State Highways in Karnataka: Routes and Their Importance

The extensive network of state highways in Karnataka supports trade, tourism, and regional development while complementing the network of national highway in Karnataka. 

• Enhancing Connectivity Between Districts

The state highways in Karnataka improve connectivity between district headquarters, towns, villages, and rural regions. They make it easier for residents to access employment opportunities, markets, and transport facilities while strengthening the overall Karnataka road network. 

• Promoting Tourism and Regional Development

Many tourist destinations are accessible through Karnataka state highways. These routes improve access to heritage sites, natural attractions, and pilgrimage centres while supporting local businesses and hospitality services. They also facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and locally manufactured goods, contributing to regional economic development.

• Improving Access to Essential Services

State highways in Karnataka make it easier for people to reach healthcare facilities, educational institutions, government offices, and emergency services.

Here is a list of state highways in Karnataka:

Karnataka State Highway 57 (SH 57): Bagalkote to Beligeriranganabetta

• Starting Point: Bagalkote

• Ending Point: Beligeriranganabetta

• Length: 662 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Bagalkote, Badami, Nanjangud, Hospet and surrounding regions.

• Key Highlights: Connects important heritage destinations and hill stations while also supporting local tourism.

Karnataka State Highway 1 (SH 1): Padubidri to Chikalgud

• Starting Point: Padubidri

• Ending Point: Chikalgud

• Length: 457 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Padubidri, Karkala, Udipi, Belgaum, Shiradi region, Chikmagalur belt.

• Key Highlights: Links cultural capitals and the coastal and interior Karnataka regions.

Karnataka State Highway 20 (SH 20): Bachi to Raichur

• Starting Point: Bachi

• Ending Point: Raichur

• Length: 354 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Agricultural and commercial regions across northern Karnataka. It passes through several cities and villages like Hindalaga Jail, Sambra, Marihal, Nesargi, Amingad, and Mudgal. 

• Key Highlights: Supports freight movement and regional trade.

Karnataka State Highway 6 (SH 6): Karwar to Ilkal

• Starting Point: Karwar

• Ending Point: Ilkal

• Length: 332 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Karwar, Yellapur, Bankapura, Gajendragarh, Haveri and Ilkal.

• Key Highlights: Connects the coastline with inland districts.

Karnataka State Highway 3 (SH 3): Hunasanahalli to Chikkahalli

• Starting Point: Hunasanahalli

• Ending Point: Chikkahalli

• Length: 249 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Various central Karnataka districts such as Ramanagara, Tumkur, and other rural regions. 

• Key Highlights: Serves local communities and agricultural markets.

Karnataka State Highway 2 (SH 2): Ekkambi to Molakalmuru

• Starting Point: Ekkambi

• Ending Point: Molakalmuru

• Length: 235 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Davanagere region and districts of Haveri, Uttar Kannada, Chitradurga, and Vijayanagar.

• Key Highlights: Important east-west corridor.

Karnataka State Highway 88 (SH 88): Mysuru to Bantwal

• Starting Point: Mysuru

• Ending Point: Bantwal

• Length: 220 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Mysuru, Madikeri, Kushalanagar, Bantwal. It also passes through the districts of Mysore, Kodagu, and Dakshina Kannada.

• Key Highlights: Popular route through scenic Western Ghats terrain.

Karnataka State Highway 17 (SH 17): Bengaluru to Mysuru

• Starting Point: Bengaluru

• Ending Point: Mysuru

• Length: 149 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Bengaluru, Ramanagara, Mandya, Mysuru, Srirangapatna, and Chennapatna

• Key Highlights: One of the busiest routes in the state.

Karnataka State Highway 10 (SH 10): Sarasamba to Ribbonpalli

• Starting Point: Sarasamba

• Ending Point: Ribbonpalli

• Length: 147 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Sarasamba, Gulbarga, Sedam, Aland, Ribbonpalli. It runs through the districts of Kalaburagi.

• Key Highlights: Connects agricultural zones.

Karnataka State Highway 7 (SH 7): Srirangapatna to Arsikere

• Starting Point: Srirangapatna

• Ending Point: Arsikere

• Length: 170 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Pandavapura, Mandya, Hassan region.

• Key Highlights: Supports tourism and local commuting.

Karnataka State Highway 5 (SH 5): Bagepalli to Bangarpet

• Starting Point: Bagepalli

• Ending Point: Bangarpet

• Length: 106 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Bangarapet, Chintamani, Kolar, Bagepalli. It runs from the districts Chitmani and Kolar.

