Bengaluru's Double-Decker Ambaari Buses Witness Over 700 Passengers in Inaugural Week, Republic Day Records 398 Riders
Just one week after their grand launch, the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation's (KSTDC) Ambaari double-decker buses have become an instant sensation across Bengaluru. The tourist-centric service has already catered to more than 700 passengers, with Republic Day emerging as the peak day, attracting a remarkable 398 visitors eager to experience the city from a new perspective.
Route and Operational Details of the Ambaari Service
The complete bus journey spans approximately 40 minutes, commencing from Ravindra Kalakshetra. The scenic route winds through several iconic landmarks, including Corporation Circle, the Visvesvaraya Museum, Chinnaswamy Stadium, the General Post Office, and the majestic Vidhana Soudha, before circling back to the starting point. This carefully curated path offers passengers a comprehensive glimpse of Bengaluru's rich heritage and modern vibrancy.
Ticket Booking and Passenger Flexibility
Although a dedicated ticket counter is yet to be established, passengers can conveniently purchase tickets directly at Ravindra Kalakshetra or through the official KSTDC website. Each ticket guarantees a round trip, with the innovative hop-on, hop-off feature allowing tourists to disembark at any designated stop to explore the city at their leisure and reboard a subsequent bus later in the day.
A KSTDC official highlighted, "Daily footfall varies significantly, with weekends and national holidays like Republic Day drawing larger crowds, while weekdays typically see fewer passengers." The official further noted, "We have served 774 passengers so far, with Monday recording the highest turnout due to Republic Day. Based on the growing demand, we plan to expand the fleet and introduce additional routes in the near future."
Public Fascination and Tourist Appeal
The double-decker buses have captivated both locals and visitors alike. Anil K, a bus staff member, shared, "Many people at traffic signals gaze in awe as the bus passes by, inquiring about ticket prices and details so they can also enjoy the experience." He added, "These buses are perfect for tourists wishing to explore the surrounding areas. You can board at Ravindra Kalakshetra, alight at any stop to sightsee or sample local cuisine, and then catch the next Ambaari bus to continue your journey or return to your desired location."
The service has particularly resonated with out-of-town visitors. Usha V, a Tamil Nadu resident on a family trip, expressed, "We were incredibly curious about the Ambaari double-deckers and decided to try them. It was an absolutely fantastic experience."
Bus Capacity and Pricing Structure
Each Ambaari bus accommodates up to 40 passengers, with 20 seats on the fully air-conditioned lower deck and 20 on the open-top upper deck, offering both comfort and panoramic views. The ticket is priced at Rs 180 per person per day, providing unlimited access to the hop-on, hop-off service throughout the day, enabling multiple boardings and alightings at designated stops.
The resurgence of double-decker buses in Bengaluru not only revives nostalgic memories but also enhances the city's tourism infrastructure, promising a unique and memorable way to discover its charms.
