top road trips in india

The 9 most spectacular road trips in India

Dec 12, 2023 • 12 min read

From self-drive motorbike adventures to tips on hiring a car and driver, here are the best road trips in India © Solovyova / Getty Images

In India, every journey is an experience, whether you rumble across the subcontinent on a classic Enfield motorcycle or rattle through the hills in a chartered 4WD.

The simple act of traveling from A to B will immerse you in the sights , sounds and sensations of the world’s most colorful country. Plenty of people get around  by bus and train, but taking a road trip will give you extra control over your itinerary, letting you choose where to stop and which route to follow.

The good news is that you don’t need to drive yourself – it’s easy to hire a car or 4WD with a driver almost everywhere in India , meaning you can concentrate on the scenery while your driver deals with the sometimes challenging road conditions. 

If you prefer to take the driving seat, renting a motorcycle is a wonderful way to explore the subcontinent, particularly if you stick to the backroads. Self-drive car rental is harder to arrange, but some adventurous souls travel around India with their own vehicles – a few hardy travelers have even navigated India in a modified autorickshaw!

Grab your sense of adventure and get ready to hit the road with this guide to the best road trips in India. 

1. India’s Golden Triangle 

Best road trip for Mughal monuments Delhi–Delhi; 1120km (696 miles); allow five days

Short and sweet, the loop from  Delhi to  Agra and  Jaipur packs a lot of wonders into a few days of driving. Your adventure begins in Delhi, where the ruins of eight cities tell the story of India’s great Islamic empires. Hit  the city's highlights , including Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, the Jama Masjid and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk, which have changed only superficially since Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s time.

With a chartered vehicle or rented motorcycle, it’s easy to swing by the sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, where Krishna frolicked with milkmaids in the Hindu epics. After these peaceful stops, steel yourself for a mix of the stressful and sublime in Agra, where the glorious  Taj Mahal more than lives up to its reputation.

Find more Mughal magnificence at nearby  Fatehpur Sikri , the red sandstone city founded and later abandoned by emperor Akbar the Great. Once you follow the NH21 to Jaipur, you’ll share every fort, palace and mystical observatory with a crowd, so consider making the odd detour before you hit the Pink City’s palaces and bazaars. 

Detour: Before zooming west from Fatehpur Sikri to Jaipur, consider a detour south to  Gwalior , whose beautiful fort is less mobbed than other stops on this circuit. Before you complete the third side of the triangle, tack on one more detour to spot tigers stalking ruined battlements in  Ranthambhore National Park before diving back into urban life.

2. Manali to Ladakh across the Himalaya

Best road trip for silence and serenity Manali–Srinagar; 800km (497 miles); allow ten days

Many people follow the mountain circuit from  Manali to  Ladakh and on to  Kashmir in a chartered 4WD, but we strongly recommend traveling by rented Enfield Bullet motorcycle. This allows you the life-affirming thrill of pulling over by the roadside to find yourself alone in the silence of these high-altitude deserts in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

From the hippie hill resort of Manali, it’s a two-day slog over the 3978m (13,051ft)  Rohtang La to  Leh , through a landscape plucked straight from the heyday of the Silk Road. There’s little vegetation and even less shade, and the cold and altitude will hit you like a sledgehammer. Recuperate with trips to Buddhist monasteries and yoga classes in Leh, then hit the road again for a different take on the Himalayas in Kashmir.

The highway west to  Srinagar weaves between ancient villages, but as the hills turn from dust-yellow to lush green, the culture shifts from Buddhism to Islam before the minarets of Srinagar loom into view. The Kashmir valley is sometimes troubled, but when it’s calm, the experience of watching  Dal Lake appearing slowly through the morning mist from the deck of a houseboat is simply sublime. 

Planning tip: Whether you drive yourself or let someone else take the wheel, it's imperative to respect the mountain climate. Snow closes the high passes into Ladakh in winter, and road travel is usually only possible from June to late September or early October.

3. Rajasthan’s colored cities 

Best road trip for desert colors Jaipur–Jaipur; 1630km (1012 miles); allow ten days

Desert driving in  Rajasthan is an incredible experience. Mighty fortresses loom dramatically out of the landscape, and you’ll share the dusty highways with camel carts and old-timers, some with vividly colored turbans and handsome mustaches. Kick-off in  Jaipur – the pink city – touring pink-sandstone palaces, bustling bazaars and the awe-inspiring fortress at  Amber .

Follow NH48 to the Jain and Muslim pilgrimage center of  Ajmer , and duck west to reach the famous  Pushkar , with its temple-circled lake and  legendary camel fair in October or November. Return to NH48 for the rumbling ride to  Udaipur , the white city – draped like a silk scarf on the shores of tranquil Lake Pichola. Dose up on ice-white palaces, then deviate west to the temple-strewn hill station of  Mt Abu . 

Veering north to  Jodhpur , you’ll immediately spot the lapis-colored buildings that earned the Blue City its name. Get another blast of military might at  Mehrangarh Fort , then drive west through serious desert country to the sand-yellow city of  Jaisalmer , whose fortified walls look almost carved from the desert itself. Close off the loop via  Bikaner , where you’ll leave the tourist crowds behind before diving back into the thick of things in Jaipur.

Detour: Having your own transport opens up the opportunity to get off the tourist track in this heavily visited state. Consider tacking on a side-trip north from Jaipur to Shekhawati, famed for its mural-filled haveli mansions. 

4. Hampi and the Hoysalas

Best road trip for temples Mysuru–Gokarna; 1060km (659 miles); allow ten days

For many travelers, visiting the time-tumbled ruins of the Vijayanagar kingdom at  Hampi is the  most memorable experience  during a trip to India. Start off in  Mysuru (formerly Mysore), with its mesmerizing markets, fiery vegetarian cuisine and famously extravagant  palace . Rumble north on the backroads to fascinating Sravanabelagola with its naked 17m (56ft) statue of  Gomateshvara , the first tirthankara  (spiritual teacher) of the Jain religion.

The temples just keep on coming in Karnataka. Slingshot through Hassan to Belur and Halebid, where the  temples of the Hoysala Empire represent perhaps the zenith of the Hindu temple-building art. A three-hour drive east will drop you in Karnataka’s capital,  Bengaluru , known for its cosmopolitan dining, shopping and nightlife. Enjoy its comforts; it’s a long drive to reach Hosapete, the leaping-off point for the ruins at Hampi.

Once you roll into Hampi’s centuries-old bazaar, allow at least two days to explore toppled temples and time travel across centuries in a landscape of stacked granite boulders. For more timeless temple architecture, duck onto the backroads to reach Badami, where blood-colored cliffs are pock-marked with  cave temples .

Detour: To mix things up, consider taking a side trip to Aihole, dotted with dusty ruins from the ancient Chalukya kingdom, then finish on the beach with some well-earned R&R in  Gokarna  – part pilgrim-town, part beach retreat. 

5. Kolkata to Darjeeling

Best road trip for Himalayan views and side treks Kolkata–Yuksom; 808km (502 miles); allow eight days

The east of India is often overlooked by the crowds who surge north from Delhi, but the journey through West Bengal to the foothills of 8586m (28,169ft) Mt Khangchendzonga has an epic sense of mission. Start in crowded but cultured  Kolkata , visiting ashrams, temples and striking civic buildings reclaimed from British rule. Fit in a tour of the tiger-stalked swamps of the  Sunderbans before you head for the hills. 

The journey north takes you past little-visited country towns to intriguing  Shantiniketan , a university town with a long history of dance, theater and poetry. From here, you’ll break north to reach the emerald-green tea plantations and delightfully dated grand hotels of  Darjeeling , where you’ll likely catch your first up-close views of the Himalayas.

To get intimate with the snow peaks, walk the Singalila Ridge trekking route or edge even closer to Mt Khangchendzonga by picking up a permit to enter lofty  Sikkim . A route through  Kalimpong ,  Gangtok and Pelling will reveal views that would make mountaineers itch for their ice axes. To cap it all off, you can get within touching distance of the snow on the trek to the Goecha La from Yuksom.

Planning tip: You’ll need a Restricted Areas Permit to enter Sikkim, but this is easily obtained in Kolkata, Siliguri or Darjeeling, or when crossing into Sikkim at Melli or Rangpo.

6. Mumbai to Goa 

Best road trip for beaches Mumbai–Palolem; 650km (404 miles); allow one week

Short journeys don’t mean scrimping on excitement in India. From brash and brilliant  Mumbai , pick up NH66 and head south, detouring down to the coast to explore fascinating forts such as  Murud-Janjira , a legacy of centuries of coastal conquest. Pull into the low-key seaside resorts at Ganpatipule and Malvan before you hit the busy beaches of  Goa . 

As you roll into northern Goa, swing by the famous market in  Anjuna and the fun-filled beach hubs at  Baga and Calangute . Head onward to  Panaji , Goa’s charming Portuguese-colonial capital, and the timeworn basilicas of  Old Goa .

The mood changes as you roll south to laid-back  Agonda , the center of Goa’s nascent surfing scene. It changes again as you head inland through green hills dotted with spice farms for a peek at thundering  Dudhsagar Falls , India’s second-highest cascade. Finish up on the sand-sprinkled shore at lovely  Palolem (making time for a bird-spotting  hike at the nearby  Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary ).  

7. A drive through the northeast

Best road trip for tribal encounters Guwahati–Guwahati; 1700km (1056 miles); allow two weeks

With a hired 4WD and a driver who can speak local languages, a fascinating journey through the varied cultures of the northeast states awaits. Start in  Guwahati , the under-explored capital of Assam, and follow the mighty Brahmaputra River northeast to  Kaziranga National Park for close encounters with one-horned Indian rhinos.

Next, aim your sights north towards  Arunachal Pradesh and the awesome  Buddhist monasteries of the Tawang Valley (local travel agencies can arrange a permit).

Add on a wander through the tribal communities of Ziro and Daporijo, and loop back through Upper Assam, continuing east to the fascinating Konyak Naga villages around Mon in northern  Nagaland . Slip back to the plains via Kohima (ideally in December to catch the  Hornbill Festival ), then climb up onto the high plateau of  Meghalaya , where trees are woven into living bridges and markets sell bows and arrows as day-to-day essentials, before barrelling downhill from  Shillong to Guwahati.

Planning tip: A Protected Area Permit is required to enter Arunachal Pradesh, and you may need to be in a group of two or more to visit some areas; contact travel agencies in Guwahati in advance to get the paperwork in place.

8. Around the tip of India

Best road trip in the south Kochi–Kochi; 807km (501 miles); allow 7 days

The bottom end of India feels like a different country. Start the journey through India’s steamy south in historic  Kochi , whose ancient streets tell a timeless tale of seafaring, trade and Keralan spices. As you roam south to  Alappuzha , park up for a day or two to explore the fascinating, waterlogged backwaters by boat.

As you pass through Amrithapuri, you can pause for a hug from a living guru before soaking up some rays on  Kerala ’s loveliest beaches at  Varkala . Next, whoosh through  Thiruvananthapuram (pause just long enough for some incendiary Keralan curries) to the southern tip of India. From here, you’ll head inland, through drier, rockier Tamil Nadu, to reach  Madurai , whose temple towers are encrusted with brightly colored deities and demons.

The trip back to Kochi will take you through the Palani Hills, a side spur of the Western Ghats, where the landscape surges upwards to  Kodaikanal , perhaps the most charming of India’s southern hill stations. Grab a cuppa amidst swirling tea plantations in  Munnar , South India’s top tea-growing center, before you return to the coast. 

Planning tip: The monsoon obscures the views from the Western Ghats from June to September, but waterfalls run at full force, so this is still a rewarding time to come.

9. Chennai to Puducherry (Pondicherry)

Best road trip for cultural variety Chennai–Puducherry; 232km (144 miles); allow 3 to 4 days

For a short, sweet and spicy trip along India’s southeast coast, consider the three-day trip from  Chennai south to  Puducherry (Pondicherry) . Start in Chennai, with its vast beach, famous-name ashrams and  delicious vegetarian cuisine , then track south along the coast, wedged between the sea and the salt lake.

Stop one is the surprising surf resort at Kovalam (Covelong), a worthy stop en route to  Mamallapuram , where you can view a riot of carvings and temples created by the Pallava dynasty. Duck inland to see the ancient Pallava capital at  Kanchipuram , then return to the coast to close out the trip at charming Puducherry, formerly Pondicherry.

A Gallic air pervades this seaside town – best experienced in heritage hotels in the old French Quarter. Just be warned: some spiritually-minded travelers pull into the famous ashram at  Auroville just north of "Pondy" and never leave! 

Top tips for hiring a car and driver in India

You’ll find drivers-for-hire offering their services at taxi and 4WD stands all over India, or you can make arrangements through hotels and travel agencies. Check that the driver speaks enough English to understand where you want to go and where you want to stop, and confirm that the driver is able to cross state lines – some vehicles are only licensed to operate in certain areas. 

You’ll need to agree on a price for the trip before you start, and the cost should include fuel, accommodation and food for the driver for multi-day trips. Prices start at around US$40 per day, rising for 4WD vehicles. Be clear with your driver about what you want from your journey; if you want to avoid stops at tourist shops and commission-paying venues, make this clear from the outset.

Exploring India by motorcycle or bike is for experienced riders

India’s roads are not for fair-weather motorcyclists, but if you have a few miles under your belt and fancy a challenge, it’s a fabulous way to explore this enormous country. Veteran hire companies such as  Lalli Singh Tours in  Delhi have sent hundreds of travelers off on journeys across India, from the steamy southern jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.  

The best advice we can give is to ride slowly and defensively, always give way to larger vehicles, and carry a full repair kit and spares – and know how to use them! The nostalgic British-designed Enfield Bullet is the vehicle of choice for many travelers, but it’s a heavy brute; newer machines from the likes of Bajaj are lighter and easier to handle.

If you plan to pedal your way around India by bicycle, carry plenty of puncture repair kits and bring lights and high visibility gear. If you don’t want to transport your own bike into the country, consider flying into Delhi and buying a bike at the Jhandewalan Cycle Market.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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• 35 Spectacular Road Trips In India For That Passionate Traveler In You

26 May 2021

Road trips are perhaps the best way to satiate your craving for adventure and escape monotony. To simply pack up your bags, start up your engines, and whiz away is the best kind of break you can get from stress and drama. Here’s a list of popular road trips in India that you strongly need to take in order to get a break from monotony.

35 Best Road Trips In India

We all crave for a road trip, quitting our daily routine. But we often just keep planning and never go. This is the list of 25 road trip that you can take from India and satisfy your wanderlust. 25 is a big number, so we hope that the abundance and variety of options will finally motivate you to leave your office desks and go wheeling.

• Delhi To Manali To Leh: 1,019 Kms
• Mumbai To Goa: 590 Kms
• Jaipur To Ranthambore: 158 Kms
• Guwahati To Tawang: 566 Kms
• Ahmedabad To Kutch : 454 Kms
• Delhi To Agra To Jaipur : 449 Kms
• Old Silk Route: 68.2 Kms
• Jaipur To Jaisalmer: 555 Kms
• Dehradun To Nainital: 278 Kms
• Chennai To Pondicherry: 158 Kms
• Bangalore To Coorg : 242 Kms
• Bangalore To Munnar: 477 Kms
• Darjeeling To Pelling : 72.8 Kms
• Mumbai To Mount Abu: 758 Kms
• Kolkata To Kumaon : 1,409 Kms
• Ahmedabad To Daman: 357 Kms
• Chennai To Yelagiri: 230 Kms
• Mumbai To Tarkarli: 488 Kms
• Delhi To Jaipur: 269 Kms
• Hyderabad To Kannur: 899 Kms
• Kolkata To Digha: 184 Kms
• Delhi To Mussoorie: 281 Kms
• Kolkata To Puri: 497 Kms
• Delhi To Rishikesh: 232 Kms
• Mumbai To Pune : 148 Kms
• Visakhapatnam To Araku Valley: 114 Kms
• Srinagar To Leh, Zoji La Pass: 418 Kms
• Mumbai To Rann Of Kutch: 936 Kms
• Bangalore To Pondicherry: 312 Kms
• Bagdogra To Darjeeling: 67 Kms
• Gangtok To Lake Tsomgo And Nathu-La Pass: 53.5 Kms
• Jaipur To Udaipur: 412 Kms
• Bangalore To Goa: 585 Kms
• Mangalore To Goa (Via Gokarna): 365 Kms
• Ahmedabad To Diu: 365 Kms

1. Delhi To Manali To Leh: Every Biker’s First Love

A road trip in the Himalayas will always be accompanied by gorgeous landscapes wherever you look. The Delhi-Manali-Leh road trip is one of the best road trips in India and an absolutely enthralling journey to take. Though the roads may get a little treacherous and tricky on your way to Leh, the awesome scenic beauty makes up for it. It is a road trip every daring traveler must take.

Time : 25 hours Distance : 1,019 kms National Highway : NH 1 & NH 21 Where To Eat : Have an early breakfast at Murthal. Eat at Sukhdev’s dhaba on the way for some butter loaded stuffed paranthas or you could stop by McDonald’s, Barista, Subway, or Haveli. Where To Stay : Take a stopover at Bilaspur while traveling from Delhi to Manali. From Manali to Leh, you could spend a night at Circuit houses in Lahaul Valley.

Suggested Read: 20 Road Trips From Mumbai That Must Be On Every Traveler’s Bucket List

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2. Mumbai To Goa: Dil Chahta Hai Vibes

Image Source If you loved the reel road trip, you’ll love the real version even more! It is preferred you take the Pune-Kolhapur Route as it is a safer, the smoother road in case you’re traveling by car. For the more adventurous ones, traveling with friends on a bike seeking scenic beauty of the Western Ghats, & lesser toll booths along the way, take the Chiplun-Ratnagiri Route that gets rocky, tricky and narrow at many places. While on the Chiplun-Ratnagiri route, you can also check out the Karnal Bird Sanctuary. The best time to take this road trip is between December and January.

Time : 10 hours 41 minutes (via the Pune-Kolhapur Route) & 11 hours 52 minutes (via the Chiplun-Ratnagiri Konkan route) Distance : 590 kms (via the Pune-Kolhapur Route) & 577 kms (via the Chiplun-Ratnagiri Konkan route) National Highway : NH 4 or NH 66 Where To Eat : Various restaurants at Satara & Kolhapur if you’re on NH 4, and Chiplun Where To Stay : Hotels at Kolhapur and Chiplun

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3. Jaipur To Ranthambore: Royal Land To Royal Beast

Image Source One can enjoy beautiful views of the mustard fields and picturesque villages like Balsi & Lalsot on this road trip. It is one of the most popular road trips in India , as huge numbers of people flock to the Ranthambore National Park to spot a tiger or two. The roads are in a decent condition, though one might experience uneven roads for a mere stretch of 20-25 kms on the journey. One can take the route via Tonk to avoid the rough road. The best time to take this road trip is between October and June, as the Park is closed for the rest of the time.

Time : 3 hours 14 minutes Distance : 158 kms National Highway: Jaipur-Kota road highway Where To Eat : A number of shops and dhabas available on the way. Where To Stay:  NA

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4. Guwahati To Tawang: Monks, Mountains & Morning Prayer

Image Source The road trip offers breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains and lets you witness the marvels of the Buddhist culture in the North-East. Driving up the winding paths on the hills requires skill and experience. The best time to take this road trip is between March and October, like the rest of the time the roads may be blocked due to snow.

Time : 14 hours 27 minutes Distance : 566 kms National Highway : NH 52 & NH 229 Where To Eat : Shops and stalls offering momos, Maggi, and tea along the way. Where To Stay : Budget hotels at Tezpur

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5. Ahmedabad To Kutch: A Stretch Of White Horizons

Image Source The stunning white landscapes, the barren desert for miles and beyond, and the color contrasts of the local population over it would definitely make your road trip worthwhile. The roads are in a fine condition, though one must try and leave for Kutch early in the morning to avoid traffic-choked roads. One must surely visit the Wild Ass Sanctuary and the nearby Hodko village to buy local handicrafts. The best time to take this road trip is between October and March. Try to come at a time so that you can witness the full moon at Kutch.

Time : 7 hours 32 minutes Distance : 454 kms National Highway : NH 8A Where To Eat : A number of shops and dhabas available on the way. Where To Stay:  Regenta Resort, Click Hotel, and Hotel Raj Mahal

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6. Delhi To Agra To Jaipur: The Golden Triangle

Image Source The famous Golden Triangle road makes up for one of the best road trips in India. And not just the road, but the three culturally and historically rich cities offer a great many vistas for travelers, including the Taj Mahal at Agra and the numerous monuments at Jaipur. The Yamuna Expressway (NH 93) is a massive stretch of smooth, clean roads and one would find no hindrances as such. You may find the NH 8 to be a little rocky due to the recent construction work there.

Time : 6 hours 58 minutes Distance : 449 kms National Highway : NH 93 & NH 8 Where To Eat : The Food Court on Yamuna Expressway and a number of restaurants like Midway on NH 8. Where To Stay:  Radisson Hotel Agra, Hotel Atulyaa Taj Agra, ITC Rajputana Jaipur, and Pearl Palace Jaipur

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7. Old Silk Route: The Historical Lifeline Of Trade & Tradition

Image Source The Silk Route is a old network of trade that fostered the exchange of Oriental and Western civilizations. It connects Lhasa in Tibet to India through the Jelep La Pass in Sikkim. A ride up the motorable roads of this route provides some stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and beautiful landscapes of the hills and snow. You can start your journey from Gangtok in Sikkim and go up to the Nathang Valley. While on this route you can witness the splendid Menmecho Lake, Mandakini Waterfall, & view the entire winding route from Thambi View Point. The roads are in good condition, except from January to April, when the valley is covered in deep snow.

Time : 1 hour 50 minutes Distance : 68.2 kms National Highway : NH 31A Where To Eat : Local eateries at Sorethang (the China Market). Where To Stay:  Silk Route Resort, Ice Land Homestay, and Eco Nest Homestay

Suggested Read: 25 Road Trips In India For Couples That Will Reshape Their Future Together

8. Jaipur To Jaisalmer: From Pink To The Golden City

Image Source Witness the colors, culture & beauty of Rajasthan as you ride past the many villages lining the roads from Jaipur to Jaisalmer. Make a stopover at Jodhpur to indulge in the true Rajasthani heritage and flavours. One can also visit Kumbalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on the way. The roads on this route are in a perfect condition, granting you a smooth ride.

Time : 9 hours Distance : 555 kms National Highway : NH 15 Where To Eat : Authentic Rajasthani cuisines at Jodhpur. Where To Stay:  Hotel Desert Winds and Harasar Haveli

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9. Dehradun To Nainital: Hills, Valleys, Streams & Lakes

Image Source Ride through Nature’s wonders while enjoying the refreshing weather from one gorgeous hill spot to the other. The roads are in great condition and the turns and twists provide an amazing experience to adventure seekers.

Time : 6 hours 33 minutes Distance : 278 km National Highway : NH 74 Where To Eat : A number of shops and dhabas available on the way. Where To Stay:  NA

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10. Chennai To Pondicherry: Surf & Sands Of The South

Image Source It is among the best road trips in India as it’s one where the journey will fetch you more memories and greater experience than the destination itself. On the way, one can enjoy magnificent views of the beaches of Southern India and stop by to have a coconut or two whenever they feel like. One will find that the East Coast Road is in perfect condition for driving or riding down. You can make a stopover at Mahabalipuram to enjoy the beaches and treat your tummy.

Time : 3 hours 31 minutes Distance : 158 kms National Highway:  NH 32 Where To Eat : The beach at Mahabalipuram and roadside dhabas & shops. Where To Stay:  NA

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11. Bangalore To Coorg: From Concrete Jungles To Pristine Hills

Image Source A road trip from Bangalore to Coorg is an absolute delight for nature lovers. Being one of the best hill stations in the South and surrounded by the Western Ghats, Coorg provides stunning scenic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. The roads on this route are pretty decent, except for a few patches here and there.

Time : 5 hours 26 minutes Distance : 242 kms National Highway : NH 275 Where To Eat : A lot of restaurants and drive-ins on the way. Where To Stay:  The Mansion 1907 and Grand Mercure Mysore

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12. Bangalore To Munnar: Through Waterfalls & Windmills

Image Source The route is a sea of windmills & gorgeous waterfalls on each side, with coconut trees lining each side of the roads. The surrounding landscapes are dotted with a number of forest patches, streams, tea gardens, & wooden bridges, making the entire journey magical. The roads are great and well maintained, providing for a smooth road trip throughout.

Time : 9 hours Distance : 477 kms National Highway : NH 7 Where To Eat : Authentic South Indian cuisines at many restaurants along the way. Where To Stay: Aranyaka Resorts, Windermere Estate, and Camelot Resort

Suggested Read: 30 Temples In South India: The Perfect Amalgamation Of Art And Divinity

13. Darjeeling To Pelling: Through The Kingdom Of Tea Gardens

Image Source This road trip takes you through lush tea gardens, where you can stop and sip on some refreshing tea, and through winding roads up lofty mountains with picturesque landscapes on all sides, giving you the feeling as if you’re riding through Heaven. The best time to take this road trip is between March and June & then between September and December, as the roads may get blocked during the winter and rainy seasons. The roads are in great condition and make up for a smooth ride.

