road trip 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

Suggested Read: 37 Exciting Road Trips From Delhi To Take With Your BFFs

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

Suggested Read: 20 Dream Roads Across The Globe Fetched Right Out Of A Traveller’s Fantasy

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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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 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 places to visit in India 🛎️   The best hotels in India

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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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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

6 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

7 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

8 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

9 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

10 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

11 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

12 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

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

14 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

15 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

16 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

17 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

18 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

19 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 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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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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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.

Isn’t it?

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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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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All India 29 States Road Trip

All India 29 states road trip by any means: what an epic adventure and wonderful way to explore the most diverse and colorful country in the entire world.

You don’t even need a push to tour India. There are thousands of great reason for why to travel across India. For a starter, India is a heaven for foodies. It’s a country full of festivals and gorgeous places and unique landmarks.

#29States #IndiaIn30Days

Neha and I are planning #29States #IndiaIn30Days project next year. This has never been done before. It’s going to be an epic adventure and something that has never been attempted before!

We have broken down India into 7 or 8 zones and we will be traveling non-stop and rolling the Camera the whole time. Lastly, it’s doable in 30 days. May sound crazy but it’s actually doable. It will be crazy but then that is what will make it adventurous and newsworthy!

Delhi to Srinagar

We’ll start our journey from Delhi, the capital of India.

• New Delhi, Delhi (UT1)
• Gurgaon, Haryana (S1)
• Noida, Uttar Pradesh (S2)
• Haridwar, Uttarakhand (S3)
• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
• Dehradun, Uttarakhand
• Chandigarh (UT2), Punjab (S4)
• Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh (S5)
• Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir (S6)
• Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar to Delhi

Flight time is 95 min @ $40pp

Delhi, Agra, Jaipur (Golden Traingle)

Jaipur to goa.

• Jaipur, Rajasthan (S7)
• Ajmer, Rajasthan
• Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Udaipur, Rajasthan
• Ahmedabad, Gujarat (S8)
• Surat, Gujarat
• Daman and Diu (UT3)
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli (UT4)
• Mumbai, Maharashtra (S9)
• Pune, Maharashtra

Goa to Bangalore

Flight time is 75 min @ $25pp

Southern India Loop

• Bangalore, Karanataka (S11)
• Mysore, Karnataka
• Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (S12)
• Kochi, Kerala (S13)
• Lakshadweep (UT6)
• Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
• Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
• Madurai, Tamil Nadu
• Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
• Trichy, Tamil Nadu
• Pondicherry (UT5)
• Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
• Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
• Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh (S14)
• Back to Bangalore (246 KM, 6 Hours car drive from Tirupati)

Bangalore to Hyderabad

80 min flight time @ $20pp

• Hyderabad, Telangana (S15)

Hyderabad to Patna

Patna to khajuraho.

• Patna, Bihar (S20)
• Bodh Gaya, Bihar
• Varanashi, Uttar Pradesh
• Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh (S16)
• Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh

Kanpur to Kolkata

Kolkata to bagdogra.

Flight time is 80 min @ $30pp

• Bagdogra, West Bengal
• Darjeeling, West Bengal
• Gangtok, Sikkim (S22)

Bagdogra to Guwahati

Flight time is 55 min @ $25pp

Guwahati to Aizawl

• Guwahati, Assam (S23)
• Shillong, Meghalaya (S25)
• Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh (S24)
• Imphal, Manipur (S26)
• Kohima, Nagaland (S27)
• Aizawl, Mizoram (S28)
• Agartala, Tripura (S29)

Agartala to Kolkata

Kolkata to port blair.

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair (UT7)

Port Blair to Kolkata

South east loop.

• Kolkata, West Bengal
• Konark, Orissa
• Puri, Orissa (S18)
• Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• Chitrakut Falls, Chhattisgarh
• Raipur, Chhattisgarh (S17)
• Ranchi, Jharkhand (S19)

Partnership

We want to connect with as many Indian bloggers and brands as possible! If you would like to join for a part of the trip – welcome aboard!

You can be one of our local partners and/or sponsor and position yourself as such.

Travel and Lifestyle bloggers (small or big), local news media, press, news sites, online or print magazines, we are looking to partner with you all. The more the better. With a big enough momentum (on social media and on the blogosphere), we will be able to help cross-promote each other and as well as reach a bigger audience).

Partnerships are powerful and work as accelerators. The goal of the partnership is to build momentum and to leverage the attention of our combined audience to create meaningful social impact.

Everyone needs something. We have to give what “our partners” need. In return, we get what we need.

Our partners need “interesting stories” to share with their audience and “growth in audience number”. We can bring both to the table. Newsworthy stories, full of inspiration, suspense, adventure, emotions, and social impact!

On our end, we need money and access to your platform. Money for hotels, rental cars, drivers, flights, and coffee (yes, lots of coffee). We’ll need access to your social platform so we can share this spirit of adventure and madness with a large group of India’s young population.

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How to Plan a Road Trip in India

Last Updated: January 31, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Tom Eisenberg and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Tom Eisenberg is the Owner and General Manager of West Coast Tires & Service in Los Angeles, California, a family-owned AAA-approved and certified auto shop. Tom has over 10 years of experience in the auto industry. Modern Tire Dealer Magazine voted his shop one of the Best 10 Operations in the Country. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 1,144 times.

If you really want to experience more of what the large and diverse country of India has to offer, why not go on a road trip? From the snowy mountains of the Himalayas in the North to the Ghats and green plateaus of the South, there's something for everybody. Whether it's a short jaunt a few hours down the road or a multi-day cross-country excursion, we here at wikiHow have gathered the best tips for you to plan a road trip in India that's short on hassle and long on adventure.

Choose your route.

• Manali to Leh —479 kilometres (298 mi): A treacherous but beautiful road through the Himalayas, as well as exposure to many different cultures.
• Ahmedabad to Kutch —400 kilometres (250 mi): Gujarati art and culture, as well as numerous wildlife sanctuaries and a pristine landscape of salt flats unique to the region.
• Mumbai to Goa —580 kilometres (360 mi): A beautiful trip through the Western Ghats to the beaches of Goa, this is one of the most famous Indian road trips.
• Jaipur to Jaisalmer —559 kilometres (347 mi): Travel through numerous villages and experience authentic Rajasthani culture and cuisine. Many roadside stalls with local vendors. [2] X Research source

Set your travel times based on weather conditions.

