India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Eluru, a well-connected city in Andhra Pradesh, offers multiple transportation options for travelers. Whether you're arriving from another city or exploring local attractions, here’s a complete guide to how to reach Eluru and how to travel within the city.
1. How to Reach Eluru?
Eluru is well connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from major cities like Vijayawada, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
A. By Air (Nearest Airport: Vijayawada Airport)
Tip: If traveling from an international destination, land at Hyderabad or Chennai Airport, then take a train, flight, or bus to Eluru.
B. By Train (Eluru Railway Station - EE)
Tip: Book tickets in advance during festival seasons (Sankranti, Diwali, and Dussehra).
C. By Road (NH-16 & State Highways)
Eluru is well connected by National Highway 16 (NH-16) and state highways.
1. Distance & Travel Time from Major Cities:
City |
Distance |
Travel Time |
Vijayawada |
60 km |
1.5 hours |
Hyderabad |
330 km |
6 hours |
Visakhapatnam |
260 km |
5 hours |
Chennai |
470 km |
8.5 hours |
Bengaluru |
700 km |
12 hours |
2. Bus Services to Eluru (APSRTC & Private Buses)
Tip: If traveling from Hyderabad, an overnight sleeper bus is a comfortable option.
2. Local Transport in Eluru
Once you reach Eluru, there are multiple ways to travel within the city and visit nearby attractions.
A. Auto-Rickshaws & Taxis (Most Common)
✔ Auto-rickshaws – Most convenient for short distances (fare: ₹10-₹50).
✔ Shared Autos – Cheaper option (₹5-₹20 per ride).
✔ Taxis & Private Cabs – Available via local operators for day trips.
Tip: Auto-rickshaws don’t follow meters, so negotiate the fare before the ride.
B. Public Buses (APSRTC City Buses)
✔ Affordable transport option for commuting within Eluru.
✔ Buses connect key areas like Railway Station, Bus Stand, Dwaraka Tirumala, and Kolleru Lake.
✔ Cheapest mode of transport (fares: ₹5-₹20).
Tip: Buses can be crowded during peak hours (8–10 AM, 5–7 PM).
C. Rental Bikes & Self-Drive Cars
✔ Bike Rentals – Available at ₹200-₹500 per day.
✔ Car Rentals – Available for self-drive or chauffeur-driven options.
Best for: Tourists who want to explore nearby places like Kolleru Lake, Papi Hills, and Dwaraka Tirumala.
D. Online Cab Services (Limited Availability)
Tip: Pre-book cabs for early morning or late-night travel.
3. Best Ways to Travel to Major Tourist Spots
Attraction |
Distance from Eluru |
Best Transport Mode |
Kolleru Lake |
15 km |
Auto/Bus/Car |
Dwaraka Tirumala |
40 km |
APSRTC Bus/Taxi |
Guntupalli Caves |
40 km |
Car/Taxi |
Papi Hills |
90 km |
Car + Boat Tour |
Vijayawada |
60 km |
Train/Bus/Taxi |
4. Travel Tips for Eluru
✔ Best Time to Visit:
✔ Advance Bookings:
✔ Cash vs Digital Payments:
✔ Safety & Local Etiquette:
Eluru offers great transport connectivity by train, bus, and road, making it easy to reach from major cities. Within the city, autos, buses, and rental cars provide convenient options to explore temples, lakes, and heritage sites.