The new Bangalore International Airport

I'm just back from my Bangalore trip, and I observed quite a few changes in the city since I had left it two years back. One of the major changes is the new Bangalore International Airport, or the BIAL. The old airport which was so conveniently located close to the heart of the city was shut down. Although that may have upset many commuters, I feel this was long overdue. The old airport was too tiny, and had a small-town feel totally incongruent with fast-growing Bangalore city. The only flip side to this is the 2 hour long, 60 km journey which a commuter has to undertake. Thankfully, that pain is eased to a great extent by the 6 lane highway that connects BIA to the city. So the later half part of the 2 hour trip can be undertaken at a decent speed of 60 kmph+.

One can hire a taxi, which sets you back by Rs. 750 or so, or one can take the bus. BIAL has started A/C volvo buses that ply at a frequency of one per 20-30 minutes, and they connect almost every nook and corner of the city to the airport. The bus fare is about Rs. 150.

BIAL really lives up to the reputation of Bangalore city as the silicon valley of India. Although, I didn't try it, one can pay the bus fare by a credit card. The conductor carries a battery operated card swiping machine. You can also buy the bus tickets online at redbus.in. However, I didn't spot any internet cafe.

BIA is HUGE (relatively speaking)!! The infrastructure will prove adequate for at least next 3 years. Although there are quite a few shops, conspicuous by its absence is a duty-free shop where one can expect to find cheap electronic goods. There are many eateries, but I advise you to check the expiry date of packaged food stuff before you buy. Sadly BIA is still not 'International' in that respect. Surprisingly luxury goods are more expensive here than you'd find them in the city. The airport economics is beyond me.

All in all - Enjoy the swank looks, relieve yourself at sparkling clean toilets, but avoid buying anything.