Avoiding Bangalore Airport Toll: Tips For A Smooth Arrival

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has imposed a toll for using NH 44 to reach Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. The toll fee is INR 130 for a round trip and INR 85 for a single journey. However, the single journey toll has not yet been implemented for security reasons. To avoid paying the toll, some commuters have started using an alternative road to reach the airport or areas in east Bengaluru, such as K.R. Puram, Whitefield, Sarjapur, and Hoskote. This alternative road is toll-free and can also reduce travel time by helping commuters avoid major gridlocks like Hebbal. However, it may be less safe, especially for women travelling at night, as some parts of the road are deserted and lack street lighting.

Take the alternative toll-free road to Kempegowda International Airport

The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) serving Bengaluru, India, is accessible via National Highway 44 (NH44). While there is a toll for vehicles travelling on this route, there is an alternative toll-free road that commuters can take to get to the airport.

This toll-free road is especially beneficial for those travelling to the airport from the east and southeast of Bengaluru, such as from Whitefield and Marathahalli. By taking this route, commuters can reduce their travelling distance from 18 km to 8 km. The road is also advantageous for those heading to areas in east Bengaluru like K.R. Puram, Sarjapur, and Hoskote.

The toll-free alternative road is approximately 3 km long and connects to the airport road via a junction near the trumpet interchange. This junction is likely to experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, and may require a grade separator to manage the traffic flow effectively.

The road was inaugurated by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in 2018, just before the Legislative Assembly Elections in Karnataka. However, it faced some initial challenges, including the need for repairs on connecting roads, particularly towards Hennur, and the installation of electrical poles and signage boards.

When using the toll-free road, commuters can skip the ride back on NH44, avoiding the toll fee entirely. This is because vehicles travelling towards the airport are charged the toll on their return journey. By taking the alternative toll-free road, commuters can save time and money, making it a popular choice for many travellers.

Use public transport like the Airport Volvo bus

The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) runs an air-conditioned bus service to the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) from various parts of the city. The service is called Vayu Vajra, where 'Vayu' means 'air' and 'Vajra' means 'diamond' in Kannada. The Vayu Vajra buses are specially designed with dedicated spaces for luggage. The service covers several key locations in Bangalore, including HAL Main Gate, Whitefield TTMC, Banashankari TTMC, and more. The buses are available at a frequency of 30 minutes, and the boarding/drop-off point is located close to the KIA Terminal building, within walking distance from both the arrival and departure gates. The Vayu Vajra service is one of the most cost-effective ways to reach the airport, with fares not exceeding Rs 336 (including GST) for a trip to KIA, which is located in Devanahalli, on the outskirts of Bangalore.

The BMTC website provides detailed information on the Vayu Vajra bus service, including route maps, timings, and fares for each route. The website allows users to search for specific routes, departure and arrival timings, and fare details. The Vayu Vajra buses make over 250 trips daily and are a convenient option for passengers travelling to and from the airport.

In addition to the Vayu Vajra bus service, there are alternative roads that commuters can use to avoid paying tolls when travelling to and from the airport. One such route is used by motorists travelling to areas in East Bengaluru, such as K.R. Puram, Whitefield, Sarjapur, and Hoskote. By using this alternative road, commuters can avoid paying the toll on NH 44, which has been increased to Rs 130 for a return journey for car users. This toll-free route not only saves commuters money but also offers a faster journey by helping them avoid major gridlocks like Hebbal.

Ask your driver to take the toll road

If you're looking to avoid the Bangalore airport toll, asking your driver to take the toll road is an option. However, it's important to note that some drivers may try to avoid the toll by taking an alternative route, which can add time to your journey and take you through less-than-desirable areas. To ensure your driver takes the toll road, it's a good idea to instruct them before your trip begins. Be firm but polite, and let them know that you're willing to pay the toll yourself if necessary.

If your driver still refuses to take the toll road, you have a few options. First, you could try adding a stop just after the toll plaza to ensure they don't deviate from the route. Another option is to book an official airport taxi, as these drivers are more likely to follow your preferred route and tend to have better customer service. You could also try taking a bus to cross the toll and then catching a cab from there, although this may not be practical depending on your location and time constraints.

It's worth noting that the toll fee has recently increased, which may make drivers more reluctant to take that route. The return journey now costs ₹130 for car users, while a single journey costs ₹85. However, the single journey toll has not yet been implemented for security reasons, which may be something to keep in mind when discussing the route with your driver.

If you do decide to take the toll road, be sure to plan ahead and allow for potential delays. The toll road can be busy, especially during peak hours, so give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.

Ask your driver to avoid the route via Hebbal

If you're looking to avoid the Bangalore airport toll, it's a good idea to instruct your driver to skip the route via Hebbal. Here's why:

The Hebbal junction is a major bottleneck for commuters, with over 2.5 lakh vehicles passing through it daily to travel in different directions. The ongoing construction works have only made the situation worse, leading to severe traffic congestion and delays for those heading to Kempegowda International Airport. The Bangalore Development Authority's (BDA) project to add additional lanes to the Hebbal flyover has been delayed, causing significant traffic snarls.

By asking your driver to avoid Hebbal, you can save a lot of time and hassle. An alternative route that has gained popularity is the newly opened road bypassing NH 44. This route allows commuters to completely avoid paying the toll, as vehicles heading towards the airport are charged only on their way back. This alternative road takes commuters to areas in east Bengaluru, such as K.R. Puram, Whitefield, Sarjapur, and even Hoskote.

In addition to saving money, this route can also reduce travel time. Praveen M., a driver with a travel agency, mentions that by skipping Hebbal, they can "avoid major gridlocks" and easily bypass the left turn from Hebbal towards K.R. Puram, which is often blocked by vehicles during peak hours.

So, if you're heading to the airport, it's best to ask your driver to steer clear of the Hebbal route and opt for alternative roads instead. This simple decision can make your journey smoother and faster, ensuring you arrive at the airport without unnecessary delays.

Take a BluSmart taxi

If you want to avoid the toll roads when travelling to or from Bangalore Airport, one option is to take a BluSmart taxi. BluSmart is a reliable taxi service that offers a seamless experience and is available in Bangalore.

To use BluSmart, you can download their app or book a cab by calling them. Booking a cab in advance is a good idea to ensure availability, especially if you have a flight to catch. When booking, you can choose from a variety of vehicle options, including Hatchbacks, Sedans, SUVs, and Mini Buses, depending on your needs.

BluSmart taxis provide a comfortable and safe travel experience. Their cabs are well-maintained and air-conditioned, ensuring a smooth ride. The drivers are trained to follow government-issued precautionary guidelines, so you can rest assured that your ride will be safe and hygienic, especially during pandemic times.

Additionally, BluSmart offers fixed pricing for bookings, so you don't have to worry about unexpected charges or surge pricing. This can be especially useful when avoiding toll roads, as the fare will remain consistent regardless of the route taken.

When taking a BluSmart taxi to the airport, you can be picked up directly from your doorstep, saving you time and providing a convenient travel experience. The drivers are also experienced and well-behaved, so you can trust that you are in good hands.

Overall, opting for a BluSmart taxi is a reliable and comfortable choice when travelling to or from Bangalore Airport while avoiding toll roads. With their professional service, fixed pricing, and focus on customer safety, you can expect a stress-free journey to your destination.

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