As the world is going digital, most of the things even in the travel industry are being done electronically. And as a growing IT hub, India too is introducing an array of latest technologies to benefit its citizens and tourists. A beta version of one such new service, the DigiYatra program was successfully introduced at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on 15th August this year. 

And now the Ministry of Civil Aviation has rolled out DigiYatra at 3 airports in India. It is aimed to make the boarding process digital and seamless. Further improvising the security, the departure control system of the particular airline the passengers are flying with will verify their data. 

Faces to be the New Boarding Passes

Through DigiYatra’s facial recognition technology, passengers will be able to pass through various checkpoints at the airport without physical IDs or boarding passes. This could sound surprising to many but now your face can act as your boarding pass! 

Which Airports in India have Implemented the DigiYatra Program?

The Civil Aviation Ministry of India has introduced the DigiYatra Program at one of the three major airports in India on 1st December. These airports are mentioned below: 

1. Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. 
2. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi.
3. Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore. 

DigiYatra is also believed to be implemented in a phased manner across various other airports in India by next year. 

How to Get Paperless Entry at the DigiYatra-Enabled Airports in India?

If you are flying through Delhi, Bangalore or Varanasi, you can avail a paperless and hassle-free entry by following these steps: 

Step 1: Download the DigiYatra app from the app store. 

Step 2: Register your details on the DigiYatra app.

Step 3: Provide the required Aadhar-based details. 

Step 4: Click your selfie for the DigiYatra app.

Step 5: Scan your boarding pass to update in the app.

Step 6: Your credentials will be shared with the airport (Delhi, Bangalore or Varanasi).  

Step 7: Go ahead and scan the bar coded boarding pass at the e-gate of the airport.

Step 8: Your identity and travel documents will be validated by the ‘facial recognition system’ at the e-gate. 

Step 9: You will now be allowed to enter the airport via the e-gate.

Step 10: Now you can board the aircraft after going through the regular security clearance procedures. 

With new travel apps such as DigiYatra, technology has been revolutionizing the tourism sector. With these innovations, you never know, you might soon be able to also see the advent of Metaverse tourism in India. 

You can book cheap flight tickets from USA to India via Indian Eagle and travel to these cities at affordable prices. So, why wait? Plan your itinerary today and get ready to go through a seamless boarding process via DigiYatra.

The post DigiYatra Launched at 3 New Airports in India: Face Scan to Let Passengers Board Hassle-Free appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

Oftentimes during your long-haul flight from the USA to India, you might have felt hunger pangs (even after having your in-flight meals) as the arrival time approaches. Yes, most airlines do serve a light meal some 2 hours before landing, but hunger patterns are different for everyone, and of course, they are strange, aren’t they? Sometimes, it also happens that your stomach seems to growl harder when your mind is conscious that you need to take a connecting flight to your final destination, which means you need to wait a couple of hours more to sink your teeth into food.

Well, whatever the reason, whether you are simply hungry or feel the urge to sample the local dishes before proceeding home/hotel or decide to eat something to keep your body fueled and prepared for the next connecting (short-haul) flight from Bangalore, you need to know about these five best restaurants near Bangalore Airport.

• Café 77 East
• Indian Paratha Company
• Tamarind
• Samosa Singh
• Nandi Upachar

Café 77 East:

Café 77 is known for its extensive menu, from North and South Indian to Italian, Continental, and Mediterranean cuisines. A wide range of delectable food items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner leaves you spoiled for choice. It is often listed among the most popular multi-cuisine restaurants near Bangalore International Airport. The classy interiors, spacious seating, and relaxed ambiance of Café 77 East are the icing on the cake; and the alfresco seating by the landscaped gardens lets you enjoy the pleasant Bangalore weather while the restaurant pampers you with tasty food.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Approximate Cost for 2: ₹ 2500

Address: Taj Bangalore, Devanahalli

Indian Paratha Company:

If you are someone with an undying love for parathas that you can eat them any time of the day (no, we don’t ask you to bet on that!), then the Indian Paratha Company is your go-to restaurant near Bangalore airport. Serving more than 20 varieties of mouth-watering parathas such as Soya keema paratha, Samosa aloo paratha, Spring onion cheese paratha, Chettinad parathzaa, and Mushroom Corn parathzaa, this highway restaurant makes sure that it fills both the tummies and hearts of its guests. Apart from parathas, they also have appetizers, desserts, and other refreshments – all at economical prices.