• Travel times are also important because some roads are only open for part of the year. For example, the Leh Manali Highway is only open for 5 months, from summer through about mid-October. Even then, the highway frequently closes for short periods due to heavy snowfall or rockslides. [4] X Research source
• Make sure you factor in your return trip if you're going to be driving back to the place where you started.

Pick a vehicle based on the condition of the road.

• The potholes and cracks in some roads are infamous, and rural roads might be unpaved. A sturdy vehicle with good shocks is your best bet if you're traveling poorly maintained or rural roads.
• When deciding what you're going to drive, also think about how it will impact your experience. [7] X Research source A road trip through the mountains on a motorbike is quite a different experience than if you're driving an SUV.
• If you're taking a couple of friends along, do you have enough room for everyone to be comfortable? You might be fine in the driver's seat, but your buddy might be sore and cramped after a few hours crunched up next to a cooler in the backseat.
• Don't forget to think about alternative forms of transportation as well! For example, you're in India, why not drive a rickshaw?

Split your trip into manageable days.

• For example, a road trip from Jaipur to Jaisalmer is 559 kilometres (347 mi) and takes about 9 hours to drive on a well-maintained national highway. But all the small villages you pass through along the way make this a road trip worth taking your time. While you could comfortably do this trip in 2 days, you could also spread it over 3 days to really take in the country and immerse yourself in the culture. [9] X Research source
• If you're planning on cycling, you probably want to schedule more frequent stops during the day for rest. Make sure you know your own physical limits well before you set off and don't push yourself too hard!

Organize legal documents for your vehicle.

• Simply taking a photo of the documents and keeping them on your phone isn't good enough—the data has to be downloaded from a server you don't control. This is why you need the mParivahan app.
• Foreign driving licenses aren't valid in India, so if you're from another country, make sure you get an international driving permit in your home country before you leave. [11] X Trustworthy Source Official UK government website Official website for the public sector of the UK government Go to source

Learn a few phrases in local languages.

• Throughout northern India, you'll get by just fine with a little Hindi. In the northeast, you might also pick up a few words and phrases in Bengali.
• In southern India, most people speak Dravidian languages (Hindi and Bengali are Indo-Aryan languages). Before you head south, brush up on a little Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, or Tamil. [13] X Research source

Make offline backups of your maps and navigation.

• Keep in mind that while you're offline, you won't have access to real-time updates and features, such as traffic and roadblocks.
• You should be fine with an offline map, but if you happen to get lost, don't be afraid to ask a local! They usually have more up-to-date information about road conditions as well.
• If you've made a playlist for your trip, download that as well—then you won't have to worry about a loss of signal interrupting your music and killing your vibe. [15] X Research source

Book accommodations at planned stops.

• If you're not familiar with the area, stick to booking sites such as booking.com or expedia.com for accommodations. Read reviews so you know what you're getting into. [17] X Research source
• Sometimes a stop is about more than just rest. For example, if you're traveling on the Manali to Leh Highway, which averages 3 to 4 kilometres (1.9 to 2.5 mi) above sea level, you'll need at least one stop to acclimate yourself so you can avoid altitude sickness. [18] X Research source

Carry cash for tolls and local expenses.

• Take debit or credit cards as well but keep in mind that many local vendors in rural areas won't have any way to take plastic.

Bring along plenty of snacks and water.

• Picking random candy and junk food for road snacks can be the best part of a road trip, but make sure you pack some nutritional stuff as well.
• Keep in mind that replenishing snacks and drinks at convenience stores can get pricey. For long trips, you might want to pack a cooler so you can have a steady supply of refreshments.

Have your vehicle serviced before you head out.

• Fill up with fuel the night before you leave so you can get some road behind you before you have to stop.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://www.lifestyleasia.com/ind/travel/destinations/road-trips-in-india/
• ↑ https://www.travelogyindia.com/blog/best-road-trips-in-india
• ↑ https://discoverlehladakh.in/manali-leh-highway-status-2021.htm
• ↑ Tom Eisenberg. Auto Technician. Expert Interview. 26 July 2019.
• ↑ https://www.theoutbound.com/seth-langbauer/a-1-600-mile-rickshaw-road-trip-through-india
• ↑ https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/sites/default/files/NOTIFICATION%26ADVISORY/17th%20Dec%202018.pdf
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-india
• ↑ https://www.education.gov.in/en/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/upload_document/languagebr.pdf
• ↑ https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Geography-and-language-distribution-of-India-In-this-map-of-India-all-the-states-have_fig1_264164281
• ↑ https://geoawesomeness.com/top-offline-map-apps-navigation-android-ios-2019/
• ↑ https://www.evoindia.com/features/road-trip-tips
• ↑ https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/southern-asia/india/finding-and-booking-accommodation-in-india
• ↑ https://www.deccanherald.com/business/india-stares-acute-atm-709855.html

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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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10 Best Road Trips in India That You Must Try in 2024

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Road Trips > 10 Best Road Trips in India That You Must Try in 2024

Hey motor-heads, you must be waiting to get on your wheels and would have already planned your New Year road trip. But, for those who are yet to zero in on which route to take, or those who would like to not repeat the same trip every time, here is our hand-picked list of the top 10 road trips to take in India with your close ones.

1. Delhi to Ladakh  

#1 of Best Road Trip

Delhi to Ladakh is one road trip on every list, and righteously, for this is one of the most rewarding and adventurous ones. From the concrete jungle and hazy megacity, you would ride through endless farmlands, beyond which, once you enter the mountains, the scenery changes with almost every turn and hairpin bend. There are two routes for this popular road trip from Delhi ; we suggest you go via one and return via the other, for the best experience.

• Route 1 : Delhi–Srinagar–Kargil–Leh via Sonamarg and Zoji La (1,234 km)
• Route 2 : Delhi–Manali–Keylong–Leh via Rohtang Pass and Gata Loops (1,006 km)
• Highlights : Hairpin bends, high-altitude mountain passes, Buddhist monasteries, clear views of the Milky Way, tent/camp stay
• Best Time to Go : May to August

Note: If you are planning this trip in the immediate future, we would recommend against visiting the Pangong Tso area, due to the current Indo–China border dispute.