Time : 2 hours Distance : 72.8 kms National Highway:  NA Where To Eat : A number of food joints for refreshments on the way. Where To Stay: NA

Suggested Read: 15 Terribly Underrated Destinations In India We Bet You Didn’t Know About!

14. Mumbai To Mount Abu: From Urban Glitter To Peace & Tranquility

Image Source An ecstatic journey that gives you the experiences of 3 different states and cultures- Maharashtra, Gujarat & Rajasthan. The journey would take one through urban towns, villages and then up the hills, letting them witness the transition from heavily populated urban centers to scantily occupied hilly terrains. The roads, including the internal ones, are considerably well-kept.

Time : 12 hours 33 minutes Distance : 758 kms National Highway : NH 8 Where T o Eat : A range of dhabas en route. Where To Stay : Hotels at Ahmedabad or Vadodara

Suggested Read: 29 Best Adventure Destinations In India You Must Set Sail For

15. Kolkata To Kumaon: The Metamorphosis Of Colours & Cultures

Image Source The best part of this road trip is the gradual yet incredible transition of the green plains and slopes to snow-clad mountain peaks. It is one of those trips that redefine the meaning of phrases like “It is the journey that matters, not the destination”. One can get down and enjoy the town of Varanasi on the way. Though the highway is rather congested due to heavy traffic most of the time, the roads are in quite good condition. The best time to take this road trip is between November to March.

Time : 24 hours Distance : 1,409 kms National Highway : NH 2 Where To Eat : A number of great restaurants at Varanasi and a range of dhabas on the entire route. Where To Stay : Hotels at Varanasi or Kanpur.

Suggested Read: 5 Toy Trains In India: A Timeless Delight For Kids & Adults Alike

16. Ahmedabad To Daman: Industrialisation To Beachification

Image Source An amazing journey from Gujarat’s largest city to its popular Union Territory. The trip will take you through Gujarat’s biggest metropolis, various religious centers, and Jain temples, to the sea-side town that is a favorite among beach lover Indians. All thanks to our Hon’ble Prime Minister, the roads are in an awesome condition.

Time : 6 hours 53 minutes Distance :  357 kms National Highway: GJ SH 236 Where To Eat : Dhabas on the way along with bhojanalayas near Bhavnagar and Mahuva. Where To Stay: Dream Vision Paying Guest House and Golden Paying Guest House

Suggested Read: Top 21 Shopping Destinations In India To Splurge In A Shopping Spree

17. Chennai To Yelagiri: Green Valleys, Rose Gardens & Fruit Orchards

Image Source Nature lovers would simply fall in love with this fairy-tale like road trip that takes them through the fascinating greens, hills, and water attractions of the South. Courtesy the numerous forested hills and dangerous-looking trekking trails, the road trip is very popular amongst bikers. What adds to the adventure-factor of this road trip is a large number of hairpin bends on the hills that test one’s driving skills. The best time to take this road trip is from October to February. One should avoid the route during monsoons as there is a heavy chance of landslides and road blockage.

Time : 4 hours 36 minutes Distance : 230 kms National Highway : NH 46 Where To Eat : A number of eateries on the highway. Where To Stay:  NA

Suggested Read: 18 Cycling Road Trips You Must Take In India

18. Mumbai To Tarkarli: From Noisy Cities To Undisturbed Beaches

Image Source This is the best kind of road trip for everyone looking for a quick escape from the urban noise and work stress. On this route, one can enjoy rejuvenating panoramas along the Konkan stretch. Besides, Tarkarli makes for a fabulous road trip destination with its clean, pristine beaches, water sports, mountains, waterfalls, & stunning views of the night sky. The road conditions on this route are excellent, adding to the awesomeness of the trip. The best time to take this road trip is between October & March.

Time : 9 hours 38 minutes Distance : 488 kms National Highway : NH 66 Where To Eat : Plenty of restaurants on the way. Where To Stay : Hotels at Ratnagiri

Suggested Read: 13 Treehouses In South India That’ll Bond You With Nature’s Mystique

19. Delhi To Jaipur: From Retro To Royalty

Image Source This provides for the perfect weekend getaway for people in and around Delhi. Delhiites looking for a relaxed weekend usually flock to the Pink City to experience a mix of culture, heritage and history. Also, the 6 lane highway that connects Delhi and Jaipur is perhaps the best road network in the country.

Time : 4 hours 45 minutes Distance : 269 kms National Highway : NH 8 Where To Eat : Endless array of dhabas and restaurants on NH 8. Where To Stay: NA

Suggested Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In August In India To Welcome Monsoons

20. Hyderabad To Kannur: Enroute The Passage To God’s Own Country

Image Source It’s a road trip that takes you through the land of historical influences and the Nizams to India’s most popular Nature’s Retreat in the south. There can’t be a better road trip that ends at the serene, private beaches of Kannur. The roads are in pretty much a good condition, except the bumpy ones at Virajpet.

Time : 14 hours 15 minutes Distance : 899 kms National Highway : NH 7 Where To Eat : Various food joints on NH 7 offering the best local cuisines of the South. Where To Stay : Hotels & holiday inns at Kurnool or Bangalore

Suggested Read: 60 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India To Have A Gala Time

21. Kolkata To Digha: The Bong Connection

Image Source It’s another marvelous road trip on the list of those that end on the seashores. The ride takes you through green patches and click-worthy landscapes, and finally gives you a pleasant dose of the sun, the sea, and the sand! The roads are safe and comfortable, so you can enjoy a smooth ride down to Digha.

Time : 4 hours 9 minutes Distance : 184 kms National Highway: NH 6 & NH 116B Where To Eat : Scores of dhabas along the way.

Suggested Read: 30 Unexplored Places In India That Will Totally Stump You

22. Delhi To Mussoorie: From Metropolis To The Hills

Image Source A road trip from Delhi to the prettiest hill station in the country is a must for every Delhiite. The entire journey through the hills, streams, and green pastures is simply mesmerizing, especially after Dehradun, placing it among the best road trips in India. The roads are not in a very good condition, but the awe-inspiring scenic beauty makes up for the bumpy ride.

Time : 6 hours 40 minutes Distance : 281 kms National Highway : NH 58 Where To Eat : Plenty of dhabas on the way serving everything from Maggi, momos, to chai. Where To Stay:  NA

Suggested Read: 5 Super Amazing Snake Parks In India For Your Next Vacay!

23. Kolkata To Puri: From The City Of Joy To The Land Of Spirituality

Image Source The empty, green spaces and beautiful villages lining the roads make this journey as delightful as the destination itself. The road trip is great for people wanting to relax and unwind on a weekend beach destination, and for pilgrims wanting to visit the Jagannath and Konark Sun temple. Leave well before dawn from Kolkata so that you’d get in time to witness the amazing sunset from the shores of Puri. The roads are great on AH 45 connecting Kolkata to Digha.

Time : 8 hours 14 minutes Distance : 497 kms National Highway:  Where To Eat : Various food joints on the way where you can gorge on some tempting seafood. Where To Stay:  Larica Group Of Hotel and Victoria Club Hotel

Suggested Read: Bullet Train In India: Here’s How It’s Going To Change Our Train Travel!

24. Delhi To Rishikesh: Every Adventure Seeker’s Heaven

Image Source Rishikesh is a highly frequented destination for sacred tourism and adventure sports like river rafting and trekking. But the adventure begins way before you reach this stunning hill station. Rugged terrains, tricky passageways, & daring tracks make the roads a thrill for adrenaline junkies riding off to Rishikesh on their Avengers and Royal Enfields. The roads in a pretty bad shape starting from Muzaffarnagar, but isn’t that just the right kind of challenge for a thrill seeker!

Time : 5 hours 16 minutes Distance : 232 kms National Highway : NH 58 Where To Eat : Dhabas offering snacks and tea along the way, along with the popular restaurant chain Cheetal. Where To Stay:  NA

Suggested Read: Top 7 Adventure Camps In India To Take Your Thrilling Ventures In The Country Up A Notch!

25. Mumbai To Pune: Gallivanting To The ‘Oxford Of The East’

Image Source The four ultra long tunnels on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the magnificent views of the Western Ghats makes this road trip an unforgettable experience. People usually hop from Mumbai to Pune to escape Mumbai’s noise, pollution, chaos, & to enjoy the glitzy nightlife of the city. The best time to take this road trip for a once in a lifetime experience is between August & March. The 6-lane Mumbai-Pune Expressway is another of India’s most developed road networks apart from NH 8.

Time : 2 hours 35 minutes Distance : 148 kms National Highway : NH 58 Where To Eat : Dhabas offering snacks and tea along the way, along with the popular restaurant chain Cheetal. Where To Stay:  NA

Suggested Read: A Must Watch-5 Girls Ride On The Most Dangerous Roads In The World

26. Visakhapatnam To Araku Valley: All About Natural Bounty

Image Credits: Visakhapatnam To Araku Valley for Wikimedia Commons

One of the best places for road trip in India is certainly between Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley. This road is all about embracing the stash of natural bounty that one can witness on the way. From the alluring beauty of the several shades of green, the stunning hills, to the majestic mountains that can be seen on both sides of the road as you pass through it, this road trip is definitely one of its kind. The numerous exciting moments and the amazing spots to visit in between makes it a must-try for all.

Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 114 kms National Highway: NH 516-E Where To Eat: There are nice restaurants located inside the Jungle bells at Tyda on the way. Where To Stay: NA

Suggested Read: 25 Best Places To Visit In Madikeri For A Fascinating Time In South India

27. Srinagar To Leh, Zoji La Pass: The Kashmiri Escape

Image Credits: VinayakPhadatare for Wikimedia Commons

Srinagar and Leh are perhaps two of the best places for road trip in India individually. However, just imagine how these would turn out to be if we cover both the destinations in one. The next favorite on our list is the road that takes one from Srinagar all the way to Leh via Zoji La Pass. Unlike the other roads, you won’t be passing through the bushes or the jungles. Instead, the road between the two stops is all about mesmerizing hills, majestic mountains, and the picturesque valley of Frass. You can also pass the Kargil on the way. How thrilling is that?

Time: 10 hours Distance: 418 kms National Highway: NH 1D Where To Eat: There are several dhabas and small eateries on the way. Where To Stay: Hotel Greenland Kargil, Hotel PC Palace Kargil, Hotel D’Zojila, Panorama Guest House

Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In India: Explore The Breathtaking Underwater Universe At The 14 Best Spots

28. Mumbai To Rann Of Kutch: To The Middle Of Nowhere

Image Credits: wallpaperflare

Maharashtra to Gujarat are two destinations that offer the best paths for one to be a part of various best road trips in India by car . Just imagine passing through the narrow lanes and glittering locals of the city of dreams aka Mumbai, all the way to the middle of nowhere in Rann of Kutch. These two dramatically contrasting destinations can sometimes be all you need to escape the monotony of life and to enjoy what nature has to offer.

Time: 20 hours Distance: 936 kms National Highway: NH 48 Where To Eat: There are plenty of road side hotels and dhabas on the way to Kutch. Where To Stay: There are hotels in Ahmedabad where one can stay the night.

Suggested Read: Discover 6 Incredible Rain Forests In India For A Memorable Wildlife Adventure

29. Bangalore To Pondicherry: A French Affair

Image Credits: RajeshUnuppally for Wikimedia Commons

Another one of the rides that fall under the category of best road trips in India by car has to be the road that takes from Bangalore all the way to Pondicherry. Pondicherry is a destination like no other. The French colonial vibes, the yellow walls, and serenity that this destination has encircling all around combines to offer an experience of a lifetime. Upon reaching your destination by road, do stroll around the famous Auroville and spend some time by the beaches. They will take away all your fatigue from traveling this far.

Time: 6 hours 20 minutes Distance: 312 kms National Highway: NH 77 Where To Eat: There are a couple of cafes, restaurants, and shops on the way. Where To Stay: NA

Suggested Read: 14 Vibrant Festivals In August In India: Save The Dates To Rejoice

30. Bagdogra To Darjeeling: An Aromatic Experience

Image Credits: Rupam Dey for Wikimedia Commons

The eastern region of this country is blessed intensely by mother nature, and the destinations of Bagdogra and Darjeeling are no less. The road trip from Bagdogra to Darjeeling gives one a chance to pass along the lush tea gardens, cross the scenic meadows, and soak in the aroma of plantations that is spread all around. The curvy paths, narrow roads, several shaded pine forests, and the pristine waterfalls combine to offer the experience that this destination has to offer. It is a road trip that you can never forget.

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 67 kms National Highway: NH 110 Where To Eat: NA Where To Stay: NA

Suggested Read: 31 Ideal Places To Visit In India In May For An Amazing Summer Vacay

31. Gangtok To Lake Tsomgo And Nathu-La Pass: The Hairpin Tales

Image Credits: Jailohana for Wikimedia Commons

Gangtok is a destination that has plenty of attractions and experiences to offer. One experience that one should not miss out on when traveling to Gangtok is taking a road trip to the ever so pristine Lake Tsomgo and the mystical Nathu-La Pass. Every turn that you take on this path has a different story, every hairpin turn calls for a different tale hidden in its lap. The excitement that one tends to feel when traveling around in Gangtok is something unmatchable. This magical and adventurous road trip is worth every penny spent!

Time: 1 hour 50 minutes Distance: 53.5 kms National Highway: NA Where To Eat: One can find Tea, coffee, hot Tibetan noodle soup etc. near the lake. Where To Stay: Chas Hotels Narayani Continental

Suggested Read: Manchester Of India: Know Which City Bagged This Title And Why!

32. Jaipur To Udaipur: A Royal Journey

Image Credits:

Rajasthan is a land of Royals and the road trip between two of the most luxuriant cities of this land is probably all you will ever need. A road trip from Jaipur to Udaipur is an experience that is far different from your usual roads. It is not about lush greens or snow-clad mountains. Instead, the roads in Rajasthan narrates the story of vast deserts, yellow grainy sands, and the sunny skies. The transition from the Pink City to the Venice of East is quite visible and is truly charming.

Time: 7 hours Distance: 412 kms National Highway: NH 58 Where To Eat: There are many roadside dhabas and restaurants on the way. Where To Stay: Sahapura bagh and Deogarh Mahal

Suggested Read: 20 Unbelievable Experiences In India That You Must Add On Your Bucket List To Enjoy An Offbeat Escape

33. Bangalore To Goa: The Beach Capital Awaits

Image Credits: pxfuel

Who doesn’t like spending their mornings strolling by a beach, afternoons in a cute cafe, evenings at a bookstore, and nights in a club? That is life in Goa for you. Taking a road trip from Bangalore to Goa is just the perfect way to escape the nagging bosses and piles of work, and embrace the tranquility to get that peace of mind back. The journey from Bangalore to Goa is a little long, and hence, is a perfect opportunity for couples to take that long due drive and spend their morning witnessing the sunrise by the beach!

Time: 12 hours Distance: 585 kms National Highway: NH 48 Where To Eat: There are a series of roadside halts that serve dosas and idlis on the way. Where To Stay: There are several stays in Palolem Beach that would be perfect for your overnight stay.

Suggested Read: Visit 14 Luxury Holiday Destinations In India For A Lavish Stay

34. Mangalore To Goa (Via Gokarna): Double The Fun

Image Credits: Rajaramraok for Wikimedia Commons

Another destination that gives one a chance to enjoy a road trip to the party capital of the country aka Goa is Mangalore. The best thing about the road trip from this destination is the compelling beauty of Malabar Coast that leaves the jaws dropped to the ground. Another amazing thing about the route that takes one to Goa from Mangalore is that it circulates around the town of Gokarna and one can also spend some time on the beaches of this temple town, soaking in its magical beauty.

Time: 7 hours 30 minutes Distance: 365 kms National Highway: NA Where To Eat: There are some amazing sea-food and other vegetarian options available in Karwar and Udupi. Where To Stay: NA

Suggested Read: These 10 Richest Cities In India Showcase A Modern World Charm

35. Ahmedabad To Diu: Glimpses Of The Arabian Sea

Image Credits: StockSnap for Pixabay

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Ahmedabad and Diu are two of the destinations that are among the famous spots to visit in this country. Ahmedabad is the city of textiles while Diu is the beach territory of Gujarat. Taking a road trip from the bustling city means witnessing the stunning beauty of the massive Arabian Sea that is spread as far as the eye can see. The road trip is perhaps one of the most fun-filled and exciting ones that one has ever been a part of!

Time: 7 hours 30 minutes Distance: 365 kms National Highway: Amreli Highway Where To Eat: One can take a halt at the various restaurants that are available on the way. Where To Stay: NA

Further Read: 25 Best Shiva Temples In India For Soaking In The Blessed Vibes

Already restless? Don’t just keep sitting there now that you know of all the awesome road trips in India. Pack your bags and ride away from your angry boss when planning a vacation in India somewhere. But don’t forget to tell us in your comments below where you’re riding off to first. 

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, or photographer.

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19 Incredible Road Trips in India That Every Passionate Traveller Must Experience

by middha on August 26, 2020

Road trips in India are the best way to enjoy the landscape and the astounding vistas of the country while travelling from one city to another. Whether you are planning a solo trip on your bike or are travelling with your family in a car, long drives let you relax and break free from your routine. Although long-weekend getaways within your state are fun, they cannot beat the charm of inter-state road trips! If you love long drives and are ready to challenge yourself with some must-do and offbeat road trips, check out our list below.

Best Road Trips in North India

1 delhi to leh via manali.

Travelling from Delhi to Leh via Manali is every biker and adventure lover’s dream! The journey, although tedious and exhausting, gives you goosebumps while you manoeuvre through the bumpy roads of Leh-Ladakh. The astounding beauty of the Himalayan ranges at the backdrop and the exciting stopovers keep you company while you ride to one of the best places in India.

• Distance: 1091kms
• Travel time: 25 hours
• National Highways: NH1, NH21
• Best time to visit Leh: May to September

Must read: 9 Gorgeous Camping Places in Leh Ladakh

2 Delhi to Spiti Valley

Delhi to Spiti Valley is another beautiful road trip that you will never want to miss. One of the best places to visit in North India , Spiti Valley, like Leh-Ladakh, is a dream destination for many. You can reach Spiti in 2 ways – Either the Delhi-Shimla-Spiti route or Delhi-Manali-Spiti route. This cold desert mountain valley is the land between Tibet and India and is famous for its breathtaking vistas, gorgeous Dhankar and Chandrataal Lakes, mesmerizing monasteries – Key, Tabo, Lhalung, and serene villages nearby.

• Distance: 730kms
• Travel time: 17 hours
• National Highways: NH3
• Best time to visit Spiti Valley: March to June

Also Read: 16 Paragliding Sites in India to Fly High

3 Jammu to Srinagar

Although a convenient and quick option to reach the capital of Kashmir is a 30-minute flight journey, the arduous journey via road is something you must experience once in your lifetime. Apart from the picturesque beauty of the snow-capped mountains keeping you company, you will also get a chance to interact with locals and the Army personnel. Also, riding through the 2.85km-long Jawahar Tunnel is worth experiencing during your Jammu to Srinagar road trip. Imagine traveling at an altitude of 4127 feet!

• Distance: 300kms
• Travel time: 7-8 hours
• National Highways: NH44 (formerly NH 1A)
• Best time to visit Srinagar: April to October

Must Read: A Virtual Tour of the 16 Incredible Places to Visit in India in April

4 Chandigarh to Kasol Road Trip

A scenic hamlet in Kullu, Kasol is a much-loved destination among nature lovers, adventure junkies and trekkers. Popularly called the “Amsterdam of India”, Kasol is also famous with foreigners and hippies from Israel who spend months together trekking and exploring the place. The Chandigarh to Kasol route is captivating and you’d love every bit of it. You can also enjoy the bewitching beauty of Parvati Valley and try the infamous Kheerganga Trek .

• Distance: 273kms
• Travel time: 8-9 hours
• National Highways: NH154
• Best time to visit Kasol: April to October

Must Read: All the Popular 45 Vacation Places in India to Visit

5 Amritsar to Dharamshala

Amritsar to Dharamshala is not a frequently chosen route but the drive to the beautiful hill station is worth your while. Commencing your journey early morning from Amritsar gives you a chance to enjoy the beautiful roads up till Pathankot, the entry point to the Himachal. Then take the route via Nurpur, crossing Rait and finally ending your journey at Dharamshala. Although a short drive compared to other places, it is one of the most exciting road trips in north India.

• Distance: 202kms
• Travel time: 4-5 hours
• National Highways: NH54 and NH20
• Best time to visit Dharamshala: March to July

Must Read: 14 Best Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Top Road Trips in South India

1. hyderabad to hampi.

The road trip from the city of Nizams, Hyderabad, to the UNESCO World Heritage site Hampi is an exciting, exhausting and amazing experience. Hampi is the land of massive temples and was once the capital of the Vijayanagara empire which eventually lost its grandeur and is now home to the ruins of the rich past. There are more than 100 locations to explore in Hampi, which is also fondly called a backpacker’s delight. There are several routes that you can take for Hyderabad to Hampi road trip, most common ones being via Raichur or via Kurnool.

• Distance: 385kms
• Travel time: 9-10 hours
• National Highways: NH167
• Best time to visit Hampi: October to February

Must Read: The 12 most Stunning Monuments in Hampi

2. Mangalore to Gokarna Road Trip

Mangalore to Goa is one of the best road trips you can ever take. Travelling from one of the most beautiful cities in Karnataka to the best party place in India, it is indeed an amazing vacation option one can choose. Driving on the highway listening to your favourite music is completely blissful while travelling to Goa and is sure to set your mood up to enjoy the Goa nightlife .

• Distance: 365kms
• Travel time: 7 -8 hours
• National Highways: NH66
• Best time to visit Goa: November to February

Also read: 23 Beaches for the Perfect Honeymoon in Goa

3. Vishakapatnam to Arakku Valley

Vizag or Visakhapatnam to Arakku Valley is one of the best road trips in India ever! While the magical Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal in the city of Visakhapatnam adds a beautiful charm to it, the drive to Arakku Valley, a small village, home to the famous Borra Caves is even more enthralling. The curvy roads amid lush greenery, the gentle elevation to the hill and the serenity of the valley is something you must experience.

• Distance: 116kms
• Travel time: 3-4 hours
• National Highways: NA
• Best time to visit Arakku Valley: December to February

Must Read: Getaways from Vizag: 7 Amazing Places to Visit Near Vizag

4. Bangalore to Bandipur Forest

Although there are a number of exciting and adventurous road trips in India, a drive from Bangalore to Bandipur Forest definitely tops the list. Cruising through the silent, serene and green canopy of Bandipur forest reserve from Bangalore is absolute bliss and if you are lucky, you might also spot a deer or two on the go!

• Distance: 213kms
• Best time to visit Bandipur: December to February

Must Read: 5 Incredible National Parks Near Bangalore

5. Chennai to Pondicherry

If you love to hit the roads and are looking for a smooth journey on the highways, Chennai to Pondicherry is the best road trip in south India. The drive through the East Coast Road offers you an incredible view of the beaches and the rows of coconut trees keep you cool. It’s an absolute delight for amateur tripper or full-fledged travel enthusiast!

• Distance: 158kms
• National Highways: NH 34
• Best time to visit Pondicherry: October to March

Must Read: 20 Excellent Destinations for Short Trips from Chennai 

Best Road Trips in North East India

1. shillong to cherapunji.

Road trips in northeast India are the most beautiful ones you’d ever experience. Although a short stretch, Shillong to Cherrapunji road trip gives you a chance to enjoy everything from drizzle, misty clouds, caves, waterfalls to scintillating views of the surrounding. Don’t forget to ride a bike or take a cab on this route for an incredible journey.

• Distance: 55kms
• Travel time: 1-2 hours
• Best time to visit Cherrapunji: October to February

Must Read: 10 Highest Waterfalls in India

2. Gangtok to Nathula Pass via Lake Tsomgo

One of the tough road trips in India, a drive from Gangtok to Nathula Pass via Lake Tsomgo is a challenge that you’d never want to miss! The hairpin bends and the uncertainty of the terrain can be mind-numbing but the magnificent mountain ranges and the sheer beauty of the vistas outside will definitely keep you going, as you soak them all during this journey. The arresting allure of Lake Tsomgo will fill your hearts with inexplicable happiness!

Must Read: 15 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim for a Great Holiday

3. Guwahati to Tawang

Guwahati to Tawang is one of the most challenging yet astounding road trips in Northeast India. The harsh climatic conditions, rugged roads and sharp bends can get you nervous and thinking but this is undoubtedly the best journey you’ll undergo here. Drive uphill to high altitudes enjoying the company of the lofty, snow-clad mountains, breathtaking views, witnessing the Buddhist culture on the go.

• Distance: 566kms
• Travel time: 14-17 hours
• National Highways: NH 52 NH 229
• Best time to visit Tawang: March to October

Must Read: Top Places to Visit in Tawang : The Pristine Paradise of Arunachal Pradesh

4. Kalimpong to Zuluk

Among the various tough road trips in northeast India, Kalimpong to Zuluk is definitely not for the weak hearted! Skill and experience is a must if you wish to experience this road trip safely. There are 32 hairpin bends on the route which makes driving extremely slow and challenging, but the jaw-dropping scenery outside would keep you going till you reach Zuluk. Don’t miss stopping by River Reshi in Reshikhola before vrooming to Zuluk!

