Experience India Like Never Before : 35 Best Road Trips In India
Nothing beats the thrill and the excitement of a road trip, and when it is from the list of best road trips in India, there is nothing that the expedition stands second to. The varied terrain and the diverse cultures that this country has been blessed with makes it ideal for undertaking a road trip, as it is only through this means that an avid traveler can experience the vivaciousness of the country first hand. To ease out the ambiguous choice of road trip in India, some of the best have been listed below.
Best Road Trips In India
1. Manali-Leh
When it comes to road trips in India, the trip from Manali to Leh wins it all by ranking top amongst the varied road trips in India. Spectacular valleys, distinct snow-capped mountains, stunning monasteries and speckled landscapes, all form the spectrum of views on this adventurous escapade. Approximately 478 kilometers, this trip is a must experience.
On the way: Stopover at Keylong, Sarchu, and Pang.
Route to take: Leh – Manali Highway
Best time for the trip: June-September
2. Mumbai- Goa
The much-renowned route from the famous Indian movie Dil Chahta Hai, this route has become an absolute pilgrim for car and bike enthusiasts. Combined With the sheer scenic views and impeccable road conditions, this route is the top choice of rejuvenation for the busy bees of Mumbai.
On the way: Several eateries are available on the route like Kamath Govinda and Like a Million Lights which good options for a stopover.
Route to take: Chiplun-Ratnagiri route via NH66
Best time for the trip: September-March
3. Dehradun- Nainital
Scenic views, impeccable roads and astounding pit stops, the road trip from Dehradun to Nainital promises it all. The perfection of this route lays in the fact that this route is not only beautiful because it has been bestowed well by nature but also because it has some of the most commendable shrines built along the route.
On the way: Stopover at Rishikesh for adventure and religious collaborations and at the Jim Corbett National Park to enhance the adventure.
Route to take: Via Ambala-Dehradun-Haridwar Road/Haridwar Road
Best time for the trip: October – February
4. Vishakapatnam- Araku Valley
Fill your eyes with the wonder of the green once again, when you opt to undertake this road trip in India. The perfection of the route is enhanced by the amalgamation of the serene hills, majestic waterfalls, and astounding coffee plantations.
On the way: Several resorts at Tyda and a number of old temples and viewpoints.
Route to take: Via NH5
Best time for the trip: October – March
5. Guwahati – Tawang
One of the best road trips in India, this route is sure to surprise you with exceptionally picturesque views with each turn. The approximately 14-hour journey is among one of the must take road trips in the northeastern part of the country which introduces you to the vibrant cultures and the exceptional landscapes of the area all at once.
On the way: Stopover at Dirang in West Kameng for the monasteries and Tezpur in Assam for the cultural attractions. Enjoy Momos at stalls.
Route to take: Via Chariduar – Tawang Road
Best time for the trip: March – October
6. Chennai- Pondicherry
Another one of the spectacular sights combined with impeccable drives, the road trip from Chennai to Pondicherry takes about three to four hours. But it is not the comfortable time span that puts it on this list, rather it is the commendable views along the road that make it distinguished. The sun, sand, and the sea running along with the fantabulous roads make this road trip one of the best in the country.
On the way: Stop at Mahabalipuram (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Idaikkazhinadu, Marakkanam for salt pans, Madaliarkuppam for water sports and houseboat and Kalpakkam.
Route to take: Via East Coast Road
Best time for the trip: October – February
7. Shimla –Manali via Mandi
If it is the stunning views of the river flowing alongside the road which mesmerizes you, then this trip is your haven. The road trip from Shimla to Manali via Mandi is one of the trips that combine the spectacle of the flowing water with the evergreen mountains and fresh air to provide you with a soulful experience.
On the way: Eat out at a number of restaurants and dhabas along the way at Bilaspur, haribagand Aut
Route to take: Via NH205 and NH3
Best time for the trip: Mid- September- Mid July
8. Ahmedabad- Kutch
Ideal rejuvenation plan for a weekend, the road trip from Ahmedabad to Kutch is distinguished and exceptional on many grounds. The beautiful landscapes, display of vivacious cultures and the delectable food, make the trip one of the most memorable experiences of life. And finally, the Land of White Salt Desert or Kutch makes for the cherry on the cake.
