Ruth Haines
Bengaluru International Airport, also known as Kempegowda International Airport, is located about 40km from the town centre. While the airport itself offers plenty of entertainment, from spa sessions to shopping, there are also many attractions in the surrounding area. For instance, Devanahalli Fort, believed to be the birthplace of Tipu Sultan, is located close to the airport. Other nearby destinations include Nandi Hills, which offers cycling, trekking and exploring, and the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, an ancient temple dating back over 1,300 years.
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What You'll Learn
Relax at the airport with spa treatments, shopping and food
There are plenty of ways to relax at Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. For spa treatments, Sohum Spa offers a range of premium wellness treatments, including massages, in a luxurious and serene environment.
When it comes to food, the airport has a variety of options to suit different tastes and budgets. You can find cafes, fast food, fine dining, and street food. There are also restaurants serving a range of cuisines, including South Indian, Chinese, Continental, and BBQ. If you're looking for something quick and casual, there are sandwich shops, burger joints, and pizza places. For those with a sweet tooth, there are bakeries, dessert parlours, and ice cream shops.
In the mood for a drink? You can choose from a range of bars, cocktail bars, pubs, and microbreweries. And if you're craving a more substantial meal, there are also food courts and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
In addition to the spa and food options, the airport also has a range of shops and lounges where you can relax and wait for your flight.
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Explore the ancient Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple
If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Bengaluru Airport, why not explore the ancient Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple? Located 55km north of Bengaluru (Bangalore) in the state of Karnataka, this magnificent temple is a hidden gem nestled at the foot of the Nandi Hills. With its origins dating back to the early 9th century AD, it is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka and a perfect weekend getaway.
As you approach the temple, you will be struck by its majestic architecture, reflecting the Dravidian style of the 9th to 10th century Nolamba construction. The temple complex houses three main shrines—the Bhoganandiswara, the Arunachaleswara, and the Yoga Nandeeshwara. The north shrine, dedicated to Bhoganandishwara, and the south shrine, dedicated to Arunachaleshwara, each consist of a garbhagriha, sukanasi, and navaranga. The carvings and architectural details on the exterior, including pilasters, turrets, and exquisitely pierced windows, are simply breathtaking.
Step inside the temple, and you will find a large linga in the sanctum, symbolizing Lord Shiva, to whom the temple is dedicated, along with Goddess Parvati. The interior of the temple is just as stunning, with beautifully carved pillars and intricate perforated stone screens called Jali. The temple also features a statue of the Chola King Rajendra and intricate reliefs depicting various Hindu gods.
The Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple is not just a place of worship but also a cultural hub. Thrice a year, on major festival days, 100,000 lamps are lit, creating a magical atmosphere. The temple is particularly significant for newly married couples, who come here to seek the blessings of Shiva and Parvati at the Uma Maheswara temple, which depicts the wedding scenes between the two deities.
To enhance your experience, the temple offers plenty of roadside parking and a few roadside shops for basic provisions. So, if you have a long layover or delay at Bengaluru Airport, why not take a trip to this ancient temple and immerse yourself in its rich history, architecture, and cultural significance?
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Visit the birthplace of Tipu Sultan at Devanahalli Fort
Devanahalli Fort, located in Devanahalli Taluk, is around 35 kilometres north of Bengaluru city. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the Tiger of Mysore, is found just outside the fort. A small memorial marks the spot, with a stone tablet bearing a plaque stating that Tipu Sultan was born there in 1751. The structure is simple, with a pillared enclosure and a square top. The area surrounding the enclosure, known as Khas Bagh, features a dried-up stone pond and banana, tamarind, and mango plantations.
The oval-shaped fort, originally built of mud in the early 1500s, has a rich history of changing hands between the Marathas and the Mysore kings. In 1749, Hyder Ali, Tipu's father, settled in the fort, reinforcing it with stone and masonry in 1760. The fort features huge semicircular bastions that offer a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
A heritage walk through Tipu Sultan's fort in Devanahalli provides an opportunity to delve into his legacy and explore the fort's majestic ramparts. The walk often includes a visit to the nearby Sri Bhoganandeeswara Swamy temple in Sultanpet village, named after Tipu Sultan himself. The well-preserved temple, dating back to AD 810, boasts hundreds of exquisite carvings and offers a magnificent view of Nandi Hills.
