadia. Go First started its operations using an Airbus A320. In the beginning, the airlines only operated to four cities that included Goa and Coimbatore. The airline operates 330 daily flights to 38 destinations, of which 27 are domestic cities, and 11 are international. The airline has hubs at major airports like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Kannur International Airport. The international flights only take off from its major hubs. Go First launched its inaugural flight to Phuket in 2018 and also has a direct flight to Phuket without any layovers.
Go First became the fifth largest airline in the market after the end of Kingfisher Airlines. In fact, back in 2009, British Airways also showed interest in buying a stake in Go First. The airline's growth has been slow but quite impressive, too. You can book a Go First flight on the go quite literally. The airline offers you a ton of options to choose the right flick as per your budget and time. You can either book your tickets online, on their website, or through travel agents. You can even call up the call centres or get a ticket at one of the Go First counters. Its main aim is to offer an efficient means of air travel that won't burn a hole in your pocket. Not to mention, they also keep you updated on the flight status and any ongoing or upcoming offers. You can also pre-book your seats at a nominal price, so you travel in comfort. The airline also has international SIM card offers on its website for its passengers.
The airline has 57 aircraft in service, 15 Airbus A320-200 aircraft and 42 Airbus A320neo aircraft. Both of the aircraft can accommodate 180-186 passengers. Go First earned the title 'Best Domestic Airline for Excellency in Quality and Efficient Service by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association in 2008 and also went on to winning the 'Best Performing Airline' in Asia and Africa in 2011. The airline strives to and makes sure that it increases efficiency. You will also come across quite a few offers for citizens and students who are boarding a Go First flight. The airline is also known for its punctuality. You can never be late if you are on a Go First flight unless there are climatic restrictions or emergencies.
Fleet Size of Go First
Go First has two types of aircraft in service, the Airbus A320-200 and Airbus A320neo. The airline got its first A320neo aircraft in 2016 and went on to sign a memorandum of understanding with Airbus for 72 more aircraft. It has 15 A320-200 aircraft that can accommodate 180 passengers. There are more than 42 Airbus A320neo aircraft that accommodate up to 186 passengers. The aircraft only has economy class, but it also has offers that can enable you to pre-book a seat as per your convenience.
Baggage Allowance
Go First has certain baggage allowance restrictions that every passenger must follow. The airline also makes sure that they keep the passengers informed about all of the rules and regulations. The maximum limit for your check-in baggage is 20 kg, and cabin baggage cannot exceed 7 kg. However, if your luggage is exceeding the limit, you will have to inform the airline in advance and also pay a nominal fee for baggage allowance. You can do it through their website or approach the call centre to help you with the process. If you are travelling with an infant, you are allowed one extra cabin baggage not exceeding 7 kg. You will not have to pay extra for it. Make sure you get your web check-in done in advance online, so you don't have to wait in the queue at the airport. Though there are very few times that a passenger's luggage gets lost, the staff is quick to help you locate your luggage and help you with the whole process. You will also have to ensure that you are not carrying explosive or combustible gases or anything that has been restricted by the airline. A list of things to not carry in your check-in baggage comes with your ticket to ensure that you give it a read. You can also not pack your power banks and portable charges in your check-in luggage. Make sure you carry all your electronics and chargers in your cabin baggage. If you have ticked all of these boxes before reaching the airport, you can get your boarding pass quickly and chill at the airport lounge, near your gate, till it is time to board the flight. It also means less hassle for the passengers who are next in line.
In-flight Services
Go First has quite a few in-flight services for its passengers. If you are registered under Go Business, you will get to take advantage of facilities like free meals, pre-booking seats that have greater legroom as compared to the other seats, priority boarding and increased baggage allowance. The airline also publishes its own magazine called Go Getter, which you can access during your flight. The airline does not have any other in-flight entertainment services apart from the magazine. The airline does not provide earplugs, chewing gums or cotton, if you are sensitive to high altitude, so you will have to carry your own. They also don't serve alcohol in the flight, but they do let you carry your own food inside the aircraft. Serving alcohol is also strictly prohibited in the aircraft. If you are carrying a bottle of water, make sure it is not over 100 ml.
Popular Routes and Top Cities for Go First
Go First connects to various domestic and international routes daily. It connects to 11 international destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Singapore, Male, Kuwait City and Dubai. It connects to domestic cities like Goa, Delhi, Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Kannur, Hyderabad, Guwahati, Chennai, Chandigarh, Bagdogra, Leh, Lucknow, Jaipur, Jammu, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Patna, Ranchi and Port Blair. Go First has over 330 flights operating daily to various cities, both domestic and international. The staff is also quite friendly and will guide with whether or not you can explore the city to kill time during long layovers. One of the best features of the airline is that it sticks to the Go First flight schedule. You will rarely experience a delay in flights unless there is an emergency of sorts. Even if there are delays, the airline makes it a point to inform you well in advance so you can plan your commute accordingly.
