Grand Trunk Road

highway, India

Also known as: National Highway No. 2

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

The Grand Trunk Road is one of the oldest and longest highways in Asia, stretching across India and Pakistan. Its history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of paved streets and drainage systems in the Indus civilization around 3000 BCE.1

During the Mauryan Empire (4th century BCE), rulers recognized the importance of well-maintained roads for imperial unity. They developed a network of roads, including the Great Royal Road, which facilitated communication and trade across vast distances. This ancient highway system laid the groundwork for future transportation networks in the region.1

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Kolkata
Transportation
The Grand Trunk Road, a national highway, is one of the oldest road routes in India. It runs through Haora to Pakistan and is the main route connecting the city with northern India. National highways also connect Kolkata with the west coast of India, the northern…
Read More
The Grand Trunk Road, a national highway, is one of the oldest road routes in India. It runs through Haora to Pakistan and is the main route connecting the city with northern India. National highways also connect Kolkata with the west coast of India, the northern…
Read More