The Hyderabad to Vijayawada corridor is one of the most well-traveled routes in South India, connecting the tech capital of Telangana with the commercial hub of Andhra Pradesh [web:22][web:23]. Whether you're driving for business, visiting family, embarking on a pilgrimage to nearby temples, or simply exploring two vibrant cities in one weekend, this 275-kilometer journey on National Highway 65 (NH65) offers smooth roads, scenic countryside views, and excellent facilities along the way [web:29].
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect self drive road trip from Hyderabad to Vijayawada: route details, travel time, toll plazas, food stops, safety tips, and how to choose the ideal car for this highway adventure.
Route Overview: Hyderabad to Vijayawada via NH65
The most popular and efficient route between these two cities is the Vijayawada–Hyderabad Expressway, officially designated as National Highway 65 (NH65) [web:22][web:24]. This highway is a major expressway connecting Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, with the Hyderabad-Vijayawada section being one of its busiest stretches [web:22].
Key Route Details
- Total Distance: Approximately 275 km via NH65 [web:23][web:28]
- Estimated Travel Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours under normal traffic conditions [web:23][web:31]
- Road Type: Four to six-lane expressway (currently being expanded to six lanes from Hyderabad RRR to Vijayawada West Bypass) [web:26]
- States Covered: Telangana → Andhra Pradesh
Major Towns and Checkpoints Along NH65
Starting from Hyderabad (KPHB, Gachibowli, or LB Nagar), your route passes through [web:22][web:29]:
- Panthangi (First toll plaza)
- Keesara
- Choutuppal
- Suryapet (Major food and fuel stop)
- Kodad (Popular rest area)
- Nandigama
- Vijayawada (Benz Circle, MG Road, city center)
Alternative Route Option
While NH65 is the primary and fastest route, there's an alternative path via NH 365B & NH 65 [web:23]:
- Distance: Approximately 320 km
- Travel Time: Over 6 hours
- Best For: Those wanting to explore different scenic areas or avoid specific stretches of NH65
Recommendation: For most travelers, especially first-time self drive users, stick to the main NH65 route for its superior road quality, better signage, and more facilities [web:23].
Best Time to Start Your Drive
Timing your departure significantly impacts your driving experience, comfort level, and overall journey time.
Early Morning Start (5:00 AM – 7:00 AM) – Highly Recommended
- Pros: Beat Hyderabad city traffic, cooler temperatures, minimal highway congestion, reach Vijayawada by late morning
- Best For: Business travelers, pilgrims heading to nearby temples, families wanting to maximize their day
- Arrival Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM in Vijayawada
Late Morning Start (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
- Pros: Comfortable start after breakfast, good visibility
- Cons: More city traffic while exiting Hyderabad, mid-day heat (especially April-June)
- Arrival Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM in Vijayawada
Evening Start (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
- Pros: Suitable for those who work half-day and then travel
- Cons: Heavy evening traffic exiting Hyderabad, partial night driving required, arrive late evening/night
- Best For: Experienced drivers comfortable with night highway driving
Avoid: Starting during peak afternoon hours (12 PM – 3 PM) in summer months—heat, traffic, and driver fatigue combine to make the journey unnecessarily stressful.
Road Conditions, Tolls & Infrastructure
Highway Quality
The Hyderabad-Vijayawada stretch of NH65 is predominantly a well-maintained four to six-lane expressway [web:26][web:29]. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is currently expanding the highway to six lanes from Hyderabad Regional Ring Road (HRRR) to Vijayawada West Bypass, covering 226 kilometers [web:26].
- Surface Quality: Mostly smooth asphalt with occasional construction zones
- Dividers: Proper median dividers throughout most stretches
- Lighting: Street lighting near major towns; limited on open highway sections
Toll Plazas on NH65
Expect to cross multiple toll plazas between Hyderabad and Vijayawada. Major toll points include [web:25]:
- Panthangi Toll Plaza
- Korlaphadu Toll Plaza
- Chilla Kallu Toll Plaza
- Keesara Toll Plaza
Pro Tip: Ensure your FASTag is active and has sufficient balance for seamless toll payments. This saves time and eliminates the need to carry exact change.
Fuel Stations
Fuel availability is excellent along NH65, with major Indian Oil, HP, and BPCL pumps appearing at regular intervals [web:23]. Key fuel zones include:
- Outskirts of Hyderabad (LB Nagar, Vanasthalipuram)
- Suryapet area (multiple options)
- Kodad region
- Nandigama area
- Vijayawada outskirts
Recommendation: Start with a full tank from either city. Top up near Suryapet or Kodad if needed, especially for vehicles with lower fuel tank capacity.
Popular Food & Rest Stops on the Highway
One of the highlights of the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway is the abundance of quality restaurants and rest areas, particularly around Suryapet [web:27][web:30].
