List of 10 National Highways in Karnataka

Karnataka, a state rich in cultural heritage and technical growth, also has a vast network of National Highways that serve as a lifeline, connecting major cities and economic hubs. These highways not only improve connectivity within the state, but also connect Karnataka to neighboring states, enabling interstate trade, tourism, and transportation.

National highways in Karnataka, such as NH 4, NH 44, and NH 48, pass through diverse landscapes, ranging from the bustling tech cities of Bangalore to the serene coastal areas. With rapid urbanization and economic expansion, these highways are essential for fulfilling the transportation needs of a growing population, facilitating smoother commutes, and boosting Karnataka's economic development.

In this blog, we will take a closer look at some of the national highways that run through Karnataka, influencing its connections and driving its growth.

Top National Highways in Karnataka

• National Highway 44

• National Highway 4

• National Highway 48

• National Highway 150A

• National Highway 67

• National Highway 65

• National Highway 748

• National Highway 75

• National Highway 52

• National Highway 66

Let's explore these top 10 national highways in Karnataka in detail,

1. National Highway 44

National Highway 44 (NH 44) is recognized as the longest National Highway in India, stretching approximately 4,112 km from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. In Karnataka, NH 44 plays a vital role in connecting key cities such as Bangalore and Bellary, facilitating seamless travel and trade. This highway enhances accessibility across the state, linking northern and southern regions, and merging with other National Highways to create an extensive transport network. As one of Karnataka's crucial infrastructural developments, NH 44 supports economic growth and improves connectivity, making it an essential artery for the state's transportation system.

2. National Highway 4

National Highway 4 (NH 4) is a crucial transportation corridor that connects Chennai in Tamil Nadu to Mumbai in Maharashtra, spanning approximately 1,235 km. In Karnataka, it links key cities like Bangalore, Tumakuru, and Hubli, facilitating travel and trade between South India and Western India. NH 4 plays a significant role in enhancing connectivity, supporting economic growth, and providing a vital route for commuters and goods, making it essential for regional development and interstate commerce.

3. National Highway 48

National Highway 48 (NH 48), formerly known as NH 7, is a vital transportation route spanning approximately 2,807 km and it connects the Maharashtra border to the Andhra Pradesh border. In Karnataka, it passes through important cities such as Hubli, Chitradurga, Tumakuru, and Bengaluru, enhancing connectivity within the state. NH 48 plays a significant role in linking multiple states, including Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Historically known as P.B. Road, this highway serves as a crucial corridor for trade, travel, and economic development, facilitating the seamless movement of goods and people across areas.

4. National Highway 150A

National Highway 150A (NH 150A) is an important spur road of National Highway 50, located in the Indian state of Karnataka. This highway travels southward through eastern Karnataka, briefly entering Andhra Pradesh before returning to southern Karnataka. Connecting key regions, NH 150A enhances road transportation by facilitating the movement of goods and travelers between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Its southern terminus intersects with NH 948 near Chamarajanagar, making it an important route for economic activities and improving accessibility in the region, thereby contributing to the overall development of road infrastructure.

5. National Highway 67

National Highway 67 (NH 67), originally known as National Highway 63, is a significant route in India that spans around 770 km. It starts at Ramnagar on NH 748, which connects the Belagavi-Panjim Road in Karnataka and runs to Krishnapatnam Port Road in Andhra Pradesh. This route connects Karnataka's northern districts, improving regional connections and boosting road transportation. By improving access to key markets and ports, NH 67 supports economic growth and development in the area.

6. National Highway 65

National Highway 65 (NH 65), formerly known as National Highway 9, is a major national highway in India spanning 926 km. It connects the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, beginning in Pune and terminating in Machilipatnam. This route's key cities are Pune, Solapur, Hyderabad, Suryapet, Vijayawada, and Machilipatnam. In Karnataka, NH 65 connects major towns such as Humnabad and Mannaekhalli, making it an important route for economic and regional development.

7. National Highway 748

National Highway 748 (NH 748) is an important national highway in India that runs approximately 160 km from Belgaum in Karnataka to Panaji in North Goa. This route is critical for facilitating vehicle transportation between Karnataka and Goa, hence improving commerce and tourism connections. As a crucial national highway in Karnataka, NH 748 promotes economic activity by connecting important towns and areas, so contributing significantly to the state's infrastructure and accessibility.

8. National Highway 75

National Highway 75 (NH 75) is a significant national highway in India, previously known as National Highway 48, spanning around 533 km. It runs through the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, connecting the port city of Mangaluru (Mangalore) in the west and Vellore in the east. NH 75 is an important road for commuters coming from Mangaluru to Bengaluru and Hassan. This route connects Karnataka's three geographical regions, namely- Karavali, Malenadu, and Bayalu Seeme facilitating vehicle transportation and connectivity through various landscapes.

9. National Highway 52

National Highway 52 (NH 52) is fourth longest national highwayin India, measuring approximately 2,317 km. It connects Sangrur in Punjab to Ankola in Karnataka, starting at the junction with National Highway 66 in Ankola. The highway passes through significant towns like Vijayapura (Bijapur), Hubballi (Hubli), and Yellapura, providing crucial connectivity between states. NH 52 incorporates sections of the old National Highway 13, enhancing accessibility for trucks transporting cargo to the Karwar and New Mangalore harbors. As a vital national highways, NH 52 has a considerable impact on road transportation and economic growth in the regions it serves.

10. National Highway 66

National Highway 66 (NH 66) is a major 1,640-kilometer-long roadway that runs along India's western coast, linking Panvel near Mumbai to Cape Comorin (Kanyakumari). This primarily four-lane highway runs across various states, including Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. In Karnataka, NH 66 connects significant coastal towns such as Karwar, Kumta, Murudeshwar, and Mangaluru, boosting trade and tourism. At Maravanthe, the highway meets the Arabian Sea, providing scenic views while also serving as an important route for road transportation, considerably contributing to the region's economic development.

Conclusion

The national highways in Karnataka play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and facilitating trade across the state. These vital routes support economic growth and tourism, making travel more accessible for residents and visitors alike. Understanding these highways is essential for navigating Karnataka effectively.

Also read: About Indian National Highway System (NHS)