Longest National Highways in India 2026: Routes, Lengths & Importance

India has the second largest road network in the world and the national highways constitute the backbone of this network. These roadways connect various states, important cities, ports, industrial areas and border areas, thereby promoting trade and economic growth. NH 44 is the longest national highway in India among all the national highways. It is connecting the northernmost part to the southernmost section of the country, that is, from Srinagar to Kanyakumari. Types of  highways and roads in India assist to understand the reason why national highways are so vital in the transportation system in the country.

Why NH 44 Is the Longest National Highway in India

The longest highway in India is the National Highway 44 (NH 44), covers approximately 4,122 kilometres. The highway was designed to combine several old national highways into a single north-south corridor to improve connectivity and simplify transportation.

NH 44 is strategically important because it:

• It extends to northern, central and southern India.
• It passes through important industrial, agricultural and commercial centres.
• It allows goods and travellers to move around the country.
• Links various important tourist attractions, thereby supporting tourism.
• Facilitates national connections and regional economic integration. 

NH 44 is considered as backbone of the North-South transport network of India due to its enormous coverage and economical importance. 

Route Map of NH 44: Start Point, End Point and Major Cities

NH 44 starts from Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, and ends in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu.

Major States and Cities Covered by NH 44

Which States Does the Longest National Highway in India Pass Through?

NH 44 passes through the following states and union territories:

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1. Jammu and Kashmir
2. Punjab
3. Haryana
4. Delhi
5. Uttar Pradesh
6. Madhya Pradesh
7. Maharashtra
8. Telangana
9. Andhra Pradesh
10. Karnataka
11. Tamil Nadu

NH 44 is quite famous as India’s North-South Corridor as it connects the northernmost and southernmost portions of India. The highway has cut down travel time considerably, and facilitated the transportation of goods and passengers around the country. 

Top 10 Longest National Highways in India

The below table explores the top 10 longest national highways in India:

For a better understanding of road classifications, you may also explore the national highway vs state highway comparison.

Toll Plazas and FASTag Usage on NH 44

NH 44 contains several toll plazas across different states. Toll collection on the highway is now largely conducted through the FASTag system, which allows vehicles to pay toll charges electronically without stopping at toll booths.

Benefits of FASTag on NH 44 include:

• Faster passage through toll plazas.
• Reduced waiting time and fuel consumption.
• Cashless toll payments.
• Improved traffic management.

Travellers who frequently use national highways can also understand how to check FASTag balance, which offers greater convenience for regular highway users.

National Highways: The Lifelines of a Nation

India’s national highways are a lot more than roadways. They are the economic arteries of the country uniting people, businesses, ports and industries across thousands of km. These highways provide trade, tourism and regional development, from the north-south stretch of NH 44 to the east-west corridors of NH 27 and NH 19. With the growing infrastructure of India, the National Highways will keep on playing a significant role in the country’s economic progress and smooth connectivity.