Old Airport Road is one of the most well-known and vibrant roads in Bangalore, connecting the heart of the city to the Kempegowda International Airport via Domlur and HAL Airport Road. Historically, it was the primary route leading to the old airport, but over time, it has evolved into a bustling commercial and residential area. The road is an important link between central Bangalore and various tech hubs, educational institutions, and upscale neighborhoods.
Old Airport Road serves as a crucial access point to some of the city's most prominent locations, including Indiranagar, Koramangala, and HAL. With its growing popularity, the area has transformed into a key business district, housing multinational companies, luxury hotels, cafes, and fine-dining restaurants. It's a perfect blend of workspaces, entertainment options, and residential areas.
The road’s proximity to the Kempegowda International Airport, combined with a well-developed infrastructure, makes it a popular choice for business travelers, expatriates, and residents alike. Whether you're traveling to the airport or exploring the local attractions, Old Airport Road offers a dynamic experience for both locals and visitors.
Key Features
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Proximity to Airport: Old Airport Road offers easy access to Kempegowda International Airport, making it a preferred route for travelers.
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Business Hub: The road is home to various multinational companies, tech parks, and business centers, making it a bustling business area.
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Residential and Commercial Mix: Old Airport Road has seen rapid development in both residential complexes and commercial spaces, offering a diverse living environment.
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Vibrant Food Scene: From street food to upscale restaurants, Old Airport Road has a rich variety of dining options.
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Entertainment and Leisure: The road is lined with cafes, pubs, and entertainment venues, making it a popular spot for nightlife.
Geography and Boundaries
Old Airport Road stretches from Domlur in the south, passing through prominent localities like HAL, Murugeshpalya, and Kodihalli, and heads north toward the Kempegowda International Airport. The road is well-connected to various parts of the city, with easy access to nearby neighborhoods like Indiranagar, Ulsoor, and Koramangala.
Key Boundaries
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South: The southern boundary is marked by Domlur, a central residential and commercial hub, and it connects to other important areas such as Koramangala and Jayanagar.
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North: The northern boundary leads directly to Kempegowda International Airport, serving as a major access route for travelers.
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East: HAL and Murugeshpalya are located to the east, with both areas offering a mix of residential and commercial developments.
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West: The western side is home to Ulsoor Lake and other upscale residential neighborhoods like Indiranagar, making it a vibrant, sought-after area.
History and Development
Old Airport Road was initially constructed to serve as a primary route to the original HAL Airport, which later gave way to the construction of Kempegowda International Airport on the city’s outskirts. Over the decades, the road has undergone major developments, transforming from a quieter area into a bustling urban center.
As Bangalore expanded, Old Airport Road became an essential part of the city's infrastructure, connecting various prominent neighborhoods. In the early 2000s, the development of IT parks and multinational company offices along the road led to an economic boom, making it one of the most sought-after areas in Bangalore.
Today, it’s a key destination for both business and leisure, with a wide range of establishments from tech parks to food courts, all contributing to the area’s dynamic character.
Key Developments
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Tech Parks: The rise of IT hubs along Old Airport Road, including the Embassy GolfLinks Business Park and Bagmane Tech Park, has attracted many businesses, tech companies, and startups.
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Residential Growth: Upscale residential developments like Prestige Silver Oak and Embassy Grove have emerged along the road, providing luxury living spaces for the city’s elite.
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Shopping and Entertainment: The development of shopping malls, retail outlets, and entertainment centers has further transformed Old Airport Road into a commercial hotspot.
Places of Interest
1. Kempegowda International Airport
Serving as the gateway to Bangalore, Kempegowda International Airport is located at the northern end of Old Airport Road. It offers both domestic and international flights, making it a crucial travel hub for visitors coming into the city. The airport is equipped with modern amenities, shopping areas, lounges, and restaurants for a comfortable experience for travelers.
2. HAL Heritage Centre and Aerospace Museum
The HAL Heritage Centre and Aerospace Museum is one of the most notable attractions along Old Airport Road. It showcases the history of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and India’s aviation industry, with a collection of aircraft, models, and exhibits. It’s a great spot for aviation enthusiasts and those interested in the history of India’s defense sector.