On the way: Stopover at Dholavira and Bhuj and Mandavi Beach
Route to take: Via NH947
Best time for the trip: October-March
9. Delhi –Agra
Looking for a quaint drive away from the hustle bustle of the busy city life? The road trip from Delhi to Agra is just what you need. Being one of the recently developed roads in India, this route is sure to charm to you with its impeccable maintenance and quality.
On the way: No stopovers along the way, but the journey it topped off with the view of the Taj Mahal.
Route to take: Via Mathura on Yamuna Expressway
Best time for the trip: August – March.
10. Delhi- Jaipur
Another one of the exceptional routes which help you witness the vivacious cultures of this amazing country is the route from Delhi to Jaipur.As you reach the latter along the way, you are an audience to the astounding views of the Aravali Which are then transformed into the vivid cultural sightings of the colorful state.
On the way: Stopover at Gurgaon, Neemrana, Shahpura, and Amer.
Route to take: Via NH8
Best time for the trip: August – March
11. Darjeeling- Pelling
If it is the views that you look for when planning a road trip, then this route is definitely a good choice. Offering a plethora of sights, the route from Darjeeling to Pelling is studded with lush green tea gardens, mountains, river, old bridges and colorful villages.
On the way: Several food joints and petrol pumps can be opted for a stopover.you can also stopover at a Pattabong tea estate or the Tukvar tea garden for a cup of refreshing tea.
Route to take: Via Darjeeling – Jorethang Road and Nayabazar – Legship – Reshi Road
Best time for the trip: March – June, and September – December
12. Mumbai-Mount Abu
One of the most beautiful road trips in India, the trip from Mumbai to Mount Abu drives you through the cultural rollercoaster of three states namely, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. These varieties of states come with their exceptional variety of landscapes and cultures making for worthwhile sights.
On the way: Savor your taste buds at with the lip-smacking food at the dhabas at Vadodara and Ahmedabad
Route to take: Via NH48
Best time for the trip: July – October
13. Bangalore-Ooty
The six-hour long trip from Bangalore to Ooty is sure to hypnotize you with its scenic display of a spectrum of landscapes in addition to offering you a drive through the soulful forests of Bandipur. Nestled in the Nilgiris, the hill station of Ooty Proves to be the apt destination to a trip as beautiful as this.
On the way: Stopover at Mysore for a visit to the Mysore Palace and explore the rich history and culture of the city.
Route to take: Via NH275 and NH181
Best time for the trip: October – June
14. Delhi-Agra-Jaipur
Also called the Golden Triangle, this route is what suits the needs of a car fanatic at its best. In addition to taking you through the cultures of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan in a single trip the quaint and picturesque surrounding make for the ideal trip.
On the way: Stopover at Agra to witness archeological marvels like Taj Mahal and Agar Fort and then at Jaipur for Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, and local bazaars.
Route to take: Via Yamuna Expressway and NH8
Best time for the trip: August – March
15. Jaipur-Jaisalmer
Nothing beats the combination of the flashing Rajasthani colors and the impeccable roads that you witness along this beautiful road trip in India. If this wasn’t enough the sand dunes and the untamed nature in this part of the country makes sure you treat your eyes to the best views.
On the way: Refuel stop at Jodhpur which also offers authentic Rajasthani Cuisine for your taste buds.
Route to take: Via Nagaur (SH19) or via Ajmer and Jodhpur
Best time for the trip: November- March
16. Chennai-Munnar
Right out of a fairytale, this route displays the picturesque side of nature with the accompaniment of well-kept roads and highways of the country. The winding roads ensure that you are surprised at each turn with a view to behold and the maintenance of the roads ensures you with the smoothest drive through the same.
On the way: Pit stop at Viluppuram and Palani.
Route to take: Chennai-Trichy-Dindigul-Udumalai-Munnar
Best time for the trip: October- March
17. Pamban Bridge (Rameshwaram)
Vast expanses of water on either side of the drive and the astounding marvel of engineering, these two things are guaranteed when you are visiting the Pamban Bridges in Rameshwaram. Spanning over 13.5 km, a dive over the bridge is one of the most spectacular experiences in India with the moist air, brushing your face and unending blues in sight.
