Getting Around in Bengaluru

Although Bengaluru is known for its green spaces and also considered India's 'Garden City', it is ranked as one of the world's most traffic-congested cities. Getting around in Bengaluru can be chaotic – with vehicles and pedestrians ignoring the rules and vying for dominance on the road.

Bengaluru's public transport and road networks are more limited than those in Mumbai and Delhi, but the city remains well connected to the national rail network through the main stations, such as Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna (Bengaluru Station), Yesvantpur Junction railway station and Bengaluru Cantonment. 

The metro, which is continually developing, is a convenient way to avoid the roads and one of the more efficient ways of getting from A to B. Still, it can get extremely crowded, so most people still prefer to get around using auto rickshaws and buses. Expats may prefer to travel by car, but driving in the city can be nerve-wracking, so expats who can afford it prefer to hire an Indian driver who is familiar with the various areas as well as the driving style of locals.

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Public transport in Bengaluru

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Taxis in Bengaluru

Taxi cabs are more expensive than buses and rickshaws, but are a more comfortable way to get around. They run on a meter and are usually modern, air-conditioned cars with drivers who know the city well.

Passengers may need to book their services over the phone, usually in advance, especially if they plan on travelling during rush hour. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Ola Cabs are often more convenient than regular taxis.

Auto rickshaws

These ubiquitous three-wheeled vehicles are a quick way of getting around, but it can be a hair-raising experience. Although they operate on meters, be sure to agree on a price before going anywhere. There has been a move for pink autos directed at female passengers in Bengaluru, but progress has been slow.

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Driving in Bengaluru

Expats who plan to be in India for an extended period of time often rent or buy a car and some hire a car and a driver. Local drivers generally know their way around and can get around quicker than an expat would.

Numerous companies offer these services, but expats should make sure they go through a reputable one and check the car for scratches and dents beforehand so they don't end up paying for any existing damage.

Expats who attempt to get behind the wheel themselves may struggle. Road conditions in Bengaluru aren't always good, local drivers are often erratic and signage isn't always clear. Bengaluru also ranks as one of the world's most congested cities and traffic becomes gridlocked during rush hour.

Some foreign driving licences will allow expats to drive in Bengaluru with an international driving permit. We recommend confirming this with the relevant government department or embassy.

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Cycling in Bengaluru

The roads and traffic in Bengaluru don’t make for a cycle-friendly city. Expats who want to get around by bike are advised to wear a helmet and be vigilant of pedestrians and other road users.

On the other hand, cycling is a great way to explore the region and make friends. New arrivals can find cycling groups on social media pages and easily arrange meetups. There are also great areas off the main roads where cyclists can explore new routes and even venture out of the city, such as to Ulsoor Lake or Nandi Hills.

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Walking in Bengaluru

Walking may not be the best option for getting around in Bengaluru, in terms of both safety and practicality. The roads are nightmarish and pedestrians are not safe from this chaos. Expats who opt for walking must do so with caution, particularly when crossing busy streets. 

That said, new arrivals can familiarise themselves with the city by taking a tourist walking tour. The city also offers great parks, such as Cubbon Park and Jaya Prakash Narayana Park, with great trails for casual strolls as well as jogs.

Walking around neighbourhoods in Bengaluru gives a great sense of what they have to offer – historically, socially and culturally, such as the ancient temples in Malleswaram, as well as the nearby local markets.