Getting Started on the Namma Metro
The Namma Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Bengaluru. The network covers 83 stations across 3 lines and ~96 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~850,000 journeys are made every day.
Namma Metro ("Our Metro" in Kannada) is Bengaluru's metro rail system. It opened on 20 October 2011 with a short stretch of the Purple Line and today runs three lines (Purple, Green and Yellow) with 83 stations and about 96 km of track. Two more lines, the Pink Line and the airport-bound Blue Line, are under construction.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Namma Metro Smart Card: faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. How to get a Namma Metro Smart Card in Bengaluru, what it costs, the 5% and off-peak discounts, the ₹90 minimum balance rule, recharge options and refunds, updated for the 2025 fare revision.
All payment options: Namma Metro Smart Card · QR ticket (Namma Metro app, WhatsApp and payment apps) · Token (single journey) · Day passes.
💡 The Smart Card saves 5% on every trip, plus an extra 5% on weekdays before 8:00, from 12:00 to 16:00 and after 21:00, and 10% all day on Sundays and national holidays. Keep at least ₹90 on the card, or the entry gate will not open.
Peak hours: No peak surcharge. Smart Card off-peak discounts apply on weekdays before 8:00, 12:00–16:00 and after 21:00.
Getting from the Airport to Bengaluru
There is no metro to Kempegowda Airport yet. Compare the Vayu Vajra airport bus, the KIA halt train and taxis, and see how to connect to Namma Metro once you reach the city. Journey time: 60–90 min by Vayu Vajra bus to Majestic; 45–120 min by taxi, depending on traffic. Estimated fare: Airport bus roughly ₹250–₹350; taxi or app cab roughly ₹900–₹1,500.
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Namma Metro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Baggage X-ray at every station: all bags are scanned at the security checkpoint before entry. Allow 2–3 extra minutes at busy stations.
- Women-only coaches: the first coach of every train is reserved for women. Clearly marked. Male passengers should use other coaches.
- Peak hours are very crowded: avoid 08:00–10:00 and 17:00–20:00 on weekdays if you can. Trains run reliably but are packed during rush hours.
- Consider a Smart Card: if you will ride several times a day, the discount and time saved soon cover the card cost. For a short visit, QR tickets on your phone are often simpler.
- Download the operator app: fare calculators, UPI ticketing, and route planners are available from Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited.
- Operating hours: the metro runs approximately 06:00 to 22:00–23:00. Always check the last train time if travelling late.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Namma Metro go to Bengaluru airport?
Not yet. The Blue Line, which will run from Central Silk Board via KR Puram to Kempegowda International Airport, is still under construction. Until it opens, use a BMTC Vayu Vajra airport bus, the KIA halt suburban train or a taxi. Many travellers take the Vayu Vajra bus to Majestic and continue by metro.
Which metro line goes to Electronic City?
The Yellow Line, which opened in August 2025. It runs from RV Road (change here from the Green Line) through Central Silk Board and Electronic City to Bommasandra.
Does Namma Metro reach Whitefield?
Yes. The Purple Line has run all the way to Whitefield (Kadugodi) since October 2023, so you can ride from Whitefield to MG Road, Majestic and Challaghatta without changing trains.
What is the maximum Namma Metro fare?
The maximum token fare is ₹90, for trips longer than 25 km. Most trips inside the city cost ₹30 to ₹60. Smart Card users pay at least 5% less.
What time does Namma Metro run?
Trains run from about 5:00 to about 23:00 on most days, with last trains leaving Majestic close to 23:00. Timings can change for festivals and special events, so check BMRCL notices before a late journey.
Which station is closest to Lalbagh?
Lalbagh station on the Green Line, next to the west gate of Lalbagh Botanical Garden. South End Circle, one stop further south, is close to the Lalbagh main gate area.
What is the nearest metro station to Cubbon Park?
Cubbon Park station on the Purple Line. Vidhana Soudha station, one stop west on the same line, is also a short walk from the park and the High Court.
Can I use one card for Namma Metro and BMTC buses?
The standard Namma Metro Smart Card works only on the metro. BMTC buses use their own passes and digital tickets, so plan to pay for each separately.
Fare Guide
See the full Namma Metro ticket prices guide for all fares, the Namma Metro Smart Card discount, and payment options.
Source: Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance, so verify with the operator before travel.