How to use Namma Metro: a first-time rider's guide
Your first trip on the Bengaluru Metro is easy once you know two things: which platform to stand on, and where to change lines. This guide walks through a trip from the station entrance to the exit.
Updated 2026-10-24 · Independent guide, not an official BMRCL page
1. Plan the route before you reach the station
Find your nearest station and the station closest to where you're going. Note the line and, most importantly, the end station in your direction of travel. Platform signs show the end station (for example "Towards Whitefield (Kadugodi)"), not the next stop. The route finder works this out from any landmark and tells you which platform to use.
2. Buy a ticket
You can buy a token at the counter or a ticket machine, a QR ticket on your phone, or use a smart card. If you travel often, get a smart card or use QR tickets: they are cheaper and skip the queue. The fares and tickets guide explains each option.
3. Security check
Every station has a security check. Bags go through an X-ray scanner and passengers walk through a metal detector. Large luggage, sharp objects, flammable items and anything that could harm other passengers aren't allowed. At peak hours the security line can take a few minutes, so allow for it.
4. Through the gates and onto the right platform
Tap your token or card on the reader, or scan your QR code, and walk through when the gate opens. Then follow the signs for your line colour and the end station in your direction. At stations with two platforms, the trains on each side go in opposite directions. Check the sign above the platform before you go down.
5. Boarding and riding
- Stand behind the yellow line and let people get off before you board.
- The coach nearest the front in the direction of travel is reserved for women. Look for the pink signs on the platform.
- Seats for senior citizens, people with disabilities and pregnant women are marked. Please give them up when needed.
- Eating isn't allowed on trains. Keep music on headphones.
- Announcements are in Kannada, English and Hindi, and the screens show the next station.
6. Changing lines
There are two interchanges. At Majestic (Nadaprabhu Kempegowda station) the Purple and Green Lines cross on different levels. At Rashtreeya Vidyalaya Road the Green and Yellow Lines meet. You stay inside the paid area: follow the colour signs for your next line and don't tap out. Allow about five minutes for the change at rush hour.
7. Exiting
At your destination, drop your token into the slot, tap your card or scan your QR ticket at the exit gate. Big stations have several numbered exits. The station map near the gates shows which exit leads to which road, which can save you a long walk.
Accessibility
Namma Metro stations have lifts and tactile paths for visually impaired passengers, and station staff can help wheelchair users. If you need help, speak to the staff at the customer care desk near the entrance.