2. East Coast

#2 of Best Road Trip

From the mountains, we move on to the coast, on the famous East Coast Road (ECR). This incredible road trip in South India will literally take you along the Bay of Bengal coast, so you will perpetually be in the company of beautiful ocean views, including the azure waters, sandy beaches broken by rocks, and swaying palm trees. If you get tired of driving, just look for a quiet beach, park your bike or SUV and take a little break on the sand or with a little sprinkle of the cool seawater.

• Route : Chennai–Mahabalipuram–Pondicherry (151 km)
• Highlights : Sea views, ocean games, Group of Rock-Cut Monuments of Mahabalipuram, French Quarters of Pondicherry
• Best Time to Go : October to February

Check out our definitive guide on the best things to do in Pondicherry 

3. West Coast  

#3 of Best Road Trip

If you can never choose between mountains and the sea, we have you covered, with our recommendation for a memorable road trip along the West Coast. Running from Mumbai all the way till Kanyakumari, National Highway 66 will take you along the Arabian Sea coast as well as through the lush Western Ghats. There are numerous places you can take a detour to, such as Alibaug, Lonavala–Khandala, Mahabaleshwar and Lavasa. The best part is that this highway also inherently takes you on the iconic Mumbai to Goa road trip !

• Route : Mumbai–Goa–Kochi–Kanyakumari via Karwar, Gokarna, Mangaluru, Kozhikode, Mararikulam, Kumarakom, Alappuzha and Thiruvananthapuram (1,640 km)
• Highlights : Western Ghats, sea views, Malabari food, beach sports, houseboat stay at Vembanad Lake, Fort Kochi, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, spice plantations
• Best Time to Go : July to February

4. Golden Triangle

#4 of Best Road Trip

The Golden Triangle tour is a must for anyone interested in an overdose of rich history and culture, all this while never being too far away from comfort. Covering three of the most culturally and historically rich cities in the country — Delhi, Jaipur and Agra — the excursion would not lead to even one dull moment, with so much to offer, from forts and delicious food to vibrant markets and folk performances. One of the best parts about this trip is the easy availability of budget hotels in all three cities that ensure that the vacation doesn’t take a toll on you, financially.

• Route for Delhi to Jaipur : Delhi–Neemrana–Alwar–Jaipur (280 km)
• Route for Delhi to Agra : Yamuna Expressway (233 km)
• Route for Jaipur to Agra : Jaipur–Bharatpur–Agra via Fatehpur Sikri (240 km)
• Highlights : Rajput and Mughal monuments, scrumptious dhaba meals , comfortable accommodation, cultural performances, optional detours to Mathura–Vrindavan, Bhangarh and Keoladeo National Park

5. Bengaluru to Coorg  

#5 of Best Road Trip

If Kerala has Munnar and Tamil Nadu has Ooty and Kodaikanal, then Karnataka has Coorg or Kodagu, its own summer getaway amidst the Western Ghats. If you ever feel the need to give the maddening life of the city a break, this road trip in Karnataka is the one to take, for it offers a perfect escape from the urban to the serene hilly country. As soon as you enter the Western Ghats, you would feel a drop in the temperature and less suffocation in the air. Lush jungles, with the sounds of endemic wildlife, would be your constant friend on the journey.

• Route : Bengaluru–Ramanagara­–Mysore–Madikeri (250 km)
• Highlights : Sholay Village, Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali’s legacy, coffee plantations, ancient Kodava culture, treehouse stays      
• Best Time to Go : October to May

Also Read about Skydiving in India

6. Ahmedabad to Kutch  

#6 of Best Road Trip

The Rann of Kutch is one of the most geographically unique and culturally incredible places in India. A road trip here would not be of adventure, but of solitude and visual amazement. Though the biggest highlight of the Rann of Kutch is its vast, white, salt flats, the region would also treat you to the regional wildlife, including the rare Indian wolf, if you are lucky. For the ultimate experience, choose a full moon night to explore the area on your vehicle, because the view of the salt marsh illuminated by moonlight is one you do not want to miss.

• Route : Ahmedabad–Bhuj–Kutch (400 km)
• Highlights : Salt marshes, regional wildlife, starry skies, optional tour of Dholavira
• Best Time to Go : October to February (during Rann Utsav )

7. Jaipur to Ranthambore  

#7 of Best Road Trip

You can make a road trip to Jaipur better by adding a ride to Ranthambore National Park. If you have time, you could to this as part of the Golden Triangle tour, or plan a separate one, for a less hectic experience. This is one road trip you can easily do as part of a weekend getaway from Jaipur , as the ride takes merely 3.5 hours. Ranthambore is one of the best places to see the Bengal tiger in its natural habitat, which, over time, has come to include the years-old Ranthambore Fort as well.

• Route : Jaipur–Dausa–Lalsot­–Ranthambore (190 km)
• Highlights : Wildlife viewing, tent/camp stays, birding, Jeep safari, visit to Ranthambore Fort
• Park Timings : 6:00 am to 7:00 pm (varies with season)
• Entry Fee : ₹500 onwards

8. East Khasi Hills

#8 of Best Road Trip

From the sea and wildlife, we are back to the hills, this time those of Meghalaya. The East Khasi Hills district of the state is home to one of the prettiest and lushest sceneries in the country, one, which you would love seeing as you ride on the winding roads. The hills are dotted by gushing waterfalls and streams, the water of which would definitely refresh you. Moreover, the locals tell amazing folktales, which speak of an age-old amicable relation between humans and nature.

• Route : Guwahati–Shillong–Cherrapunji (148 km)
• Highlights : Lively buzz of Shillong, Mawsynram, Mawphlang, living root bridges, ethnic culture, folktales
• Best Time to Go : October to June

9. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

#9 of Best Road Trip

Araku Valley is a name that not many people have heard, so you can expect to enjoy respite from the roaring tourist crowds here. A jewel of the Eastern Ghats, this little valley is home to lush farmlands surrounded by thickly forested hills, in many ways akin to the scenery one would see in Bhutan! Once in the valley, you could just head out on the village roads, to see the beauty of the place, talking to tribals on the way.