3. Ulsoor Lake
Located just off Old Airport Road, Ulsoor Lake is one of the oldest and most scenic lakes in Bangalore. The lake is a popular spot for boating, picnics, and leisurely walks. The surrounding park area provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a great place to unwind.
4. Indiranagar
A short distance from Old Airport Road, Indiranagar is a lively area known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a hotspot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the best of Bangalore’s food scene and party culture.
5. Embassy GolfLinks Business Park
One of the prominent tech parks along the road, Embassy GolfLinks Business Park houses numerous multinational companies and startups. The park features modern office buildings, green spaces, and various amenities, making it a key business destination in the city.
Transportation
Old Airport Road is one of the most accessible roads in Bangalore, well-connected by public and private transportation.
Key Transport Routes
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Old Airport Road Metro Station: The upcoming metro station will enhance connectivity along the road, making it even easier to commute to other parts of Bangalore.
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Airport Shuttle: With its proximity to Kempegowda International Airport, the road is serviced by dedicated airport shuttle buses that connect passengers to the airport terminals.
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Madiwala Junction: Located at the southern end, this major junction connects Old Airport Road to various key areas in Bangalore, including Koramangala and Jayanagar.
Public Transport
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BMTC Buses: BMTC buses run regularly along Old Airport Road, offering convenient access to several key destinations in Bangalore.
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Auto-Rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a common and convenient mode of transport, available for short-distance travel along Old Airport Road.
Private Vehicles
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Cabs: Ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber operate extensively along Old Airport Road, providing easy access for commuters.
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Two-Wheelers: Motorcycles and scooters are widely used for short commutes along the road.
Dining and Cuisine
Old Airport Road is renowned for its variety of dining options, ranging from street food stalls to high-end restaurants and cafes. The area offers a diverse selection of cuisines, including South Indian, North Indian, Continental, and international flavors.
Notable Restaurants
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The 13th Floor: Located on the rooftop of the Barton Centre, this iconic restaurant offers stunning views of the city along with a variety of drinks and food.
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MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms): A Bangalore institution, MTR offers delicious South Indian meals, including its famous dosas and idlis.
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The Biere Club: A popular pub and brewery, The Biere Club serves craft beer and a variety of dishes, making it a favorite among Bangaloreans.
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Vapour Pub and Brewery: Known for its great ambiance and craft beers, Vapour is a popular spot for foodies and nightlife lovers.
Shopping
The road is dotted with shopping malls, retail stores, and street markets.
Shopping Highlights
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Phoenix Marketcity: A large shopping mall offering a variety of retail stores, fashion outlets, food courts, and entertainment options.
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VR Bengaluru: A shopping and entertainment destination located near the Whitefield area, VR Bengaluru features premium brands, restaurants, and a cinema.
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Street Markets: Local markets around HAL and Murugeshpalya are known for fresh produce, clothes, and other goods at affordable prices.
Accommodation
Old Airport Road offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxurious hotels, budget stays, and service apartments.
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Luxury Hotels: Some of the best luxury hotels, such as the Taj Bangalore and The Leela Palace, are located along or near Old Airport Road.
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Budget Hotels: Several budget hotels and guesthouses provide affordable stays for travelers.
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Service Apartments: Service apartments are an ideal choice for business travelers and long-term visitors.
Nearby Attractions
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Indiranagar: Known for its bustling nightlife, shopping, and dining experiences, Indiranagar is just a short distance from Old Airport Road.
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Koramangala: A hub for tech companies, shopping, and food, Koramangala is one of Bangalore’s most popular neighborhoods.
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Ulsoor Lake: Just a short drive away, Ulsoor Lake is perfect for those looking for tranquility amidst the city.
Conclusion
Old Airport Road is a bustling and vibrant area in Bangalore, offering an eclectic mix of business, residential, and recreational spaces. With its proximity to the airport, excellent connectivity, and a wide range of dining and shopping options, Old Airport Road remains one of the city’s most sought-after locations for both residents and travelers.
