Imagine a road that stretches from the snow-capped peaks of Srinagar to the sun-kissed shores of Kanyakumari. This road weaves through the heart of India’s diverse landscapes. It also traverses various cultures and economies. Welcome to National Highway 44 (NH 44), the longest national highway in India, spanning an incredible 4,113 kilometers. As a cornerstone of the nation’s infrastructure, this highway connects people. It boosts trade. It offers a front-row seat to India’s rich tapestry. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover everything about NH 44—its route, significance, recent updates, and more.

The Backbone of India: An Overview

NH 44 is no ordinary road. It stretches approximately 4,113 km. It runs from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. This earns it the title of India’s longest national highway. The highway was formed by merging several former highways. These include NH 1A, NH 1, NH 2, NH 3, NH 75, NH 26, and NH 7. It’s a vital part of the Asian Highway Network (AH1, AH2, AH43). The highway includes segments of the Golden Quadrilateral and the North-South Corridor. This makes NH 44 a critical artery for transportation. It is essential for trade and travel. It links the northernmost reaches to the southern tip of the country.

The Route: A Cross-Country Adventure

NH 44 traverses 12 states and 1 union territory, showcasing India’s incredible diversity. Here’s a breakdown of its geographical coverage:

State/UT	Length (km)	Key Cities
Jammu and Kashmir	541	Srinagar, Jammu, Kathua
Himachal Pradesh	11.08	(Brief stretch)
Punjab	279.42	Pathankot, Jalandhar, Ludhiana
Haryana	257.80	Ambala, Kurukshetra, Panipat, Sonipat
Delhi	15	Delhi
Uttar Pradesh	269.10	Mathura, Agra
Rajasthan	28.29	Dholpur
Madhya Pradesh	571.9	Morena, Gwalior, Jhansi, Sagar
Maharashtra	268.36	Nagpur, Hinganghat
Telangana	492.85	Adilabad, Nirmal, Hyderabad
Andhra Pradesh	260.99	Kurnool, Dhone, Anantapur
Karnataka	95.67	Chikkaballapur, Bangalore
Tamil Nadu	627.18	Hosur, Krishnagiri, Salem, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari

NH 44 stretches from the mountainous terrain of Jammu and Kashmir to the coastal plains of Tamil Nadu. It connects major hubs like Delhi, Agra, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. It also links smaller towns like Narsinghpur and Kamareddy. This extensive network makes it a lifeline for commuters, tourists, and businesses alike.

Speed Limits and Maintenance

Driving on NH 44 comes with clear rules to ensure safety:

• Cars: 100 km/h on highways, 120 km/h on expressways
• Trucks/Heavy Vehicles: 100 km/h on both
• Two-wheelers: 80 km/h on both

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) oversees its upkeep, ensuring the road remains in top shape. For inquiries or issues, you can reach NHAI at 91-011-25074100 or 25074200. You can also visit their office at G 5&6, Sector-10, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110 075. Regular maintenance keeps NH 44 functional, though challenges persist in some areas.

Economic and Cultural Significance

NH 44 is more than a highway—it’s a catalyst for growth. It links agricultural heartlands, industrial zones, and major ports, driving the movement of goods and services. Cities like Varanasi, Jabalpur, Nagpur, Hyderabad, and Bangalore have seen real estate and industrial booms thanks to this route. Beyond economics, NH 44 passes through spiritual gems like Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Badrinath. It offers travelers a chance to explore India’s rich cultural and religious heritage. It’s a road that fuels both progress and pilgrimage.

Recent Upgrades and Developments

NH 44 is constantly evolving to meet modern demands. Here are some exciting updates:

• Delhi-to-Panipat Expressway: This 70 km stretch, completed in July 2023 at a cost of ₹2,178.82 crores, is now an elevated tolled expressway. It has 8 main lanes and 4 service lanes. This design eases traffic and cuts travel time.
• Bengaluru-Hyderabad Expansion: Plans are underway to widen this busy section from 4 lanes to 12. This will boost connectivity between these tech and trade hubs.
• T5 Tunnel: Opened on March 16, 2023. This 870-meter tunnel lies between Panthial and Magerkote in Jammu and Kashmir. It bypasses a landslide-prone area and enhances safety.

However, challenges remain. The Jammu-Srinagar stretch is a critical part of NH 44. It often faces closures due to landslides and heavy rain, especially in Ramban district. Recent reports noted a 24-hour halt for road-widening repairs after landslide damage. The Indian Army has also increased security along this route. They aim to protect travelers and counter threats. This action highlights their strategic role.

Safety is a concern elsewhere too. The Salem–Thoppur section in Tamil Nadu, with its hilly slopes and poor road design, is notorious for accidents. The Bengaluru–Hosur stretch is a 4-6 lane corridor. It supports industrial and IT growth. It features an elevated highway between Bommanahalli and Electronic City.

Traffic and Traveler Insights

Traffic conditions on NH 44 vary. Recent updates show one-way traffic restored after closures, with advisories urging lane discipline to avoid congestion. Passenger vehicles often ply both directions, while heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) may face directional restrictions. X posts from travelers offer real-time glimpses:

• A May 31, 2025, post praised the Bengaluru-Hyderabad stretch. However, it flagged safety risks from only 4 lanes. Additionally, there are no flyovers at crossings and large speed breakers.
• A September 2024 report highlighted a 28-km stretch in Seoni, Madhya Pradesh. The stretch was riddled with cracks and potholes just three years after opening. This raises maintenance concerns.
• Multiple 2023 and 2024 posts noted frequent Jammu-Srinagar closures due to landslides, urging travelers to check advisories.
• In May 2024, an incident occurred in Karnal, Haryana. A drain pipe fell on vehicles under the elevated NH 44, causing injuries.

These insights remind us to stay prepared and check conditions before hitting the road.

Challenges and Tips for Travelers

While NH 44 is a marvel, it’s not without hurdles. Landslides in Jammu and Kashmir disrupt travel, especially during monsoons. Safety concerns loom on stretches like Salem–Thoppur, where design flaws increase accident risks. Here are some tips:

• Check Updates: Look for traffic and weather alerts, especially in northern regions.
• Drive Safely: Stick to speed limits and lane rules, particularly in hilly or busy areas.
• Plan Ahead: Carry water, snacks, and a first-aid kit; download offline maps for remote stretches.

Conclusion: The Road That Unites India

National Highway 44 is more than a route—it’s the lifeline of India, embodying the nation’s vastness and diversity. Spanning 4,113 km, it connects 12 states, fuels economic growth, and opens doors to cultural treasures. From recent upgrades like the Delhi-Panipat expressway to ongoing challenges like landslides, NH 44 is a dynamic, evolving giant. Whether you’re a traveler seeking adventure, the highway offers something unique. A business moving goods will find it beneficial. Policymakers shaping infrastructure will also find unique opportunities. So, hit the road, explore its wonders, and drive the story of India forward!