• Route : Visakhapatnam–Borra–Araku Valley (115 km)
• Highlights : Nature views, coffee plantations, waterfalls, tribal food, hiking opportunities, Borra Caves

10. Madurai to Rameshwaram  

#10 of Best Road Trip

This is arguably one of the most unusual road trips to take in India , as this one involves driving across the sea! Yes, this road trip takes you across the India Ocean, on the famous Pamban Bridge. On this 2-km long bridge, you will see nothing but the unending ocean, with regular swells, beneath you. Once in Rameshwaram, remember to visit the abandoned town of Dhanushkodi, which was destroyed in the cyclone of 1964. Looking at the ruins, you would be filed with awe at the might of nature, but will also love the sea views.

• Route : Madurai–Ramanathapuram–Rameshwaram
• Highlights : Meenakshi Amman Temple, Pamban Bridge, Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi

11. Manali to Leh

#11 of Best Road Trip

At an elevation of nearly 13,000 feet, passing through the majestic, snow-capped Himalayas and tackling adventurous roads and turns – who hasn’t dreamt of this? Manali to Leh is one of the best road trips in India and indeed once in a lifetime experience for many. Don’t forget to carry essentials like vehicle documents, insurance, medicines, dry energy-dense snacks and good winter clothes as you get ready for this exciting journey. Although a difficult route for many, this road trip is also one of the most fulfilling ones.

• Route: Solang Valley-Lahaul-Spiti-Zanskar Valley via Leh-Manali Highway (480 km)
• Highlights:  Snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, high-altitude mountain passes
• Best Time to Go:  June to September

12. Mumbai to Goa

#12 of Best Road Trip

The next time you plan to visit Goa, go for a road trip from Mumbai. It will make for an exciting experience indeed. If you take the NH-66 route, you are in for a whole lot of adventure and interesting places like the beaches and waterfalls at Chiplun, Karnala Fort and Karnala Bird Sanctuary at Panvel, and the tranquil Bhira Dam at Kolad. Many sharp turns and altitudinal differences will add to the challenge of this trip. For a safer and smoother journey though, you can pick the route via NH-4, which is easier to navigate as well. This route is also a delight for history buffs, as you will come across Shaniwarwada Fort, Panhala Fort and Belgaum’s forts and palaces as well.

• Route 1:  Mumbai-Pune-Satara-Kolhapur-Belgaum-Goa via Mumbai Pune Expressway and NH-4 (600 km)
• Route 2: Mumbai-Panvel-Kolad-Sawantwadi-Goa via NH-66 (577 km)
• Highlights:  Lush forests, hilly roads, forts, palaces, beaches, waterfalls
• Best Time to Go:  October to March

13. Guwahati to Tawang

#13 of Best Road Trip

Looking to undertake an amazing road trip in North East India? Covered with challenging roads and rough terrains, a road trip from Guwahati to Tawang will satisfy you for sure. One of the best road trips in India , this 510 km journey allows you to make multiple stops and admire beautiful monasteries, serene lakes, lively waterfalls and winding roads on the way. Ideally, an SUV in good condition and one that has decent ground clearance will make your trip an easy one. Also, don’t miss to tickle your taste buds at the local eateries you will come across.

• Route: Guwahati-Tezpur-Bomdila-Dirang-Tawang (510 km) 
• Highlights:  Valleys, mountains, rugged terrains, adventurous roads
• Best Time to Go:  March to June

14. Shimla to Manali

#14 of Best Road Trip

Two of the most favourite places in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla and Manali are a part of every traveller’s bucket list. While you can easily cover both places in two days, you can reserve one day for an amazing road trip from Shimla to Manali. On this route, you will come across magnificent sights of mountains and valleys. Don’t forget to check out the towns and villages you pass by and taste some local delicacies like thukpa , babru , chha gosht or mash daal , before reaching Manali. If you are up for a bit of detour, do explore the gorgeously planned city of Chandigarh. 

• Route: Shimla – Mandi – Manali (250 km) 
• Highlights:  Hilly roads, narrow turns, roadside restaurants and eateries, temples, waterfalls
• Best Time to Go: October to June

15. Bangalore to Ooty

#15 of Best Road Trip

One of the most serene and memorable road trips in India , this journey offers you everything. From lush green forests and mountains to historic monuments and vast tea plantations, you surely must not miss this. Stop by some picturesque waterfalls and rivers for a short picnic and photography session and enjoy this one-day road trip with your friends or go solo. You can also choose to spend a day in Mysore and explore the stunning palace here as well as the sprawling zoo, before heading to Ooty.

• Route: Bangalore-Channapatna-Mandya-Mysore-Masinagudi via NH275 and NH766 (280 km) 
• Highlights:  Rose gardens, tea plantations and factories, lakes, waterfalls, wide roads

16. Delhi to Jaipur

#16 of Best Road Trip

Ready to drive through the rugged mountains of Aravalli and visit the Pink City? Then this is one of the best road trips in India you can take. On the way, stop by the popular Old Rao Dhaba in Gurgaon and Surya Dhaba in Alwar and dig into some delicious parathas loaded with butter. Add more fun to your trip by going with your friends, family or loved ones and explore the palaces and forts on the way. Neemrana Fort-Palace is especially a breath-taking property packed with luxurious facilities and offering sweeping views. You can spend a night here before continuing with your trip.

• Route: Delhi-Gurgaon-Neemrana-Shahpura-Dand-Amer-Jaipur via NH8 (270 km) 
• Highlights:  Local eateries, wide roads, busy traffic, forts

17. Delhi to Mussoorie

#17 of Best Road Trip

If you are in the mood to visit a hill station from Delhi, Mussoorie is an amazing choice. Away from the bustle of Delhi, this road trip will fuel your love for nature and let you admire the challenging roads of Uttarakhand. You will come across beautiful waterfalls, where you can click memorable photos and take rest. This road trip to Mussoorie is exciting not only because of the landscapes and mountains, but also because of the beautiful villages you spot on the way. You can expect a unique experience in villages like Pantwari, Aunter and Devalsari that are close to Dehradun.

