Arriving at Vijayawada Airport (VGA) and getting to your hotel or onward destination doesn’t have to be stressful. Several options are available, ranging from quick and convenient taxis to more budget-friendly public transport. This guide will help you understand your choices, estimate costs, and plan a smooth transition from the airport to the city.
Official taxi services are readily available outside the arrivals area. Look for clearly marked taxi stands; airport staff are usually nearby to assist with directing you. Pre-paid taxi counters are sometimes available, which can offer a fixed price to your destination, eliminating the need to negotiate. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey, and ensure the meter is running if it’s a metered taxi. Expect a journey to the city center to take approximately 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
For a more personalized and comfortable experience, consider a private airport transfer. These are typically pre-booked online. Your driver will usually meet you inside the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. When booking, confirm the meeting point details and ensure the price includes all taxes and potential surcharges. Private transfers generally cost more than taxis but offer peace of mind and a direct route to your destination. Expect to pay between $20 and $40 USD for a transfer to the city center.
Shared shuttle services and minibuses are a cost-effective option, particularly for solo travelers. These services operate on a set schedule and may involve multiple stops, extending your travel time. They are often available for pre-booking. If you’re comfortable with local transport, buses and trains connect the airport to Vijayawada and surrounding areas. These are the most affordable options, but require navigating local schedules and potentially changing lines. Travel times can vary significantly. A train journey to the city center might take 30-60 minutes, while a bus could take longer depending on the route and stops.
Traffic conditions in Vijayawada can impact travel times, especially during peak hours. Consider this when planning your journey, and allow extra time if arriving during rush hour. Having some small denomination currency on hand is always a good idea for taxis and smaller purchases.
| Option | Time to City (approx.) | Price (USD, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 20-40 minutes | $10 - $20 |
| Private Transfer | 20-30 minutes | $20 - $40 |
| Shared Shuttle | 40-60 minutes | $8 - $15 |
| Train/Metro | 30-60 minutes | $1 - $3 |
| Bus | 60+ minutes | $1 - $2 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Popular destinations from Vijayawada Airport include the city center, Guntur (approximately 1-1.5 hours away), and Eluru (around 1 hour). When requesting a transfer to these locations, be sure to specify your exact destination to avoid confusion.
Official taxis are located at designated stands outside the arrivals area. Airport staff can help direct you.
Pre-booking a private transfer guarantees a driver and a fixed price, offering peace of mind.
Expect to pay around $10 to $20 USD for a taxi to the city center, depending on traffic.
Yes, shared shuttles are generally more affordable, but they take longer due to multiple stops.
Buses and trains are the cheapest options, but require more planning and may involve changes.
The journey to Guntur typically takes between 1 and 1.5 hours by taxi or private transfer.
If there isn't a pre-paid counter, confirm the fare with the driver *before* starting your trip.
Private transfer companies usually track flights. Contact them if your flight is significantly delayed.
Using official, marked taxis from the designated stands is generally safe.
It’s best to have some Indian Rupees on hand for smaller transactions, though some drivers may accept USD.
Local bus schedules are available at the airport information desk or online through local transport websites.