Chennai Kolkata Highway (NH 16): Route, Map, Duration, and More

The Chennai-Kolkata Highway, officially known as National Highway 16 (NH 16), is one of the most crucial and well-maintained highways in India. Forming a vital part of the Golden Quadrilateral, NH 16 connects the bustling southern city of Chennai in Tamil Nadu to the historic metropolis of Kolkata in West Bengal. This highway is not only essential for long-distance travel but also serves as a key corridor for the transportation of goods across the eastern coast of India.

NH 16 is very important for trade and travel between South and East India. This highway connects big cities, industries, and farming areas, making it great for business and daily travel. Because of its good connectivity, many people prefer to live and invest in properties near NH 16. It helps real estate grow by making homes, offices, and shops more accessible and valuable.

Over the years, the Chennai-Kolkata Highway has seen consistent improvements in infrastructure, making it one of the safest and most efficient highways in the nation. With its well-paved roads, clear signages, and robust network of facilities, NH 16 offers a comfortable and reliable travel experience for both commercial and personal vehicles.

NH 16 Highway Route

The NH 16 highway route map showcases an extensive stretch of approximately 1,680 kilometres, making it one of the longest national highways in India. Starting from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and ending in Kolkata, West Bengal, the highway cuts through several states and prominent cities along the eastern coastline.

● Starting and Ending Points: NH 16 begins its journey from Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, and stretches all the way to Kolkata, the cultural capital of West Bengal. These two cities are not just major urban centres but also significant economic and cultural hubs, making this highway an essential link between them.

● Total Distance Covered by NH 16: The Chennai-Kolkata Highway covers a total distance of roughly 1,680 km, which takes around 25 to 30 hours by road, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Despite its long stretch, the highway is known for its well-maintained infrastructure, which ensures a smooth and efficient travel experience.

● Major Cities and States Along the Route: As it winds its way from south to east, NH 16 traverses four major states: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal. Along this route, it connects several key cities, including:

○ Chennai, Tamil Nadu: The starting point and a major metropolitan city is known for its cultural heritage and industrial growth.

○ Nellore, Andhra Pradesh: A prominent city famous for its agricultural and commercial importance.

○ Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh: A major transport and business hub, often called the 'Business Capital of Andhra Pradesh.'

○ Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh: An essential port city and one of India’s fastest-growing urban areas.

○ Bhubaneswar, Odisha: The state capital is known for its rich history, temples, and modern infrastructure.

○ Cuttack, Odisha: A historic city with a thriving business and cultural scene.

○ Kolkata, West Bengal: The final destination, known for its vibrant culture, heritage, and economic significance.

The NH 16 highway route map clearly visualises this extensive journey and shows the critical role this highway plays in connecting various economic and cultural zones.

The Chennai Kolkata Highway, or NH 16, is one of the most vital roadways in India’s national transport network. By linking the southern and eastern regions, it facilitates trade and commerce and strengthens cultural and social ties between these diverse areas.

As part of the Golden Quadrilateral, NH 16 is celebrated for its well-structured infrastructure and the convenience it offers travellers. Whether you’re undertaking a business trip, a leisurely drive, or transporting goods, the NH 5 Kolkata to Chennai route promises efficiency and safety.

The Final Word

With ongoing improvements and expansions, the Chennai-Kolkata Highway continues to play a crucial role in India’s development and connectivity. Its significance goes beyond just being a road, it’s a vital artery that keeps the lifeblood of the nation’s economy and culture flowing smoothly.