• Route: Delhi-Deoband-Dehradun-Mussoorie via Saharanpur Road (300 km) 
• Highlights:  Restaurants, Ganeshdham, Deoband, hilly roads, Uttarakhand villages
• Best Time to Go:  February to May

18. Delhi to Corbett

#18 of Best Road Trip

Delhi to Jim Corbett (located near Ramnagar) is one of the awesome road trips in India that you can cover within a day. It only takes about 5-6 hours and you can go for the evening safari if you reach Jim Corbett by afternoon. On your journey, you will love the experience of moving away from the cacophony of loud traffic and the sight of tall buildings towards the calm surroundings of Nainital in Uttarakhand. You will pass through many forests, mountains as well small waterfalls and streams, so don’t forget to soak in every moment. If you have the time, do explore Nainital and its picturesque lakes. 

• Route : Delhi-Noida-Hapur -Muradabad Bypass-Kashipur-Ramnagar (via Kashipur) (300 km) 
• Highlights : Mountains, waterfalls, lakes, narrow roads, sharp turns

There you go…here was our list of the best road trips in India by car or bike, which you must take at least once in your life. In the current scenario, a road trip is anyway better than taking a train or flight (social distancing and taking all necessary anti-COVID precautions being the norm). So, pack your bags, fuel that wheeled beast of yours and head out, albeit with all protective measures! And, if you know of any other incredible road trips to go post the lockdown ends, tell us about them in comments!

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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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Highlights of an Epic Rajasthan Road Trip in India

01 apr 2024 12 apr 2020 | john.

This incredible Rajasthan road trip will introduce you to the unmissable highlights of Rajasthan, along with a few of the must-see attractions en route in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, in the north of India.

Nothing quite prepares you for the pure assault on the senses, the kaleidoscopic chaos and irrepressible humanity of India.

A country of 1.3 billion people, many thousands of temples, and around five million roaming cows, India is quite simply, like nowhere else on earth.

It’s a country you experience through the senses in a way that rarely sees you in the same postcode as your comfort zone. But it’s also that overwhelming fusion of people, culture, cuisine, religion, and history that makes India so alluring.

Why visit Rajasthan?

Often the focal point of Indian tourism, Rajasthan and its surrounds boast some of the cultural and architectural highlights of India, if not the world.

The State of Rajasthan – literally ‘Land of the Kings’ – has some of the most incredible forts in the region. These mighty edifices, rising above cities or out of the desert landscape, like giant, abstract mountains of stone, often left us lost for words, and running out of memory on our SD cards.

It’s also impossible not to be captivated by Rajasthan’s diverse and incredibly rich array of cultural treasures. Whether it’s milling with hundreds of Muslim pilgrims at the  shrine of a Sufi saint at Ajmer ; being chased by macaques at the Hindu  Galwar Bagh Monkey Temple  in Jaipur; tiptoeing around thousands of pampered holy rats at the Hindu  Karni Mata Temple  near Bikaner; or wandering through the exquisitely carved, milky-marble magnificence of the Jain  Chaumukha Mandir Temple  in Ranakpur; Rajasthan’s cultural riches will blow your mind.

And if all that history and culture isn’t enough, Rajasthan will tantalise your tastebuds in a way few places can. We’ve got fond memories of eating spicy aloo chat from smiling street vendors, enjoying tasty parathas at every possible opportunity, and scoffing consistently delicious vegetarian curries just about everywhere. And let’s not forget the ubiquitous, impossibly sweet, yet almost impossible to resist jalebi desert . . . YUM!!

Deciding between public transport and a road trip in Rajasthan

When it comes to developing a Rajasthan itinerary, you’ll eventually arrive at the dilemma we had, which was deciding between public transport or a road trip.

There are definitely pros and cons with each. It really comes down to what you want to see, how you want to see it, the length of time you have, your budget, and how flexible you can afford to be.

Our Rajasthan travels were in December, and having heard a few stories of travellers being stuck in places for days due to fog-cancelled trains and other mishaps, we decided we would  get more out of our time in northern India with a car and driver .

While this inevitably bumped up our daily budget, it really did turn out to be a good call, giving us the flexibility to explore more Rajasthan highlights, including its amazing forts, palaces and temples, as well as seeing some wonderful countryside and dozens of small bustling villages we might have missed if we travelled by train or bus.

If you do decide on a road trip like we did, it’s still worth making time in your Rajasthan itinerary for a train journey at some point if you can. Travelling India’s iconic railways is a fantastic way of getting to know India, and the interactions you have with local people on train journeys may be some of your most memorable experiences.

Our own Rajasthan road trip took place over three weeks , so if you follow the route below as it rolls out, you can expect to spend around the same amount of time on the road.

However, we’ve also taken the approach of capturing  the highlights of each leg , so you can create your own itinerary with the time and opportunity you have.

To that end,  we’ve also included rough distances and travel times between destinations . Let’s be clear though, this is India, and the amount of time it takes to get from one place to another can be affected by any number of things on the day: nature, weather, traffic, humans, cows on the road. Take the timings as a guide, but as with all road trips, factor in extra time and contingencies just in case.

Rajastahn Road Trip Itinerary

1.  Pre-road trip: Getting Started in Delhi 2.  Leg 1: Delhi to Jaipur 3. Leg 2: Jaipur to Pushkar via Ajmer 4.  Leg 3: Pushkar to Bikaner 5.  Leg 4: The Desert Road from Bikaner to Jaisalmer 6.  Leg 5: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur 7.  Leg 6: Jodphur to Kumbhalgarh via Ranakpur 8.  Leg 7 – Kumbhalgarh to Udaipur 9.  Leg 8 – Udaipur to Bundi via Chittorgarh 10.  Leg 9 – Bundi to Ranthambore 11.  Leg 10 – Ranthambore to Bharatpur 12.  Leg 11: Bharatpur to Agra 13. Final Leg – Agra to Delhi via Fatehpur Sikri

Pre-road trip: Getting Started in Delhi

Like many visitors, we started our Indian adventure in the country’s capital, Delhi. When you get past the inevitable culture shock that comes with landing in a city of more than 11 million souls – especially when it feels like all those souls are talking, yelling, laughing, and honking their horns at the same time – you’ll begin to understand just what India is.

