20 Best Road Trips in India: Unforgettable Adventures Across Diverse Landscapes
There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road, the wind in your hair, and the promise of adventure ahead. India, with its diverse landscapes and rich culture, offers some of the most exhilarating road trips you can imagine. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newbie on the road, these 20 best road trips in India will leave you with memories to cherish forever.
Table of Contents
Northern India
1. Manali to Leh
Distance: 479 km
Highlights: Snow-capped mountains, serene landscapes, and the thrill of crossing high-altitude passes.
Best Time to Travel: June to September
Tips: Make sure your vehicle is in top condition. Pack extra fuel, food, and warm clothing.
This journey is like a rite of passage for road trip enthusiasts. The rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and the sheer beauty of the Himalayas make this one of the best road trips in India. The journey from Manali to Leh is filled with moments where you’ll feel on top of the world—literally and figuratively.
2. Delhi to Rishikesh
Distance: 242 km
Highlights: Spiritual retreats, adventure sports, and the holy Ganges.
Best Time to Travel: February to April, August to October
Tips: Start early to avoid the city traffic and ensure a smooth drive.
Driving from Delhi to Rishikesh is a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. As you leave the chaos behind, the road ahead opens up to the lush greenery and serene landscapes of Uttarakhand. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace or the thrill of white-water rafting, this road trip promises a bit of everything.
3. Shimla to Spiti Valley
Distance: 411 km
Highlights: Ancient monasteries, barren landscapes, and the feeling of being in a different world.
Best Time to Travel: May to October
Tips: Carry enough cash as ATMs are scarce, and ensure your vehicle is prepared for rough terrains.
The drive from Shimla to Spiti Valley is not for the faint-hearted. The narrow roads and steep cliffs can be intimidating, but the spectacular views make it all worthwhile. As you journey through this cold desert, you’ll witness some of the most stunning landscapes India has to offer.
4. Amritsar to Dalhousie
Distance: 198 km
Highlights: Historical sites, beautiful hill stations, and delicious food.
Best Time to Travel: March to June, September to November
Tips: Visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar before you start your journey.
From the bustling city of Amritsar, famous for its rich history and the Golden Temple, the road to Dalhousie takes you to a quaint hill station with colonial charm. This road trip is perfect for those looking to combine cultural exploration with natural beauty.
Western India
5. Mumbai to Goa
Distance: 590 km
Highlights: Coastal views, vibrant culture, and endless beaches.
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Tips: Take the NH66 for a scenic coastal drive.
The road trip from Mumbai to Goa is legendary. The picturesque coastal route offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, making it one of the best road trips in India. Whether you choose to party in North Goa or relax in the quieter South Goa, this journey is all about enjoying the ride as much as the destination.
6. Ahmedabad to Kutch
Distance: 400 km
Highlights: Rann of Kutch, cultural festivals, and traditional crafts.
Best Time to Travel: November to February
Tips: Visit during the Rann Utsav for a unique cultural experience.
Driving from Ahmedabad to Kutch takes you to the vast white salt desert of the Rann of Kutch. The surreal landscapes and the vibrant Rann Utsav make this road trip a visual and cultural treat. Don’t forget to explore the local handicrafts and traditional Gujarati cuisine along the way.
7. Pune to Mahabaleshwar
Distance: 120 km
Highlights: Scenic ghats, strawberry farms, and cool climate.
Best Time to Travel: December to February
Tips: Start early to avoid traffic and enjoy the misty mornings.
A short yet delightful road trip, Pune to Mahabaleshwar offers winding roads through the Western Ghats, lush greenery, and the charm of a hill station. The cool climate and strawberry farms make it a perfect getaway from the city.
8. Jaipur to Jaisalmer
Distance: 558 km
Highlights: Majestic forts, sand dunes, and vibrant culture.
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Tips: Carry sunscreen and plenty of water for the desert heat.
From the Pink City of Jaipur, the road to Jaisalmer takes you deep into the heart of the Thar Desert. The golden sands, the stunning Jaisalmer Fort, and the enchanting camel rides make this one of the best road trips in India for those seeking a blend of history and adventure.
Southern India
9. Chennai to Pondicherry
Distance: 150 km
Highlights: Coastal drive, French colonial architecture, and serene beaches.
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Tips: Take the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) for the best views.
The drive from Chennai to Pondicherry along the East Coast Road is a treat for the senses. The scenic coastal views, the charm of French colonial architecture, and the tranquil beaches make this a perfect road trip for relaxation and exploration.
10. Bangalore to Ooty
Distance: 265 km
Highlights: Nilgiri hills, tea plantations, and cool climate.
