Bangalore's Transport Options For The Tourist

Bangalore is a much sought after destination and it is at the heart of South India. Well connected by air, rail and road, most tourists disembark for a tour of the city before continuing to the other places of tourist interest. After alighting at the Bangalore International Airport (BIAL)situated at Devanahalli on the outskirts of Bangalore, one can engage luxury taxis from within the airport, such as Meru Cabs or Easy Cabs. These are great even when you wish to travel within the city, but make sure you call for a taxi at least half an hour prior to embarking. Volvo buses ply between BIAL and the city on different routes, and are cheaper and very comfortable. You can also have yourself picked up by a taxi from the hotel you are staying at, particularly the Five star hotels which offer a free airport transfer for their clients.

Within the city, you have a wide choice-the autorickshaw(a three wheeler), the local bus, and the luxury taxi. Among the local buses, it would be advisable for you to choose the red Volvo buses or the Marcopolo buses in orange and blue, as they are meant for the upper segment of society. Autorickshaw or autos as they are called ply anywhere within city limits and are easy  to come by. There is an auto stand at every corner and plenty going past. All you have to do is hail one and get in after telling your destination. Make sure that the fare meter is engaged after you seat yourself inside the auto. A maximum of three are allowed in an auto. If the driver refuses to ply to your destination, you are free to inform the local police at hand or drive to the nearest police station. If you are traveling at night, the fare will be one and a half times.

Phone numbers have an area code +91-80(for landline) and +91 for mobile.

Airport Helpline : 4058-1111

Flight Enquiry : 1800-425-4425

Taxi Service :

Meru Cabs : 4422- 4422 / Book A Meru Cab Online

Easy Cabs : 4343- 4343

Fares for Meru Cabs : Flag down fare is Rs.60/- and Rs. 15/Km thereafter. Waiting charge extra(Rs. 60/hr) Pay on reaching your destination based on the metered charge. Credit cards are accepted and printed receipt is given.

Car Rentals And Limousine : Choice of self driven and chauffeured cars

Akbar Travels :1800-226-000

Hertz : 99725-02292

BMTC's Volvo Buses

Volvo buses(Vayu Vajra) are operated by the Bangalore Metropolitan Corporation Limited(BMTC) from the BIAL to all key locations of the city with pick up and drop off points enroute. The frequency is 15 minutes. The Airconditioned buses are very comfortable and the fare to the farthest destinaion from the BIAL is Rs.200/-. The closer destinations are Rs.80 and Rs. 125/-.Fare includes luggage charges. Fitted with separate luggage racks towards the front of the bus and courteous staff, they are often the best way to commute to and from the Airport. Wheel chair accessible too!

Route information, timings, and other details for these Volvo buses can be had from the BMTC website.