While Delhi can be completely overwhelming for the first time visitor, once you get used to the pace, the noise, the traffic, the smells, and the sheer number of people, you’ll discover a city bursting at the seams with colour, culture and a ton of things to see and do.

It’s almost impossible to pick highlights, but there’s something about the 17 th  century  Red Fort , with its immense sandstone walls, elaborate pavilions, and peaceful gardens, that always draws us back when we visit Delhi.

An early morning wander through the intricately chiselled hallways and huge courtyard of Delhi’s 360-year-old  Jama Masjid Mosque  is also pretty high on our list of the best things to do in Delhi.

And if you’re World Heritage fans like us, southern Delhi’s  tomb of Humayun , thought to be the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal, is a delight.

For something a little different, be sure to also seek out one of Delhi’s remaining baolis, or stepwells. Our favourite, the 14 th  century  Agrasen ki baoli , is an easy walk from Connaught Place. Exploring this three tiered, 104 step masterpiece makes for a peaceful escape within the busy city, and is well worth making the effort to visit.

Our North India tour by car kicks off tomorrow, so we’ve arranged for our driver to collect us first thing in the morning.

Leg 1: Delhi to Jaipur

Aim to spend at least 2 nights in Jaipur.

Our Rajasthan road trip is underway! The journey from Delhi to Jaipur is around 280 kilometres and takes up to five hours, so settle in and enjoy your first glimpses of the countryside as you pass from Delhi, through the state of Haryana and into Rajasthan proper.

Exploring Jaipur, the Pink City

It’s handy having a car to explore the many sites in and around Jaipur. So even though it’s worth basing yourself here for a couple of days, you’ll definitely have use of the wheels.

My enduring memory of Jaipur is marvelling at the rocky mountainscape surrounding the  Amber Fort  (also called the Amer Fort), from the finely carved and multi-pillared audience hall. I can still distinctly remember a fresh breeze washing over me, taking some of the heat out of the day and causing me to linger and enjoy the moment.

You can get lost in the Amber Fort for hours, exploring marvellously designed and highly ornate gateways, courtyards, pavilions and temples. It’s a place where you’ll quite literally be dazzled by the intricately designed mirror tiles of the world renowned Sheesh Mahal, awed by opulent royal palaces, and wowed by incredible views on all sides.

One of those views looks up towards a ridgeline dominated by the many towers of  Jaigarh Fort.  With its imposing fortifications and incredible views over Amber Fort, which it was designed to protect, it’s definitely another unmissable stop on your Jaipur itinerary.

Take A Walk, Skip the Elephant Ride The Amber Fort is reached by a wide, winding pathway up the mountainside. Jeeps run visitors up to the top, or you can take a slow stroll and stop for lots of pics along the way. You’ll also see elephants carting tourists up the path, and while this has long been considered a popular part of the fort experience, we ask you to think twice before joining the queue and #refusetoride. Instead, consider visiting an elephant sanctuary like the  Wildlife SOS rescue centre  at Mathura near Agra. There, rescues – including elephants from Amber Fort – are given the care and freedom from chains they deserve. We’ve written in detail about the plight of working elephants in India in  this story that we wrote for NOMADasaurus .

Back down at ground level, Jaipur has a multitude of other attractions that, depending on your pace, could easily take a few days to explore and fully appreciate. In the heart of Jaipur, the  City Palace , with its many halls, courtyards and pavilions will leave you with a regal feeling, while UNESCO-listed  Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory  will help fix your place in both space and time.

Don’t leave without wandering by  Hawa Mahal.  It’s a place you’ll probably recognise even if you’ve never visited Jaipur, courtesy of it being the poster child for many a tourism campaign. This former royal retreat, all five stories and 900-plus windows of it, delightfully carved out of pink sandstone, is one of my favourite buildings in Rajasthan, perhaps even India, and it’s a must-see.

Leg 2: Jaipur to Pushkar via Ajmer

Overnight in Pushkar.

It’s a little under 150-kilometres to Pushkar from the Pink City, but along the way you’ll find one of Rajasthan’s oldest and perhaps, holiest cities, Ajmer.

The Holy City of Ajmer

On the day we visited Ajmer, the sheer number of pilgrims jostling their way through the ornate main gate of the  Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti shrine , the city’s most revered site, was simply mind boggling.

Once you’ve visited the shrine and extracted yourself from the crowds, it’s worth exploring the city’s smattering of Jain temples, including quirky  Soni Ji Ki Nasiyaan  with its 1000kg City of Gold.

We also recommend taking in the atmosphere of one of India’s oldest mosques, the 12 th  century  Adhai-din-ka-jhonpra , with its delicately carved inscriptions and pillars.

On the way out of town, be sure to head up to nearby  Taragarh Fort  for incredible views over Ajmer and Lake Ana Sagar before heading further towards the Thar Desert and our ultimate destination today, the town of Pushkar.

A Pilgrimage to Pushkar

Centred around a sacred lake overlooked by  Naga Pahar hill , Pushkar is quite literally the stuff of Hindu legend, making this ancient city – one of India’s oldest – an important and popular pilgrimage site.

Early morning is a great time to take a stroll around the lake before the heat of the day really kicks in. It’s worth grabbing a chai, finding a spot to sit, and watching the temples and ghats come to life as thousands of colourful pilgrims and other devotees bathe or perform their morning ritual or prayer.

Visitors are spoilt for choice in a city boasting many hundreds of temples. However no visit would be complete without a visit to one of India’s few Brahma temples, the 14th century  Jagatpita Brahma Mandir , perhaps the most famous and visited temple in Pushkar.

As you wander around the frenetic, colourful streets that wrap themselves around Pushkar’s sacred lake, you’ll almost certainly notice the intricately carved decorative gopuram (tower) of  Old Rangji Temple . It’s another place worth visiting to appreciate the unique architecture and beautiful craftmanship of the building.

Leg 3: Pushkar to Bikaner

Consider spending 2 nights in Bikaner.

After spending our morning in Pushkar, we set off on the long drive of some 250-odd kilometres (around 5-6 hours) to Bikaner.