Best Time to Travel: October to June
Tips: Avoid weekends to escape the crowd.
The road trip from Bangalore to Ooty is a journey through the picturesque Nilgiri Hills. The winding roads, lush tea plantations, and the refreshing cool climate make this one of the best road trips in India for nature lovers.
11. Hyderabad to Hampi
Distance: 377 km
Highlights: Ancient ruins, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and rich history.
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Tips: Start early to cover the distance comfortably in a day.
From the bustling city of Hyderabad, the road to Hampi takes you to a world of ancient ruins and historical wonders. Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, with its fascinating architecture and landscapes, makes this road trip a journey back in time.
12. Mangalore to Goa
Distance: 365 km
Highlights: Coastal route, pristine beaches, and delicious seafood.
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Tips: Take frequent breaks to enjoy the coastal views and local cuisine.
The coastal road trip from Mangalore to Goa is a paradise for beach lovers. The journey offers stunning coastal views, pristine beaches, and the opportunity to indulge in mouth-watering seafood. This road trip is all about soaking in the sun and the sea.
Eastern India
13. Kolkata to Darjeeling
Distance: 634 km
Highlights: Tea gardens, Himalayan views, and colonial charm.
Best Time to Travel: March to May, October to December
Tips: Break the journey into two days to enjoy the drive and the sights.
The drive from Kolkata to Darjeeling takes you from the bustling plains to the serene hills of the Himalayas. The journey is filled with scenic landscapes, lush tea gardens, and the colonial charm of Darjeeling, making it one of the best road trips in India for a relaxing getaway.
14. Guwahati to Tawang
Distance: 508 km
Highlights: Monasteries, snow-clad mountains, and rich culture.
Best Time to Travel: March to October
Tips: Prepare for challenging terrains and ensure necessary permits are in place.
The road trip from Guwahati to Tawang is an adventure through the northeastern Himalayas. The journey is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with stunning mountain views, ancient monasteries, and a rich cultural experience.
15. Bhubaneswar to Puri
Distance: 62 km
Highlights: Beaches, temples, and vibrant festivals.
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Tips: Visit during the Rath Yatra for a unique cultural experience.
A short yet delightful road trip, the journey from Bhubaneswar to Puri takes you to one of India’s most famous pilgrimage sites. The beautiful beaches and the majestic Jagannath Temple make this a trip filled with spiritual and scenic beauty.
Central India
16. Nagpur to Kanha National Park
Distance: 260 km
Highlights: Wildlife, dense forests, and serene landscapes.
Best Time to Travel: October to June
Tips: Book your safaris in advance to ensure availability.
Driving from Nagpur to Kanha National Park is a journey into the heart of India’s wildlife. The dense forests and the chance to spot tigers and other wildlife make this one of the best road trips in India for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
17. Bhopal to Pachmarhi
Distance: 210 km
Highlights: Hill station, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
Best Time to Travel: October to June
Tips: Avoid the monsoon season to enjoy outdoor activities.
The road trip from Bhopal to Pachmarhi offers a refreshing escape to a picturesque hill station. The lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls, and cool climate make this a perfect road trip for a relaxing getaway.
18. Indore to Mandu
Distance: 97 km
Highlights: Historical ruins, scenic views, and architectural marvels.
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Tips: Start early to explore the historical sites at leisure.
The drive from Indore to Mandu takes you to a world of historical wonders and architectural marvels. The scenic route and the fascinating ruins of Mandu make this one of the best road trips in India for history buffs.
Offbeat Routes
19. Siliguri to Zuluk
Distance: 91 km
Highlights: Winding roads, mountain views, and remote villages.
Best Time to Travel: October to April
Tips: Ensure necessary permits are in place and carry enough fuel and supplies.
The road trip from Siliguri to Zuluk is an offbeat adventure through the winding roads of Sikkim. The breathtaking mountain views and the charm of remote villages make this a unique and unforgettable journey.
20. Vijayawada to Araku Valley
Distance: 320 km
Highlights: Coffee plantations, tribal culture, and scenic beauty.
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Tips: Plan your trip during the Araku Balloon Festival for an added experience.
The drive from Vijayawada to Araku Valley is a journey through scenic landscapes and lush coffee plantations. The tranquil beauty and the rich tribal culture of Araku Valley make this one of the best road trips in India for a peaceful and culturally enriching experience.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the 20 best road trips in India that promise adventure, beauty, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re driving through the snow-capped mountains of the north, the sandy deserts of the west, the lush green hills of the south, or the cultural heartlands of the east and central India, each journey offers something unique. Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and set out on the open road. Adventure awaits!