• Distance: 90kms
• National Highways: NH 10
• Best time to visit Zuluk: August – September

Must Read: 13 Fabulous Road Trips to Take from Kolkata

5. Darjeeling to Pelling

A refreshing road trip in northeast India through the aromatic tea gardens all around, Darjeeling to Pelling is a must-try for every biker or traveller visiting northeast. Although the roads may turn rough while entering Sikkim, the snow-clad mountains and the picturesque beauty of the place surely divert you from the strain and let you enjoy the journey.

• Distance: 73kms
• Travel time: 2-3 hours
• Best time to visit Pelling: March to June

Must Read: 16 Gorgeous Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Other Amazing Road Trips To Experience

1. kolkata to digha.

Kolkata to Digha is a popular road trip among people in Kolkata and is also a great option for tourists visiting this city. The road from Kolkata to Digha is amazing and is perfect for revving your engines and driving smooth until you hit Digha. What’s more? The route also offers you ample opportunities to gorge some delicious local delicacies, thanks to the numerous eating outlets located here!

• Distance: 183kms
• National Highways: NH 16 NH 116B
• Best time to visit Digha: October to February

2. Puri to Konark

Orissa is known for its impeccable roads and amazing road trips in India and the Puri -Konark highway route is no different. Every minute of the ride in this route is capture-worthy and you’d find it hard not to stop and click some really amazing pictures here. Don’t miss this road trip if you ever visit Puri. The cool breeze, the canopy of trees on either side of the highway will steal your heart away!

• Distance: 36kms
• Travel time: 1 hour
• National Highways: Puri-Konark Marine Drive
• Best time to visit Konark: October to February

Must Read: 20 Iconic Monuments to See in India in Your Next Visit

3. Pune to Goa Road Trip

Road trip to Goa with friends is something everyone looks forward to. The party hub of the country is a dream destination of many and travelling to Goa by road only makes the journey magical. Even though there are a number of amazing road trips in India that you can try, Pune to Goa road trip by car or bike is undoubtedly one of the best.

• Distance: 442kms
• National Highways: AH47
• Best time to visit Goa: October to February

Must Read: The Complete Guide to Mumbai to Goa Road Trip

4. Jaipur to Jaisalmer

If you want to experience a ride through the desert land, consider a road trip from Jaipur to Jaisalmer. Your journey from the Pink City to the Golden City will include abundant sand dunes and also give you a chance to explore the culture and tradition of Rajasthan up close. Occasionally, you may also enjoy the company of a camel or two walking the roads.

• Distance: 555kms
• National Highways: NH 15
• Best time to visit Jaisalmer: November to March

Must Read: 3 Routes for a Great Delhi to Jaislamer Road Trip

Here’s our list of the incredible road trips in India that you must experience if you love travelling by car or bike and explore the road routes of the country. If you’ve already covered any of these routes, do let us know your experiences in the comments below!

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The 12 best road trips in India

From the rugged north to the lush, green hills of the south, India has an epic road trip for everyone

For me, off-roading in the Himalayas has to be my favourite road trip in India . I remember tucking in a shawl in the back seat of the car at 4am, heading from Chandrataal towards Delhi in -7C temperatures. The shivering cold, missing out on sleep, and every other compromise was all worth it for the experience of road-tripping through the narrow serpentine roads that make their way through the world’s highest mountains.

But that’s not the only unforgettable road trip that India has in store. From the rugged northern terrain of Ladakh to the lush hills of Kerala in the south, this vast country has something for every kind of traveller. Trust me: there is no better way to explore this land of vibrant culture, delicious food, rich culture and welcoming people than by hitting the road. Fasten your seat belts and start planning for these unmissable Indian road trips.

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The best road trips in India

1.  Golden Triangle Circuit

Starting from Delhi – the national capital and home to some of India’s most mouthwatering food – the first leg of the trip takes you to a bona fide icon: the Taj Mahal at Agra. Then turn and drive west towards  Jaipur to witness the golden deserts and unique culture of Rajasthan. The final side of the triangle is the road back to Delhi: leave time for a luxurious stop-off amid the royal surroundings of Neemrana Fort Palace .

Distance:   447 miles

2.  Rajasthan Circuit

From a desert safari under the moonlight to a puppet show performed to Rajasthani folk music, there’s a tonne to experience on this road trip circuit touching the four major cities of the state: Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. You can also call it a gastronomical road trip for the variety of food you can consume across the state: ghewar, kachori, dal baati choorma and more.

Distance : 1,087 miles

3.  Shimla to Spiti Valley

If you are a mountain child or a fan of off-roading, you cannot miss out on the drive from   Shimla   to Spiti. The trip takes you along the bumpy-yet-beautiful dirt roads of Himachal Pradesh, surrounded with apple-laden trees. Keep your camera app open to capture the snow-capped peaks, blue skies and crystal-clear rivers.

Distance:  263 miles

4.  Guwahati to Tawang

Surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, the north-eastern part of India is still an underrated gem. From lush green valleys to the serenity of Buddhist monasteries, this road trip is the perfect choice to unwind and escape the crowd. It’s also a chance to witness the Indigenous cultures of tribes such as the Monpa, Takpa, Karbi and Miri, including traditional local festivals and dance forms like bihu.

Distance :  318 miles

5.  Mumbai to Goa

Famous for being featured in one of the best Bollywood movies , ’Dil Chahta Hai’, this road trip takes you along India’s beautiful west coast. The roads from Mumbai to Goa are super- smooth and surrounded by tall, lush palm trees. There are frequent beaches to stop for sunbathing, and plenty of incredible local food in the small villages and towns along the Konkan coast.

Distance : 365 miles

6.  Chennai to Pondicherry

India has its very own French town: Pondicherry . If you are in the southern part of the country, do not miss out on the road trip there from Chennai . You’ll travel through not just French-inspired architecture but also many quaint fishing villages and pristine beaches, feasting on delicious seafood and fresh coconut water along the way.

Distance: 93 miles

7.  Ahmedabad to Kutch

This road trip is all about meeting people: the friendly locals of Ahmedabad, the skilled artisans in the villages of Kutch and the nomadic tribes roaming the desert. Time your journey between October and February to experience the lively Rann Utsav festival in the white-sand Kutch desert – the kite-flying event in February is particularly spectacular.

Distance : 248m

8.  Mysore to Hampi

Drive through the heart of   Karnataka  state  and soak up the rich culture and history along your way. The road runs by a plethora of ancient heritage and architectural marvels: Chitradurga Fort,  Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna, Dariya Daulat Palace… Give in to the cliché of posing for selfies: your future self will thank you for the memories.

Distance :  265 miles

9.  Bengaluru to Ooty

If you fancy a cup of tea and a blast of fresh air, then hop in the driver’s seat and get set on a Bengaluru to Ooty road trip. The route will take you through the lush green Western Ghats, where you can slurp some tea fresh out of the plantation. Leave time to admire the enormous and beautiful waterfalls of Chunchi and Shivanasamudra.

Distance:  168 miles

10.  Chennai to Munnar

Sprawling across a wide area, the tea plantations on the route out of Chennai will leave you awestruck. The route takes you through wildlife sanctuaries and serene backwaters: you might be caught off-guard by the diverse range of flora and fauna in this region. From scenic surroundings to cultural diversity, this drive has something in store no matter what you’re looking for in a road trip.

Distance:   395 miles

11.  Chilpi to Kanha

Bypassing through lush and dense Sal forest of Madhya Pradesh, this road trip is one of the best to explore the centre of India. The starting point, Chilpi, is located right at the border of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, while Kanha is home to one of India’s biggest national parks. Along the road there are high chances of coming across a herd of deer or bison, a troop of monkeys or other wild animals strolling around.

Distance: 59 miles

12.  Bagdogra to Darjeeling

This exhilarating journey takes you along winding roads that ascend towards lush green hills. Along the way you can stop by small villages or pop inside the tea plantations. The occasional hairpin turns might leave you gasping, so don’t let the stunning views of the mighty Himalayas and Victorian architecture distract you from fastening your seat belt.

Distance:  43 miles

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50 best Road Trips in India

Are you an adventure seeker looking to explore the diverse beauty and cultural richness of India? Well, look no further! India offers an array of stunning road trips that will take you through landscapes that range from lush valleys and serene beaches to towering mountains and historic towns. Here’s a list of 50 best road trips in India that are bound to leave you awe-inspired:

• Manali to Leh Highway, Himachal Pradesh: An epic journey through the Himalayas, crossing high-altitude passes and pristine lakes.
• Mumbai to Goa Coastal Drive, Maharashtra: Drive along the picturesque Western Ghats, overlooking the Arabian Sea.
• Bangalore to Ooty, Tamil Nadu: Wind through tea plantations and enjoy the Nilgiri Hills’ pleasant climate.
• Delhi to Jaipur via Ajmer, Rajasthan: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan, passing through historical towns and forts.
• Guwahati to Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh: Embark on an adventure through Northeast India’s breathtaking landscapes and remote villages.
• Chennai to Pondicherry Coastal Route, Tamil Nadu: Experience coastal beauty and colonial charm on this scenic drive.
• Srinagar to Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir: A drive through valleys and meadows that lead to the stunning hill station of Gulmarg.
• Ahmedabad to Kutch, Gujarat: Witness the mesmerizing white desert of the Rann of Kutch during the Rann Utsav.
• Hyderabad to Hampi, Karnataka: Discover the architectural wonders of the ancient ruins of Hampi.
• Delhi to Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Drive through the spiritual city of Rishikesh along the scenic Ganges River.
• Kolkata to Digha, West Bengal: A short coastal drive to the charming seaside town of Digha.
• Mumbai to Pune Expressway, Maharashtra: A fast-paced journey offering stunning views of the Western Ghats.
• Jaipur to Udaipur, Rajasthan: Experience Rajasthan’s regal beauty as you pass through majestic forts and palaces.
• Chandigarh to Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Enjoy the serene beauty of the Himalayas as you drive to the Queen of Hills.
• Leh to Khardung La, Jammu and Kashmir: Conquer one of the world’s highest motorable passes on this daring drive.
• Bangalore to Coorg, Karnataka: Escape to the coffee plantations and misty hills of Coorg.
• Shillong to Cherrapunji, Meghalaya: Explore the lush landscapes and rainforests of Meghalaya’s breathtaking route.
• Delhi to Agra via Yamuna Expressway, Uttar Pradesh: Visit the iconic Taj Mahal and other historical wonders.
• Kolkata to Darjeeling, West Bengal: Journey to the “Queen of the Himalayas” and enjoy the famous Darjeeling tea.
• Mysore to Ooty via Bandipur, Karnataka: Drive through wildlife sanctuaries and forested hills in this unique journey.
• Goa to Gokarna Coastal Drive, Karnataka: Experience the beauty of the Konkan coast and its hidden beaches.
• Chennai to Yercaud, Tamil Nadu: Drive up the winding roads to the peaceful hill station of Yercaud.
• Mumbai to Alibaug, Maharashtra: A short road trip to the coastal haven of Alibaug, perfect for a weekend getaway.
• Delhi to Amritsar, Punjab: Witness the grandeur of the Golden Temple and experience Punjabi hospitality.
• Aizawl to Lunglei, Mizoram: Discover the untouched beauty of Mizoram’s landscapes and culture.
• Bangalore to Munnar, Kerala: Traverse through the picturesque Western Ghats to the tea gardens of Munnar.
• Vadodara to Mount Abu, Rajasthan: Experience Rajasthan’s only hill station, surrounded by scenic beauty.
• Bangalore to Wayanad, Kerala: Drive through lush forests and hills to reach the tranquil district of Wayanad.
• Chennai to Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu: Explore ancient temples and beachside beauty on this short drive.
• Delhi to Mussoorie, Uttarakhand: Drive to the “Queen of the Hills” for a refreshing escape from the city.
• Pune to Lavasa, Maharashtra: Journey to the planned hill city of Lavasa and enjoy its architecture and surroundings.
• Kochi to Munnar, Kerala : Experience the charm of Kerala’s tea plantations and hill stations.
• Mumbai to Lonavala, Maharashtra : A quick drive to the popular hill station, known for its lush valleys and waterfalls.
• Ahmedabad to Udaipur, Rajasthan : Explore the stunning lakes and palaces of the “City of Lakes.”
• Bhubaneswar to Puri, Odisha: Drive to the spiritual city of Puri and relax on its pristine beaches.
• Shillong to Dawki, Meghalaya: Witness the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River in Dawki.
• Kolkata to Puri, West Bengal: Experience the coastal beauty and historical sites along this route.
• Bangalore to Chikmagalur, Karnataka: Discover the coffee plantations and lush forests of Chikmagalur.
• Chennai to Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu: Escape to the misty hills and serene lakes of Kodaikanal.
• Mumbai to Daman, Maharashtra: Drive to the coastal town of Daman, known for its historic forts and beaches.
• Delhi to Haridwar and Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Experience the spiritual aura of these holy cities along the Ganges.
• Chennai to Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh: Visit the famous Tirumala Venkateswara Temple on this spiritual journey.
• Jaipur to Bikaner, Rajasthan: Discover the desert beauty and historical treasures of Bikaner.
• Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand: Combine adventure with wildlife on this road trip to the famous national park.
• Kolkata to Sundarbans, West Bengal: Explore the mangrove forests and diverse wildlife of the Sundarbans.
• Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park, Assam: Journey to the home of the one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife.
• Pune to Shirdi, Maharashtra: Drive to the famous pilgrimage site of Shirdi and seek blessings.
• Chennai to Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu: Experience the spiritual journey to the southern tip of India.
• Mumbai to Shirdi, Maharashtra : Another route to the holy town of Shirdi, perfect for devotees.
• Delhi to Nainital, Uttarakhand : Drive to the picturesque hill station of Nainital, known for its scenic beauty and lakes.

Your ultimate checklist: Essential Items to Carry on 50 best Road Trips in India

Embarking on a road trip is an exciting adventure, but proper planning and packing are key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re driving through scenic landscapes or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, here’s a comprehensive checklist of items you should carry on your road trip:

1. Personal Documents:

• Driver’s license
• Vehicle registration and insurance
• Identification (passport, Aadhar card, etc.)
• Roadside assistance information

2. Navigation and Communication:

• GPS device or smartphone with navigation apps
• Car charger and USB cables
• Emergency contact list

3. Safety and Emergency Supplies:

• First aid kit
• Prescription medications
• Emergency contact numbers
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Basic tool kit
• Tire pressure gauge
• Jumper cables
• Reflective vests or warning triangles

4. Vehicle Essentials:

• Spare tire and jack
• Vehicle fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid)

5. Snacks and Refreshments:

• Bottled water
• Non-perishable snacks (nuts, granola bars, trail mix)
• Sandwiches or wraps

6. Entertainment and Comfort:

• Music playlist or CDs
• Travel games or books
• Pillows and blankets

7. Clothing:

• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers are recommended)
• Comfortable shoes or sneakers
• Raincoat or umbrella

8. Personal Items:

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.)
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Personal hygiene products

9. Cash and Cards:

• Sufficient local currency
• Debit/credit cards
• Small change for tolls and parking

10. Miscellaneous:

• Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
• Trash bags for keeping the car tidy
• Cooler with refreshments if needed
• Blanket or towel for impromptu picnics or breaks

11. Entertainment for Passengers:

• Tablets, e-readers, or handheld gaming devices
• Magazines or books

12. Important Documents (if applicable):

• Hotel reservations
• Tourist attraction tickets or passes
• Permits for restricted areas

13. COVID-19 Essentials (as needed):

• Masks and face shields
• Hand sanitizers
• Disinfecting wipes

Before you hit the road, consider the specific requirements of your trip. Also, check the weather condition as well as weather forecast of the place you are traveling.  Keep your vehicle well-maintained by getting it serviced before the trip and performing a basic inspection before setting off. Lastly, pack your belongings strategically, keeping items you’ll need frequently easily accessible.

Remember, a well-prepared road trip can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. So, gather your essentials, buckle up, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime on the open road!

Useful Links

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 50 best Road Trips in India

• Q: Are road trips in India safe?
• A: Road trips in India can be safe if you take necessary precautions. Maintain your vehicle, follow traffic rules, and drive cautiously. Also, be cautious about road conditions and weather, especially in remote areas.
• Q: How do I plan my road trip route?
• A: Research your destinations, plan rest stops, and consider alternate routes. Use navigation apps or GPS devices for real-time guidance.
• Q: What documents do I need to carry on a road trip?
• A: Essential documents include your driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and identification. It’s also a good idea to carry your vehicle’s manual.
• Q: What should I pack for a road trip in India?
• A: Pack personal documents, navigation tools, emergency supplies, snacks, clothing, entertainment, cash/cards, and any special items you need.
• Q: How can I ensure my vehicle is road trip-ready?
• A: Get your vehicle serviced before the trip, check fluids, brakes, tires, and lights. Keep a spare tire, jack, and basic tool kit handy.
• Q: What safety precautions should I take during a road trip?
• A: Always wear seatbelts, avoid speeding, stay attentive, and follow traffic rules. Carry a first aid kit, emergency contact numbers, and tools for minor repairs.
• Q: Are there road trip options for families with kids?
• A: Yes, many routes cater to families. Plan rest stops, pack entertainment for kids, and keep them comfortable with pillows and blankets.
• Q: How do I find good places to eat during the road trip?
• A: Research restaurants along your route or ask locals for recommendations. Apps like Zomato and Google Maps can help you discover nearby eateries.
• Q: Can I take my pet on a road trip in India?
• A: Yes, you can take your pet on a road trip, but ensure their comfort, pack their essentials, and check if your accommodations are pet-friendly.
• Q: How can I find accommodation during a road trip?
• A: Plan accommodations in advance, especially in popular tourist destinations. Use hotel booking websites or apps to find suitable options.
• Q: What should I do if my vehicle breaks down during a road trip?
• A: Move your vehicle to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights, and use roadside assistance if available. If not, call for help and stay inside the vehicle.
• Q: Is it advisable to take a road trip during monsoon season?
• A: Monsoon can lead to slippery roads and landslides in certain areas. Before planning a trip, check the road conditions and also the weather. At some states weather is unpredictable especially in Mountains, costal areas.
• Q: Can I rent a vehicle for a road trip in India?
• A: Yes, you can rent vehicles for road trips. Make sure to choose a reliable rental service and read the terms and conditions.
• Q: What should I know about tolls and road charges on highways?
• A: Carry sufficient small change for toll booths. Some highways have electronic toll collection (FASTag) systems for quicker payments.
• Q: Are there any COVID-19 guidelines for road trips in India?
• A: Check the latest travel advisories and follow COVID-19 safety protocols, including wearing masks, carrying sanitizers, and maintaining social distancing.

Remember that each road trip is unique, so tailor your preparations to the specific route and destinations you choose. Stay informed, be flexible, and enjoy the freedom of the open road as you explore the incredible landscapes and cultures India has to offer.

Sanjay Rai Sharma

Sanjay Rai Sharma is a Facilitator and a writer. He writes blogs, mostly on travelling while exploring the natural mystic capturing scenic beauty of nature into words, exploring unknown places and capturing memories in the form of photography. On a mission to inspire and share valuable insights to fellow explorers.

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The Top Road Trips in India Perfect for an Adventure

India Writer

There’s nothing more exciting than hitting the road with the windows down, volume up and a bunch of friends in tow. In a country like India , so colossal and diverse, the exhilaration of a road trip is amped up a notch. Here are the best road trips in this South Asian country.

1. mumbai to goa.

Natural Feature, Building

An absolute mecca for car and bike enthusiasts, a road trip from Mumbai to Goa is nothing short of mesmerizing – all scenic beauty, with Western Ghats from end to end – and a top choice among Mumbaikars. The Pune-Kolhapur route via NH4 can be covered in 10 hours non-stop over 590km (366mi); with four lanes, this is the preferred and safest route, but numerous toll booths along the way mean paying again and again. Thrill seekers may enjoy the Chiplun-Ratnagiri route via NH66, which covers 577km (358mi) in 12 hours non-stop; with winding roads, narrow curves and fewer toll booths, this route goes past paddy fields and coconut plantations. Both routes have ample and delicious gastronomic options along the way to stay satiated.

Best time to go : September to March

2. Manali to Leh

Natural Feature

This road trip is off-the-chart breathtaking and needs to be experienced for yourself. With some deadly twists and turns, the snow-capped mountains, distinct valleys, spectacular landscapes and stunning monasteries will spice up your journey. The distance between Manali and Leh is 478km (297mi), and should be spread out over two days. With an average elevation of 4,000m (13,000ft), make a stopover at Keylong and again at Sarchu to relax and acclimatise yourself to the high altitude. Best time to go : June to September

3. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

The journey from Visakhapatnam is 114km (70mi), which can be covered in three or four hours, and winds through curly roads, verdant canyons and serene hills. Overlooking the magical Bay of Bengal, majestic waterfalls, forested hillsides and coffee plantations can all be spotted along the way – all with a dose of camera-worthy beauty. When in Araku Valley , visit Borra Caves and Tatipudi Reservoir. Best time to go : October to March

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5. Chennai to Pondicherry

Building, Natural Feature

Over just 155km (96mi), a trip from Chennai to Pondicherry (nicknamed the ‘Paris of the East’) can be achieved in only three or four hours via East Coast Road. The beautiful sight of the sea on one side and the reflection of the sun on the water just add to the pleasure of the route, which goes through Mahabalipuram (make a pit stop at this Unesco World Heritage site to enjoy its beautiful beaches and fill up), Idaikkazhinadu (check out Alambara Fort), Marakkanam (known for large salt pans), Mudaliarkuppam (relax in the boat house and indulge in water sports) and Kalpakkam (a nuclear facility). Almost every mile presents a picture-perfect photo opportunity. Best time to go : October to February

6. Shimla to Manali via Mandi

Those with a passion for photography will instantly fall in love with this camera-ready road trip. Manali is merely 247km (153mi) from Shimla , which can be covered in a seven-hour drive via NH205 and NH3. With beautiful mountains on one side and deep valleys and verdant greenery on the other, this road trip will definitely leave drivers spellbound. Best time to go : outside monsoon season (mid-September to mid-July)

7. Ahmedabad to Kutch

A trip from Ahmedabad to the Land of White Salt Desert (that is, Kutch) would take approximately seven hours, covering a distance of 400km (248mi). Admire the beautiful landscapes, gorge on lip-smacking food and witness the exquisite art and culture of Gujarat while riding past the unique huts lining the roads from Ahmedabad to Kutch. The roads are well-developed, but start early before they get crammed with traffic. When you reach Kutch, make sure to visit the Wild Ass Sanctuary in Kutch, home to over 3,000 wild donkeys, Chari-Dhand, which is a bird watcher’s heaven, and the nearby Hodko Village to buy exquisite handicrafts. Best time to go : October to March

8. Kolkata to Digha

Almost every Kolkatan will swear by this quick weekend beach getaway from Kolkata . This scenic stretch of 184km (114mi) is lined with verdant trees and picture-perfect landscapes that will leave drivers awestruck. Digha can be reached from Kolkata within four hours via NH16 and NH116B, and there are scores of dhabas along the way to stay fuelled. While in Digha, soak up some sun on the beach, gorge on delicious seafood, enjoy the spectacular sunset on the beach or go for a pony ride in the shallow waters. Best time to go : July to March

9. Darjeeling to Pelling

Lush tea gardens, majestic mountains and scenic landscapes on all sides are a sight to behold on this road trip. Darjeeling and Pelling are 72km (44mi) apart, and this distance can be covered within four hours. Stop at a tea garden and sip a refreshing brew for an energy boost. The roads are perfectly maintained, offering a smooth ride throughout, and they’re studded with numerous food joints. Best time to go : March to June, September to December

10. Mumbai to Mount Abu

The beautiful route from Mumbai to Mount Abu passes from urban towns to hilly terrain over a distance of 765km (475mi), which can be covered within 12 hours via NH48. Not in a hurry? Go all out and experience three different cultures along the way: Maharashtra , Gujarat and Rajasthan . But the trip is as wonderful as the destinations. Scores of dhabas and eateries line the route, such as at Vadodara or Ahmedabad, and driving into Mount Abu greets travellers with lush greenery and misty mountains. Best time to go : July to October

11. Bangalore to Ooty

This road trip calls out to nature lovers: pass miles of nature on both sides and marvel at the picturesque route, embellished with lush green mountains and scenic landscapes. Ride past the dense, calming and soul-refreshing forests of Bandipur as well as the historic palaces of the ancient city Mysore . Be greeted with untapped beauty: you’ll find acres of tea plantations, majestic waterfalls and clear lakes. The route stretches along NH275 for 278km (172mi), which can be covered within six hours, and it’s dotted with many eateries en route to fill your belly. Best time to go : October to June

12. The Golden Triangle (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur)

This list would be incomplete without mention of the classic Golden Triangle, which binds the three historically and culturally rich and diverse cities of Delhi , Agra and Jaipur via the Yamuna Expressway and NH8. This road trip is exceptionally picturesque, with dhabas and restaurants dotting the best-maintained roads to quench hunger. Though this trip covers a distance of 449km (279mi), which can be driven in seven hours, stretch it out to two or three days, and tick off the places in between: from the historic sites in Delhi (like Jama Masjid and Mughal Red Fort ) to architectural and historical marvels of Agra (like Taj Mahal and Agra Fort) and to Jaipur, the Pink City (check out City Palace, marvel at the architecture of Hawa Mahal and historic Amer Fort, and shop for traditional Rajasthan clothes and jewellery at popular local bazaars like Tripoli Bazaar and Chandpole Bazar). Best time to go : August to March

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Most scenic road trips in india.

