Reaching the Ashram · By Air
By Air
Bengaluru (BLR) is the recommended airport for most travellers: 160 km from Puttaparthi, about 2h 15m by road. Hyderabad and Chennai are alternatives for regional routes but take significantly longer to drive.
Bengaluru (BLR) · 160 km · 2h 15m Recommended
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is the best choice for most devotees, whether domestic or international. Bengaluru connects to all major Indian cities and dozens of international destinations. From the airport, Puttaparthi is roughly 160 km north on NH44 — about 2h 15m by cab. From Bengaluru city centre (Majestic), allow about 3 hours. Kempegowda Airport on Google Maps.
For north Indian travellers: even though Hyderabad might look geographically closer on a map, the road from Hyderabad takes 7–8 hours. Flying to Bengaluru and driving 2h 15m is significantly faster.
Getting from BLR to the ashram
- Cab (fastest, most comfortable): Ola, Uber and pre-booked outstation cabs run directly from the airport to the ashram gate. Fixed fare. Journey: 3 hours.
- Bus via the NH44 toll gate: There is no direct bus from the airport to Puttaparthi. Take any airport bus toward Bengaluru city and ask the driver to drop you at the NH44 toll gate (fare approximately ₹120; toll gate on Maps). At the toll, wait for a KSRTC bus bearing Bhagawan's photo on the front windscreen — these run regularly toward Puttaparthi via the Anantapur highway. Book tickets at ksrtc.in.
- Bus via Majestic or Yelahanka: Alternatively, travel to Bengaluru Majestic (Kempegowda Bus Terminal, about 45 min from the airport) or Yelahanka for frequent KSRTC and APSRTC departures to Puttaparthi.
Hyderabad (HYD) · 7h 15m from airport · 8h from city
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) at Shamshabad is the option for travellers from Telangana and nearby regions. The drive from HYD airport to Puttaparthi via Kurnool takes about 7h 15m; from Hyderabad city centre (MGBS) allow 8 hours. For most north and east Indian travellers, flying to Bengaluru is significantly faster.
A pre-booked taxi from HYD airport is the most practical option. TSRTC (Telangana) buses connect Hyderabad (MGBS terminal) to Puttaparthi, but require travel from the airport into the city first. Book outstation cabs online for a hassle-free direct ride.
Chennai (MAA) · 380 km · 7h 15m from airport · 7h 30m from city
Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the natural entry point from Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. The drive from MAA airport to Puttaparthi takes about 7h 15m; from the city allow 7h 30m. TNSTC (Tamil Nadu) and APSRTC buses connect Chennai (CMBT) to Puttaparthi. Alternatively, take a train from Chennai to Dharmavaram Junction (5–6 hours) and a taxi for the final 40 km.
Arriving at the ashram
Navigate to Ganesh Gate, Puttaparthi, the main visitor entrance. Cabs drop you at the gate. The Accommodation Office (N-9 Block) is a short walk from the gate.
Navigate to Ganesh Gate on Google Maps