Timings: 11 am to 11 pm

Approximate Cost for 2: ₹ 700

Address: Survey No. 1/2, Guttahalli, Kasaba Hobli, Bangalore-Hyderabad highway, Devanahalli

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Bengaluru International Airport

Tamarind:

This upscale restaurant specializes in the royal Rajasthani, Awadhi, and Punjabi cuisines, and it is one of the best places to eat near Bangalore Airport. Tamarind prides itself on being meticulous about the food they serve to suit every refined palate. Relish the richness of authentic Indian food in a classy restaurant, whose traditional Indian hospitality you can never forget. The restaurant also has a wine room with a good collection of Indian and international wines to cater to the distinct tastes of wine lovers.

Timings: 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm and 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm

Approximate Cost for 2: ₹ 2000

Address: No.9, Chairman Layout, Banaswadi Main Road, Near Banaswadi Fire station 

Samosa Singh:

How about grabbing a quick bite even before you leave the airport? Kempegowda International Airport, being one of the busiest airports in India, is equipped with many eateries for the sake of hungry passengers. Samosa King, situated near the Kerb Side opposite 9th Gate, is known to offer a drool-worthy variety of both veg and non-veg samosas. Do we Indians really need a specific occasion or time for this tasty indulgence? Head towards Samosa King and try different varieties of this India’s most loved triangular snack. Complete your samosa experience with a piping hot chai!

Approximate Cost for 2: ₹300

Address: Main Terminal, Kempegowda International Airport

Nandi Upachar:

Situated very close to Kempegowda International Airport on the NH 4 Highway, Nandi Upachar never fails to draw vegetarians with its irresistible South Indian fare. Boasting a multi-veg cuisine, this is one of the best restaurants near Bangalore airport to satisfy your hunger for authentic Indian food. From traditional South Indian breakfast to full meals to light snacks and hot beverages, every item on their menu is sure to delight your taste buds.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Approximate Cost for 2: ₹ 500

Address: 29/5, Hoysala Corpus, Rani Circle, BB Road, National Highway-NH7, Devanahalli

You can head to any of these restaurants near Bangalore Airport and enjoy a delicious bite or meal as soon as you arrive in the city. Have you booked your flights to Bengaluru yet? Find the best flight deals at Indian Eagle and book your tickets now!

The post 5 Best Restaurants Near Bangalore Airport to Appease Your Post-Flight Hunger appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

Life in ‘the IT capital of India’ is often characterized as bustling and vibrant. It is not uncommon that a hectic 8-hour schedule in the office and exasperating 2-3 hours in traffic drains every ounce of energy, leaving no room for excitement and fun. What better time than the weekend to escape the humdrum of life? Don’t be a couch potato and idle away the weekend, for Bangalore has umpteen destinations for every kind of traveler — no matter if it is the sea or mountains or woods that you love! You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the best weekend getaways from Bangalore. So, here we are with the top 3 suggestions for an ideal weekend getaway near Bangalore!

Coorg, the Scotland of India:

The ravishing beauty and serenity of Coorg draws travelers to this popular weekend getaway near Bangalore. Originally called Kodagu, Coorg is one of the best hill stations in India, situated about 260 km away from Bangalore.

Coorg’s allure is not just limited to its natural scenery. This coffee-producing hill station encompassed by the lush hills of Western Ghats is also a perfect destination for adventure, culinary, and cultural tourism. Enjoy adventure sports like trekking and white-water rafting, drink in the views of misty coffee plantations, watch the sunset at Raja’s Seat, bathe elephants at the Dubare Elephant Camp, and sample Kodava cuisine.

Also Read: Bengaluru City Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to do & Other Bengaluru City Travel Essentials

Mysore, the Cultural Capital of Karnataka:

Mysore or Mysuru, an erstwhile princely state, is famed for its royal heritage, magnificent palaces, ornate temples, and beautiful gardens. This historic city, situated at the base of Chamundi Hills, is one of the closest weekend getaways from Bangalore.

The name Mysore immediately conjures up the image of the elegant Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s true that palaces are Mysore’s primary draw cards, but this ‘City of Palaces’ never ceases to amaze you with its other attractions like Brindavan Gardens, Karanji Lake, Ranganathittu Sanctuary, Yoga centers, etc. Mysore’s famous silk sarees, paintings, and sandalwood are among the best Indian souvenirs, so don’t forget to buy them.

Chikmagalur, the Coffee Land of Karnataka:

Love the tranquilizing aroma of coffee? It’s time to feast your eyes with the breathtaking views of sprawling tea and coffee plantations against the backdrop of verdant Mullayanagiri ranges in Chikmagalur, the first recorded place in India to cultivate coffee. Book flights to Mangalore with Indian Eagle now!

The sleepy town of Chikmagalur is a sought-after weekend getaway from Bangalore among nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and peace seekers. Trek the highest Mullayanagiri peak, relax by the waterfalls, visit the temples, go wildlife spotting at Shola Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and Kudremukh National Park, and take a guided tour through the coffee plantations. The home-stays within the estates warmly welcome you for a tranquil sojourn in Chikmagalur!