Road trips in India are my favorite way to travel. On a road trip, you can see the transition from one place to another. You notice the subtle changes that take place as the land, water, and culture change slowly. A road trip allows you to travel at your own pace, pausing wherever your eyes want to take in a bit more or you crave a Chai Pakora or Idly Wada or Poha Jalebi or Lal Cha.

While all road trips are fun, there are some that are so beautiful that the journey itself is the destination.

Most Scenic Road Trips in India

Here are some of the most scenic road trips in India that I have enjoyed, along with those that are still on my wish list.

Shimla to Manali via Kinaaur, Spiti and Lahual

This sparsely populated region of India and Himachal Pradesh will remain one of my favorite road trips. Start from Shimla , the capital city that is bustling with activity. Move on to the Apple country and then the Kinnaur region where everyone wears the Green Himachali cap.

Slowly move to Spiti valley where the cold desert stuns you with its silence and breathtaking landscape. Pass through Lahaul to admire Chandratal Lake between Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass. End your journey at Manali where you feel as if you are back in civilization.

July August is the best time to do this road trip when Kunzum Pass is open.

Konkan Road Trip during Monsoons

Konkan and monsoons are synonymous. It rains for about 6 months making the whole place lush green. When you drive from Goa to Ratnagiri or around that area, all you see is the narrow strip of grey road surrounded by million shades of green. Waterfalls can appear anywhere on the roadside. The best place to be surrounded by waterfalls is Amboli Ghats. But there are other falls like Savdav Falls and Marleshwar falls .

You can also use the Konkan railways just to admire the landscape and waterfalls.

Peak monsoon time is the best for this road trip.

Srinagar to Leh Road trip

Srinagar is the delicate city surrounding the beautiful Dal Lake full of houseboats . It has an aura of romance, probably built by the numerous Hindi films shot here. As you start driving towards Leh, you pass by beautiful Pahalgam where you see horses taking the tourists around. If it is Amarnath Yatra time, you will see pilgrim camps at Baltal. It is fun to see helicopters taking pilgrims to the hilltop.

At Zozi La Pass the landscape changes, with greenery and colors making way for the barren mountains of Ladakh. Stop at Drass War Memorial and maybe take a stop at Kargil. Look at the moonlike landscape near Lamayuru monastery or admire the ancient paintings of Alchin Monastery.

Relax after reaching Leh as you do need acclimatization.

Summers are a good time to do this road trip, although I enjoyed a mini road trip around Leh in winter too.

Drive to Tawang Via Bomdilla in Arunachal – Scenic Road trips in India

You can begin this trip from Tezpur on the Assam-Arunachal border. Or you can think of the adventure beginning at Bhalukpong in Arunachal. Visit the Orchid Sanctuary but just look out on the road and you will see wild orchids everywhere, hanging from tree trunks or peeping from the bushes.

Tenga Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys covered with a thick cover of green on its mountains. Look for Kiwi orchards here. Bomdila is the default halt on this Arunachal Road trip.

We could not visit Tawang due to bad weather but I am told that the drive is also mesmerizingly beautiful.

Summers is a good time, though it would always be cold in the mountains.

Jodhpur to Jaisalmer Road Trip – Scenic Road trips in India

Rajasthan is the most tourist-friendly state in India. You can take many trips like the ones I have listed in Jaipur . However, the one that distinctly stands in my memory is the one from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer . The straight road cutting through the vast Thar desert is an experience. All you see is the golden sand all around, sometimes in small dunes, dry Khejri trees, and some bushes.

Decked-up camels add color here and there. The road is not crowded, so you almost feel as if you are driving to infinity. Your eyes can see far and wide. Urban eye probably has never seen such wide vistas. Explore the city of Jaisalmer or the ghost town of Kuldhara or visit Jain temples like Lodurwa .

Winters is a good time to do this trip.

Chola Temple Trail in Tamil Nadu

East Coast Road in Tamil Nadu which takes you from Chennai to Pondicherry is a beautiful drive passing by Mahabalipuram with many temples to see. Go a little further and you can see Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram .

Take a small detour towards Kumbakonam and then further to Thanjavur. You can admire the temples like Brihdeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholapuram nearby, and Airateshwara in Darasuram .

A little ahead you can visit Thiruchirapally or Trichy for Srirangam .

This is a road that takes you on the historic temple trail of Cholas.

You can do it all year round but summers can get very hot, so winters are a little bit better.

Queen’s Trail in MP

Madhya Pradesh is one of my favorite states to travel to. There are many road trips that you do here including the popular Narmada Parikrama. However, let me tell you about a smaller one that takes you to cities that are best known for their queens. You can begin your trip from Indore and drive to Mandu.

Mandu is best known for its queen Rani Roopmati. Her stories can be heard at every spot in the hilltop town. I loved the Roopmati’s pavilion from where she could see Narmada. Do not forget to appreciate the brilliant water management systems of Mandu .

From here drive to Maheshwar built by my favorite queen Ahilya Bai Holkar, thanks to whom we see so many temples in India. It is the most beautiful riverfront on the banks of Narmada. I remember Lingarchana –  the worship of a lakh plus Shivalingas that is still done in the palace. Shop for Maheshwari Saris or take a boat ride on Narmada to admire its beauty.

Next drive to Burhanpur , where Mumtaz Mahal of Taj Mahal fame died and was buried for some time. It is an ancient city on the banks of the even more ancient river Tapti. On your way, you can stop at Omkareshwar to pay your respect to the Jyotirlinga where Adi Shankaracharya studied and meditated.

Patna – Nalanda – Gaya Road Trip In Bihar

The popular tourist circuit of Bihar covers the world heritage site of Nalanda along with Rajgir . It also takes you to Gaya, Bodhgaya , and Barabar Caves and lets you taste some Bihar delicacies like Khaja and Lai.

You can also include Vaishali if you like. However, the reason I recommend this Road trip in India is to see the simplicity of its countryside and the way this land used to be. I have seen the landscape without much industry, with clean villages and simple people.

Guwahati to Shillong

This is a standard driving route for anyone wanting to visit the capital of Meghalaya. The whole route is scenic but what I remember the most after so many years is Umiam Lake. Surrounded by hills and mountains this lake seems to be full of clouds reflecting in it.

Drive through the Tea Gardens

Now here I have two favorite routes located on the diagonally opposite ends of the country. One is Temi Tea Estate which you drive around Gangtok in Sikkim. You see the green rolling hills as you drive through the Himalayan ranges.

Second is the drive to Munnar . You literally drive through the tea gardens. I will never forget my visit to the Tata Tea Museum. Of course, the tea gardens of Assam are also lovely but they are more on the plains.

Road Trips in India Wishlist

Kashmir to Kanyakumari is a road trip that demands endurance. I do hope to do it someday.

Narmada Parikrama which takes about 15 days to complete is high on the wishlist.

I want to travel on the ancient trade routes like Uttarpath which is now partially in India and Dakshinpath which is completely in India.

Roads of North Eastern states are yet to be explored.

Travel Tips for Road trips

• Length of road trips can vary depending on the time available, interest, and depth to which you want to explore. So, I prefer not to give fixed itineraries.
• Always carry food but must try the local dishes, especially on the roadside dhabas and eateries.
• Stop at vantage points to soak in the views or at markets to meet people and shop for some interesting curios.
• Keep your car in a good condition. Local drivers are always helpful as they are equipped with local knowledge.
• Early morning drives work better than late evening ones.

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All the places are very beautiful the mounts of Himachal Pradesh and ladakh,backwater water of Kerala ,temples of tamilnadu, they all are attraction among the travellers.

It was a beautiful places to visit in india .i also want to travel the india .

Great to read the post.. Keep writing more and more.. All the very best

Excellent posting.. Keep writing more.. Wishing you all the success

I had the most incredible adventure of my life because of this blog. Anyone who enjoys road travels or discovering new areas should definitely consider this!

Road trips are also my favorite thing to do its so much fun mostly with my closest friend around being there.

It was a beautiful place to visit in India.I also want to travel the India. Very Nice Article

great place and very beutiful place in india

“India’s diverse landscapes offer a plethora of breathtaking road trip experiences, and this compilation of the most scenic routes is a road-tripper’s dream come true! From winding mountain roads to coastal highways, each journey promises adventure, beauty, and unforgettable memories. Buckle up and get ready to explore the incredible landscapes of India on these scenic road trips!”

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Top Road Trips to Take in India this Year.

Aren’t we all travelers on the inside? Some for life, some for a season, som e travel for culture and so me for no reason. Nevertheless, there’s this little traveler inside of us that craves to be liberated. And what better way is there to do that than to go for the best road trips in India?

Winding lanes, silver peaks, mystical sh ores, holy temples, and lofty forts, we have you covered.

Take so me time out to indulge in the top road trips in India to know you and your people better. After all, the grand indian route. Travel ing on road on your own is a better one.

Manali To Leh – Winding In The Steep Roads!

How about taking out your motor beast to cover some bold winding roads? Does the sound of the engine running while you marvel at the breeze slapping your face amidst the cool rugged terrains in the arms of the Himalayas sound exciting to you? As a matter of fact, a 473-kilometer-long long mountain stretch with a few terrains crisscrosses is just what you need.

Furthermore, The road trip with friends from   Manali   to  Leh  will be power-packed and brims with thrill on account of the various famous passes and villages that one comes across while on it.

Manali – Rohtang – Gramphu – Kokhsar – Keylong – Jispa – Darcha – Zingzingbar – Baralacha La – Bharatpur – Sarchu – Gata Loops – Nakee La – Lachulung La – Pang – Tanglang La – Gya – Upshi – Karu – Leh.

Pheww.. Don’t worry, our   Leh Ladakh itinerary will take care of you.

Care to see for yourself? Let the snow-capped mountains enchant you while the risk factor that these silver cliffs possess, enthrall you with an adrenaline rush. Sounds like a game, doesn’t it?

Mumbai To Goa – From Heritage To Rejuvenation!

Ready for some Bollywood feels? Strangely enough, your true Bollywood experience will begin right from Mumbai itself. Can you help it? It is the Bollywood capital, you guys. Glide through the Western Ghats and enjoy the incandescent beauty and verdure of nature while you do it. As a matter of fact, A 600-kilometer-long family road trip destination is what your inner spirit calls for.

From a city full of drama and heritage, from celebrities to entrepreneurs, and from slums to skyscrapers get yourself on road to the party capital of India. Nope, not exaggerating here. Life’s a party. That’s the motto here. So, get your heart pumping and pulse throbbing for you’re going to slay on NH4 on your bikes wearing your heart on your sleeves for Mumbai, Pune, Satara, Kolhapur, Belgaum, and Goa. Yes, nature is the testimony of how seriously these places are capable of making you one of their own.

Chennai To Kanyakumari – The Southern Stretch To The End Of The Country

It is 710 kilometers and an unbelievable feeling of conquering the world. That’s what you wanted, right? Chennai to Kanyakumari road trip is not just your conventional short road trip. It is so much more! It is one of the most beautiful road trips in South India.

Yes, it’s so much more than what meets the eye. Dragging along the coastal town slapping you with the wind in all its glory is the route from Chennai – Villupuram – Trichy – Kanyakumari Rd – NH44 in Kanyakumari.

Furthermore, The dotted palm and coconut trees along the shores where waves crash and echo the sounds of comfort welcome you in a warm embrace throughout your road trip.

It’s the one trip where every element of nature takes a step ahead to make friends with you.

Intriguing, eh?

Be that as it may, Reach just in time to witness the rising sun or the crimson red sunset amidst the natural extravaganza that Kanyakumari is.

To know more about the route and what to expect from this southern enigma, check our   Chennai to Kanyakumari itinerary . This one serves as your best go- to south India road trip planner. Don’t believe us? You will.

Ahmedabad To Kutch – Western Wonder Of A Surprise!

If you’re in for a vibrant plethora of offers that any road trip can gift you with after knowing about one of the best road trips in south India, then Ahmedabad to Kutch is the best road trip destination for you. From miles of salty pale mudflats and puddles of water to a grou nded, yet a very traditional village routine, you’ll be indulging in it all.

Watch how turban-wearing men go about their daily lives in Kutch and how shy ladies make their houses a home to live in. It will be a total cultural shock coming from Ahmedabad to Kutch. Don’t blame us, we warned you!

Strangely enough, you see that’s the beauty of this road trip. It drowns you in the reflections of the real paradox of life while you’re blown by this travel experience on road.

If you care to let reality and the sheer beauty of life sink in to your blood and bones, check our Gujarat itinerary. We might be of help!

We might be of help! Strangely enough, you may be surprised to know that this one is one of the best bike road trips in India.

Mumbai To Mt Abu – From The Majestic Sea To The Towering Heights!

Leaving the mesmerizing tendrils of the Arabian Sea to catch up with the breeze at the top of Mt Abu sounds like a plan? Furthermore, traveling from urban streets to the cobbled ones doesn’t sound so bad, does it? As a matter of fact, Mumbai – Daman – Champaner – Pavagadh – Mount Abu is just the route that you need to be counting on in your  India travel package .

Let yourself loose and open to all kinds of possibilities on this road trip standing firmly among the top in the  India travel checklist .

You never know, you might be offered little souvenirs or some delicious traditional cuisine by the locals on your way.

And for a fact, we can vouch that just as  Maharashtra  bid you a warm farewell, Rajasthan will leave no stone unturned in making you one of its own with its opulent culture, tradition and geographic capabilities.

Yes, the mountains are calling you.

Only this time, we are here to help you through our  Rajasthan itinerary .

After all, 758 kilometres is a lot. Isn’t it?

Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – The Golden Triangle

Brace yourself for an   unforgettable travel experience  blending all that Indian heritage and history has to offer into one at the best road trip destinations. Strangely enough, it would be an understatement to say that the golden triangle road trip is amazing. As a matter of fact, starting from  Delhi  and moving on to  Agra  and Jaipur will basically be the reason for a million goosebumps on your skin.

Furthermore, you get to see one of the wonders of the world – The Taj Mahal.

Now, isn’t that something? Would you really turn your back on such an amazing prospect of a road trip? We told you that we give the best road trip ideas. Do you agree?

Explore in the heat of the capital of India, go back in time when Mughals invaded the nation, and finally, come on to enjoy the royalty and everything glittering in the boulevards of the  Pink city Jaipur.

Our   Golden Triangle Itinerary  will make it possible for you. Check it out!

Jaipur – Jodhpur – Udaipur – A World Full Of Colors

All right, put your happy face on for this road trip is going to be nothing short of a magical fairy tale. Your road trip planner India promises you.

Hard to believe?

Well, we don’t blame you. You’re probably new to this one. It’s Rajasthan, peeps! Need we say more? Approximately 600 kilometers of a stretch covered in colors and vibrancy is what you’ll come across. We all know, Rajasthan takes pride in its opulent cultures, traditions, and the heritage.

Walk along the pink-hued boulevards in Jaipur and marvel at the little blue houses in the   sun city of Jodhpur.

Moreover, the last stop will be rejuvenating you even more while you get charmed by the   lake city of Udaipur  with the majestic Aravalli hills in the background. Yes, with forts, frescoes, palaces, and exotic heritage hotels exhibiting the royal elements of history, this road trip is a time travel for the best.

You do believe us now, right? And if that wasn’t enough, there are some excruciatingly beautiful temples waiting for you to pray in.

To get the best of this road trip, we are there to help you through our  Rajasthan destination  page.

Delhi – Spiti – The Highway To Heaven

Furthermore, get your soul-searching biker out and head to the ever bewitching landscapes of Spiti.

A magical valley with silver peaks covered in snow and rugged trails for travelers to get down to the roots of this valley is what Spiti is known for.

Put your game face on for it’s not going to be so easy-peasy but we assure you, it’ll be worth it.

The best route is to start from Delhi – Shimla – Sarahan – Chitkul – Kalpa – Nako/Tabo – Kaza – Kibber/Chandratal

This 450 kilometers long road trip will keep you on your toes. Believe us you, the adrenalin rush due to the extreme terrains and risk factors will make this one an unforgettable adventure. What makes this one of the best road trips is the many passes that you get to come across along with the peaceful monasteries.

Be that as it may, This one is all about discovering yourself, folks. Let our  Spiti itinerary  being out the best in you. Contact the bike tour operators in India already. It’s essential, we insist.

Kashmir – Kanyakumari – The Best Of Both Worlds

Hold your horses; this is getting super exciting now. Are you a fan of m ultiple cultures and traditions?

Are you a history buff and a vagabond at the same time?

Strangely enough, this all India road trip is going to be a long one but every bit worth it.

Yes,  Kashmir . A whopping 5000 km is nothing short of a miracle on a platter for you. From north to south, from mountains to the seas, from creamy cuisines to spicy curries, and from snow-laden cliffs to the tropical beaches, it will be a myriad of emotions and realizations that you’ll go through on this road trip. Add fuel to your engine and get started already for this one brim with the best road trip tourist attractions.

To know more about the magical differences between north India and south India, check out our   North India and South India  blog.

Delhi – Srinagar – From A Lot To Nature!

Furthermore, if you’re on a look out for an amazeballs road trip, this 868 km long one will satiate your thirst for travel. The ones on a hunt for the best road trips for couples, are you listening?

Dreaming of sauntering in the peaceful and enchanting valley of Kashmir? Listening to the sweet cacophony of birds and marvel king at the Himalayas at the backdrop. Could it get any better?

But first, you need to cover up the distance from Delhi to Kashmir. Oh, we promise, it’s going to be a sweet ride. Moreover, With  Punjab  falling in between, it makes this road trip even better. Drown in the colors and larger than life attitude of Punjab on your way to Srinagar.

Oh! And by the way, no trip is complete without tingling your taste buds with the world-famous Punjabi cuisine. You can’t miss out on it. No, you just can’t.

you’ll be clear about what to expect when  traveling to India.

Travel to India right away. We will be waiting.

VISAKHAPATNAM – ARU VALLEY – A REALM OF ELEMENTS OF NATURE

Alright, brace yourself for a 114 km road trip gliding through waters and projecting high up in the air. Confused? Well, from the beaches in Visakhapatnam to the winding roads to Araku Valley, the elements of nature combine in a fiery rush. Get in touch with the bike tour operators to make it one of your best bike road trips.

Marvel at the tenacity of the Bay of Bengal and admire the quintessential beauty of the Eastern Ghats. The southern charm in Visakhapatnam is at its best and you’ll see why we say that. Moreover, there is something about the hills that make you want to get cocooned in the laps of nature. Araku Valley will do that on one your most unforgettable road trips in South India that is this one.

By the way, do check out the mysterious Borra caves on your way.

Get ready already! Carry wayward sons.

you’ll be clear about what to expect   when traveling to India.

Our  India tour packages with prices  will throw some more light on tourism in India. You should see.

PURI – KONARK – SHORT AND SWEET IS HAPPY

We have always talked about the southern charm, the western enigmas, and the northern chills. Let us talk about the Eastern magic of Orissa now. A 36 km long road trip from Puri to Konark comes nothing less than a breath of fresh air. With the canopied road taking you to the land of Sun Temple, the wonders of nature scream at the ones traveling through.

If Puri gives you the luxury to revel in the beauty and spirituality of Jagannath temple, Konark takes you to doors of the  UNESCO World Heritage Site  of Sun Temple.

Marvel in the unapologetically beautiful architecture of the same while the Sun blesses your soul.

Also, it’s not always important to go for a thousand miles to experience some road trip of the year.

Small things are beautiful. Just as your cute little road trip from Puri to Konark.

GUWAHATI – TAWANG – A WONDER IN NORTH-EAST INDIA

First thing first, get yourself the Inner Line Permit to enter Arunachal Pradesh. And onwards, begins your adventure road trip.

A 510 km long road journey in the laps of Mountains awaits you to awaken your inner self. Ride your bikes through the winding lanes and steep curves soaring high.

Make sure to make a stop at Tezpur on your first day. Stay overnight and breathe in the fresh air of Assam. Furthermore, visit Christian cemetery and Bhairabi temple in Tezpur for some spiritual awakening.

Cut to the next day, Bhalukpong will steal your heart away with its magnanimous beauty. Further, Bomdila and Dirang will be your other stoppages on your road trip in North East India. Oh, and by the way, Tawang Monastery and Nuranang falls are a must visit.

You’d be a sinner to miss these. Well, have a safe journey, peeps.

BANGALORE – BANDIPUR FOREST – SHIMMY IN THE WILD

A true blue Bollywood road trip is incomplete without an essence of wildness, the smell of nature, sunroof blaring, and volume turned up. Are you picturing what we are picturing?

Well, this one for us had got to be the best road trips in December India.

Well, if there’s any highway to wonders of wild, it is undoubtedly this one. A 235 km long stretch of the road taking you to Bandipur through the honeycombed forest is just what you need to get your adrenaline rushing.

If you have a thirst for wild, rugged and raw, then Bandipur National Park will never disappoint you.

Imagine moving from away from the bustling and hustle in the city towards the calm and green countryside.

PS- the wilderness is the added charm.

You’d love it all, won’t you?

Check our   wildlife tours  for even more trips like this one.

UDAIPUR TO JODHPUR – FROM PEACE TO GLAMOUR

A small yet amazing road trip is waiting for you in Rajasthan. If you are in for experiencing an epiphany, then take this mesmerizing 369 km road trip.

Udaipur- Ranakpur- Kumbhalgarh- Bishnoi Village- Chandelao Garh- Jodhpur

Kickstarting from the land of dreams and the paradise of lakes – Udaipur, this trip covers the beauty of Rajasthan in a nutshell.

It unveils the hidden gem of Ranakpur that’s otherwise hidden behind the shadows of other touristy destinations of the state.

Here to get yourself architecturally high is an understatement, as destinations like Kumbhalgarh add grandeur to this whole experience.

Oh, and did we tell you that Kumbhalgarh is the Great Wall of India, and the next in line to get this tag?

However, if you are expecting more rural charms, even then, this road trip won’t disappoint you. Rather, it will take you on a voyage in the sands of time where culture will be seen incubated even after so much modernization. For this, you’ll get close to the folks of the villages of Chandelao Garh and Bishnoi village.

Where on one hand Chandelao Garh will be all about serving as a community, a trip in   Bishnoi Village  would be a life lesson for all the nature enthusiasts.

So, let us get this straight. All in all, on this road trip, you’ll get two touristy destinations  Udaipur and Jodhpur , a temple that’s nominated as a potential Wonder of the World, a Fort that’s as great as the wall in China and two villages where you’ll learn quintessential art forms. Hmm… isn’t that everything and more you can ask for a road trip?

CHENNAI – MUNNAR – THE DECCAN GLAM

Have you got 10 hours in your hands? Fancy a road trip to the mountains, lush greenery, and tea estates?

A 600 km long adventure road trip through the tosses and turns on your road to Munnar brings out just the southern rustic charm you are on a lookout for.

Nope, you can’t miss out on this one if you happen to rush to the  south of India.

Wondering about which route to take? Well, we’ll tell you!

Chennai-Trichy-Dindigul-Udumalpet-Munnar, take this one up on your road trips in India tour and thank us later.

With hairpin bends in the middle but temples and lakes as the rewards after a long journey, the road trip from urbanized Chennai to natural  Munnar  are quintessential in its own way.

Sniff in the trees and tea plantations, maybe?

GANGTOK – LAKE TSOMGO – NATHULA PASS

North Eastern India is something and that you’ll come to know on this 55 km long best road trip in India. Speaking of which, this one is probably of the unexplored road trips in India. Makes it even more mysterious, right?  North Eastern India  is probably the best site for road trip planning in India.

Starting from Gangtok, vroom all the way to the exotic Lake Tsomgo that will leave you smitten with all the beauty around it. Mountains are calling. Can you hear them too?

The hairpin bends are thrilling on their own, let alone the final reward of Nathu La Pass’ spectacular and blood rushing beauty.

Mind cruising in through the unabashed terrains while you experience the road trip of a lifetime?

BANGALORE – OOTY – A PROFOUND PARADOX

Well, the South of India never shies away from accepting the fact that  beaches and backwaters  are what it is a proud home to. But, did you know that mountains and lush greenery are just as much the gems of Deccan India? Carry wayward, our sons and daughter, this 266-kilometer long road journey is just what you need to awaken your senses and rejuvenate your mind.

Starting from Bangalore, where hustle meets chaos, where buildings soar high with determination to  touch the sky to Ooty , where nature walks and the trees rustle to have a secret adorable talk with the chirping birds, this one is bound to fill you with silence and thoughts. Yes, to find yourself amidst the silence of nature is something all the road trips in India aspire to help you with.

