Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp) is an emerging global pathogen associated with severe, invasive infections and increasing antimicrobial resistance. While hvKp poses significant clinical challenges, data on its prevalence and resistance patterns in India remain limited. A cross-sectional study was conducted between June and July 2021 at a tertiary care hospital in Puducherry. A total of 80 clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae were analyzed for hypermucoviscosity using the string test. Antimicrobial resistance patterns were assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production was evaluated using phenotypic methods. Among the 80 isolates, 18 (22.5) were identified as hvKp, while 62 (77.5) were classified as classical K. pneumoniae (cKp). hvKp predominantly affected males (83.34) and individuals aged 45-65 years (72.23). Resistance rates were significantly higher in hvKp for gentamicin (50 vs. 24.19, p = 0.038) and cefotaxime (44.45 vs. 27.42). Furthermore, 55.56 of hvKp strains were ESBL producers, compared to 27.42 of cKp strains. This study highlights the clinical significance of hvKp, with a notable prevalence and a concerning resistance profile. Enhanced surveillance, routine phenotypic identification, and the development of tailored antibiotic protocols are crucial to addressing the challenges posed by hvKp in healthcare settings. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the management of hvKp infections in the Indian context. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.