Bajpe

Bajpe is a village and locality in the Dakshina Kannada district of the Indian state of Karnataka. It is situated on the coastal plain near Mangaluru (formerly Mangalore) and forms part of the broader Mangaluru urban region. The area is known for its mix of rural communities and developing infrastructure as the city of Mangaluru expands.

The most notable feature of Bajpe is Mangalore International Airport, located on Airport Road in Bajpe. The airport has IATA code IXE and ICAO code VOML and serves as the primary air gateway for Mangaluru and the surrounding district, offering domestic flights to major Indian cities and some international services. Its presence has been a major driver of local growth and connectivity.

Connectivity in Bajpe is primarily through road links, including access to National Highway 66 and other regional roads that connect to Mangaluru and coastal towns. Public and private transport networks facilitate movement to the city center and neighboring communities, supporting both passenger travel and freight.

Economically, Bajpe benefits from airport-related activity, along with the traditional coastal economy that includes agriculture and fishing. The region commonly grows coconut and areca nut, along with rice and other staples, while fishing remains a significant local livelihood. The population includes speakers of Tulu, Kannada, and Konkani, reflecting the linguistic diversity of coastal Karnataka.

Historically, Bajpe developed as a rural settlement that expanded its profile with the establishment and growth of the airport. Today it remains a key gateway for the region and a focal point for development in the Dakshina Kannada district.