Devanahalli Fort is easily accessible from the Bengaluru Airport, making it a convenient destination for travellers looking to explore the region's history and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the area. The fort stands as a testament to the illustrious life of Tipu Sultan, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to trace the footsteps of a significant historical figure.
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Take in the gardens and attractions at Nandi Hills
Bengaluru Airport is a great place to spend a layover, with its fancy lounges, shopping, and restaurants. But if you're looking to get out and explore, the Nandi Hills are a perfect natural retreat, just 60 kilometres from the city.
Nandi Hills, named after the revered bull of Lord Shiva, is a breathtaking destination that seamlessly blends rich history, stunning landscapes, and a tranquil ambiance. This ancient hill fortress, once a strategic stronghold for various dynasties, is a testament to India's incredible beauty and heritage. The higher you ascend, the more the misty veil parts, revealing panoramic views that will take your breath away.
For adventure enthusiasts, Nandi Hills offers paragliding, allowing you to soar like a bird and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the landscape. The hills also feature excellent trekking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, and are dotted with boulders for climbing enthusiasts. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, opt for a guided cycling tour, which takes you through scenic routes while providing insights into the region's history and ecology.
Nandi Hills is also home to famous temples and shrines, such as the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, Parvati, and Nandi. The temple is an architectural wonder, with incredible metalwork, stone carvings, and huge pillars. Another intriguing attraction is Tipu's Drop, a 600-metre-high cliff with a breathtaking view. This cliff was once used by Tipu Sultan to punish prisoners by pushing them to their deaths. However, it also bears witness to a tragic love story, where a forbidden couple chose to jump hand in hand, immortalising their love.
With its lush greenery, peaceful atmosphere, and sweeping views, Nandi Hills is a refreshing escape from city life and a place that will leave you with indelible memories of natural beauty and unique experiences.
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Play golf or go zorbing near the airport
If you're looking for some outdoor fun near the Bengaluru Airport, you can choose between playing golf or going zorbing.
For golf enthusiasts, there are several golf courses near the airport. One option is the Eagleton Golf Course, which offers a unique experience, especially for non-golfers looking to spend some leisure time playing the sport. The course has over 4000 trees and 18 holes, maintaining the ecological balance of the area. It also provides golfing courses for beginners and is considered one of the best courses in India. Another option is the Zion Club, which offers a world-class golfing experience with an 18-hole course that caters to both expert golfers and beginners. The club is located about 40 kilometres from the airport, and the rates are 2000 rupees on weekdays and 4000 rupees on weekends. Additionally, the Karnataka Golf Association course in Challaghatta is well-organised and provides refreshments and bottled water. It is located off Airport Road, making it convenient for travellers passing through.
If you're looking for a more adventurous activity, zorbing is also available near the Bengaluru Airport. Zorbing involves getting inside a large, transparent ball and rolling down a slope or across a flat surface. It is a fun and safe activity, with guidance provided by a team of experts. The minimum age for zorbing is five years, and it costs 220 rupees for a 10-minute session.
So, whether you're a golf enthusiast or seeking an adrenaline-pumping zorbing experience, there are options available near the Bengaluru Airport to suit your preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
Bengaluru Airport has a lot of recreational options to keep you entertained during long layovers. You can find various restaurants, bars, and cafes serving international and Indian cuisines. The airport also has lounges with sophisticated seating, television, and Wi-Fi access. Some of these lounges also have spas, massage parlours, and well-stocked bars.
Bengaluru Airport has free Wi-Fi accessible in most parts of the airport. You can use any smartphone, tablet, or laptop to connect to the internet. However, the free Wi-Fi is only available for 45 minutes. The airport also has interactive art installations scattered throughout Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which make for great photo opportunities.
The airport has an exclusive shopping zone at the Quad by BLR, Runway, for trendy fashion, accessories, and everyday items. You can also find the famous silk handlooms of South India, branded merchandise, books, local handicrafts, and accessories. The International Arrivals and Departures areas also have duty-free stores.
The airport houses a world-class luxury spa, where you can receive therapeutic and beauty treatments. The Plaza Premium Lounge and O2 Spa offer relaxing massages. The airport also has wonderfully planted gardens that provide a peaceful setting to rest, meditate, or simply enjoy some fresh air.
You can catch live performances and sports screenings at The Arena, which has a vibrant atmosphere.
