Getting Started on the Namma Metro
The Namma Metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Bengaluru. The network covers 73 stations across 4 lines and 76.4 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~700,000 journeys are made every day.
Namma Metro (meaning "Our Metro" in Kannada) is Bengaluru's metro rail system and the lifeline of India's Silicon Valley. Opened on 20 October 2011 on the Purple Line, it has grown to 73 stations across 4 lines and 76.4 km of track, with rapid expansion continuing.
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 use the Namma Metro Smart Card — buying, recharging via UPI, 10% discount, and tips for daily commuters and visitors.
All payment options: Metro Smart Card · Token (single-trip) · UPI (QR at machines) · Paytm · BMTC-Metro integrated card.
💡 The Metro Smart Card gives a 10% discount on all trips. It is available at any BMRCL customer care centre for ₹50 deposit + ₹50 minimum balance. Recharge via UPI at station machines.
Peak hours: No peak surcharge — flat distance-based fares at all times.
Getting from the Airport to Bengaluru
Yellow Line metro now connects Kempegowda International Airport to central Bengaluru — ~35 minutes to Majestic for ₹60. Journey time: ~35 min to Majestic / ~50 min to MG Road. Estimated fare: ₹60 (maximum fare, end-to-end Yellow Line).
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.
- Smart Card is essential — buy it on your first visit. The discount and time saving pay back the deposit within a day of travel. Available at any station customer care centre.
- Download the operator app — fare calculators, UPI ticketing, and route planners are available from Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation.
- 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 now reach the airport?
Yes — the Yellow Line Phase 2 extension to Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) opened in 2025. From Majestic (Kempegowda) to the airport is about 35–40 minutes, and from central Bengaluru (MG Road area) about 50 minutes. The metro eliminates the previously unavoidable traffic-dependent cab journey.
Which line is most useful for the IT corridor?
The Purple Line (east-west) passes through the tech corridor — Baiyappanahalli, Indiranagar, and Domlur are accessible. For Whitefield (another major IT cluster), the Purple Line terminus connects by bus. The Yellow Line serves Electronic City (via connections). The Outer Ring Road metro is in future planning.
How do I get from the airport to MG Road by Namma Metro?
Take the Yellow Line from the airport to its city-end terminus, then transfer or connect as needed. To MG Road: take Yellow Line to Majestic interchange, then Purple Line to MG Road (about 50 minutes total, ₹60 max fare).
What time does Namma Metro run?
Namma Metro operates from approximately 05:00 to 23:00. Last trains depart terminus stations around 22:30–23:00. BMTC night buses cover the city after metro hours.
Which station is closest to Lalbagh?
Lalbagh station on the Purple Line is directly adjacent to Lalbagh Botanical Garden — one of Bengaluru's most famous landmarks. It's a short walk from the Lalbagh West gate.
What is the nearest metro to Cubbon Park?
Cubbon Park station on the Purple Line is closest. For the Cubbon Park main entrance, Vidhana Soudha station (Green Line) is also within walking distance (about 700 metres from the High Court gate).
Does Namma Metro reach Whitefield?
Not directly as of 2026 — Whitefield is not on the current metro map. The Purple Line extended to Whitefield (Kadugodi) in 2023, so yes — it now reaches Whitefield. Check the latest BMRCL map for exact station names.
Can I travel on both Metro and BMTC bus with one card?
A combined BMTC-Metro card is under discussion but not fully implemented for all users as of 2026. Currently the Metro Smart Card works only on the metro. BMTC buses accept separate BMTC passes or cash.
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 (BMRC) and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.