Meet The Holy Residents of Karni Mata Rat Temple, Deshnok

As the shadows start to lengthen, you might be tempted to bypass quirky  Karni Mata Temple  (40 minutes south of Bikaner) in favour of that nice shower and hot meal you’ve been daydreaming about. Resist the temptation.

I’ll be honest though, Karni Mata Temple is not for the squeamish. Musophobics might like to keep driving at this point.

If you don’t mind sharing your space with twenty thousand or so rats though, Karni Mata is about as unique an experience as it gets.

Legend has it your rattie hosts are reincarnated descendants of Karni Mata, a 15 th  century miracle worker revered as the incarnation of the goddess Durga.

In addition to dodging scuttling rats while keeping your eyes peeled for one of the rare, and especially holy white rats, be sure to appreciate the delicately carved marble entranceway and solid silver doors of the temple. Before you run for the safety of your car.

Oh and try to remember, if a rat does manage to scuttle across your bare feet, it’s considered incredibly auspicious!

Read more about our experience at Karni Mata Temple  in this post .

Explore the Highlights of Bikaner

Sometimes overshadowed by its more famous neighbours in the Golden Triangle, the regal city of Bikaner is packed full of architectural gems that conjure up a tangible sense of the city’s royal past.

That palpable sense of history is immediately apparent when you enter monumental  Junagarh Fort . Spending a few hours wandering through the many royal palaces, pavilions, temples, audience halls and courtyards here feels like a journey through Bikaner’s rich history, reflecting the variety of architectural and artistic influences that have shaped the city over hundreds of years.

While you’ll no doubt find your own favourite spots within the fort, it’s certainly worth lingering in the ornately carved and ambient Durbar Hall, and seeking out the beautifully painted walls and ceilings of Badal Mahal, the opulently adorned Anup Mahal, and the colourfully painted Gaj Mandir Palace.

Wandering through the tangled laneways and markets of the  old city , dodging rickshaws, marvelling at impressive old havelis and shrines, while avoiding the occasional meandering cow was another of our highlights of visiting Bikaner.

Try to finish your stroll at the glorious marble façade of  Bhandasar Jain Temple , famed for its ornate carvings, beautiful frescoes and acclaimed mirror work. It’s definitely a place not to miss.

From something a little offbeat, discover everything you never thought you needed to know about camels at the  National Research Centre of Camel , around 9km from town. These cleverly-evolved beasties are studied and bred here, and in addition to the highlight of seeing baby camels (all the incentive we needed), you can also try out camel milk kulfi and lassis (surprisingly yum!) from the camel milk parlour.

Then enjoy the late afternoon sun at ambient  Devi Kund , a royal crematorium where the beautifully designed cenotaphs are each dedicated to a different ruler.

Leg 4: Bikaner to Jaisalmer

Given the distance, it’s worth spending 3 nights in Jaisalmer.

It’s a long, long 330-kilometres (5+ hour) drive between Bikaner and the desert outpost of Jaisalmer, perched on the edge of the Great Thar Desert.

Pause to stretch your legs with the Khichan cranes

If you’re bird nerds like us, you might like to break up the journey with a mid-point stop at the dusty town of Khichan.

Here, between late August and March each year, thousands of demoiselle cranes migrate across the subcontinent, from beyond the Himalayas, to their favourite Indian holiday spot.

We’re not sure what it is about this dusty, middle-of-nowhere spot that draws these elegant birds, but you can read about our experience of Khichan’s cranes  here .

Discover the desert outpost of Jaisalmer

It’ll be well into the afternoon before you spy the amazing  Jaisalmer Fort , perched impossibly high above the surrounding desert plains like some kind of mirage on the edge of the desert.

There’s something quite magical about that first afternoon exploring the fort’s sites, including the intricate carvings of the golden sandstone  Jain temple complex  (seven interlinked temples, including Chandraprahbu and Parasnath) as well as the  Maharaja’s Palace .

Before you get too immersed in your explorations though, be sure to allow enough time for a drive out into the surrounding plains for panoramic views of the fortress in all its glory as the walls turn golden in the late afternoon sun.

Then, take a drive ten minutes northwest of the city to the royal cenotaph site of  Bada Bagh . Explore the ornate royal chhatris of Jaisalmer maharajas from the 18th century and enjoy the incredible views back towards the immense walled city as the sun drops.

Staying within Jaisalmer Fort When we first travelled to India, we stayed in a lovely haveli built into one of the fort bastions of Jaisalmer. While it was a very cool experience, we’ve since learned that centuries of poor sewage and sanitation systems are causing the fort foundations to sink and the sandstone to degrade and crumble. Steps are being taken to improve the systems and repair damage, but as travellers, we would certainly think twice about staying within the fort again and contributing to the damage. We recommend researching the matter further when it comes to choosing your accommodation and considering a stay in the town outside the fort walls.

You’ll likely want to spend at least another day within the fort precinct, exploring its wonderful labyrinth of narrow stone lanes, chai shops, and elaborately designed havelis, including beautiful  Patwa-ki-Haveli ,  Nathmal-ki-haveli  and  Salim Singh-ki-Haveli .

Jaisalmer also has an abundance of interesting textile shops and, although not huge shoppers, we couldn’t help stopping by a handful of enticing shops selling beautifully embroidered wall hangings and bedding.

Camel Safaris in Jaisalmer Camel tours are big business in Jaisalmer and you’ll certainly be hassled at some point about signing up for one. We opted for a short afternoon camel ride to the Sam sand dunes for sunset. The scenery was lovely as the sun dropped, but if we had our time again, we’d probably explore one of the other options available for experiencing the western desert, like a camping experience or a 4WD dune adventure. Truth is, the slow lurching, lunging ‘camel massage’ isn’t an experience we particularly enjoy. Nor do the camels, judging by their grumbles and protests. We leave it up to you, but recommend researching companies and their approach to the care and welfare of their animals before signing up for a tour.

Leg 5: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

Consider spending 2 nights in Jodhpur

We’re into week two of our Rajasthan road trip, and this stretch serves up another epic 280-kilometres (4-5 hour) drive from Jaisalmer to the Blue City of Jodhpur.

Thanks to an early start we arrive late morning, so after dropping off our bags we have all afternoon to explore perhaps the most imposing fortress in all of Rajasthan, the mighty  Meherangarh Fort .