Major Food Stop Zones
1. Suryapet Region (Approximately 130 km from Hyderabad)
Suryapet is the primary food hub on this route, offering multiple dining options [web:30]:
- 7 Highway Food N Fun Stop: Popular for biryanis, kebabs, and desserts. Open 6 AM – 11 PM [web:27][web:30]
- Little Village Suryapet: Highly rated for breakfast, lunch, and coffee. Located on NH-65 at Pillala Marri Rural [web:27]
- Raju Gari Thota: Known for authentic regional cuisine and family-friendly ambiance [web:30]
Cuisine: Indian, South Indian, North Indian, International, Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian options [web:30]
2. Kodad Area (Approximately 180 km from Hyderabad)
Smaller but decent dhabas and cafes for quick tea breaks, snacks, and washroom facilities [web:25].
Recommended Break Schedule
- 1 Longer Break (20-30 minutes): Breakfast or lunch at Suryapet—try their famous biryani or South Indian tiffin
- 1 Short Break (5-10 minutes): Tea/coffee and stretching stop at Kodad or any fuel station
Safety Note: Never drive on an empty stomach or without proper hydration. Fatigue builds faster on long, straight highways than you realize.
Choosing the Right Self Drive Car for This Route
Since NH65 is a well-maintained highway, both hatchbacks and SUVs perform excellently. Your choice depends primarily on group size, comfort preferences, and luggage requirements [attached_file:1].
Best for Couples / 2-3 Travelers
Recommended: Hatchbacks or Compact Cars
- Maruti Swift (AT & MT)
- Swift Dzire (AT & MT)
- Hyundai i20 (AT & MT)
- Suzuki Baleno (AT & MT)
- Toyota Glanza
- Tata Punch Automatic
- Hyundai Exter CNG
Benefits: Excellent fuel efficiency (15-20 km/l), easy city maneuverability, lower rental cost (₹2,500/day for 24 hours, 400 km) [attached_file:1]
Best for Family Trips (4-6 Travelers)
Recommended: SUVs and MPVs
- Brezza CNG (₹3,000/day)
- Hyundai Creta (₹3,500/day)
- Ertiga CNG (₹3,500/day)
- Kia Carens (₹3,500/day)
- Marazzo (₹3,500/day)
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Automatic (₹3,500/day)
- Hyundai Venue Automatic (₹3,500/day)
Benefits: Extra legroom for 5-hour journey, larger boot space for suitcases, better highway stability, comfortable seating for families with children [attached_file:1]
Best for Premium Comfort (Business / VIP Travel)
Recommended: Luxury SUVs and MPVs
- XUV 500 (₹4,500/day)
- Innova Crysta (₹4,500/day)
- Kia Seltos (₹4,500/day)
- Toyota Fortuner Automatic (₹15,000/day)
Benefits: Maximum comfort for senior citizens or corporate guests, superior ride quality, executive-level experience, spacious cabins [attached_file:1]
Budget-Friendly Long-Term Option
If you're planning multiple trips or extended stays:
- Tata Tigor (₹1,500/day for 24 hours, 400 km)
- Wagon R CNG (₹1,500/day)
- Grand i10 (₹1,800/day)
Best For: Daily office commutes, frequent business travel between cities [attached_file:1]
Essential Documents & Pre-Drive Checks
Before starting your Hyderabad to Vijayawada journey, ensure all documentation and vehicle checks are complete.
Documents to Carry
- Original Driving License: Valid Indian driving license (DL)
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, passport, or the ID used during booking
- Rental Agreement: Physical or digital copy provided by Aman Self Drive Cars [attached_file:1]
Confirm with Rental Provider
- Valid vehicle insurance and registration documents in the car
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Kilometer limits (200 km for 12 hours, 400 km for 24 hours) and extra km charges (if applicable) [attached_file:1]
- Inter-state permit for Telangana-Andhra Pradesh travel
Pre-Drive Vehicle Checks
- Tire condition and pressure (including spare tire)
- Fuel level at pickup
- Headlights, indicators, and wipers functionality
- Basic tools, jack, and emergency kit availability
- GPS or navigation system working properly [attached_file:1]
Pro Tip: Take a short walk-around video of the car at pickup, documenting existing scratches or marks. This prevents disputes during vehicle return.