Why Travel by Go First?
Go First is known for its punctuality and efficiency. Not only does it offer low fares to passengers, but it also offers the best services. You can book a Go First flight in a few easy steps and all by yourself. If you have missed your connecting flight due to late arrival, the staff tries to accommodate you in the next flight so you can reach your destination on time. You can check the Go First flight schedule and their flight status on the website. You will also SMS alerts from the airline quite frequently till you board your flight. You can also easily complete your web check-in a day before your flight. The website is very user-friendly, and if you are still unsure, you can call up the call centre to ask one of the executives to help you out. If you are travelling by Go First, make sure you reach on time because the staff and the airline are quite punctual. If you have a lot of luggage, it is all the more important that you reach before time so you can get your luggage sorted. The airline offers services that you can use to either get discounts on your fares or pay extra to use the premium facilities. If you sign up for the premium services, you can get priority over choosing your seat, baggage and free meals. You will also get access to the VIP lounges at the airport after you are done with your security check and other formalities.
Go First aims to make travel fun, convenient and affordable to its passengers. Its reputation has grown strong over the years, and it is surely making its way up to the top. It is one of the most preferred airlines among customers for all the right reasons. In addition to the services that you get as a premium passenger, Go First also offers international SIM on its website. If you are travelling internationally, you can look this up on their website and choose a suitable plan depending on your travel plans. You can avoid being hassled by phone company stalls at the international airports to try and sell you their phone plan.
About Bangalore Airport
The Bangalore Airport, popularly known as the Kempegowda International Airport, is the international airport that serves the city of Bangalore, which is the capital of the state of Karnataka. It has completely replaced the HAL airport which previously served the city of Bangalore. The airport is spread across 4,000 acres and is about 40 km from the Bangalore city centre. In fact, it is close to the Devanahalli village. The airport has been christened after the person who founded the city of Bangalore, Kempe Gowda I. The Kempegowda International Airport is the country's first fully solar-powered airport, which is serviced by CleanMax Solar. The Bangalore Airport is known to be the third busiest airport in India, with respect to passenger traffic. It stands behind Delhi and Mumbai in the race. The Kempegowda International Airport is also the 29th busiest airport, as recorded by Asia. The airport has recorded to accommodate approximately 33 million passengers. There are two runways and a passenger terminal that the Bangalore Airport harbours. The domestic and international services and operations take place at T1 while T2 (second terminal) is in the works for expansion.
About Bangalore Airport Terminals
The airport has an integrated terminal which connects both domestic and international passenger operations. The single integrated terminal can accommodate 20 million passengers on a yearly basis. While the check-in counters and baggage claims are on the ground level, the departure gates are all located on the first level. The gates have been segregated in such a way that one side of the segment is dedicated to domestic departures while the other side is reserved for international departures. The gates 41 and 42 accommodate to serve the world's largest passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380. The ground level also has Plaza Premium Lounge and VIP rooms available. The airport also has facilities of a day hotel, in case there are flights or layovers that will take more than 10 hours. Currently, the airport is undergoing expansions for the second phase. They are working to build Terminal 2. The project has been undertaken by a renowned architectural firm, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. The construction of the second phase is being undertaken by Larsen & Toubro. The plan is to extend the airport's capacity to accommodate an additional 20 million passengers in a year.
About airport authority
The Bangalore Airport is owned and operated by Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), which is a public limited company. BIAL has been granted permission to operate the airport for 30 years by the Government of India. The airport does have the option to work for 30 additional years depending on whether the venture wishes to take it forward. The consortium is co-owned by private and public ventures where the Karnataka State Industrial Investment and Development Corporation (government entity) owns 13 per cent. At the same time, the Airports Authority of India has 13 per cent. Meanwhile, the 74 per cent is taken over by private entities, Fairfax Financial holding 54 per cent and Siemens Projects Ventures with 20 per cent.
Facilities at the Bangalore Airport
WiFi services: The Bangalore airport has good WiFi connectivity, which you can avail from all terminals. The WiFi service is available for 45 minutes, and the procedure to acquire it is quite simple too. There are paid WiFis as well, which you can avail at the airport.