Our   Karnataka itinerary  will be able to lure you into embarking on this journey right away.

JAIPUR – JAISALMER – A MELTING POT OF CULTURE

Alright, now this is one road trip that you cannot miss out on. Nope, just cannot.

Brimming with culture and heritage, the vibrant colors of India will blind you.

Start off from Jaipur on one of the best road trips in India by car. Explore the pink city with its boulevards and beauty to later move on to the Golden city of Jaisalmer via the blue city of Jodhpur.

Sounds confusing? Don’t worry, we have your back. The roads are superb and you know what the best part is?

Throughout the route, you can pamper your tummy with traditional Rajasthani Cuisine.

Could you really ask for more? But then again, yes you can. Do not, under any circumstances, forget to experience a night safari and camping under the stars in the desert in Jaisalmer. Moreover, the crystal clear sky is worth capturing through your lenses, just saying. *winks*

PAMBAN BRIDGE – AN AQUA JOURNEY

How about literally gliding through the road? Well, not exactly. But what if throughout the way there is just water and a lot of water on either side during one of your motorbikes trips in India.

Yes, a 13.5 km long road trip over the Pamban Bridge in Rameshwaram is just what you need to rejuvenate yourself.

The vast expanse of water comes off as a breath of fresh air.

Too much of   natural beauty  around? Well, that’s India for you. Let yourself lose, untie your hair, and feel the water beneath you. Oh, the breeze slapping your face will be nothing short of bliss. You have 20 minutes for this spectacular ride, don’t you? The Deccan charm will grow on you, we promise.

Go down south, already!

Shillong to CHERRAPUNJI – A MOIST AFFAIR

Too much of natural beauty around? Well, that’s India for you. Let yourself lose, untie your hair, and feel the water beneath you. Oh, the breeze slapping your face will be nothing short of bliss. You have 20 minutes for this spectacular ride, don’t you? The Deccan charm will grow on you, we promise.

DELHI – JAIPUR – TRANSFORMATION MAGIC

Let’s venture from the capital of India into the capital of Rajasthan that shines on the Rajasthan road trip map.

Yes, you guessed it right.

Set on a journey from Delhi to the pink city of Jaipur. While you vroom your way through the roads on one of your best road trips in Rajasthan, watch the Aravalli range dancing along and let yourself be smitten with its beauty.

From the colonial heritage of Delhi, you’ll be diving into the colors and vibrancy of Jaipur. And guess what! The highway to Jaipur is just as smooth. Well, you deserve a smooth ride, don’t you?

Jaipur waits to surprise you. The royal heritage of Jaipur drips from every nook and cranny. From the Hawa Mahal to the city palace, the opulence of Rajasthani culture and tradition resonates from every wall.

Our   Golden Triangle tour  blog will make this road trip clearer and more interesting for you by giving you insights on the Rajasthan road trip itinerary from Delhi.

We bet on it!

KOLKATA – DIGHA – THE EASTERN ENIGMA

Get ready for a very delightful 180 km long road trip in India. From where to where you ask? From Kolkata to Digha, of course.

Well, if you’re a Bengali you’ll swear by this road trip. The perfect means to spend your weekend, this one takes the road trips in India up a notch.

Marvel in the lush grandeur of nature throughout your route to Digha. And the smoothness of the roads will leave you mesmerized.

Furthermore, what is in it for you, you ask? The beach!

Need we say more? Let your inner beach baby out to gallop on top of a pony around the beach. Or maybe just maybe, let those waves crash your toes while you make little sandcastles of your dreams. Sounds like a perfect weekend plan, right?

Come on, pack some sandwiches and head to Digha already!

JAIPUR – RANTHAMBORE – FROM ROYAL TO WILD!

Have 3 hours in your hands?

Well, keep them reserved for one of the best adventure road trips in India.

From the culturally so opulent land of the pink city Jaipur through the smooth roads to the wilderness of Ranthambore, this one is what every adrenaline junkie should snort on. Like literally.

Be that as it may, the Bassi wildlife sanctuary in the middle of the route is just a mere introduction to what intense wildlife and natural wonders Ranthambore National Park has in store for you.

Nope, we are not exaggerating. Lions, tigers, and bears await you!

Oh, and by the way, do not miss out on the jungle safari while you camp out into the woods. Weekend sorted?

Just so you know, there is Ranthambore fort waiting to be admired by you for its rustic old charm.

Care to do that?

Our  wildlife tour itineraries  will give you just the adrenaline rush and pump in the blood that you need with our 10 days Rajasthan road trip.

Check it already! Hurry up!

BANGALORE – PONDICHERRY – FROM SKYSCRAPERS TO SILENCE

Fancy strolling in one of the French colonies of the past? Well, here’s your muse.

Take your bike and get behind the wheels. From the chaotic, bustling, and soaring city of Bangalore to one of the corners proud of being to some good Deccan charm of Pondicherry, this road trip is a special one.

Are you looking out to discover yourself in peace and calm?

The Auroville Sb serenity beach will give you the luxury of just what you are looking for. Meditate among the many travelers seeking peace while the waves crash at your feet. And when you’re done, you know what to do. Don’t you?

You got to play some in the water. Let yourself lose to the ease of life on this road trip in India.

Our  Tamil Nadu itinerary  will make you dive right into the waters of serenity beach.

Care to check it out? We insist.

DELHI – MANDAWA – A JOURNEY TOWARDS RICHES

Furthermore, on the list of best road trips in India, there is one that has to be there. No ifs and buts.

Which one? Undoubtedly, the one that takes you from the capital of India Delhi to the  capital of royalty Mandawa.

Check out the history of India, be it political or architectural, in Delhi while you add fuel to your car to get you on the road to Mandawa where royal households and Havelis steal your breath away with their timeless beauty.

By the way, are you an art fanatic? Well, then Mandawa is going to make you the happiest. The frescoes on the walls and the painting on the ceilings are just as spectacular as the opulent architecture of these high-storied edifices.

Get back in time to witness the lifestyle of the Rajputs.

Peace the warriors.

If you go through our  Rajasthan itinerary , the number of wonders and surprises you’ll get to experience will be more than what anyone could ever ask for. Nope, not exaggerating!

MANGALORE – GOA – THE COASTAL CHARM

How about taking a head start for a journey through the famous Malabar coast to one and the only party capital of India.

Yes, we’re talking about an eventful road trip from Mangalore to Goa.

Mind you, it’s a long-long journey. Drive your car along the palm-dotted coast for 354 km to land up on a beach where everyone plays the character of a party animal.

Gorge on some of the best seafood while you chug down beer cans to your content. Sounds like a fun weekend trip?

Sure it is!

Visit the various churches and forts in Goa to give yourself “Dil Chahta Hai” feels. It’s not so bad to star in your own movie, now is it?

Hurry up! Clear your entire schedule to make time for this unforgettable rendezvous.

Our Goa destination page will let you in on the secrets of this tinker town. Yes, you gotta check it out. Right away! Go ahead, why don’t you?

HYDERABAD TO KANNUR – THE FOOD TRAIL

Fancy unwinding to the goodness of nature ? Then, this Hyderabad to Kunnur road trip will be a blast.

Competing for the spot of the most beautiful road trip in India, this 916 km road trip is a tangy concoction of the cultural flavours of India.

On this road trip, you will start from the city of Nizams where delectable food is the highlight of every street.

From here on buttery smooth roads you’ll head to Bangalore, the silicon valley of India .

Later, this trip will take you to Kannur, India’s most popular nature’s retreat. On this 15 hour road trip, you’ll travel to three different states and will enjoy the distinct culture of each one of them. So, what are you waiting for? Make bookings for your road trip right now!

CHANDIGARH – CHAIL – THE WEEKEND’S PARADISE

Time to pick your bags and kick-start your bikes, folks!

The weekend is here and so are your plans to experience the best of road trips in India. Starting from Chandigarh, the city beautiful, to end up at the home of royalty in Chail, this road trip is a quintessential mountain journey.

Sure, mountains are calling you. Would you like to make them your safe haven this weekend?

The Chail Palace awaits your visit wrapped in a warm hug of the Himalayas.

The roads are at their finest. So, be carefree, this one is going to be a smooth ride with hairpin bends and winding roads brimming with kiosks to help you with a steaming hot cup of Chai.

You should definitely take a break on your way.

We got your back; our  Himachal Pradesh destination  page will introduce you to the wonders of Chail.

Check it out, folks.

A road trip is incomplete without a passion for travel and an even bigger passion for discovering yourself on the way to the best places to the road trip.

Take your chances with us, maybe?

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Art of Nomads

Best road trips in india you must experience.

Work on hold and life on track! Sounds like a perfect getaway, no? Movies like ZNMD and Dil Chahta Hai makes us strive for a road trip too. In this post today, we will look at the most picturesque tracks offering the best road trips in India, like those in Bollywood movies.

Few top places in India for road trips

Best road trips in north india.

Road tripping in North India means an array of mountains and a variety of options. We have accumulated a travellers’ favourite list below, but we are sure many more gaze-worthy and unexplored places would please the wanderers. So, buckle up for your virtual journey because we are getting started now.

Also Read :  History of Backpacking

1) Delhi to Leh via Manali: The ultimate dream and desire of many

This one is ideal for all adventure enthusiasts and requires a lot of planning. The treacherous roads, snow-covered tracks and mesmerising view are enough to cast a spell on you. The distance is about 1091kms making it a perfect fit for a full-fledged road trip. The journey can be exhausting, but it’s worth it.

Tip: Check your stamina and good driving skills before leaving your home.

2) Chandigarh to Kasol: Travellers’ home away from home

It is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations and a home away from home for many foreigners. The weather is a bit unpredictable, but it’s usually cold. The road trip would be only a short drive/ride of about 273kms but filled with awestruck landscapes. The perfect time to leave would be early morning. You can take mini breaks midway to enjoy certain spots and click pictures for the gram.

3) Delhi to Spiti via Manali: A small town surrounded by various small towns

Spiti Valley is surrounded by small towns and villages, like Kaza, Kibber village etc. The roads are as adventurous and beautiful as the destination. A 730kms drive would seem justified when you reach there. The people have managed to restore the true essence of the place till now. It is tourist-friendly, and stays don’t burn a hole in your pocket either. One can stay here for as long as they like, and they still won’t have enough of it. Dhankar & Chandratal Lake, Monasteries, Pin valley are a few attractions. I would suggest the winter lovers definitely try this one out at any time of the year (but preferably summers).

There are 2 routes from Delhi, one from Shimla and the other from Manali. People usually prefer the Manali route, but you can opt for Shimla as it’s promising too.

Tip- Keep your warm clothes handy at all times because this place is famed for getting uncomfortably cold at night.

4) Jammu to Srinagar: The crown town

In your journey of about 300kms, you would be accompanied by snow-capped mountains and tempting quaint sites asking you to take out a few moments from your time to admire its beauty. It takes you to the height of 4127 feet above sea level, a thrilling driving experience indeed!

Tip: A friendly suggestion is to take Kahwa breaks quite often to keep yourself charged up.

5) Chandigarh to Dalhousie: Vacation to a perfect hill station

It takes approximately 10 hours to reach, though the distance is just 236kms. The route is surrounded by green nature providing you with the right amount of freshness and motivation to keep going without feeling too tired. When the destination is as beautiful as the route, the fun and its worth increase. British traces can easily be noticed here, as the name itself is after British personnel.

6) Delhi to Lansdowne: Quick-fix Getaway

In contrast with Delhi, it is a tranquil hill station that is sure to de-stress you. To enjoy a quick and calm weekend break you can leave early in the morning. That way you can ditch the traffic and reach there quickly, as it’s only 258kms away. During your stay, you can soak the beautiful oak and pine forest views in your heart and treat it like a de-stress memory pill when you go back to the hustle-bustle of the country capital.

Best road trips in South India

Road tripping in South India is all about embracing the greens and blues. A few most preferred road trip friendly options are mentioned below to help you plan your next road trip.

Also Read : A Beginner’s Guide To Bikepacking

1) Bangalore to Ooty: The green therapy

The nearest dearest destination, away from the busy, crowded life in Bangalore. A deal to catch!

The distance is about 276kms only, and one can plan a trip anytime via Mysuru. However, I suggest going there around monsoon or winter when the greenery is in its full swing, and the temperature is at its best for travelling. The route is loaded with lush green trees as it is nestled in the lap of Nilgiri Hills. A stop at Mysuru is a must, to acknowledge its history and beauty. Leave early in the morning to get the most out of this road trip. It generally takes 6 hours to reach Ooty by road. Nearest and dearest indeed?

2) Chennai to Munnar: A sweet escape

Had enough of Chennai’s weather? Well, then Munnar is the place to be to tackle the weather hangover. It’s 583kms from Chennai and on the way, you will come across spell-bounding sea views and tea plantations. I definitely recommend taking a few pit stops to admire the surprising nature. The route has delightful Dhabas so buckle up to gain a few kgs. while enjoying the culture, tradition and beautiful beaches on your way to Munnar.

3) Bandipur to Periyar: Best of all the worlds

A perfect place to be for all wildlife lovers. Both these places are packed with flora and fauna. Famed for being tiger hubs they are also populated by elephants. The 531kms long route is surrounded by dense green forests and a variety of species. On the way, you would cross many beautiful holiday destinations like Ooty, Coimbatore and Kodaikanal so make sure to enjoy every bit of these 10hours. The best time to visit would be around monsoon as it would add feels to this wonder-packed trip.

4) Mangalore to Goa: The Arabian way to a beach day

The tranquillity that surrounds this route is surreal. 8 hours would seem less when you will cover the distance of 364kms in a jiffy. So, make sure not to blink your eyes (not literally) if you don’t want to miss out on little details. You can take a break at Gokarna for a while to enjoy the little paradise. The best part is that the entire time while driving or riding you, you would be accompanied by the Arabian sea. Isn’t it exciting?

5) Chennai to Kodaikanal: Tamil Nadu expedition

Crack the Tamil Code in 562kms. It is the best way to explore Tamil Nadu and admire its hidden gems. This route takes you through the underdogs of the state of Tamil Nadu. It is also considered to be one of the city dwellers’ favourite weekend routes in Chennai. The temples, architecture, traditions, culture, food and scenic beauty, everything helps you connect with South India on a ground level.

6) Bangalore to Coorg via Chikmagalur: The tantalising triangle (round trip)

Love triangles are not fun, but this compelling triangle will be. It takes around 5-6 hours to reach Chikmagalur from Bangalore. There are various routes, but NH75 is the shortest one that takes you through Hassan town’s historic Belur region. The destination is worth every minute, and so is the route. Since Coorg is just 170kms away you can reach there in 4 hours (depending on your driving skills). Just like other South Indian routes, it is unquestionably beautiful too. While in Coorg you must try Kodava cuisine. Coorg to Bangalore is again a 5-6 hours’ drive in the lap of nature. The distance between the two is about 250kms. Backpackers and bikers suggest that in between you must stop to hike on the Talacauvery Hills.

The weather in this triangle is pleasant throughout the year but I would suggest you visit between September-May for the best road trip experience. This whole trip is the best fit for those who enjoy sightseeing to another extent.

Also Read :  Quick Guide To Jibhi

How to plan a road trip in India?

General tips.

1) Make sure your vehicle is prepared for a road trip. Fuel up!

2) Check all the necessary papers like PUC, RC, insurance and driving license.

3) If you plan to leave early in the morning, make sure you get enough rest, so you can enjoy it fully.

4) Research about the route because Indian roads are famous for being treacherous. Take the Manali route, for example.

5) Make sure you plan a trip in the right weather. Also, plan your rest stops.

6) Don’t forget to keep healthy snacks and water.

7) Keep a road map in case the GPS signal drops.

8) Don’t forget the first-aid box.

9) Keep a rope.

10)  Sit up straight. Make sure to carry the correct posture throughout the journey.

11)  Keep a car freshener. I suggest keeping a peppermint spray as it’s proven to reduce fatigue and keeps you alert.

12)  Dress according to your comfort.

13)  Make a playlist in advance that would fit in the route so you can vibe with it.

14)  STAY HYDRATED!

Tips for planning road trips in India by car:

1) Instead of normal tyre air, opt for nitrogen. It helps to maintain a good fuel mileage.

2) Take care of extra engine oil and coolant.

3) Check for Stepneys and extra tyre tubes.

4) Keep a toolkit handy.

5) Pack all the essential stuff.

Tips for planning road trips in India by bike

1) Charge your phone and other electronics beforehand.

2) Pack light and keep necessary stuff only.

3) Don’t eat a lot before leaving. It is advisable to start on a light stomach.

4) If you have long hair, make sure to tie them up so they don’t block your sight.

5) Wear a helmet.

6) Check the weather forecast before leaving and be prepared for it.

7) Keep essential spares and tools handy.

8) Make sure to keep rain protected gear with you during the monsoon.

Road trips in North India mean clear streams, shiny rivers, mountains, and lots of snow, while road trips in South India mean Beaches, Sea-view, dense forests, and lots of adventure. India has a lot to offer in terms of road trips, where each one gives you a distinct range of experiences. Remember Kailesh Kher singing “Yun hi chala chal rahi, kitni haseen hai ye duniya”? Well, since the world seems to be getting covid-free, it’s time to pack your bags, tune in to your favourite playlist, and let wheels do the talking.

P.S. I am sure I must have missed a few that deserve to be on the list too. So, comment below and mention your personal favourites.

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The wanderer.

Stories of an Indian Traveller across the world!

12 months: 12 road-trips by India's 12 TOP bloggers!

Best road-trips in india, 1. roadtrip to zanskar by shubham, 2. roaming in ladakh in winter by mridula dwivedi.

3. A Road Trip To Punjab Ke Sarson Ke Khet  by N Prasad

4. Road-trips in Spiti by VJ Sharma

5. The Grand Chandrabhaga Road Trip by Jitaditya Narzary

6. Mumbai-Ahmedabad by Nisha Jha

7. Road Trip to Abhaneri during Bahurupiya Festival by Ajay Sood

8. Road Trip to Kumaon, Uttarakhand by Medhavi

9. Insane road trip from Port Blair to Ross and Smith Islands, Andaman by Amit Sengupta

10. Road-trip along the coast of Tamil Nadu by Deepti Asthana

11. Bangalore to Kochi by Lakshmi Sharath

12. Road-trip along Konkan Coast

Thanks for sharing this list Sid. All of them are awesome road trips and I am already thinking of taking a few of them. :)

Wonderful list!

nice list thanks for sharing

Really a Nice description keep writing.

Thanks a ton Sid for featuring me on this elite travel bloggers list. I aim to accomplish some of them for sure in the coming year. Cheers!

What a lovely post it turned out to be!

thanks for sharing nice post

I tend not to do road trips when I'm traveling in other countries because the different driving makes me nervous. But these all look like amazing trips -- each one is so unique and gives you a different view of the country -- and you do get to see so much more when you go by car and can make the stops you want.

What a fabulous list of road trips. I really loved the pictures posted by Lakshmi. Makes me want to go on that road trip instantly. One place I would love to add to the list is North East. I have really enjoyed my road trips in Assam, Meghalaya and Sikkim. Those places are really offbeat and still not run down.

Waiting for you to add my road trip to this road trip collection :-)

Oh wow. It would be hard to choose between these as they all look stunning. It is easy to think of India as just being beaches and yoga when there is so much more to see.

I would love to visit India, and this past year I have read so much about how incredible of roadtrip destination the country is. Thanks for this round up – myself and my husband are very big on discovering natural areas of wilderness, so a roadtrip to Zanskar might be perfect for us!

There are so many great places to visit in India! I'd love to attend the Bahurupiya Festival if I get a chance!

India with its varied landscaped makes a great place for road trips. We have it all, from deserts to snow clad mountains, from plains to dense forests. This curated list of road trips is a great ready reckoner of some of the best road trips in India.

Indeed a wonderful list to be followed in the new year.

Wonderful blog.

What a great collection of road trips in this post. :) Shubham

Hey, i am so glad to read your thoughts because i really enjoyed to read this. The way you explain your travel experience , is truly awesome. I also like KD travel services, They considered one of the prominent Tempo Traveller Hire in Delhi ,last time i really enjoyed my trip with my friends because of KD travel services. Click on This: http://kdtravels.net.in/tempo-traveller-hire-in-delhi/

what a great collection of road trips in India. India with its varied landscaped makes a great place for road trips. We have it all, from deserts to snow clad mountains, from plains to dense forests. But the main point is that, so many people wants to go these type of road trip. but the lack of driving skills they are scared to go alone.

wonderful blog with a huge collection of the trip. Love it.

I came across your post on the "Best Road Trips in India," and I have to say, it's a great guide for anyone looking to explore the country by car. Your writing is engaging and informative, and your personal experiences add a nice touch of authenticity. I appreciate that you've covered a range of destinations, from the majestic Himalayas to the coastal beauty of Goa. Your descriptions of the various routes are very detailed and include practical information such as the best time to visit and where to stay. Your photographs are stunning and really showcase the natural beauty of India. I think your post is a great resource for anyone looking to plan a road trip in the country.

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The Ultimate Roadtrip Across India: 20 Cities In 30 Days!

Route 1: delhi - amritsar (2) - srinagar (2) - leh (2).

Distance : Delhi to Amritsar (448 km: 7 hours 30 minutes) Amritsar to Srinagar (434 km: 9 hours 30 minutes) Srinagar to Leh ( 418 km: 10 hours)   Duration : 6 days  Major Attractions Amritsar : The Golden Temple , Wagah border , Jallianwala Bagh  Srinagar : Dal Lake , Mughal Gardens , Tulip Garden Leh : Magnetic Hill , Pangong Lake , Thiksey Monastery

Route 2: Leh - Manali   (2) - Agra (1)

Distance : Leh to Manali (473.3 km: 13 hours 41 mins) Manali to Agra (770.8 km: 14 hours 39 mins) Duration : 3 days  Major Attractions : Manali :  Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass Agra : Taj Mahal , Fatehpur Sikri

Route 3: Agra - Jaipur (2) - Ahmedabad (1) - Mumbai (2) - Goa (3)

Distance : Agra to Jaipur (240.4 km: 4 hours 6 mins) Jaipur to Ahmedabad (678.3 km: 11 hours 34 mins) Ahmedabad to Mumbai (523.9 km: 8 hours 50 mins) Mumbai to Goa (591.1 km: 10 hours 49 mins) Duration : 8 days Major Attractions :  Jaipur : Hawa Mahal , Amer Fort , Jantar Mantar Ahmedabad : Swami Narayan mandir, Sabarmati Ashram  Mumbai : Marine Drive, Gateway of India, Juhu Beach Goa : Calangute Beach , Baga Beach , Fort Aguada. 

Route 4: Goa - Alleppey (2) - Kanyakumari (1) - Madurai (1) - Hampi (1)

Distance : Goa to Alleppey (813.2 km: 19 hours 49 mins) Alleppey to Kanyakumari ( 243.7 km: 6 hours 24 mins) Kanyakumari to Madurai (244.5 km: 3 hours 48 min) Madurai to Hampi (785.0 km: 12 hours 55 mins) Duration : 5 days  Major Attractions: Alleppey : Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Backwaters   Kanyakumari : Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiraparappu falls  Madurai : Meenakshi Temple , Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal Hampi : Virupaksha temple, Vithala Temple 

Route 5: Hampi - Puri (1) - Kolkata (2) - Gangtok (2)

Distance : Hampi to Puri (1,333.6 km: 28 hours) Puri to Kolkata (495.2 km: 9 h 21 mins) Kolkata to Gangtok (673.4 km: 17 hours 54 mins) Duration : 5 days  Major Attractions :  Puri : Jagannath Puri temple, Chilka Lake.  Kolkata : Victoria Memorial , Eden Garden, Howrah Bridge  Gangtok : Nathu La Pass, Tsomgo lake 

Route 6: Gangtok - Bodhgaya (1) - Varanasi (2) - Delhi

Distance : Gangtok to Bodhgaya (619.9 km: 16 hours 8 mins) Bodhgaya to Varanasi (251.4 km: 5 hours 57 mins) Varanasi to Delhi (846.8 km: 13 hours 37 mins) Duration : 3 days  Major Attractions:   Bodhgaya : Mahabodhi temple , Buddhist Statue  Varanasi : Kashi Vishwanath temple , Dashashwamedha Ghat 

Travel Tips for the Ultimate Road Trip 

• Before you head for your long road trip make sure of the following. 
• Your car should be well equipped and you need to keep backup tyres for the outskirts. 
• Keep snacks and water to avoid dehydration and starving. 
• Map out your route before you actually start. Keep Google maps handy. 
• Don't step out anywhere and everywhere during the road trip. 
• Carry your license and other documents handy, in case of road checks. 
• Keep your personal entertainment like music in reach. 

Ideal Time to Take the Road Trip 

This post was published by Sony Punjabi

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The Best Road Trips in India: 10 Unmissable Scenic Drives in India

India is a popular travel destination as there are many amazing places to visit in this country . While you can take train rides or fly in some parts of the country, you can also choose to enjoy India by car.

