Reaching Bengaluru internationally is straightforward, thanks to the connectivity of Kempegowda International Airport (BLR). BLR is the primary airport serving Bengaluru, located about 40 kilometres from the city centre. The airport is connected to major cities across the globe through direct and connecting flights. In 2023, BLR received the Airport Service Quality Award for ‘Best Airport at Arrivals globally’ from the Airports Council International (ACI) World. It is the third busiest airport in India and has two state-of-the-art terminals. The new state-of-the-art Terminal 2 (T2) handle international arrivals and departures.
T2 is a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance passenger experience and accommodate growing air traffic. Opened in 2023, this 55,000 Sqm terminal, dubbed the “Terminal in a Garden,” embodies Bengaluru’s reputation as the Garden City, incorporating vast green spaces, indoor gardens, and natural light. With a capacity to handle 25 million passengers annually, T2 is equipped with intelligent systems for smooth and efficient operations, including automated check-ins, biometric security, and self-service baggage drops. The terminal also features expansive retail and dining options, showcasing local culture and international brands. Sustainability is at the core of its design, with energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials. The scale of T2 and the insightful design makes it a destination in itself. More details on BLR can be found here.
Major International Airlines Operating to Bengaluru: Bengaluru has 35+ international airline partners including Air India, British Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, United Airlines, etc.
Direct Flights: Bengaluru has direct flight connections to major international cities including, London, Frankfurt, Paris, Singapore, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, New York, etc.
Connecting Flights: For destinations without direct flights to Bengaluru, travellers can take connecting flights through major international hubs such as Dubai (DXB), Singapore (SIN), Doha (DOH), Abu Dhabi (AUH), London (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA), Amsterdam (AMS), etc.
Tips for International Travelers:
Visa Requirements: Ensure you have a valid visa for India.
e-Visa : Delegates from eligible Countries/Territories are advised to apply for e-Visa which is completely an online process. At present e-Visa is issued to passport holders of 161 countries. e-Visa has 5 sub-categories i.e. e-Tourist visa, e-Business visa, e-Medical visa, e-Medical Attendant visa and e-Conference visa. Delegates are advised to apply for e-Conference Visa. Delegates applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club with e-Tourist visa also. Online application for e-Visa can be made 120 days in advance of the actual arrival date in India. However, applications are to be made minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. For details and applying for e-Visa, please visit: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.
Regular Visa
Alternatively, delegates can apply for a regular visa through online application link. Delegates from Countries/Territories not listed under the e-Visa scheme must apply for regular visa only. For details and applying for regular visa please visit: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/index.html
The local organizing committee, 1st WSSTL will issue appropriate invitation letters to delegates to facilitate their e-Visa /regular visa application. Please write to wsstl2025.civil@iisc.ac.in if you need any specific document from the conference organisers for your visa application.
Currency Exchange: Currency exchange facilities are available at the airport, but it is advisable to carry some local currency (INR) for immediate expenses.
Customs and Immigration: Be prepared for customs and immigration procedures. Ensure you declare any items as required by Indian law.
Health and Safety: It is advisable to have travel insurance and check any health advisories or required vaccinations before traveling.
Reaching Bengaluru domestically is also convenient due to its well-connected transportation air, rail, and road infrastructure. Here are the various ways to reach the city:
By Air
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is very well-connected to major cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Pune, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, Goa (Panjim), Kochi, Ahmedabad, Mangalore, Ahmadabad, Lucknow, Patna, etc. Domestic airlines such as IndiGo, Akasa Air, Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, and GoAir operate frequent flights to and from Bengaluru.
By Train
Bengaluru has several railway stations, with the two main ones being:
- Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna (KSR) Bengaluru City Railway Station (SBC): Located in the heart of the city, it connects Bengaluru to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Pune.
- Yesvantpur (Yeswanthpur/Yashavantapura) Junction (YPR): Another important station, especially for trains from northern and western parts of India.
Booking Tickets:
- Tickets can be booked online through the IRCTC website or mobile app (available in Google Play and the Apple Store).
- Tickets can also be purchased at railway station counters.
By Bus
Bengaluru is well-connected by road, with numerous private and state-run bus services operating from various cities.
Major Bus Terminals:
- Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic): The primary bus terminal in the city centre, serving routes from across Karnataka and neighbouring states.
- Satellite Bus Station: For buses coming from the southern parts of India, such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
By Car
Bengaluru is connected to major cities through an extensive network of highways. Key routes include:
- NH44: Connecting Bengaluru to Hyderabad and further north.
- NH48: Connecting Bengaluru to Chennai and Mumbai.
- NH75: Connecting Bengaluru to Mangalore.
Tips for Driving:
- Ensure you have an updated GPS or map for navigation.
- Be mindful of toll plazas and traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.