Safety & Driving Tips for NH65
Even on well-maintained highways, disciplined driving practices ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Highway Driving Best Practices
- Maintain Steady Speeds: Cruise between 80-100 km/h rather than constant aggressive overtaking
- Lane Discipline: Use the rightmost lane only for overtaking, then return to cruising lanes [web:29]
- Watch for Trucks: Heavy commercial vehicles are common on NH65; maintain safe following distance
- Village Crossings: Reduce speed near villages where pedestrians, cattle, or two-wheelers may cross unexpectedly
- Monsoon Precautions: During rainy season (June-September), reduce speed by 20-30% and increase following distance on wet roads
Night Driving Safety
If you must drive after sunset:
- Use high beam only on unlit stretches; dip for oncoming traffic
- Stay extra alert near town areas with pedestrian activity
- Take breaks every 90-120 minutes to avoid drowsiness
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy (Aman Customer Support: +91 95813 78999) [attached_file:1]
Golden Rule: If you feel drowsy, stop immediately at a well-lit restaurant or fuel station. A 15-minute power nap can save lives—never force yourself to continue when eyes feel heavy.
Sample One-Way Itinerary: Hyderabad to Vijayawada
Here's a relaxed, well-paced drive plan for the journey:
Early Morning Departure Plan
- 5:30 AM: Start from Hyderabad (KPHB / Gachibowli / LB Nagar)
- 6:00 AM: Cross Panthangi Toll Plaza, enter open highway
- 7:30-8:15 AM: Breakfast break at Suryapet (7 Highway Food N Fun Stop or Little Village)
- 9:30-9:45 AM: Quick tea + washroom break near Kodad
- 11:00-11:30 AM: Arrive Vijayawada (Benz Circle / MG Road / your destination)
Return Journey (Mirror Plan)
For your drive back from Vijayawada to Hyderabad, follow a similar early morning departure for optimal comfort and minimal traffic.
Places to Explore En Route (Optional Detours)
If you have extra time, consider these nearby attractions:
- Paritala Anjaneya Temple: Just off NH65 near Vijayawada, features a 135-foot tall Lord Hanuman statue [web:25]
- Amaravathi: 35 km from Vijayawada—ancient Buddhist capital with Amaravati Stupa (add 1-2 hours)
- Kondapalli Fort: 16 km from Vijayawada—historic fort with panoramic views (30-minute detour)
Why Self Drive is Ideal for Hyderabad-Vijayawada Travel
Compared to hiring chauffeur-driven cars or taking buses, a self drive rental offers distinct advantages for this route:
Complete Flexibility
- Stop whenever and wherever you want—roadside tea stalls, scenic viewpoints, or spontaneous photo opportunities
- No driver's mandated rest hours or meal break negotiations
- Adjust your itinerary in real-time based on traffic or personal preferences
Privacy & Comfort
- Conduct confidential business calls without a third party (driver) present
- Enjoy private family conversations and quality time
- Play your choice of music, control cabin temperature, and create your own atmosphere
Cost Transparency
- No driver batta (daily allowance) charges
- No driver food or accommodation expenses
- Fixed rental rates: ₹1,500-₹15,000 per day depending on vehicle category [attached_file:1]
- You pay only for: Rental + Fuel + Tolls—that's it!
One-Way Flexibility
Aman Self Drive Cars offers one-way service between Vijayawada, Hyderabad, and Vizag (upon request) [attached_file:1]. Drive from Hyderabad to Vijayawada, return by flight or train, and avoid unnecessary backtracking.
Why Choose Aman Self Drive Cars?
For your Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway journey, Aman ensures every aspect is covered:
Comprehensive Sanitization
Every vehicle undergoes thorough cleaning and sanitization before each rental, ensuring a germ-free, safe travel environment [attached_file:1].
Transparent All-Inclusive Pricing
What you see is what you pay—no surprise charges or hidden fees [attached_file:1]:
- Clear 12-hour and 24-hour packages
- Defined kilometer limits (200 km/12 hours, 400 km/24 hours)
- Extra hour charges: ₹400/- only
GPS-Enabled Fleet
All vehicles come equipped with GPS for seamless navigation on NH65 and surrounding areas [attached_file:1].
Customer Support (6 AM - 9 PM)
Our team is available throughout your journey for booking assistance, route guidance, or emergency support [attached_file:1].
Contact: +91 95813 78999 (Call / WhatsApp)
Well-Maintained Modern Fleet
Choose from budget CNG hatchbacks to premium automatic SUVs—all regularly serviced and less than 3 years old [attached_file:1].
Start Your Hyderabad-Vijayawada Highway Adventure
The 275-kilometer journey between Hyderabad and Vijayawada on NH65 is more than just a commute—it's an opportunity to experience the freedom of the open road, the comfort of driving at your own pace, and the convenience of modern highway infrastructure [web:22][web:23].
Whether you're traveling for business, visiting family, exploring spiritual sites, or simply enjoying a weekend drive, a self drive car transforms this journey into a memorable experience. Say goodbye to driver allowances, rigid schedules, and lack of privacy—take the wheel and discover why thousands choose self drive over traditional car travels.
Ready to hit NH65? Your perfect self drive car awaits!