This article presents you the best road trips in India. You’ll discover 10 scenic drives in India that you’ll love!

These road trips through India allow you to better understand the country and its culture, but also to enjoy mesmerizing landscapes – from palms to desert, from the sea to the forest and to one of the deadliest roads in the world!

Best Road Trips in India: 10 Unmissable Scenic Drives in India

No amount of air travel or rail travel can be as fulfilling and adventurous as a land journey. Road trips provide an excellent opportunity to cherish the journey more than the destination.

Road trips also contribute to travelling responsibly and travelling slow. It gives a chance to explore the small offbeat and less visited places during the journey.

If you have come across such unforeseen surprises on your way, you would love this article. We have put together some most scenic road trip routes across India that one must not miss out on driving.

• Konark to Puri in Odisha
• Mandapam to Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu
• Goa to Gokarna on Konkan coast
• Mumbai to Pune in Maharashtra
• Chennai to Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu
• Shimla to Manali in Himachal Pradesh
• Jodhpur to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan
• Ambala to Khab in Himachal Pradesh
• Guwahati to Tawang in North East India
• Manali to Leh across Himachal and J&K

1. Konark to Puri in Odisha

With flawless and empty roads, the ride from the Sun temple town of Konark to the sacred city of Puri is highly picturesque and one of the best road trips in India.

One can witness two different landscapes while on this road with the sea on one side and the forest on the other. While passing through the forest area on the way, the sunshade formed by the trees on either side of the road is a sight to behold.

This road trip is best done on a motorbike.

Distance – 35 kilometres; Travel Time – 1 hour

2. Mandapam to Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu

Driving on the Pamban Bridge for 2.5 kilometres is the highlight of this road trip. While entering the bridge, the sea seems to swallow the road making it more adventurous and scary.

The road runs parallel to the rail bridge and gives a wonderful view of the mighty sea. The vehicles often sway with the forceful push of the wind. So be careful while riding on this road.

Also, keep a check on the weather conditions when you plan to ride/ drive on this stretch of road. The authorities often close it down in windy, stormy and heavy-rain situations.

The road trip from Mandapam to Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu is one of the top scenic drives in India! As a side note, in Tamil Nadu you’ll find one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India and you can also visit Mahabalipuram .

Distance – 40 kilometres; Travel Time – 1 hour

3. Goa to Gokarna on Konkan coast

The scenic beauty of the road from Goa to Gokarna gets better and better in every couple of minutes. Goa to Gokarna road trip is one of the best coastal drives giving one a chance to experience the change in dialect, food and the landscapes.

The coconut and palm trees on either side of the road sway with the fresh air that the Arabian Sea throws towards the land.

Distance – 145 kilometres; Travel Time – 3.5 hours

4. Mumbai to Pune in Maharashtra

Riding on India’s first 6-lane highway from Mumbai (one of the most densely populated cities ) to Pune is thrilling and that is why this is one of the best drives in India.

Sadly 2-wheelers are not allowed on this road, but driving a 4-wheeler is an amazing experience in itself. The 2-wheelers will have to take the old Mumbai-Pune highway.

The drive is scenic with village, valley and mountain views and one will pass through the popular hill stations like Lonavala and Khandala.

Distance – 150 kilometres; Travel Time – 3 hours

5. Chennai to Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu

The East Coast road connecting Pondicherry with Chennai runs along the Bay of Bengal coastline. This Indian road trip gives a varied experience of the urban setting (Chennai), the lost city (Mahabalipuram) and the French setting (Pondicherry).

Hopping along the many beaches that come on the way on one side and few lakes that would often appear on the other side makes this road trip irresistible.

The drive time is just 3.5 hours but believe us, you will halt and stop at every curve of the road and will end up completing the journey in not less than 5-6 hours.

Distance – 153 kilometres; Travel Time – 3.5 hours

6. Shimla to Manali in Himachal Pradesh

With Beas River streaming alongside, the Shimla to Manali road trip is picturesque and, thus, one of the scenic road trips in India.

It is one of the best drives in India to unwind and relax.

The road passes through the majestic mountains and the lush green valleys that can inspire any artist and excite any globetrotter.

You can also spot plenty of pine trees, deodars, and apple orchards on the way. If you are prone to motion sickness, make sure you pop in an anti-histamine to enjoy this journey.

Distance – 250 kilometres; Travel Time – 7 hours

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7. Jodhpur to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan

The drive from the Blue city of Jodhpur to deserts of Jaisalmer is quite different from the ones mentioned in this article.

The road passes through the desert with golden sand and barren land as far as one can see.

A drive during the night is especially recommended as one can spot the enhanced starry sky with meteor showers in close to zero light pollution environment.

The culture and history of the state of Rajasthan blends in with the journey which makes this one of the best road trips in India.

Distance – 285 kilometres; Travel Time – 4.5 hours

8. Ambala to Khab in Himachal Pradesh

Also famous as the Silk Route or NH22 highway, this Hindustan-Tibet road is also considered as one of the ‘Deadliest Roads’ in the world.

But as they say, beauty lies in adventure, the whole stretch of the highway is extremely scenic.

This drive is not for the weak hearted though! The journey is treacherous and eventually takes one to the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibet border.

This scenic route takes you to Spiti Valley, the land of monasteries and Buddhism.

Never go by the time suggested by Google Maps when travelling to Spiti Valley. The journey to Khab is slow, tiring but rewarding at the same time.

Distance – 430 kilometres; Travel Time – 13 hours

9. Guwahati to Tawang in North East India

This is a 5-6 day-long road trip that takes one through frozen lakes, snow-clad passes, and colorful monasteries.

You have to arrange for a permit to enter the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

It’s also fun to get to know and speak with the various tribal communities and know more about their culture while on the trip. Guwahati to Tawang in North East India is definitely one of the scenic road trips in India.

Distance – 450 kilometres; Travel Time – 15 hours

10. Manali to Leh across Himachal and J&K

Driving through the snow-covered Himalayas on the Leh-Manali highway with Chenab River flowing parallel to the road is magical.

Riding on this road in an open jeep or on a bullet is highly popular. The curvy roads and gentle elevations add charm to the adventurous ride and make it one of the best Indian road trips to take.

Distance – 470 kilometres; Travel Time – 15 hours

About the author

Fairytale Studios is at the crossroad of Photography & Travel. It is an attempt by a writer-photographer couple to bring a shift in the culture of travel where travellers are empowered by information, aspire for authentic experiences and act more responsibly. They strive to achieve this through their articles which range from experiential travel guides, reviews of properties and travel-related service providers, products, photo blogs, educational content and tips for travellers and photographers. You can follow them on Instagram , Facebook , and Pinterest .

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17 Best Road Trips in India That You Need to Take

India can be best described as a collision of a young, growing nation and an ancient, culturally established country; overwhelming every visitor with its chaotic customs. Taking a road-trip across the vast geography of India is a certain way of getting the wholesome experience of India. Even many people have taken the Kashmir to Kanyakumari road trip. Isn’t it amazing?

From the lush vegetation of South India to the freezing mountains of the North, India offers a perfect range of enchanting road trips that will leave you wanting for more. So, we thought to curate a list of most exciting and adventurous road trips in India. These are the famous roads to explore the diversity of India.

Best Road Trips in India

Here is the list of popular road trips in India. If you are planning to go any of these places try to choose to travel via road. You will love these road trips.

1. Manali to Leh Highway

With beautiful snow clad mountains on both sides and blues skies that go on and on, this is an exquisitely beautiful road trip to take. Your view only continues to be heavenly. You will find on your way, stunning valleys, tiny streams or waterfalls even, landscapes and lots of monasteries that are worth a visit. At above 4,000 meters of altitude, the distance between Manali and Leh is 478 kilometers. This trip shouldn’t take more than 2 days to cover. It is important that you take regular stops as it is a tiring drive with lots of sharp turns. You will also need the breaks to adjust to the high altitude. You can either stop over at Keylong or further up at Sarchu to rest. You’ll find both food and accommodation here. The best time to take Manali to Leh road trip would be between June and September .

2. Mumbai to Goa

Often hailed as a road trip of a lifetime, this is a favorite among Mumbaikars. This is a road trip especially popular among the youth, all thanks to ‘ Dil Chahta Hai ’. If you haven’t taken a ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ style road trip with your friends, are they even your friends? NH17 is an extremely picturesque and smooth , a pleasure to drive on. Bikers love riding on this road. With a distance of a little over 590 kilometers, this road trip should take you 10 hours approximately. Most people take a break in Chiplun . There are several food joints throughout so food wouldn’t be an issue.

The best time to take this trip would be from September to March .

3. Chennai to Pondicherry

Nothing compares to a smooth drive by the beautiful sea as you jam to your favorite songs with your loved ones. Only taking up a mere 4 hours , you can take this short little road trip with the most stunning views from Chennai to the white town of Pondicherry. Make a stop in the town of Mahabalipuram renowned for its historical monuments and beaches. The distance is approximately 570 kilometers . The best time to make the trip is between October and February .  

4. Darjeeling to Pelling

If you want to enjoy the captivating views of lush, green tea gardens and endless mountains you should take a road trip between Darjeeling to Pelling. Only 72 kilometers apart, this is a small trip that won’t take much time. The best time to visit is March – June , and September – December . Replete with food joints , you can stop anywhere for a quick snack. With the best tea to offer, stop at any tea garden for a heavenly cup of piping hot tea .

Read More, List of best places to visit in northeast India

5. Mumbai to Mount Abu

With delightful views and good roads, this trip will you offer you a little of everything – you’ll pass through urban cities to small villages. The most interesting aspect of your trip would be that you’ll pass through Mumbai, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. You will experience 3 different cultures in a single trip. You can enjoy a grand variety of food on the way. With a distance of 765 kilometers, this journey can be made within 12 hours via NH48 Go between July – October and enjoy the greenery and mountains covered in mist that you shall see on your way.

6. Bangalore to Bandipur Forest

If you are a nature lover , this is the trip for you. Take a trip through the lush green forests of Bandipur National Park and enjoy the arresting views of dense woods on both sides. Don’t be surprised if you encounter animals such as langurs, mongoose, deer, even tigers on your drive. Deer are spotted in abundance. The distance is around 235 kilometers long and will take up to 5 hours of travel time. Studded with food joints on the way, you can stop to break wherever you like. Please note that driving through the forest isn’t permitted after sunset so you must plan your trip accordingly.

October – May is reportedly the best time to visit.

7. Jaipur to Ranthambore

Take this scenic trip from the Pink City to Ranthambore for beautiful mustard fields, open blue skies and stunning landscapes that form your view. Take the State Highway 24 which is a delight to drive on. You will pass through several tiny villages. Stop at Bassi for a quick lunch and visit the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary . This road trip is at a stretch of 145 kilometers .

8. Guwahati to Tawang

This trip would be incomplete without the mention of a road trip to the northeast. Just as challenging the road trip from Guwahati to Tawang is, the jaw-dropping views you shall witness on the way make it worth it. It is a tough terrain to drive on with ample twists and turns, but with every turn, you take the mesmerizing view of the snow-clad mountains and the deep valleys only keep getting better. With a distance of 521 kilometers , it’ll take you 10-12 hours to complete the trip. Although a long and strenuous journey, you can take as many stops as you like. Make a stop in the pretty valley town of Dirang and visit the several monasteries there. On the way, you will find a lot of food options. Do gorge on the amazing momos !

March -October happens to be the best time to undertake this journey.

9. Puri to Konark

The distance between Puri to Konark is 35 kilometers via Marine drive. This whole route has beautiful views. Chilika Lake, Shree Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple, Puri Beach and handicrafts of Pipli are some destinations in Puri and Konark that you can visit during your trip. 

The best time to go on Puri to Konark road trip is from October to February. During this time the weather is very pleasant.

10. Gangtok to Nathula pass

Nathula pass is 56 kilometers away from Gangtok. Usually, this road trip takes 1 day and you can also visit Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir on this road trip.

Every year, an Indo-Chinese trade market runs from 1st June to 30th September at a place called  Sherathang  about 3kms below Nathula pass. This market only operates from Monday to Thursday every week. 

Do keep in mind that Nathula Pass is only open for Indian visitors for 5 days a week that is Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays. That means, it is closed on Monday & Tuesday for Indian visitors.

11. Shimla to Manali

Shimla to Manali is one of the most scenic road trips in India. You can go for a road trip from Shimla to Manali via NH205 and NH3 highways. The distance between Shimla to Manali is 247 km and it will take 7 to 8 hours to cover this distance.

You can see grand Himalayan mountains on one side of the road and deep green valley on the other side of the road during your road trip. Try to start your journey early in the morning to avoid driving in Nights. We will recommend you take a local driver or cab.

12. Chennai to Munnar

The best route that you can take from Chennai to Munnar is Chennai-Trichy-Dindigul-Udumalai-Munnar. This route is about 620 km long and has mesmerizing beauty.

The best time to travel via this route is monsoon and winter season. Munnar is famous for its green tea estates, beautiful waterfalls, pristine lakes, and exotic scenery.

13. Jaipur to Jaisalmer

You can witness the beautiful sand dunes, camel caravans, temples, forts, palaces, and many more things during your Jaipur to Jaisalmer road trip. You need at least 3 days off to enjoy this one of the popular road trips in India.

The best time to go for a Jaipur Jaisalmer road trip is from November to March. Try this route Jaipur> Ajmer>Pushkar>Jodhpur> Jaisalmer to enjoy your road trip fully.

14. Pamban bridge to Rameshwaram

This Pamban bridge to Rameshwaram road trip is about 12 km but trust me it is one of the memorable road trips in India. The Pamban bridge connects the Mandapam, India to Pamban Island and Rameswaram island.

This railway bridge is also there which is parallel to this road. You can enjoy beautiful sea-view, Railway bridge view and this excellent piece of civil work.

15. Shillong to Cherrapunji

Shillong to Cherrapunji is one of our personal favorite road trips in India. The total distance between Shillong to Cherrapunji is 54km but it will take a whole day on this route. This is because of the beauty of this route. The Shillong to Cherrapunji road has some mesmerizing places to visit which you can’t miss. There are many waterfalls on this route that are must-visit.

16. Bangalore to Ooty

The distance between Bangalore to Ooty is about 277km via NH275 then Mysore-Ooty Road. This is the best route to reach Ooty from Bangalore. The Mysore-Ooty Road has beautiful scenic views.

There are 3 seasons to visit Ooty- Summer season from March to June, the monsoon season from July to September, and the winter season from October to February. Many travelers love the road trip during monsoon. But we will not recommend this as it is risky to travel during heavy rains.

17. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

Araku is the beautiful hill station located at a distance of 120 km from Vizag which is as popular as the beaches of Vizag. The road trip from Vizag to Araku valley starts at the NAD junction of Vizag. It has beautiful scenic beauty.

Read More,  Best Road Trips to Take From Delhi Before taking a road trip, make sure to get your vehicle checked thoroughly. Make sure that it is in good condition and have a functional Stepney tucked away in the trunk in case of an emergency. Stocking up on snacks and water bottles is always a good idea.

If you have motion sickness, medicines for nausea will be a lifesaver. Carry a camera along, there will be several scenic spots where you might want to stop at and snap a picture of you with the sunset. Keeping a map, chewing gum, sunglasses, portable charger etc handy can be helpful.

But the most important of all is, the thing without which all road trips are impossible, is music! Make sure you pack up good music so that you can jam along to tunes your favorites as you drive along. What are your road trip essentials?

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20 Best Road Trips in India

India is a massive country and through its annals lays several great venues that seduce the wanderlust souls with the promise of adventure and fun. Are you a biker who finds music in the hurl of the engine and the love the scene of long winding roads on serene countryside’s that are alluring?

Then you will definitely find your next destination for the best road trips in India in this post. So, start your engines…

1. Manali to Leh Highway

Distance : 479 KM

Time : 2 Days

National Highways : Leh Manali Higway

A stretch of road that has been immortalized on the silver screen by various Bollywood movies with famous actors and actresses dancing to their heart’s content on this beautiful road. Words fail to describe the beauty of the Manali to Leh highway drive and one must be there to witness its beauty in all its snowy glory. The image of the dark grey moist road against the snowy hill slopes and the azure blue backdrop is what road trip dream are made of. Hop on your trusty motorbike or an open roofed Jeep, so that the no glimpses of the sights are missed.

The road spans over a total of 479 km and has a mean altitude of 3 to 4 km above sea level. The road conditions are safe and remain open for 5 months during the summer up until mid of October . The total journey on road should take 2 days and has one stopover for acclimatization and rest.

Also Read : Complete Guidelines for Your Ladakh Road Trip

Suggested Tour : 9 Days - Road Trip to Leh Ladakh from Manali

2. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

Distance : 116 KM

Time : 3 hrs

What could be more picturesque than the meeting of the massive of seas of the Bay of Bengal with the majestic Eastern Ghats? This favorable meet of the ocean with the mountains creates for a wonderful experience of those wanting to take a weekend road trip. The union city of Visakhapatnam never fails to charm its guests with its unique beauty and then there is Araku Valley that is led up to by curving roads carved in between majestic green hills, under the grey sky with the smell of fresh flora in the air there to accompany you on your drive up.

The road is of 116 km and is dotted with interesting sights such as the Borra Caves and Tatipudi Reservoir on the way. The best time to take the trip would be from October to March .

3. Mumbai To Pune Expressway

Distance : 93 KM

Time : 2 Hrs

National Highways : Mumbai Pune Expressway

Many who live in the busy city of Mumbai think of Lonavala whenever they think of a road trip. And rightfully so, as it is a beautiful weekend spot for almost anyone who loves picturesque surrounding of mountains, soft breezes of the high altitude, a laid back vibe, lush green foliage all around and to bite the juicy chikki fruit which is a local favorite. The Mumbai to Pune expressway leads up to Lonavala which in 93 km long and allows for cabs and buses and private cars to ply, to and fro.

While two wheeler are only allowed on the old Mumbai Highway which is also a road in good shape with similar picturesque views leading up to the hills. But the relatively new expressway offers for a better driving experience. You also get stops at popular eateries to stuff your mouth with tasty north Indian food at places like Sunny Da Dhaba and The Kinara Village Dhaba, which have old school dhaba ambience to match with the food.

Also Read : Best Weekend Getaways from Mumbai

4. Manali to Shimla via Mandi

Distance : 250 KM

Time : 4 Hrs

Before, you claim this is too cliché, know that clichés are overly popularized for a reason. The Shimla to Manali road trip is one of the most relaxing long drives you will ever take amidst the hills along the curving roads leading up to the beautiful hill station. The River Beas accompanies throughout the stretch of the road as you drive through verdant greenery of the smooth road that bisects the mountains. If you are tired from all the driving then just get off any time and soak your feet in the ice-cold water of the river to wake from your drowsy drive and splash around to bring the inner child out. You haven’t taken a Himachal vacation unless you have at least a couple of selfies of you playing in the water during your ride between Shimla to Manali.

Recommended tour : 15 Days - Delhi Agra Jaipur with Himachal Tour

5. Tawang from Guwahati by Road

Distance : 520 KM

Time : 10 Hrs

These two are must visit spots when you are in the Northeast. While the drive is long and challenging, it is equally worth it for those who have a love for the roads and the hum of a bike or a car. The road trip is a long one needing 10 hours of drive, but there are several good places to stop and stretch and straighten your feet that makes it comfortably doable . Spread across a beautiful terrain of mountain roads, the 520 km journey makes it worth the time and effort.

6. Pondicherry from Chennai

Distance : 160 KM

Time : 3Hrs

National Highways : NH32

Take the route along the east coast road, which is ideal for those riding a bike. Even Chetan Bhagat the author speaks highly of the road as he has written about it in his book. This is one unique stretch that is accompanied by the sea alongside the long winding road to the beautiful city of Pondicherry. Make sure to keep your camera handy as the changing height of the sun and its reflections on the sea will make it a must to click photos to immortalize the beautiful memories that will be this trip.

This is surely one of the most beautiful roads in India perfect for a road trip around the year. The road stretches up to 160 km and passes through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram. It takes a total of 3 wonderful hours to map the road, with other interesting sites lining it like Idaikkazhinadu (Alamparai Fort aka Alambara Fort), Kalpakkam (nuclear plant), Mudaliarkuppam (boat house with sporting facility), Marakkanam (large salt pans) and more.

Also Read : About Pondicherry – A Little France in India

Suggested Tour

• Full Day - Pondicherry Trip from Chennai
• 12 Days - South India Temple Tour

7. Konark from Puri

Distance : 36 KM

Time : 1 Hr

National Highways : NH 203

A road trip perfect for those artistic tree lined photographs, the beautiful canopy formed over the slim road that leads up to the historic town is truly a sight to behold. The soft misty breeze from the nearby ocean mixed with the woody smell of the handsome forest that lines the road will make for a great road trip experience with the perfect romantic ambience. This stretch is quite short of only 36 km and can be covered in only an hour, but you would want to savor the journey and wish for it to stretch a little longer.

8. Bandipur Forest to Bangalore

Distance : 235 KM

Time : 5 Hrs

National Highways : NH766

No list of road trips would ever be complete without a mention of a road trip that goes along a forest path. The route to Bangalore via the Bandipur Forest is the most beautiful road trip you can have in India, when it comes to drives through the forest. You may also take up this road when travelling to Ooty from Mysore, passing through Bandipur National Park . You can have road trips in a car with an open sun roof, playing Antakshari or other fun road trip games while enjoying the enchanting views outside. This is perhaps the most charming highway in the whole country and it would be a mistake to miss out on this road trip.

The road is 235 km long in total and takes about 5 hours of drive . However, you can get off and stretch your legs and fill up on snacks along the way, like at McDonalds or other cafes.

Also : Top Places to Visit Near Bangalore within 200 Kms

Suggested Tour : 11 Days - Karnataka and Kerala Tour

9. Gangtok to Nathula Pass through Lake Tsomgo

Distance : 55 KM

While the north east still remains largely unexplored, if you are keen on visiting a land pristine and untouched by the humdrum of tourism, then this is it. The north east offers some of the most picturesque sites for road trips, where the main beauty of the road is the uncertainty of the terrain. The trip to Lake Tsomgo from Gangtok also called as Changu Lake is a trip of a lifetime. From Gangtok Nathu-La Pass is about 55 km long and Tsomgo Lake is on the way and falls at 39 km from Gangtok .

• 4 Days - Gangtok Tour Packages
• 7 Days - Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Packages

10. Shimla to Manali Via Spiti and Kinnaur

Distance : 640 KM

Time : 17 Hrs

While the drive through Mandi is great, this is the more recommended route to Manali from Shimla. You should totally take this trip if the road travel itself is the highlight of your journey. Go through the picturesque valleys and passes with green mountains surrounding you through Kalpa, Sangla valley and the higher altitude areas that have a unique beauty like Nako Valley, Chango, and Ropa.

Suggested Tour :

• 6 Days - Shimla Manali Tour Packages
• 15 Days - Golden Triangle with Himachal Tour

11. Chennai to Munnar

Distance : 600 KM

National Highways : NH79

Chennai is never cold, but if you want to spend a weekend chilling under a cozy blanket then your best bet would be to drive up to Munnar . The long road trip will definitely refresh you for your pleasant stay at the peaceful hill station . The trip can take 10 hours of driving to map the distance of 600 km from the city to Munnar , but there are several great stops to rest and the drive is equally exciting as scenes change from the car window from the busyness of the streets of the city to the verdant greenery that line the canopy on your uphill drive.

Munnar Travel Guide :

• How to Reach Munnar
• Best Time To Visit Munnar
• Tourist Attractions in Munnar

Suggested Tour : 10 Days - Best of Kerala Tour

12. Jaipur to Jaisalmer

Distance : 559 KM

Time : 9 Hrs

National Highways : NH11

Yet another classic that might seem cliché but is unmatchable is the road trip from Jaipur to Jaisalmer, the desert city of Rajasthan. The road trip is the best opportunity to witness the changing colors of Rajasthan as you go through the various villages. The drive would also be a wonderful experience as the roads are in great conditions offering a smooth driving experience. We recommend taking the RJ SH 19, which is the best route to travel to Jaiselmer from the pink city of Jaipur. You can stop at Jodhpur for some refreshments as your car would need to fill up too. Authentic Rajasthani cuisine is available throughout the route in charming stalls with rustic ambience so, this is one stretch of a drive where would not be hungry.

Jaisalmer Travel Guide:

• Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
• Shopping in Jaisalmer
• How To Reach Jaisalmer
• What to Eat in Jaisalmer

Suggested Tour : 8 Days - Rajasthan Tour from Delhi

13. Delhi to Agra through Yamuna Expressway

Distance : 233 KM

National Highways : Taj Express Highway

A seldom mentioned long drive from the heart of the capital city to the city of the Taj, Agra is definitely one of the best road trip stretches! The Yamuna Expressway is probably the best road in the entire country, its long and wide and in perfect conditions for that hassle free driving experience, a must visit for all lovers of the road. This is an easy day trip from the capital city, where you can visit the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort and other areas and still be back to your cozy bed by the night.