The post Coorg, Mysore, Chikmagalur: 3 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Bangalore appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

Street food deserves a special mention when talking about Indian cuisine. The food stalls found in the commonplace streets are the best places to understand the food culture of a region and relish its authentic flavors. Join a street food tour and treat yourself to the delectable tastes of India! We guarantee that the culinary expedition in India leaves you satisfied. This article is to guide the foodies on the lookout for the best places to savor street food in Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India. From VV Puram Food Street to Chetty’s Corner, these are the best street food spots in Bangalore.

Suggested Read: Bengaluru City Travel Guide

V V Puram Food Street, Basavanagudi:

Ask the locals about the best place to eat street food in Bangalore, they’ll surely take the name of VV Puram Food Street located near Old Market Street in Basavanagudi. The multiple food outlets lining this street are not just limited to serving you the best of Bangalore street food. From South Indian breakfast and North Indian chat to Chinese fast food and mouth-watering desserts, you’ll find everything here at the most economical rates!

Location: Old market Road, Sajjan Rao Circle, Basavanagudi.

Must-try items: Masala Dosa, Dal Holige, Manchuria, Pav Bhaji, Chat, Gulkand.

Also Read: Bengaluru City Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to do & Other Bengaluru City Travel Essentials

Eat Street, Koramangala:

Koramangala is one of the most happening places in Bangalore, thanks to the IT companies, colleges, posh pubs, clubs, and restaurants clustered in the area. Understandably, the place always brims with activity, day or night. Even when you are booking flights to Bangalore for business purposes, you must find some time to walk into the Eat Street, an open-air street food court in Koramangala that serves Indian, Italian, and Chinese delicacies. You’ll spot people hanging out with friends and enjoying the good food in a lively ambience cheered up by live music!

Location: ATNT Building, 11, 80 Feet Road, Opposite Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Koramangala 6th Block.

Must-try items: Burgers, Pav Bhaji, Waffles, Pani-Puri.

Hari Super Sandwich, Jayanagar:

As the name suggests, Hari Super Sandwich is particularly known for its great variety of sandwiches, including the cheese sandwich, American sweet corn sandwich, and chocolate sandwich. This popular and pocket-friendly street food joint in Bangalore also offers burgers, chat, potato twister, etc. However, its finger-licking tasty chocolate sandwich is what makes you go here again and again.

Location: 177/A-44, 22nd Cross, 3rd Block, Jayanagar.

Must-try items: Chocolate Sandwich, Burgers

Khan Saheb Grills and Rolls, Indiranagar:

‘Khan Saheb Grills and Rolls’ is the best food outlet in Bangalore to try different types of delicious rolls and grills. Its menu is rich with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian rolls. They have everything, from Baby Corn tikka roll to Mutton Bhuna roll. Grab your favorite roll, bite into it, and enjoy the taste of this popular street food in Bangalore! Isn’t it the ideal way to deal with your intermittent hunger pangs?

Location: Ground Floor, Sri Shiva Sai Complex, 13th Cross, 7th Main, 2nd Stage, HAL, Off Double Road, Indiranagar.

Must-try items: Chicken Seekh Roll, Chicken Tikka Roll, Kathi Roll, Beda Roti.

Karnataka Bhel House, Basavanagudi:

If you love Indian chat, Karnataka Bhel House is where you need to sample this common street food in Bangalore. A small food stall that started in 1975 with the most basic menu (consisting of Masala Puri, Aloo Dahi Puri, Bhel Puri, Sev Puri, Pani Puri, and cone ice creams of different flavors) has grown into the most popular spot to eat chat in Bangalore. It still sticks to its short menu and limited outdoor seating arrangement, but serves you the authentic chat that fills your tummy and heart!

Location: Door no.2, 3rd Cross Bazaar Street, Chamrajpet, Basavanagudi.

Must-try items: Aloo Dahi Puri, Bhel Puri.

Chetty’s Corner, Kumara Park West:

Chetty’s Corner, the brainchild of two innovative brothers, is a famous street food corner in Bangalore whose menu goes well with the gastronomic preferences of the new generation foodies. The brothers introduced new snacks by blending Indian and Continental flavors, and they were readily accepted and appreciated by the locals. Their twisted potatoes, called Twistatos, became popular street food in Bangalore in no time. Today, it is a go-to place for Bangaloreans to have evening refreshments.

Location: #2, Serpentine Road, Near-BWSSB, Kumara Park West.

Must-try items: Twistato, Bun Nippat Masala, Masala Soda

The post Treat Yourself to the Delectable Street Food of Bangalore at These 6 Best Places appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.