Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, is a major urban hub in southern India known for its rich history and modern infrastructure. Nanded, located in Maharashtra, is a significant pilgrimage city famous for the Sikh Gurudwara Hazur Sahib. Many travelers journey between these two cities for religious, business, or leisure purposes.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Hyderabad to Nanded. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, costs, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Hyderabad to Nanded – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is one of the most popular and economical ways to reach Nanded from Hyderabad. The rail network connects these cities directly with several daily trains, offering a comfortable and scenic journey.

• Hyderabad Deccan (HYB) and Nanded (NED) are the main railway stations; trains like the Hyderabad–Nanded Passenger and Nanded Express operate regularly, covering approximately 280 km in 6 to 7 hours.

• Train fares range from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class (Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC), making it affordable for most travelers while providing options for comfort.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is advised, especially during festivals or weekends when trains get crowded.

• Facilities on trains include basic catering and clean restrooms, but carrying your own water and snacks is recommended for longer journeys.

• Monsoon season can cause occasional delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging, so check train status before departure.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel from Hyderabad to Nanded. Both government and private operators run services connecting the two cities with varying comfort levels.

• Major bus depots include Hyderabad’s MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station) and Nanded’s central bus stand; buses cover around 280 km via NH44 and NH161.

• Travel time by bus ranges from 6 to 8 hours depending on the type of bus (AC, non-AC, sleeper) and traffic conditions.

• Fares typically range from ₹250 to ₹700, with MSRTC and TSRTC offering reliable services alongside private operators.

• Buses run frequently, but night buses are less common; booking tickets online through official portals or apps like RedBus is recommended.

• During peak holiday seasons, buses can be crowded, so arriving early at the bus stand or booking in advance helps secure a seat.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Hyderabad to Nanded is a good option if you prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The roads are mostly in good condition, and the journey offers scenic views of the Deccan plateau.

• The distance is about 280 km via NH44 and NH161, with an average driving time of 5.5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Major toll plazas on the route include the ones near Zaheerabad and Mudkhed; toll charges may total around ₹150 to ₹250.

• Rest stops with food options are available at towns like Zaheerabad and Mudkhed, offering local cuisine and refreshments.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Hyderabad from companies like Zoomcar and Revv, with daily rates starting around ₹2000.

• Driving during early morning or late evening helps avoid city traffic in Hyderabad and Nanded, making the trip smoother.

Flight

Although Nanded has a domestic airport, direct flights from Hyderabad are limited. Flying can be a time-saving option if you find suitable connections, but it is generally less convenient than train or road travel.

• Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Hyderabad offers flights to Nanded Airport (NDC), but most require a stopover, increasing total travel time.

• Flight duration is about 1 hour if direct flights are available, but including check-in and transfers, total time may exceed 3 hours.

• Airfares vary widely, typically ranging from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on booking time and airline.

• Flights are less frequent and may not operate daily, so checking schedules well in advance is essential.

• From Nanded Airport, local taxis and auto-rickshaws are available to reach the city center, about 15 km away.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers making the Hyderabad to Nanded journey. It will help you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus ticket online through IRCTC or RedBus at least a week in advance to ensure availability, especially during festivals or weekends.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, a power bank, and a copy of your ID and tickets to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Arrive at Hyderabad Deccan railway station or MGBS bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid rush.

• If traveling by car, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and GPS navigation before starting; plan rest stops at Zaheerabad or Mudkhed for meals and breaks.

• During the journey, stay hydrated and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains or buses; use official prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber upon arrival in Nanded.

• Once in Nanded, confirm your accommodation booking in advance and ask locals or hotel staff for safe and convenient transport options to your destination.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a bottle of water and avoid drinking tap water; buy sealed bottled water from trusted vendors to prevent stomach issues during travel.

• Use official ticket booking platforms like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC or TSRTC websites for buses to avoid scams and inflated prices.

• During monsoon, check weather updates as heavy rains can delay trains and cause slippery roads, especially on highway stretches near Zaheerabad.

• For local travel in Nanded, prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs over auto-rickshaws to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Keep your luggage close and secure, especially in crowded places like bus stands and railway stations, to prevent theft or loss.

• If traveling by train, carry light snacks and a small blanket or shawl for comfort during overnight or early morning journeys.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Hyderabad to Nanded depends on weather and local events. Planning your trip around these factors can make your journey more comfortable.

Summer months (April to June) can be hot with temperatures rising above 40°C, making daytime travel tiring. Monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rains that may cause delays on roads and railways. Winter (November to February) offers pleasant weather, ideal for travel.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when trains and buses are crowded and prices rise.

• Fog in winter mornings can cause train delays, so plan departures after 9 AM for smoother journeys.

• Early morning departures help avoid Hyderabad city traffic and reduce travel time on highways.

• Monsoon travel requires checking weather forecasts and train/bus status to avoid cancellations or long waits.

Arrival at Nanded & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Nanded railway station or bus stand, you will find several options for local transport. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from these points, providing safe and convenient rides to your accommodation.

Popular areas to stay include Gurudwara Road and the city center, which have good hotel options and easy access to local attractions. Auto-rickshaws are available but negotiate fares beforehand or insist on the meter to avoid overcharging.

Conclusion

Traveling from Hyderabad to Nanded is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a reliable and affordable choice, while buses provide flexibility and frequent services. Driving gives you freedom to explore, and flights, though limited, can save time if scheduled well.

By planning your trip with advance bookings, checking weather conditions, and following practical tips, you can enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey. With this guide, you are well-equipped to travel confidently between Hyderabad and Nanded and make the most of your visit.