On the way: No pit stops along the way
Route to take: Pamban Bridge also called the Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge
Best time for the trip: October – March
18. Bangalore- Bandipur Forest
Lined with dense forests on either side, this road trip is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The common sighting of wild animals along the road makes this route furthermore enticing. The greenery and the simplicity of the route make it exceptional in many ways.
On the way: Relaxation at several points like Café Coffee Day and McDonald’s and wildlife safari in Bandipur National Park.
Route to take: Via NH275
Best time for the trip: October – March
19. Gangtok– Lake Tsomgo and Nathu La Pass
One of the best, unexplored trips from northeast India, this route rates quite high on the road trips in India list. Though a little challenging, this trip is sure to satiate your need for the views along the roads. The mountain ranges along the drive provide for an exceptional experience which is completed with the spectacular view of Lake Tsomgo in the end.
On the way: Visit the border trade market at Sherathang and the Baba Mandir along the way.
Route to take: Via Jawaharlal Nehru Rd
Best time for the trip: October- March
20. Mumbai- Pune Expressway
Scenic views of the Western Ghats and a high speed transcend towards the destination, both of these are to be surely found along the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. The scrupulously long tunnels add to the fun fair along this road trip in India.
On the way: Long tunnels add adventure, trekking around Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a pit stop at Neelkantheshwar temple.
Route to take: Mumbai- Pune Expressway
Best time for the trip: August – March
21. Shimla-Manali via Kinnaur and Spiti
An alternate route to Shimla, this route is to pamper the adventure-seeking side of the travelers. Not only is the route long enough to help you acclimatize, but it also is one of the most beautiful road trips in India. Though the roads in the latter phase of the journey aren’t as spectacular, yet the scenic views are a sight to behold.
On the way: Mandatory stopover at Rampur, Nak, and Kaza.
Route to take: Via NH22
Best time for the trip: March – September
22. Shillong-Cherapunjee
Charismatic waterfalls, lush green grounds, colorful villages and spooky caves, all come along the way on a road trip from Shillong to Cherapunjee. One of the best road trips in India, this route is sure to make you feel blessed by the unbound gifts nature has bestowed on this little country.
On the way: Several eateries along the way serving exceptional north-eastern food.
Route to take: Via SH 5
Best time for the trip: October – May
23. Kolkata-Digha
One of the favorite weekend trips of the people of Kolkata, this road trip rejuvenates one from the busy city life. The pleasant views of the green stretches accompanied with the mild breeze make for memorable drives along this route.
On the way: Stop at Sher-e-Punjab, Kolaghat for scrumptious Punjabi food.
Route to take: Via NH116B
Best time for the trip: July – March
24. Jaipur- Ranthambore
One of the typical drives of Rajasthan embellished with scenic views of the vibrant countryside is the apt description of this route. This road trip not only ensures to be one of the most enjoyable among the road trips in India but is definitely among the most beautiful too.
On the way: Stopover to see the various forts along the way and at the dhabas to satiate the hunger
Route to take: Via NH21
Best time for the trip: October – March
25. Delhi-Shimla
The building of the latest track along this route has made it rank high in the best road trips in India. The scenic views were always something that attracted tourists but the impeccable road conditions have now made this road trip a must experience trips in India.
On the way: Several dhabas like the Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba and Haveli in Murthal are good options for satiating the appetite.
Route to take: NH1 and NH44
Best time for the trip: March – September
26. Puri- Konark
A route exploring the exceptional beauty of the northeast, this road trip on NH 203 is the one that ensures you with memorable sights along the drive. The ever famous canopy of the trees along this road is one of the most sought-after experiences by travelers.
On the way: Short trip, no stopovers along the way, except stops for taking pictures
Route to take: Via NH203
Best time for the trip: October- March
27. Bangalore-Goa
One for the nature lovers, this road trip is serene and lined with amazing trees, through and through. The perfection of this road trip is enhanced by the fact that it takes you to Goa, the all-time favorite rejuvenation destination which treats the mind, body and the soul.