• Key Highlights: Important route within southeastern Karnataka.

Karnataka State Highway 35 (SH 35): Sidlaghatta to Anekal

• Starting Point: Sidlaghatta

• Ending Point: Anekal

• Length: 89 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Sidlaghatta, Hoskote, Kadugodi, Whitefield Road and Varthure road

• Key Highlights: Connects the eastern parts of the state with the bustling city outskirts of Bangalore.

Karnataka State Highway 75 (SH 75): Bhalki to Chincholi

• Starting Point: Bhalki

• Ending Point: Chincholi

• Length: 81 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Northern Karnataka districts near Telangana.

• Key Highlights: Facilitates interstate connectivity.

Karnataka State Highway 4 (SH 4): Kamalanagar to Gunalli

• Starting Point: Kamalanagar

• Ending Point: Gunalli

• Length: 69 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Kamalanagar, Gunalli, Bidar region and adjacent areas.

• Key Highlights: Supports local transportation networks.

Karnataka State Highway 104 (SH 104): Bengaluru to Nandi Hills

• Starting Point: Bengaluru

• Ending Point: Nandi Hills

• Length:  50 km

• Route & Major Places Covered: Bengaluru, Kannur, Devanahalli, Nandi Hills.

• Key Highlights: Popular route for tourists and weekend travellers.

   

Before setting out on the nearest highway, it is important to take some precautions to ensure a safe and hassle-free drive. These may include verifying the vehicle documents such as motor insurance and the Registration Certificate (RC) and planning the route well in advance. 

Here are things to consider to travel more confidently on state highways in Karnataka: 

• Ensure Your Car Insurance Policy Is Active

Before travelling on state highways in Karnataka, ensure that the insurance policy is active. A valid policy can provide financial protection against unexpected incidents. SBI General Insurance offers broad car insurance coverage options that can help vehicle owners travel with confidence.

• Carry Essential Vehicle Documents

Keep necessary documents such as the driving licence, vehicle registration certificate, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and third-party insurance documents readily available. These may be required during routine checks on highways in Karnataka.

• Plan Your Route in Advance

Review the Karnataka highway map or navigation applications before starting the road journey. Identifying the nearest highway, fuel stations, service centres, and rest stops can ensure a smoother travel experience.

The Karnataka state highway list demonstrates the state's extensive transportation network connecting urban centres, rural communities, industrial zones, and tourist destinations. They are essential for improving connectivity, supporting tourism, and facilitating economic development across the state. Together with the NH in Karnataka network, they enable efficient movement between districts and neighbouring states. 

Before you begin your journey across Karnataka, ensure that your vehicle has suitable motor insurance coverage. SBI General Insurance offers third-party and comprehensive motor insurance options to suit different needs. With 14 crore+ customers served, access to 8700+ network garages, presence1 across 140+ locations, quick claim approvals, and a hassle-free claims process, you can stay prepared for unexpected situations and focus on enjoying the road ahead.

1. Which is the busiest state highway in Karnataka?

Historically, SH 17, connecting Bengaluru and Mysuru, has been one of the busiest routes, although much of it has now been upgraded as part of the National Highway network.

2. Can state highways in Karnataka have toll plazas?

Yes. Certain upgraded highways developed under specific infrastructure projects may include toll collection points.

3. How can I check the latest condition of a state highway before travelling?

You can check official traffic advisories, navigation applications, or government road information portals before beginning your journey.

4. Are state highways in Karnataka suitable for long-distance travel?

Yes. Many state highways in Karnataka are well-suited for inter-district travel and connect seamlessly with the national highway in Karnataka network.

5. Do state highways in Karnataka connect with neighbouring states?

Yes. Several highways connect Karnataka with neighbouring states such as Maharashtra, Goa, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.

6. What should drivers carry while travelling on state highways in Karnataka?

Drivers should carry a valid driving licence, RC, PUC certificate, insurance documents, and any other mandatory vehicle papers.

7. What should I do if my vehicle breaks down on a state highway in Karnataka?

Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible, switch on the hazard lights, place a warning triangle behind the vehicle, and contact roadside assistance or emergency services for support.

Note: The given information has been compiled from digitally available resources and is indicative in nature. It is subject to change due to several factors. Individuals are advised to verify information with an official authority before proceeding.