The historic cities of Hyderabad and Warangal are two of Telangana’s most significant cultural and economic centres. The road trip between them is a common one, taken by tourists eager to explore Warangal’s rich Kakatiya heritage and by locals for business and family visits. Understanding the driving distance and time from Hyderabad to Warangal is essential for planning a well-paced journey. This updated 2026 guide provides all the necessary details on the best route, travel duration, road conditions, and interesting places to stop.
Hyderabad to Warangal Road Trip: A Brief Overview
The driving distance between Hyderabad and Warangal is approximately 150 kilometres. The journey is quite straightforward, primarily on a well-maintained national highway. Under normal conditions, the drive can be completed in about 3 to 4 hours, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend excursion from Hyderabad.
The Best and Most Direct Route: National Highway 163 (NH163)
There is one primary route that connects Hyderabad to Warangal, which is direct, fast, and in excellent condition. This route follows National Highway 163 (NH163), formerly known as NH 202.
Route Description:
- Starting from Hyderabad: The journey begins by heading east out of Hyderabad. You will need to navigate through the city traffic to get onto the Hyderabad-Warangal Highway (NH163). A key landmark at the start of the highway is the Uppal area.
- Driving on NH163: Once you are on the highway, it’s a straight drive towards Warangal. This is a four to six-lane highway for the most part, ensuring a smooth and fast-paced journey.
- Major Towns En Route: You will pass through or bypass several towns along the way, including Bhongir (Bhuvanagiri), Aler, and Jangaon. These towns are good reference points for your journey’s progress.
- Reaching Warangal: The highway leads you directly to the outskirts of Warangal, from where you can easily navigate to your destination within the city.
Key Features of the Hyderabad-Warangal Highway:
- Excellent Road Quality: NH163 is a well-maintained road with smooth tarmac, making for a very comfortable drive.
- Bypasses: The highway has bypasses for major towns like Bhongir and Jangaon, which helps in avoiding local traffic and saves considerable time.
- Safety and Signage: The route is well-marked with clear signages in English and Telugu.
Analyzing the Hyderabad to Warangal Driving Time
A 3-hour drive is often achievable, but several factors can influence your total travel time.
Factors That Affect the Journey Duration:
- Exiting Hyderabad: The most significant variable is the time it takes to get out of Hyderabad’s city traffic. The stretch from your starting point to the Uppal X Roads can be heavily congested, especially during peak morning and evening hours. This can add 30 minutes to an hour to your trip.
- Time of Departure: It is highly advisable to start your journey early in the morning, preferably by 7 AM, to get a clear passage out of the city.
- Weekend and Holiday Traffic: While the route is not as prone to tourist rushes as some other destinations, traffic can be heavier during long weekends and festival seasons.
- Stops for Food and Sightseeing: Any breaks you take will add to the overall travel time.
Estimated Time Breakdown:
| Segment | Estimated Time |
| Hyderabad City Limits (Start to Uppal) | 45 minutes – 1.25 hours |
| Uppal to Warangal Outskirts (on NH163) | 2 – 2.5 hours |
| Entering Warangal to Destination | 15 – 30 minutes |
| Total Estimated Time | 3 – 4 hours |
Exploring the region’s attractions is a popular activity. For those with a taste for adventure, there are several weekend treks from Hyderabad that can be combined with a trip to Warangal.
Toll Charges on the Hyderabad-Warangal Highway
Travelling on NH163 involves paying tolls. As of early 2026, you can expect to pay a total one-way toll fee of approximately ₹150 – ₹200 for a private car. The toll plazas are equipped with FASTag scanners, which is the mandatory and most efficient mode of payment. Make sure your FASTag is active and has sufficient balance before you start your trip.
Recommended Pit Stops and Attractions En Route
The journey from Hyderabad to Warangal offers some interesting places to stop and explore, breaking the monotony of the drive.
Key Attractions:
- Bhongir Fort (Bhuvanagiri Fort): Located just off the highway, about 50 km from Hyderabad, this is a massive monolithic rock fort. It offers a great opportunity for a short trek to the top, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. It’s a fantastic historical stop.
- Kolanupaka Jain Temple: This requires a slight detour of about 20 km from the highway near Aler. It is a 2,000-year-old Jain temple, renowned for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
- Yadadri (Yadagirigutta) Temple: One of the most famous temples in Telangana, dedicated to Lord Narasimha. It is located near Bhongir and has been extensively renovated. This also requires a short detour but is a major pilgrimage site.
Places to Eat:
The highway is dotted with several restaurants and dhabas. You will find many options around Bhongir and Jangaon. These eateries offer everything from traditional Telangana cuisine to standard South Indian fare like idli and dosa. It’s a great opportunity to savour some local flavours.
For those living in or visiting Hyderabad, getting around the city is also important. Our guide to the Hyderabad Metro routes and timings can be a valuable resource.
Tips for Your Hyderabad to Warangal Drive
- Vehicle Check: Before starting, do a quick check of your vehicle’s fuel, tyre pressure, and engine oil.
- Best Time to Travel: The winter season, from November to February, is the most pleasant time for this road trip, with cool and comfortable weather.
- Stay Hydrated: The region can get quite hot, especially during the summer. Carry enough water to stay hydrated.
- Plan Your Detours: If you plan to visit places like Bhongir Fort or Yadadri Temple, account for the extra time required. A visit to Bhongir Fort, for instance, can add at least 2 hours to your itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Hyderabad to Warangal by road?
The road distance between Hyderabad and Warangal is approximately 150 kilometres. The route primarily follows National Highway 163, which is the most direct and well-maintained road connecting the two cities.
How is the road condition from Hyderabad to Warangal?
The road condition is excellent. National Highway 163 is a four to six-lane highway that is smooth and well-paved, allowing for a comfortable and fast journey. Bypasses around major towns help in avoiding traffic congestion.
How long does the drive from Hyderabad to Warangal take?
Under normal traffic conditions, the drive takes about 3 to 4 hours. The total time can be influenced by the heavy traffic within Hyderabad, so it’s best to start early in the morning to save time.
What are the major places to see on the way to Warangal from Hyderabad?
The most prominent attraction en route is the Bhongir Fort, a massive monolithic hill fort perfect for a short trek. You can also take a slight detour to visit the famous Yadadri Narasimha Swamy Temple or the ancient Kolanupaka Jain Temple.
Are there any toll gates on the Hyderabad to Warangal highway?
Yes, there are toll gates on NH163. The total one-way toll cost for a private car is approximately ₹150 to ₹200. It is mandatory to use FASTag for toll payments on this highway.