On the way: Treat yourself to the scrumptious Punjabi dhabas along the route.
Route to take: Via NH48
Best time for the trip: October- March
28. Kolkata-Puri
If there is one thing that this road trip ensures, it is the serenity and tranquility to help you rejuvenate from the busy city life. The well-maintained roads act as the cherry on the top ensuring one of a kind experience to the travelers.
On the way: Taste the delectable food from the food joints like Appayan Hotel and the Subhodeep hotel in Kolaghat along the way.
Route to take: Via NH16
Best time for the trip: October – March
29. Delhi- Dehradun
One of the most traversed road trips in India, this road trip surprises the travelers with some of the most scenic views of the Garhwal region. The combination of fun, adventure, and enthrallment make this trip one of the best road trips in India.
On the way: Pit stop at several food joints like Cheetal resort and Jain Shikanji for quenching your culinary instincts.
Route to take: Via NH1 and Saharanpur Road
Best time for the trip: Throughout the year
30. Delhi-Manali
One of the memorable trips from the very own capital of the country, this trip is sure to delight the travelers with varied landscapes and exceptional views. To further add grace to the trip, it begins with one of the best-kept highways, i.e. NH1
On the way: Several eating joints in Murthal like Amrik Sukhdev and Haveli right as you lose Delhi and then a number of refueling pit stops along the way.
Route to take: Via NH1 and NH44
Best time for the trip: October- June
31. Bengaluru- Nandi hills
The perfect escapade from the busy life in one the metropolitan towns of the country, Nandi hills road trip is both relaxing and adventurous. The ideal time to reach the place is sunrise and therefore most travelers delve in for an overnight drive making the experience exceptional in many ways.
On the way: Enjoy the roadside coconut water and refuel at various petrol stations.
Route to take: Via Bellary Road and NH 44
Best time for the trip: Around the year, preferably a night trip.
32. Bengaluru-Coorg
The pristine beauty of Coorg prefixed with an experience which makes it even more memorable is what the road trip from Bengaluru to Coorg promises to be. The exceptional views along the route are awarded well with the destination such as this.
On the way: Stopover at Mysore to witness the ancient history, several eateries along the way to soothe your appetite.
Route to take: Via NH275
Best time for the trip: October- March
33. Mumbai-Tarkarli
Along the coastlines of the Arabian Sea, a road trip to Tarkarli proves to be relaxing and rejuvenating. The twists and turns along the drive at this route make it furthermore alluring, as with each turn the travelers witness a new spectacle.
On the way: Eat out at any of the many options along the route like the Dhaba and Sri Balaji Snack Centre.
Route to take: Via NH48
Best time for the trip: October- March
34. Chandigarh-Chail
A summer treat, the road trip from Chandigarh to Chail acquaints you with the variety of landscapes in the mountains. Even though this road trip is highly revealed by the nature lovers, yet the trip has things in store for the adventure seekers too.
On the way: A number of Punjabi dhabas and resorts like the Timber trail and the Food Mistri along the route are suitable to soothe your taste buds and Shimla a desirable stopover.
Route to take: Via NH5
Best time for the trip: March – October
35. Delhi-Rishikesh
The trip to Rishikesh from the capital city of the country is all but boring. The different landscapes, picturesque views and an astounding destination, the trip has it all. And top it all off, the maintenance of roads along the route proves to be the touch of perfection.
On the way: Several eat out options like Cheetal, Jain Shikanji and Apna Punjabi Dhaba are good. Petrol stations are the other favorable pit stop for attending the nature’s call.
Route to take: Via NH334
Best time for the trip: October- March
Driving being one the biggest stress busters is an exceptional way for recreation. And when the thrill of the speed is coupled with scenic views and impeccable roads, the journey becomes complete bliss. Hence the road trips in India are nothing less than bliss itself. It is only through experiencing it yourself, can you understand the depth of the above statement. So, gear up and reach for the nearest road trip from the above-mentioned list to experience it for yourself.
Written By Neha Kulshreshtha, Source – treebo.
