The Google Maps bus ticket booking feature is shifting gears in how commuters travel in Hyderabad. With the app integrating with the state transport network of Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) for routes including Hyderabad, users can now search, view and book bus tickets directly from Google Maps.
This marks a significant convenience upgrade for inter-city travellers, especially along the Vijayawada-Hyderabad corridor.
What is the Google Maps Bus Ticket Booking Feature?
- When you open Google Maps on your mobile and enter a source and destination (for example, Vijayawada → Hyderabad), then select the ‘Bus’ transport mode, Google Maps will display available APSRTC bus services along with their schedules, types (AC, Deluxe, Super Luxury).
- A “Book ticket” button appears next to relevant bus listings; tapping it redirects you to the APSRTC booking platform or partner site to complete the purchase.
- The feature is currently in rollout for certain routes and will expand to more services across the region.
Why This Matters
- Simplified travel planning: No longer needing to switch between multiple apps for route and schedule lookup plus ticket booking — it’s all from Google Maps.
- Increased accessibility: For travellers unfamiliar with the bus-network website, this offers a more intuitive interface.
- Better data & routing: By linking ticketing with mapping, travelers get real‐time routing context, boarding points and travel times.
- Push for digitalization: Marks a step forward in public transport services being embedded into everyday consumer apps.
Current Status & Region Details
- The integration is live on routes of APSRTC, specifically tested on the Vijayawada → Hyderabad corridor. NewsBytes
- The feature is expected to expand across more APSRTC routes throughout Andhra Pradesh.
- While Hyderabad is in the larger region served by APSRTC-routes, the precise availability for all Hyderabad-centric routes isn’t yet confirmed.
How to Use the Feature
- Open Google Maps on your smartphone.
- Enter your departure point and destination (e.g., Hyderabad).
- Choose the ‘Bus’ icon/mode.
- Look for available bus services listed (via APSRTC) with a “Book ticket” option.
- Tap “Book ticket” → you’ll be redirected to the transport operator’s booking page.
- Complete your booking via that platform (seat selection, payment etc.).
- Receive confirmation and e-ticket as per normal booking flows.
Things to Note / Limitations
- Though the integration is live, it’s route-limited: Not yet universal for all bus services in Hyderabad or Andhra/Telangana region.
- Booking still takes place on the operator’s site after redirect — Google Maps serves as the aggregator/interface.
- There may be boarding point or route restrictions; always check the details provided by the operator.
- The feature depends on data-sharing by the transport authority (APSRTC) — coverage and accuracy rely on that.
- Users should keep their payment and seat-selection habits consistent with standard booking.
Conclusion
The arrival of the Google Maps bus ticket booking capability in the Hyderabad/APSRTC region is a welcome enhancement for travellers. It offers easier access to bus schedules and bookings within a familiar map-based app, helping streamline the commute. As the rollout expands, more routes, start-points and services will likely be added — making it a strong move towards smarter public transport integration.
For now, if you’re planning a trip on a bus from or to Hyderabad (or between Vijayawada-Hyderabad), this feature is worth trying. Just ensure your route is supported and follow the steps above.
