Finding clean, safe and affordable food and rest stops on Indian highways has improved dramatically. The NHAI has developed modern food plazas on expressways, while traditional dhaba culture serves millions daily. According to NHAI 2026 data, there are over 150 food plazas on national highways and expressways, with 200 more planned by 2027.
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Food Plazas on Expressways
Modern expressways like the Yamuna, Mumbai-Pune and Delhi-Mumbai Expressway feature air-conditioned food plazas with branded outlets including McDonald's, KFC, Subway and Haldiram's. These plazas offer clean restrooms, baby care rooms, ATM facilities and parking. The Yamuna Expressway has three food plazas at 50 km intervals.
Famous Highway Dhabas
Traditional dhabas remain an essential part of highway food culture. Famous ones include Sukhdev Dhaba (Murthal, NH-44), Amrik Sukhdev (Murthal), Giani Dhaba (NH-1, Karnal), and Karnal Haveli (NH-44). In the south, Chiluku Restaurant (Hyderabad-Bangalore) and A2B (multiple locations) are popular.
NHAI Food Plazas on Major Routes
| Highway | Food Plaza | Facilities | km Mark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamuna Expressway | Food Plaza 1-3 | AC, restrooms, brands | km 50, 100, 150 |
| Mumbai-Pune Expy | Foodmall (Khopoli) | AC, restrooms, brands | km 80 |
| Delhi-Mumbai Expy | Wayside amenities | AC, restrooms, fuel | Every 50 km |
| NH-48 (Delhi-Jaipur) | Highway Haven, Behror | AC, restrooms, fuel | km 130 |
Food Safety Tips on Highways
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Drink sealed water | Always buy branded sealed bottles. Avoid tap water at dhabas. |
| Hot cooked food | Choose freshly cooked, hot meals over pre-prepared items. |
| Avoid raw salads | Raw vegetables may be washed in unsafe water. Stick to cooked dishes. |
| Carry snacks | Keep biscuits, nuts and fruit for stretches without facilities. |
Conclusion
Highway dining in India offers both traditional dhaba experiences and modern food plazas. Plan your stops to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
You May Also Like: National Highways Guide 2026, Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, and Bridges & Tunnels of India.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dhabas on Indian highways?
Dhabas are roadside restaurants serving North Indian food at affordable prices, especially on highways in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.
Which expressway has the best food plazas?
The Yamuna Expressway has three modern food plazas with clean facilities and branded outlets.
Are highway dhabas safe for families?
Most dhabas on major expressways are family-friendly. On remote stretches, opt for branded food plazas.
What should I avoid eating at highway dhabas?
Avoid raw salads, cut fruits and unsealed water. Stick to hot, freshly cooked meals.
Where can I find clean restrooms on Indian highways?
NHAI food plazas, branded fuel stations and toll plaza facilities offer the cleanest restrooms.
How far apart are rest stops on Indian expressways?
Expressways have food plazas every 50-80 km. National highways have dhabas every 20-40 km.