The good road conditions make it easy to cover the 165 km of the route in a couple of hours. However, getting to the expressway from the city itself takes a drive of 60 km which should easily add another hour to your trip or even more. A good tip to keep in mind is to check your tire air pressure, fast driving on the road can cause too much heat that often causes tires to burst and can be dangerous. So, it is ideal to keep the tire air pressure filled at less than normal levels.

Another point to note is to pack in as much food and snacks and beverages as necessary because there are no delicious dhabas lining the expressway. There are a few small eateries that sell snacks after the toll gate, but they are not comparable to the cozy atmosphere and the filling food available in the dhabas.

Best tours packages for Road trips:-

• 2 Days Agra Taj Mahal tour By Car From Delhi
• Same Day Taj Mahal Tour By Car From Delhi
• Overnight Agra Tour

Read More : Top 20 Places to Visit Near Delhi: Weekend Getaway

Suggested Tour : 4 Days - Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour

Golden Triangle Tour - Cover Delhi, Agra & Jaipur

Must read : What is Golden Triangle Tour India and Why its famous?

14. Pamban Bridge to Rameshwaram

Distance : 13 KM

Time : 20 Min

National Highways : NH87

Perhaps the most picturesque drive through in the country, the feeling of whooshing through the long bridge that travels over the vast expanse of the ocean, with the wind in your hair. Such a drive would definitely be one of the best on-road experiences to indulge in and refresh your spirit. A simple 20 minutes ride on the 13.5 km long stretch of the bridge is worth a million but comes for absolutely free. This is a must do if you are a roadster in search of fun.

Also Read : Travel from Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari

15. Shilong to Cherrapunjee

Distance : 54 KM

National Highways : SH5

A small yet exciting daytrip destination to drive from Shilong, with all the dazzles of drizzling rain on the mountain road, rainbows over massive waterfalls, some of the most exciting caves , a beautiful panoramic view of lush hill top greenery all around you, and even stops for food along the way. This usually takes 1-2 hours to just drive and come back, without any stops or traffic. Most people cover it by car only.

16. Mumbai to Goa

Distance : 609 KM

National Highways : NH66

Much revered as the Father of the Indian road trip, from the busy city streets of Mumbai, drive towards, sun, sand and fun on a smooth road with green scenic views outside the window lining the width of the stretch. It takes 10 hours of great driving experience to go to Goa from Mumbai; on the infamous NH66 highway which is as silky as creamed butter spread on the earth that just lures your car towards worry-free travels. Also there are several great eateries lining the stretch of the route so, you will never be hungry or bored.

Also Read : Best Weekend Getaways from Goa

• 5 Days - Mumbai With Goa Tour
• 9 day Golden Triangle Tour with Goa

17. Jaipur from Delhi

Distance : 281 KM

National Highways : NH48

Yet another classic when it comes to road trips in India , you can watch the majestic Aravallis approach as you drive through the lanes of the most colorful towns and villages of Rajasthan and land at its capital – the pink city of Jaipur . The drive will be a great experience undoubtedly as this route is one of the most well-maintained one in the country. There are also several restaurants lining the way that will make the journey great.

Also Read : Top 10 Weekend Gateways Near Delhi

Suggested Tour : 3 Days - Private Jaipur Tour From Delhi

18. Kolkata to Digha

Distance : 180 KM

Time : 3 Hrs

National Highways : NH16 and NH116B

Ask any Kolkatan and the first response from them about road trips would be to cover this iconic stretch. The roads are in good condition, lined by greenery of paddy fields and mustard fields all around. And what’s better is that a little farther from Digha lies several other beach villages where the only way to drive and reach is to drive along the beach watching the waves crash on the shores a few kilometers away.

The road stretches for 180 km and will usually take up to 3 hours to reach the destination. There are plenty of dhabas and Bengali sweet shops along the way, so, you won’t go hungry while driving.

Read More : 20 Exciting Places to Visit in Kolkata

19. Mumbai to Mount Abu

Distance : 758 KM

Time : 13 Hrs

For those looking for some peace and quiet away from the never ending hustle of the city life, and the deafening early morning alarms and bursts of short-lived caffeinated energy; this is the road trip to take. The best place for Mumbaikers to unwind and relax, is Mount Abu , which is a short drive away. Drive through the NH 48 to Mount Abu via Vadodara and Ahmedabad, along the long 758 km . It will take a tiring 13 hour long drive, but there are plenty of options to stretch your legs, eat and rest or take short breaks along the way.

Also Read : Weekend Destinations Near Mumbai

Suggested Tour : 11 Days - Rajasthan Tour from Mumbai

20. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore

Distance : 278 KM

Time : 6 Hrs

National Highways : NH275

Ooty is the queen of hill stations in India , nestled amidst the green Nilgiri Hills. Any lover of the road must take this journey whether on car or a motor bike to witness the sun-kissed beauty and the verdant greenery that changes with every mile you cross. The combination of dark asphalt surrounded by the leafy green is one of the best, and it is best experienced along this stretch. Explore the forests of Bandipur along with the historic places of Mysore enroute.

Also Read :

• Best Weekend Getaways from Bangalore
• Complete Info about Ooty

Suggested Tour : 6 Days - Bangalore Mysore Ooty Karnataka Tour

India is blessed with diversity in its culture, terrain and definitions of beauty. So, the best way to experience this truly unique country is to explore as much as you can in the simplest ways to understand the honest charm of the land.

Craving to listen to the hum of your car or bike on the road, then put it to gear and off you go! Adventure waits…

Related Packages

5 Days - Rajasthan Tour - Jaipur Pushkar Mount Abu

4 Days - Madurai Rameshwaram Kanyakumari Temple Tour

10 Days - Nepal Tour Packages

7 Days - Lakshadweep Tour from Kerala

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5 Days - Itinerary of Lakshadweep Tour

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7 best road trips in India for you to take the wheel

7 Best Road Trips in India

With our guide of the 7 best road trips in India we encourage you to take the wheel and hit the road.

Discover new places in the arcadian settings of the western ghats or in the eternal beauty of the north east or the legendary old silk road..

For an innate traveller, travelling is a besetting vice. Like all other vices, it is imperious, demanding its victim’s time, money, energy and the sacrifice of comfort.

Complete the pages of your wanderlust diaries as you drive through some of the 7 best road trips in India until you find something by chance that truly tugs at your heart.

NH4, Mumbai-Pune Expressway

Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Western Ghats amidst the captivating background of high mountain ranges, lush green fields, waterfalls streaming down from great heights and the railway cars chugging on the other side of the higher peaks, the Mumbai- Pune Expressway provides for a thrilling driving experience.

It is no wonder that it finds a place among the best road trips in India .

It is a 93-km-long six-lane highway, passing through the idyllic towns of Lonavala, Khandala and Kamshet before ending up in the suburbs of Navi Mumbai.

After starting your journey from Pune, stop at Lonavala for some photo-worthy moments, savour the delicious “chikki,” or if your stomach starts growling then try some delectable food options at Sunny Da Dhaba or The Kinara Village Dhaba.

Lastly, zoom your way to Mumbai through the four ultra-long tunnels to make your ride an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for?

Bangalore to bandipur forest, escape the humdrum of city life as you hit the pedal on this route, which passes through bandipur national park – recognized as one of the most well-preserved national parks of india- and is considered one of the 7 best road trips in india..

As you pass through the forest ranges, enjoy the coolness in the air, the windswept roads, the mild chorus of birds and a sublime quietness that’s invigorating and necessary for a healthy body and soul.

Here, the journey itself becomes the destination, where you would want to stop for a while and lie down under the cool shade of trees, enjoy the faint cuckooing of birds amidst sun-dappled forests.

What can be more rewarding than this sort of out-of-this-world experience?

Old Silk Route, Kalimpong to Zuluk

Visiting north east is always on the bucket list of every travelholic..

The lush valleys, white snowy mountain tops, and rich tea gardens seem so inviting that it never fails to catch the fancy of a long-drive addict or a recommendation among the best road trips in India.

Catching these fantasies for generations is the Old Silk Route, connecting Kalimpong, West Bengal , to Zuluk, Sikkim , which once connected India to Tibet.

Travel to this Far East corner of India to witness mesmerising sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga range, zigzagging your way through 32 hairpin bends to reach to the top.

There are many vantage points on the way up from where you can see the valley in its iridescent hues. Thambi Viewpoint, at an altitude of 11,200ft, is considered the best sunrise viewpoint along the Silk Route, where sun, nature and mountain peaks play a kaleidoscopic game of hide and seek.

Isn’t this nature’s play a good enough reason to visit Zuluk? Engage the hodophile (lover of roads) in you and take to the roads to experience life in all its colours.

Chalakudy to Valparai, Western Ghats

Looking for a nascent route to do a trip take the drive along the border route of chalakudy in kerala and valparai in tamil nadu and experience for yourself why it is mentioned as one of the best road trips in india..

Situated amidst the green belt cover of the border areas of both the states, the route passes through beautiful rain forests of the Western Ghats, waterfalls, umpteen curves, verdant tea estates, wildlife and oodles of greenery.

Swathes of green-carpeted expanse will leave you contented and in sync with nature. Since this route comes under forest reserves, it is only open from sunrise to sunset. It has the highest populations of elephants and tigers.

The scenic spots include Sholayar dam, the Vazhachal falls and the ‘Niagara of Kerala – the Athirapally Falls’ are icing on the cake. Driving on these meandering roads, with only greenery in sight, one experiences an overwhelming sense of awe that is hard to put down in words. So, go ahead and take the wheel.

Guwahati to Tawang

It is said that the spirituality and peace one experiences at a monastery is an incomparable feeling.

Explore the pristine beauty of the North East as you embark on this route to Tawang – home to stunning monasteries of India- and a consistent winner in the best road trips in the India category.

The snow-clad mountains, mist-laden roads, and clear skies make for an ultimate, unhurried adventure, where you can just drive without worrying to reach anywhere. It’s advisable to be careful while driving on this route, as it’s a high-altitude zone.

It’s extremely beautiful and, yes, the ride is challenging. Interested? Then set off for the trip, engage yourself in the eternal beauty of this monastery town, and figure out why this route is such a regular among the best road trips in India.

Srinagar to Leh

The srinagar – leh highway is one of the most revered biking/driving destinations in india and even the world..

Driving on this highway is like a dream come true. It’s said that one should definitely drive through the tough terrains of this route for an experience of a lifetime.

It’s also called the “the Indian Grand Canyon.” The highway runs alongside the Indus River and passes through three high mountain passes. It is situated at an extremely high altitude of more than 12,000 ft and is perfectly cast among the best road trips in India.

Experience the rugged landscape of this region, in its brown rolling mountains, bright green oasis of rivers surrounding villages, century-old monasteries perched atop rocky cliffs, as you swerve your way through narrow steep ascents, badly broken stretches, water streams, and handle slush and pass through the high passes, finally arriving in Leh.

Think you can brave up to this challenge? Well go ahead and plan a trip, who knows it might become one of your most cherished memories of life.

Chennai to Pondicherry, East Coast Road

If you’re an adventure seeker, then you should coast from chennai to pondicherry along the east coast road, which overlooks the bay of bengal for the entire stretch of your journey..

Sounds interesting enough to be considered a contender among the best road trips in India? Yes, indeed it is.

Imagine your entire journey would pass coasting along the beautiful azure waters, with rugged brown mountains surmounting you from the other side of the road. Experience this contrast of life, with panoramic views as you drive with your car’s engine at full throttle.

The unending vastness of the ocean spreads throughout the horizon, with nothing but only clear waters in sight, reflecting the crisp blueness of the skies. The numinous beauty of the landscape will make you feel heady with excitement. Truly beautiful, isn’t it?

Well, for a thrilling driving experience, a 3-hour night ride on this route is highly recommended to experience the serene sight of moon glade, but beware of those treacherous curvaceous bends.

Read More: Discover Your India

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Bucket List - 10 Road Trips to Cover All of India

Road Trips are the best way to explore the unknown with in you and outside. Not only it allows you to customize your itinerary the way you want but also it gives you complete freedom to visit places where no one else goes. India is a big beautiful country and to travel by road on one go you will need to spend a lot of days and of course huge fortune. To keep it less hectic and more fun for a middle class traveler. Let me put 10 road trips on the plate which will help one to know this country from all directions. Even after a lot of cuts and shortenings, these trips are very long road trips but you can always select one segment of one trip and cover remaining other segment in your next trip but you can trust one one thing that it will feed your hunger to travel for quite a long time as you can plan these trips with family friends or your special one and then again repeat it.

1. Leh & Srinagar:

12-18 days, 2500km, may - nov.

Delhi – Jammu (1Nt) – Srinagar (3Nt) – Kargil (1Nt) – Ladakh (3Nt) – Manali (2Nt) – Delhi

This route does not need any introduction. Leh is a dream destination for all road lovers. Traveling in between snowy peaks of himalaya on the highest motorable road is an experience in itself. This does exist in bucket list of each and every road trip enthusiast. You can always clip this circuit to Leh-Manali-Leh or Srinagar-Leh-Manali as most of the group bike tours are planned in this region only. Knowledge to keep in hand is outsiders rented vehicles are not allowed to travel with in Leh so plan your expenses and itinerary accordingly.

You can find tonnes of information available on internet for itinerary planning. Group bike tours are also available through tourist agencies which are safer and a good way to mingle with like minded people. A general notion is that this circuit is for adventure enthusiast only but if you are planning it with a family or child it is equally beautiful. However it is advised to have thorough knowledge of AMS and prefer to travel by SUV.

2. East Coast:

10 - 15 days, 2000 km, nov - feb.

Chennai – Mahabalipuram (1Nt) – Pondicherry (2Nt) – Pichavaram -Rameshwaram (2Nt) – Kanyakumari (2Nt) – Munnar (2Nt) – Yelagiri (1Nt) - Chennai

While watching Chennai Express, you must be secretly desiring to experience the journey of Shahrukh and Deepika. Here is your chance to drive on glorious Pamban Bridge over the sea. Road conditions are pretty good and all the en-route destinations are well known for its scenic beauty and traditional culture. Food is scrumptious if you chose to eat at right places.

You will experience unaltered ancient dravid culture as you go south. This trip will start with serene views of east coast road along with one of a kind ancient coastal town of Mahabalipuram and it will conclude at jaw dropping tea states of nilgiri hills in Munnar.

3. West Coast:

10 – 15 days, 2500 km, nov-feb.

Agonda– Karwar - Gokarna(1Nt) – Udupi(1Nt) – Coorg(1Nt) – Wayanad(1Nt) – Alleppey(1Nt) – Kovalam(1Nt) – Kodaikanal(1Nt) - Ooty(2N) – Mysore – Chikmagalur (1Nt) - Agonda

It includes everything a traveler wishes for; Serene beaches of Gokarna and Kovalam, breathtaking ghats at Wayanad, heavenly food at Coorg, backwaters of Alleppey, glorious stories of Mysore and hill towns of Kodaikanal and Ooty.

Goa or Bangalore is a perfect place to start the journey. Monsoon is a good season to experience the best of the northern region of the circuit while southern region is best explored in winters.All and all October to December is the perfect to treasure the spellbinding beauty of the region.

Must Read: Road trip from India

5. Road to Bhutan:

7 - 10 days, 1000 km, oct–apr.

Siliguri – Phuentsholing(1Nt) – Paro(2Nt) - Punakha(1Nt) – Gangtey - Thimphu(1Nt) – Gorumara(1Nt) – Siliguri

Indian passport holders do not need visa to visit Bhutan and it is easily accessible by road too. You can hire car or bike from Siliguri and ride it in Bhutan for a week, only country to rank Gyalyong Gakid Palzom, or Gross National Happiness (GNH), above GDP.

For more enthusiastic traveller, continue forward from Punakha and exit to Guwahati on the other side of the map. Tiger Nest at Paro is one of the most beautiful treks in the world and visited by thousands of travelers.

6. Western Ghats:

7 day, 1000 km, jun - nov.

Mumbai – Lonavala(Della)(1Nt) – Satara - Ratnagiri(1Nt)– Chiplun - Mahabaleshwar(2Nt) – Tamhini – Kolad(Rafting)– Khopoli(Imagica)(1Nt) – Mumbai

It is a list of weekend getaways for Mumbaikars which you can keep in your bucket list for each weekend of Monsoon. For others, you may have to do it in one go. Follow me on one thing, that is to visit western ghats in rainy season strictly and I can guarantee that you will return here every year. Mumbai or Pune is ideal base camp to explore the region. These are the places where journey is more beautiful than destinations.

Visit Imagica and Della Adventures for some fun activities on the way. While exploring these unimaginably beautiful ghats you may find breathtaking small towns. Do not hesitate to spend a night or two in such innate places.

6. Royal Rajasthan:

10–12 days, 2400 km, nov–feb.

Delhi – Jaipur(2Nt) – Pushkar – Ajmer(1Nt) – Jodhpur(2Nt) – Jaisalmer(1Nt) – Mt Abu(1Nt) - Udaipur(2Nt) – Ranthambore(1Nt) – Delhi

Royalty of Rajasthan is not only popular among local tourists, most of the foreign tourists visit India to experience the rich culture of this Rajputana State. Winters are ideal season to enjoy the traditional hospitality.

This circuit can be completed either way, starting from Ranthambore or starting from Jaipur. Udaipur and Jaisalmer are the highlights of the trip, concluding it with a jungle camp and safari is a perfect way to end the long journey.

7. Road to Himalayas:

7 - 10 days, 1400 km, mar – sep.

Delhi – Rishikesh(1Nt) – Dehradun – Mussoorie(2Nt) – Chakrata – Auli(1Nt) – Kinnaur*(2Nt) - Spiti(1Nt) - Kufri – Shimla(2Nt) – Solan – Delhi

This is quite an impractical circuit and it is highly recommended to gather all the information which you can for the Kinnaur to Spiti leg because most of the time roads are closed and even when it is open conditions are not very good. Hill towns along the way are insanely raw and disconnected with outer world.

Tick your bucket list for river rafting and bungee jumping at Rishikesh at the start of the circuit and enjoy the journey along the small towns of sacred Uttarakhand. A shortcut is moving directly from Auli to Kufri.

8. Valley of Flowers:

7 – 10 days, 1200 km, may – sep.

Delhi – Lansdowne(1Nt) – Chopta – Valley Of Flowers(2Nt) – Kausani(1Nt) – Almora – Ranikhet(1Nt) – Nainital(1Nt) – Delhi

Valley of Flowers is a lifetime experience in itself. It is a complete package of road trip, trekking and camping in wild. You will need to do medium level trekking to reach to the valley. It remains open for a very short period of year.

While returning spend a day or two along the beautiful naini lake relaxing your legs after a the hard time of trekking.

9. Sikkim – Old Silk Route:

10 – 15 days, 800 km, may – nov.

Siliguri – Darjeeling(2Nt) – Pelling(1Nt) – Ravangla - Gangtok(3Nt) – Lachung(2Nt) – Nathula – Zuluk(1Nt) – Kalimpong(1Nt) – Siliguri

My personal favorite is silk route which was used for trading from china to western and middle eastern countries. It is one of the most scenic routes on himalayas with a lot of hairpin bends. Sikkim is a cocktail of north eastern mix with other indian culture.

Restricted Area Permit will be required to travel to Lachung, Nathula and Zuluk (Silk Route) which can be obtained at Gangtok. Keep a day spare in Gangtok for arranging same.

10. North East Road Trip:

10 – 15 days, 2000 km, mar – oct.

Guwahati – Tawang(2N) – Kaziranga(1N) – Majuli(1N) – Kohima(2N) – Haflong(1N) – Dawki – Cherrapunji(1N) – Shillong(2) – Guwahati

To explore all the hidden gems in one go, a road trip of 2000 km passing through all major states of north east india is perfect. It will definitely take a long of time as traveling after sunset is not advisable except near Shillong.

A trip from Guwahati to Tawang is a challenge in itself as weather conditions are extreme and you will find very few resources on the way. This region is volatile so better have a good knowledge of current affairs in the region and do not be too dependent on internet.

All above trips are designed with a proper research and analysis. However each circuit needs a detailed preparation of your own. Road trips always need some advance preparation for your vehicle, family and your own self (driver). You can also plan partial circuits and remaining destinations can be covered in during next trip as life is long and we have to keep traveling no matter what. Some areas of Gujarat, MP, UP, West Bengal & Orissa are not included in any of the trips because it consists of individual tourist spots which are difficult to link with each other but small trips of Araku Valley, Rann of Kutch, Golden Triangle of Agra, Puri and Kolkata and cultural circuit of Kashi, Khajuraho & Sanchi can also be planned with very little amount of research.

Happy Travelling!

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5 most scenic roads in India for road trips

If you are a fan of road trips then consider these 5 most beautiful and picturesque routes in india for your next road trip vacation..

The immense natural beauty along India's highways is one of the country's most magnificent attractions. The country is known for its natural scenery and diverse landscapes. India's scenery is as distinctive as they come, with everything from the Himalayas to the beaches, from tropical green forests to scorching deserts, and rivers to magnificent hills and driving across it can be both an adventure and a wonderful learning experience. (Also read: Travel Diaries : India's most amazing jungle getaways )

Road travels provide a chance to experience other cities, cultures, and the topography of India. Here are India's top 5 picturesque routes, which you should take into account when planning your next road trip.

1. Manali to Leh

It is regarded as one of India's top bike routes. Travelers from all over the world embark on this road journey to discover the region's stunning beauty. Adventurers adore riding through the crisscrossed terrain. It is made more fascinating by the surrounding snow-capped mountains, distant valleys, and chilly mountain breeze. Some of the most famous passes in Ladakh will come into view as you ride on across the challenging terrain. As you go off on this daring road adventure, take in the breathtaking beauty of this area. The best months to take this trip are from June to September.

Distance covered- 473 km

2. Chennai to Puducherry

The East Coast Road is another name for the road that connects Chennai and Puducherry. The path is made much more enjoyable by the lovely view of the sea on one side and the sun's reflection on the water. You will be able to see the pine trees and feel the sea breeze in addition to the view of the ocean. Almost every mile offers the chance to take a gorgeous snap. It can typically be finished in three to four hours. Consequently, it is the ideal quick weekend road trip in south India. The ideal time to go on this trip is from October to February.

Distance covered - 155 Km

3. Bengaluru to Ooty

The road from Bengaluru to Ooty is renowned for its 36 hairpin turns. Tall trees and luscious green grasses may be found on both sides of the route. Madumalai National Park is a stop-off location on this road that you can visit while driving through it. Numerous acres of tea plantations, magnificent waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes make the route more beautiful. The journey can usually be completed in six hours, and there are plenty of restaurants along the way to keep your tummy satisfied. The months of October through June are the best for taking this vacation.

Distance covered- 278 Km

4. Guwahati to Tawang

One of the absolute must-take road trips in northeast India is Guwahati to Tawang. It is a magical journey with full of mesmerizing sceneries, mountains and lush greenery. The one thing you must remember while taking this road trip is that whether you are an Indian or a foreign national, you must have an Inner Line Permit to enter the State of Arunachal Pradesh. It can be covered in approximately 14 hours. The ideal time to take this road trip is from March to October.

Distance covered - 509 Km

5. Rameswaram to Pamban Bridge

Pamdan Bridge connects Rameswaram Islands with the Indian mainland. It was inaugurated in 1988 and is considered one of the most spectacular highways that you can choose to travel through. In major patches of the sea, you will find magnificent turquoise blue waters of the endless ocean on both sides. The beautiful view that you would want to capture in all frames of mind and having the pleasant breezes blow your hair and calm your mind is an experience no one should ever miss. The road trip is full of adventure, thrills and thorough beauty.

Distance covered - 2,065 m

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Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Road Trips

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Travel Guide

15 best motorcycle road trips in india for every passionate biker, here’re the best bike road trips in india that every passionate motorcycle rider must know..

Travelling in India is not just about staying at different destinations and sightseeing. There are a lot of experiences that come added to it. Today’s generation has defined travelling in a very different way — very different as compared to our forefathers. Unlike the leisure-seeking maniacs, there are those modern-day vagabonds who hunt for adventure and thrill just to have once-in-a-lifetime experiences. In our part of the world, travellers today aren’t just restricted to local transportation to explore the destinations. They now even travel by bikes!

Be it gigantic Himalayan ranges or longish coastlines, bikers are high with enthusiasm to vroom on the country’s most beautiful roads. So, for the country’s all the biking peripatetics, we have compiled a list of the 15 best bike road trips, check them out.

1. Manali to Leh Road Trip

Riding bikes from Manali to Leh is a sure adventure. During this road trip, you will be able to see the real beauty of the Himalayas. Riding a stretch of 473 kilometres at a high altitude (more than 3000–4000 meters) can certainly give you goosebumps. Rohtang La and Khardung La are some of the passes on these routes that are definitely an adventure for any passionate biker.

The Manali to Leh motorcycle tour will mesmerize you with its beautiful landscapes, amazing valleys and picturesque mountains. Out of the total road trip of 473 kilometres, around 150 kilometres ride is a dirt road travel that will test your bike riding capabilities. You can take a night halt at Sarchu, Jispa or Keylong. It usually takes 2 days to fully enjoy this road trip and July to September are the most favourable months to ride here.