Sleeping lounge: The good thing about the Bangalore airport is how it has a special sleeping lounge. The airport has made sleep pods available which is located close to the arrival check-in hall. If you have flight delays or a lot of time to kill before boarding, you can head to the sleeping lounge and take a power nap. The information desk can guide you to the pods.
Multi-faith rooms: The airport also provisions multi-faith rooms for prayers. You can ask the information desk to direct you to the prayer rooms. They have been strategically located within the terminals to make connectivity easy for passengers.
Smoking zone: There are a few smoking zones in the airport. To keep the terminals smoke-free, the airport has reserved some rooms for smoking. You can also find shops selling cigarette boxes.
Buggy services: The airport has special buggy services to traverse within the terminals. The buggy services are usually for senior citizens, passengers with mobility issues, expectant mothers and more. You might even get to receive some complimentary buggy service which you can find at the departure gates and security check area.
Baby care rooms: For people travelling with children and infants, there are baby care rooms also available. For women who need to tend to their baby's needs and require some privacy for the same, you can visit the child care centre. The place has been maintained perfectly. Not to mention, the services also include a changing table and products to help with infants.
Wheelchair assistance: Aside from buggy services, you can also find wheelchair assistance. These can be found at the gates of all the terminals. A dedicated drop-off zone is also available at specific points in the departure and arrival gates.
Restaurants and cafes: Bangalore airport has many food establishments and joints. From the famous ones such as KFC, Burger King, Subway, Domino's, McDonald's to local restaurants with impeccable food, you can find them at the airport.
Local connectivity: If you are a passenger of foreign descent, you can get hold of local SIM cards and burner phones. The positive of getting hold of a temporary Indian SIM is that you can avail the WiFi services at the airport too. Plus, it would be easy to connect with the required contacts outside of the city as well.
Baggage Services: The airport offers baggage services too ranging from trolleys, luggage porter services and baggage wrapping services. Basically, you wouldn't have to worry about your luggage at Bangalore airport.
VIP lounge: Bangalore airport has reservations for VIP lounges and upscale lounge services. VIP lounges are usually reserved for passengers who have a specific premium membership with airlines. You can get access to some of the other upscale lounge and areas where one can wait and relax. The services in these places are quite top-notch, and the experience is mostly extravagant. VIP rooms and a Plaza Premium lounge is available at the airport. It is reserved for premium travellers with first-class and business class flight tickets.
Top airlines flying from the Bangalore Airport
After New Delhi and Mumbai, Bangalore's Kempegowda airport is the third busiest airport in India, in terms of passenger traffic. Over the year, the airport actually witnesses over 33 million passengers, which explains why the demand is so high. Not to mention how the aircraft movement is close to 658, with domestic and international airlines flying in and out of the city. The airport is divided into two terminals and has domestic and international airlines operating from the airport. The Bangalore airport serves as a pivotal space for domestic airlines such as AirAsia India, Alliance Air and IndiGo operating from the city. The airport also witnesses strong connectivity with airlines such as Air India and SpiceJet, flying in and out of the city. It is their focus city. Cities such as Agatti Island, Gulbarga, Bagdogra, Port Blair, to name a few, have direct flights flying from the Bangalore airport with dedicated airlines. The top domestic airlines operating from the city are Air India, Air Asia, GoAir, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Star Air, TruJet and Vistara.
The city also favours as a hub to various international airlines. There are many airlines that fly in and out of Bangalore airport. The international airlines such as Air Arabia, Air France, Air India Express, Air Mauritius, British Airways, Cathay Dragon, Emirates, Ethiopian Airways, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Kuwait Airways, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Royal Nepal Airlines, Saudia, Silkair, Singapore Airlines, Srilankan Airlines, Air Asia Thai and Thai Airways, operate from the Kempegowda International Airport.
How to reach the Bangalore Airport
Kempegowda International Airport lacks a connection with the main city as it is approximately 40 km away from the city centre. In fact, due to immense traffic on the road, it is quite challenging to reach the airport from the city. Hence, it is essential to book a vehicle or use some of the domestic modes of transport to reach the city. Currently, the road is the only way to reach the Bangalore airport. The government had planned to bring forth a link between the city and the airport with metro stations. Called Namma Metro, the link was supposed to cut down the travel time tremendously and avoid the road traffic. However, the project never took off and was eventually scrapped.
By Road
To reach the Bangalore airport, the city's National Highway 44 is the route to pick. A few years ago, a six-lane flyover was built, which enhanced the connectivity and reduced the travel time too. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), as well as the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), have reserved buses operating from the city to reach the Kempegowda International airport.
