How to Talk to an Auto Driver in Kannada

The Bengaluru auto is a rite of passage. A few Kannada words signal that you know the city — and that usually means a fairer fare and far less haggling.

Open with the destination, not the fare

Start by stating where you want to go and ask the cost: “Eshtu?” means “how much?”. If the price sounds high, a calm “Jaasti” (too much) often brings it down. Hear the full exchange below.

Eshtu Majestic ge? How much to Majestic?

Indiranagar ge ondu ticket kodi One ticket to Indiranagar, please

Eshtu Helidri? How much did you say?

MG road ge yaav bus hoguthey? Which bus goes to MG road?

Stop Heli Tell me when the stop comes

Number Yaavadu neevu helidri Which number did you say?

Mundina bus yaavagu barutte? When is next bus coming?

Token Ellinda sigutte? Where to get token from?

If you didn’t understand the fare

Drivers may answer fast. It’s completely fine to say you didn’t catch it and ask again — see all transport phrases for “say it again” and “where do I catch the bus?”.

Quick tips

Prefer the meter: “meter haaki” means “put the meter on”.
Know your numbers — most of the conversation is just a price.
Stay friendly. A smile plus one Kannada word beats perfect grammar.

Heading out now? Grab the offline app so you have these ready without signal.