2. Manali to Spiti Valley road trip

The road trip from Manali to Spiti Valley is another breathtaking expedition. What surely will attract you here are the beautiful mountain ranges and valleys. The travel distance isn’t much but the terrains are somewhat challenging. You will have to cover a total distance of 196 kilometres and the route will take you through Chhatru, Batal and Pangmo.

Nearly 20 km away from Spiti Valley lies Hikkim village where you can see the ‘World’s Highest Post Office’ — built at an elevation of 4440 meters. During your road trip, you can also opt to take a halt at Chander Taal and enjoy deluxe camping, stargazing and bonfire.

3. Shimla to Manali road trip via Mandi

Both Shimla and Manali are popular tourist destinations in India. And taking a road trip from Shimla to Manali can make your travel more enjoyable. The route via Mandi and Kullu adds more adventure and excitement to this journey. Riding alongside river Beas can be a mind-blowing experience for any motorcycle rider.

During the voyage, you will come across various scenic views, snow-clad mountains and Deodar forests. The distance between Shimla to Manali is 249 kilometres and a biker generally covers it in a day’s time. From Manali, you can also ride to Rohtang Pass (distance is 50 km from Manali) which is at an elevation of 3978 meters.

4. Guwahati to Tawang road trip

If you wish to go on a scenic ride on the eastern terrains of India, Guwahati to Tawang road trip can be the right pick for you. The entire road trip is 509 kilometres long and it takes 10-11 hours to cover this distance. Starting from Guwahati, located in the Assam state, the trip stretches to Tawang, located in the Arunachal Pradesh state.

During this road trip, you also pass through Bhalukpong and Dirang villages. At Dirang, you can visit the LDL Buddhist Monastery. Throughout the ride, you are exposed to the lush green Himalayas and when you are in Tawang, you come across the gigantic Himalayan ranges covered in snow. While on your trip to Tawang, you also pass through the famous Sela Pass, located at an altitude of 4170 meters.

5. Kolkata to Digha road trip

The Kolkata to Digha road trip is another mesmerizing tour in the eastern part of India. It is a 184 kilometres long trip that includes itineraries like Bagnan, Nandkumar and Contai. It usually takes 3-4 hours to cover this road trip. Throughout your ride, you will come across various scenic locations and plenty of restaurants that offer delicious cuisines, including the traditional seafood. Once you are in Digha, don’t forget to spend time with your loved ones on the beachside.

6. Delhi to Agra road trip via Mathura on Yamuna Expressway

Riding from India’s capital city Delhi to one of the ‘ Seven Wonders of the World ‘ — the Taj Mahal — is another delightful tour for motorcycle riders. Vrooming on the Yamuna Expressway can surely add more adventure to this trip but make sure that you don’t violate the speed limits because it is a freeway and taking risks might bring some trouble to you. The Yamuna Expressway starts from Noida and the total distance of the trip is 238 kilometres. Riding via the sacred city of Mathura can be a phenomenal experience for a traveller and once you reach here don’t forget to taste the popular sweet Peda .

7. Delhi to Ranthambore road trip via Jaipur

The Delhi-Jaipur-Ranthambore road trip is 436 kilometres long and usually, it takes 9 hours to cover the distance. We also recommend you to spend some time in the Pink City,  Jaipur to enjoy the ride to the fullest. During your journey, you will pass by the picturesque Aravalli hills and along the route, you will find plenty of Rajasthani Dhabas to please your taste buds.

When in Jaipur, you should visit the popular Amber Fort and ride in the walled city (Old Jaipur) to experience the Rajasthani culture. On your way to Sawai Madhopur, you will pass through the yellow mustard fields. The city Sawai Madhopur is co-located with the Ranthambore National Park and therefore, to go for a Tiger Safari, you will have to halt your motorcycle ride and rent an open Gypsy from the National Park’s ticket counter.

8. Jaipur to Jaisalmer road trip

Another one on our list of bike riding tours is a Jaipur to Jaisalmer road trip. If you are one of those crazy riders who loves riding amid the desert, just head for an exciting road trip from the Pink City,  Jaipur to the Golden City, Jaisalmer. The road trip is 558 kilometres long and it takes 10-11 hours to cover the distance. Itineraries include Jaipur, Makrana, Kuchaman, Nagaur, Phalodi and Jaisalmer.

The best time to go for a Jaipur to Jaisalmer ride is between October to February. Throughout the trip, you will come across beautiful forts and ancient architectural structures. And many traditional Rajasthani eateries fall on the route to satiate your hunger.

9. Ahmedabad to Mount Abu road trip

Riding from Ahmedabad to Mount Abu is as pleasing as the rides stated above. It usually takes 5 hours to cover the distance of 237 kilometres, motorcycling through the towns like Kalol, Mehsana and Palanpur. As a rider, you will be exposed to the culture of two states — Gujarat and Rajasthan . What’s even more delightful are the delicious cuisines offered at the traditional Dhabas. Throttle your motorbike to Nakki Lake and experience the serenity of the place. You may also visit the famous Dilwara Jain Temples. November to February is the best time for this excursion.

10. Mumbai to Goa road trip

Mumbai to Goa road trip is the most recommended one for the winter season. Between December to February, you will be surprised to see the beauty influenced by Christmas and New Year. It is a 587 kilometres long road trip and it takes around 11 hours to cover the entire distance. The route also includes beautiful destinations such as Lonavala and Satara. The journey from Mumbai to Goa has lots of scenic spots. Throughout the tour, you will find plenty of cafes and restaurants to satisfy your hunger. The NH 17 highway is smooth enough to let you ride effortlessly.

11. Bengaluru to Ooty road trip via Mysore

The ride from Bengaluru to Ooty is quite a pleasing one — full of scenic views. It takes 6 to 7 hours to complete the 278 kilometres long road trip, routing through cities like Ramnagara and Mysuru. If you have an interest in history, do visit the Mysore Palace.

Although, the Bengaluru to Ooty road trip can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the most recommended season to enjoy this road trip is between August to October. When approaching Ooty, the Nilgiri ghats are worth a view and from Ooty, you may also extend your trip to Bandipur Forest to see nature’s pristine beauty and greenery. Spend some time camping here or else, you can also go on an Elephant or Jeep Safari .

12. Bengaluru to Goa road trip

For any avid biker, riding from Bengaluru to Goa can be a delightful journey. To deliver you the best motorcycling experience, this 556 kilometres long route has roads in very good condition. It usually takes 10-11 hours cruising through Tumakuru, Davanagere and Hubballi cities to complete this road trip. Beautiful landscapes will appeal to your eyes and the local eateries throughout the journey will keep your stomach full. The best time to take this ride is between December to February.

13. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley road trip

(Image source: Wikipedia.org)

If you are looking for a road trip in the country’s southern part then riding from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you. During your journey, you will ride on the wavy roads with lush green hills all around you. It is a 114 kilometres ride which passes through Kothavalasa and Srangavarapu Kota. On the way, you can also visit Tatipudi Reservoir, Galikonda View Point and Borra Caves. While riding towards the terrestrial region, you will also see coffee plantations. A perfect time to go on a Visakhapatnam-Araku Valley road trip is between October to March.

14. Chennai to Puducherry road trip

(Image source: wikipedia.org)

It is one of the best bike road trips in India — a road trip from Chennai to Puducherry. It connects India’s metropolitan city Chennai to the Paris of the East , Puducherry. The best part is that you ride alongside the sea on the East Coast Road. To cover a stretch of 153 kilometres it takes around 3-4 hours. Early morning, this entire route looks beautiful with the sunlight reflecting on the shores.

Before reaching Puducherry, the route takes you through Mahabalipuram (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Kalapakkam (Famous for the nuclear facility, Pudupattinam, Alamparai Fort and many other picturesque locations. Once you reach Puducherry, have coffee at the sea-facing cafes.

15. Chennai to Munnar road trip

The road trip from Chennai to Munnar is also a good option for the riders down south. It is a 278 kilometres long tour and takes 11-12 hours to complete this journey. This trip is a perfect fusion of lakes, forests, waterfalls and scenic valleys. During this road trip, riders can also rest in Trichy, Dindigul, Theni and Bodi. You will be surprised by the abundance of beautiful photography spots.

Loved what you read? Share it with your friends. You can also check out the best bikes to choose while going on long distances and road trips here.   

2 thoughts on “15 Best Motorcycle Road Trips In India For Every Passionate Biker”

Some great information there. It’s amazing to know about all places. Very helpful.

This is amazing information which is very important as well as helpful.

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

Motorcycle Road Trips: Top 10 Destinations Every Biker Should Visit

T here's nothing quite like the feeling of anticipation when setting off on a motorcycle road trip. From planning your itinerary to choosing your equipment, strapping down your bike, and donning your protective gear, the excitement builds as you rev your engine and pull away into the great unknown. The combination of the open road, the surrounding scenery, and the hum of the engine is an immersive experience that all bikers appreciate. Add to this the element of adventure, and the draw is irresistible.

Good preparation is vital to enjoying a successful motorcycle road trip. Make a checklist that includes all essentials and safety items so nothing gets left behind. It is a good idea to check local regulations and weather conditions, and safety should always be your top priority, so wear appropriate gear and ensure that your bike is in good working order before you depart.

Motorcycle road trips are an exhilarating way to explore new places and experience your natural surroundings. It's easy to pull over and take a break, grab a bite to eat, admire the scenery, and take a few photos whenever you feel like it. Here, we have selected locations with proper thoroughfares accessible to all motorists but well suited to bikers for their scenic views and serpentine twists and turns. Every biker should consider the following 10 fantastic destinations for their road trip adventures.

Read more: The 10 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever Made

Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)

Whether you are headed north or south, the Pacific Coast Highway promises a spectacular experience. Known for its breathtaking coastal views, the highway occupies around three-quarters of the California coastline on California State Route 1. It offers bikers a relaxed cruise of around 655 miles, but if you are feeling adventurous, you can join Route 101 at its northern terminus, which will take you to the Canadian border. Head south, and you can merge with I-5, which terminates at the Mexican border. However, the highway itself has plenty to offer and deserves a few days to experience it properly.

The PCH has a storied history as it was built using labor from Folsom and San Quentin prison inmates, who were paid the miserly sum of 35 cents per day for their backbreaking efforts. It formed after the consolidation of roads linking Los Angeles and San Francisco with other coastal settlements and finally opened in 1937. Throughout your trip, you'll pass through delightful towns like Big Sur and Carmel, experience the natural wonders of the giant Redwood forests and the Oregon Sand Dunes, and enjoy stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

The roads are well-paved throughout the Pacific Coast Highway, and the trip could best be described as leisurely, with plenty of places to stay and sightseeing opportunities along the route. Don't forget to bring comfortable shoes and a daypack for essentials when you're not on the road, and bring wet-weather gear, especially if you are thinking of riding in the fall or winter months. Temperature ranges can vary widely in the state of California, so you should also consider appropriate clothing while planning your trip.

Scottish Highlands (Scotland)

The Highlands of Scotland are a little off the beaten track, even by European standards, but the rewards are most certainly worth it. Using Edinburgh's hilly, granite capital as a jumping-off point, you can enjoy the nightlife and historic attractions and even rent a motorcycle before embarking on a trip that could take you over a thousand miles into the Scottish interior and its stunning islands. The rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes make it an excellent destination for motorcycle touring, and you'll get to explore historic castles and lochs (home to the elusive Loch Ness Monster) as you ride through the remote and sparsely populated countryside.

You'll find plenty of campsites across the country if you're traveling in the summer months (which is highly recommended, given Scotland's unpredictable temperate climate), as well as an assortment of hotels and B&Bs if you aren't keen on "roughing it" — although these can be pretty expensive. Roads are generally well-paved but are almost exclusively single-lane country thoroughfares, and speed limits are understandably low, leaving you plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery as it passes by. Livestock outnumbers people significantly, so be wary of sheep and the odd Highland cow as you navigate rural areas.

Points of interest might include John O' Groats (mainland UK's most northerly point), the Isle of Sky, with its dramatic scenery, the stunning A87 roadway, the Cairngorm Mountains, Loch Ness, and the North Coast Road. Don't forget to pack mosquito repellant, especially during summer, and expect to get rained on at any time of year. Remember, there are many remote destinations in Scotland, and due care should be taken on your motorcycle, especially if traveling alone.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (South Dakota, USA)

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has become a Mecca for motorcyclists, especially those who favor the great American brands. Every year, the biking community descends upon this small town in South Dakota's Black Hills for 10 days and nights. Here, it partakes in several scheduled bike tours, live music, events, competitions, and plenty of food and drink at this celebration of life on two wheels.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has been around for a while, established in 1938 as a series of racing and stunt-riding events. It has since grown into an internationally recognized festival that regularly attracts over half a million attendees. A choice of accommodation is available, including hotels, cabins, RVs, and camping options. Once settled in, participants can enjoy several planned bike tours, including the Mayor's Ride, Police Chief's Ride, and Veteran Warrior Ride, which require registration or a donation to join.

Each pass by various local landmarks and points of interest, such as Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, the Devil's Tower, and the Crazy Horse Memorial. If you'd rather go solo or travel in a small group, numerous circuits, as outlined in official ride maps, can be completed over a few hours.

If you plan on heading to the Sturgis Rally, plan in advance and book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment. As with all festivals, it's never a bad idea to stick to a daily budget and reserve money for unexpected expenses. As the rally takes place in early August, the weather is usually pleasant in Sturgis at this time of year, but always plan for the worst-case scenario and include a rain jacket along with your sunblock.

Amalfi Coast (Italy)

Italy has so much to offer its visitors, including Renaissance artworks, fine food and wine, museums, café culture to rival that of France, and stunning scenery. Of course, it is also a top motorcycle destination and home to venerated brands Ducati, Moto Guzzi, MV Agusta, and Aprilia.

The country's Amalfi Coast provides a dramatic coastal ride with cliffside roads overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea that makes up part of the Mediterranean. Here, you'll explore charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello along the way, with balconied houses overhanging their winding streets. These open up to well-paved roads that meander through scattered vineyards, with mountainous hillsides lined with Cypress trees inland.

To tour the Amalfi coast, you could start in Rome, where motorcycle rental shops are abundant, and cruise south through the Campania region before arriving in Naples. This is the jumping-off point for most Amalfi coast trips and is home to Mount Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii a bit further south for some unforgettable sightseeing. Afterward, head south and travel from Sorrento to Salerno, taking in all the wonders of the Amalfi Coast along the way. You can take the highway back to Rome from Salerno in just a few hours to complete your tour, which can take as little as two days, depending on your schedule.

Italy is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is early or late summer to avoid searing temperatures. Bring some Euros in cash to pay for tolls getting to and from the Amalfi Coast, and perhaps most importantly, relax and don't rush the experience, as there is much to see and do over its short 50-kilometer distance.

Transfagarasan Highway (Romania)

Eastern Europe offers some fantastic travel opportunities as part of a more extensive motorcycle tour, with cities like Prague, Budapest, and Bucharest boasting stunning architecture and culture at far more affordable prices than their Western European counterparts. The latter of these, Bucharest, is the point of departure for most people embarking on a bike tour of the Transfagarasan Highway. This mountain pass in the Carpathian Mountains offers a varied and beautiful ride, taking you through some dramatic scenery and passing through many tunnels and hairpin turns at elevations of up to 6,700 feet.

Jeremy Clarkson, formerly of "Top Gear," once described the Transfagarasan Highway as possibly the best road in the world, and for once, he may not have been exaggerating. The number of serpentine twisties and steep descents that cut through the mountain passes make this the perfect road for bikers, and as a relatively new road created as a military thoroughfare during the last days of Communist Romania, it is well maintained. The Transfagarasan Highway spans the historical provinces of Wallachia and Transylvania, home to the fictional Count Dracula and his real-life inspiration, Vlad the Impaler, who lived at Poenari Castle, which you can visit along the way.

The Highway is closed for much of the year, between October and June, so plan your trip accordingly. Adverse weather conditions can strike year-round, resulting in road closures, so check information boards in towns and online before departure. Heavy rain and poor visibility are common throughout the high passes, so make sure you travel with a rain suit and treat your visor with anti-fog spray or use a Pinlock for improved vision while you ride.

Ruta Cuarenta (Argentina)

Ruta Cuarenta, or Ruta 40, is a vast 3,000-mile road almost the length of Argentina. This iconic highway runs alongside the Andes, offering riders a chance to experience the country's diverse landscapes, from the deserts of Patagonia in the south to the wine country of Mendoza in the north and plenty of wonders in between. You will encounter 27 mountain passes that can reach over 13,000 feet, the vast Patagonian Steppe, 18 large rivers, and 20 national parks as you enjoy this famed bucket list motorcycle trip.

Any biker attempting to undertake such a trip should already be aware of the amount of planning required. Essentials should include comprehensive protective gear, warm and cool weather clothing, and practical bike repair and medical items. There can be 200 miles between fuel stops on the Patagonian Steppe, so know your bike's limitations and plan to carry extra gas. The roads here are mostly unpaved, so use appropriate tires with off-road capabilities.

The best time to travel on Ruta Cuarenta is in the Argentine spring between November and December. Leave it any later, and winter encroaches upon the south, so bear this in mind when planning your schedule. As one of the longest overland thoroughfares in the world, you should expect your trip to take at least a couple of weeks, and cellphone coverage is sparse outside of populated areas.

Great Ocean Road (Australia)

Australia is one of the least densely populated countries on Earth, and it offers some serious adventure destinations across its vast and varied landscape, as well as plenty of exotic flora, fauna, and wildlife, much of which is unique to the continent. The Great Ocean Road runs along Australia's southern coast and offers stunning ocean views, lush rainforests, and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, 12 limestone stacks jutting from the ocean.

The Great Ocean Road is situated just south of Melbourne, and it is well-paved throughout, making this route well-suited to all two-wheelers, whether you ride a 105cc Australian Postie Bike or a BMW R 1250 GS. Leaving Melbourne early, you can make it to Port Campbell in a day, with plenty of stops for pictures and rests. The town is just past the Twelve Apostles and at the road's furthest point, so you can take in a stunning sunset at the landmark and head for some good food and accommodation for the night before heading back to Melbourne the next day.

While the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's more relaxed motorcycle tours, it is not without its hazards. The steep hillsides often leave scattered rocks and debris on the road. Bear this in mind, especially as you enter corners. There are many corners along the road's length, with extreme cambers and hairpins. Wherever you ride on the continent, you should watch for wildlife on the road and monitor your speed to avoid collisions. As is typical when biking, humans pose one of the greatest threats, so watch for tourists driving erratically, especially when pulling in and out of viewpoints or picnic areas along the route.

Tail Of The Dragon (North Carolina/Tennessee, USA)

While it may be the shortest motorcycle road trip listed here, the Tail of the Dragon is among the most exhilarating. This 11-mile stretch of US Route 129 traverses the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. It is a magnet for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially sport bike riders, with 318 curves, making it one of the most challenging and technical riding roads in the United States.

Running almost parallel to Calderwood Lake, the Tail of the Dragon twists through dense forest as it slices through the mountains and past the Cheoah Dam, the location of Harrison Ford's daring leap in "The Fugitive." While the scenery and surroundings are impressive, this stretch of road is all about the ride as you grip the handlebars and negotiate its curves as safely as possible. Many riders have met their deaths at the Tail of the Dragon, and it is essential that you know your limits, know your bike's capabilities, and pay attention to the weather and road conditions as you ride.

The best time to attempt the Tail of the Dragon is either in the summer or fall, and there are plenty of places to eat, drink, and stay the night in the surrounding area. Ensure you perform maintenance on your motorcycle before setting off, including checking your brakes and tire pressure, to help avoid any spills on the road.

[Featured image by Washuotaku via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC BY-SA 4.0 ]

Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia, Canada)

Canada has a shorter riding season relative to destinations nearer the equator. Still, with its many picturesque, well-maintained, sparsely-populated highways, it is among the most rewarding countries to travel by motorcycle. The Cabot Trail is a scenic road that winds through the Cape Breton Highlands, offering sweeping ocean views, lush forests, and the chance to spot wildlife like moose and bald eagles. The trail is 186 miles long and hugs the Atlantic coast of Cape Breton Island in a well-paved circuit.

The Cabot Trail takes you up and down in elevation and through shade and light. You will experience many changes in temperature along the way, so bring appropriate clothing. There are plenty of places to stop for breaks and sightseeing, but make sure you buy a $10 Park Pass if you want to take a break at any point, or you will incur a fine if checked.

The best time to visit the Cabot Trail is from early May to late September, and the general consensus is that counter-clockwise is the preferred direction of travel. It's best not to ride in the evening to avoid moose and fill up gas at a larger town, as those further down the trail may not sell the premium fuel that our cherished bikes prefer.

Himalayan Circuit (India)

For an epic adventure, consider riding through the Himalayas. As the tallest mountain range in the world, this barrier separating the Indian Subcontinent and the Tibetan Plateau is steeped in mystery, Buddhist spirituality, geological wonders, and breathtaking views of some of the world's highest peaks.

Ride north from New Delhi, or take the bus to Manali. You can rent motorcycles in either of these locations, usually a native Royal Enfield model, such as the aptly named Himalayan. From Manali, spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude (6,398 feet) in preparation for much higher elevations later. Set off through the foothills and scale the Rohtang La (13,051 feet). Refuel in Keylong (the next gas station is over 200 miles away!) and stay the night in a tent in Sarchu camp. The next day, you will head to the remote city of Leh with its palaces, ancient monasteries, and stupas, via challenging terrain, high mountain passes, such as Tanglang La (17,480 feet), and the 21 hairpin bends of the Gata Loops.

From Leh, you can spend a few days touring. Head north to the Nubra Valley, East to Pangong Lake, or continue your voyage west to Kashmir, passing through lush green valleys, the 11th-century monastery at Lamayuru, and the city of Kargil. Once you reach Kashmir, stay on a traditional houseboat in Srinagar with a local family and drink in the incredible scenery before completing your circuit.

The high passes are closed for much of the year, and it is best to travel the Manali–Leh Highway between June and September. Clothing and additional fuel are essential, as is plenty of money in cash. Permits are required for some locations (arrange with a local tour guide) and prepare to be amazed by this unforgettable trip of a lifetime.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

More From Forbes

Fun games to pass the time on your next roadtrip.

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Road trip games can pass the time on a long trip.

Roadtrips are an enjoyable way to see changing scenery, a chance to stay overnight in retro roadside motels, and an excuse to pull over to see the quirky roadside attractions that you’ll only find in small town America.

But road trips also mean long stretches of flat highway where the oohs and ahhs slow down, the snacks run out, and you need a break from the podcast you’ve been streaming.

Pass the time in the car with a game of 'Would You Rather?'

Enter road trip games. They’ll help you pass the time between stops and hopefully squash any questions like “are we there, yet?”.

From games that can be played among a group of friends or couples to road trip games to entertain kids, these games will help keep you entertained on the road.

Top 7 Road Trip Games to Play

1. table topics.

Table Topics is a deck full of fun conversation starter cards. The game is recommended for ages 12 and up, and the cards can spur conversation between a couple or a group. The deck has 135 cards and questions range from: “Is it more important to be book smart or street smart?” and “If you could have front-row seats to any concert who would you like to see?”

Is Leadership an Art or a Science

Apple confirms innovative iphone 16 pro upgrade, nyt ‘strands’ hints, spangram and answers for friday, april 12th, 2. mad libs.

The scribe in charge of the Mad Libs tablet will be prompted to ask participants for verbs, adjectives, nouns, and so on, which will then be put into a short narrative. The catch: No one knows the context that the words they toss out will be put in, so the story ends up being a goofy one. This is a great game for kids in elementary school who are starting to learn the ins and outs of nouns, adjectives and the like.

3. “Would You Rather?”

You could come up with your own scenarios for a game of “Would You Rather” where you pit two outrageous scenarios against one another. But the “Would You Rather” deck of cards is loaded with pre-set predicaments: “Would you rather own a machine that makes any food you want or prints $50 per week?” The family edition has 200 cards that were made with multi-generation road trips in mind.

4. License Plate Game

A road trip classic, and a fun one to play with kids, the license plate game challenges everyone in the car to collectively spot license plates from all 50 states. Pro tip: Print out a map of the United States to keep track of all the states you’ve collected.

When the karaoke is over, play a round of song trivia.

5. License Plate Word Scramble

When you’ve already done your Wordle for the day, you can engage your fellow passengers with a game of word scramble. Just look at a plate in a nearby lane and extract the letter — then challenge everyone to come up with a word with the letters in the plate. For example, if the license plate has the letters NKE in it, the word could be “Banker.”

6. Song Trivia

Every great road trip has a good playlist. But turn your tunes into a game by seeing who can name the singer, song title, and, for a bonus round, the year the song came out. You can set up a playlist in advance for this game or just scroll through the stations.

7. The Geography Game

If you loved social studies as a kid, this game is for you. One person starts the game by throwing out a geographic location (i.e. city, state, mountain region, river, etc.). Let’s say the starting word is California. The next person then comes with a location that starts with the last letter of the previous name, so, in this case, the letter “A,” which could be Alaska, Appalachians, Atlanta, and so on. You could mix up the themes, too, or narrow the categories, too. Other categories could be types of food, animals, countries, or band names.

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