It’s impossible not to be awed by Meherangarh, dominating the skyline from its perch 125-metres above the bustling city of Jodhpur.

That sense of awe increases as you navigate the incline through a series of immense gates, each with their own story to tell. The 19th century cannonball marks at  Dodh Kangra Pol  speak of a turbulent past; the intimidating spikes at  Loha Pol  conjure the dread that invading armies might have felt; while the handprints inside the same gate tell their own sad story of queens that have committed sati (self-immolation).

Make the best of the awesome audio tour to get the most out of the usual mix of impressive palaces, ornate halls, revered temples, relaxing gardens, and perhaps Rajasthan’s most eclectic and impressive museum.

The highlight for us was a stroll around the magnificent ramparts, where the panoramic views over the blue-painted houses of the old city below bring home the reason for Jodphur’s nickname: the ‘Blue City’ of Rajasthan.

We’d highly recommend ending your day on one of the city’s rooftop eateries, where you can digest the day’s adventure over a beer, with the ambiently lit fort as a backdrop.

Day 2 in Jodhpur

There’s plenty to see and do on a second day in Jodhpur, even though Meherangarh will never be far from your mind, or indeed your view.

Take a wander through the narrow alleyways of the  Old City , overlooked by the  Ghanta Ghar clocktower , before tempting yourself with textiles, spices, handicrafts and sweet offerings of  Sardar Market .

It’s also worth checking out  Umaid Bhawan Palace  for a taste of the life of the maharajas: it’s still the vast home of Jodhpur’s former royals (India’s many royal families had their official royal status removed following Indian independence from Britain). Part of it is also an upmarket hotel, but you may well need the resources of a maharaja to stay there.

If you can’t resist one final, spectacular view of Meherangarh Fort (in our opinion, the most epic view), head to  Jaswant Thadam , a beautifully carved white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The gardens here are lovely. The huge flocks of pigeons, not so much.

Leg 6: Jodphur to Kumbhalgarh via Ranakpur

Overnight in the town of Kumbhalgarh.

History nuts and fort aficionados will have to save their enthusiasm for epic Kumbhalgarh Fort for tomorrow morning. Our focus today is the exquisite  Ranakpur   Jain temple  en route to Kumbulgarh town.

Ranakpur is around 3-4 hours’ drive and 155-kilometres from Jodhpur.

Marvel at the White Marble Elegance of Ranakpur’s Jain Temple

The main four-sided white marble masterpiece of the 15 th  century Jain temple,  Chaturmukha Dharana Vihara , literally took our breath away.

1,440 artfully carved columns support an elegant, interconnected series of engraved halls and domes that enfold a central sanctuary and shrine.

It’s really worth spending some time here to fully appreciate the artistry of the carved reliefs throughout the temple. If you have time, check out the two smaller temples nearby.

You may get lucky like us and have the place largely to yourself, with just a few busy green parrots for company.

It will most likely be late afternoon by the time you finish at the temple, and we’d highly recommend a short detour before recharging your batteries for the night in Kumbhalgarh.

There’s something special about ending a long busy day with a serene scene and a spectacular sunset, and  Ranakpur Dam  serves up both. It’s just near the temple.

Find a comfortable spot and enjoy the views across the tranquil waters of the dam, the sound of birdlife, and nature’s greatest show as the sun drops behind the  Aravalli mountain range .

Kumbulgarh town is about an hour or so from the temple precinct, so we make our way there for the night. Tomorrow morning, we hit up Kumbhalgarh Fort.

Witness the Winding Walls of Kumbhalgarh Fortress

It’s only a short drive from Kumbulgarh to Udaipur today, so you’ll have plenty of time to wander  the mountain fortress of Kumbhalgarh .

You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve teleported to China as you gaze over the truly immense 36-kilometre defensive walls of this epic fort. They rise and fall over the hills as far as the eye can see.

This World Heritage-listed monolith has been standing guard from its 1,100-metre high perch in the Aravalli range for almost 600 years. You’ll need a couple of hours at least to climb the steep slope up to the fort and explore the palaces and Jain temples within. The real highlight here though is the view from the ramparts.

If you have more time and plenty of energy, it’s possible to walk a circuit of the walls in two days (!), and there are various walks and nature trails in the area, including  Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary .

Leg 7 – Kumbhalgarh to Udaipur

Dedicate three or more days to the beautiful city of Udaipur – there’s lots to do here.

From Kumbhalgarh, it’s 84-kilometres and two hours’ driving to the city of Udaipur (so it’s also possible to visit Kumbhalgarh as a day trip from Udaipur).

After two busy weeks on the road for our Rajasthan road trip, there was something extra special about slowing the pace in Udaipur. We kicked back on our first evening with a Kingfisher beer and a sunset of molten gold on a quiet rooftop overlooking Udaipur’s beautiful Lake Pichola. It was a ritual we went on to repeat every evening we were here.

Udaipur’s highlights are many, not least of which is that it’s a city on a lake surrounded by mountains – a welcome change after many long and dusty days in and around the Thar Desert. We spent three nights in this lovely city and would recommend giving it at least that to appreciate the sites in the city and the surrounding area.

Perhaps the biggest drawcard is  Udaipur City Palace and Museum , the largest palace in Rajasthan. It’s an extraordinary labyrinth of history, architecture and intricate décor, including the unmissable Durbar Hall. City Palace is in an impossibly picturesque spot right on the edge of the lake, looking every bit like a giant cruise ship at port. Get here very early or wait until late in the day, as it gets seriously busy.

While you’re visiting City Palace, be sure to also seek out nearby  Jagdish Temple , a 17th century masterpiece renowned for its architecture and incredibly detailed carvings.

No visit to Udaipur would be complete without a  boat ride on Lake Pichola . There are a couple of islands to visit. We opted for a trip to  Jag Mandir Island , the Lake Garden Palace. Built over the 16th and 17th centuries, it was a royal summer escape. Today, it houses a small hotel set amidst pretty gardens and offers lovely views across the lake towards the city and mountains.

Speaking of views, after a while most visitors to Udaipur find themselves gazing off into the distance wondering what it is that sits atop that mountain on the horizon. Give in to your curiosity if you have the time, and visit the lofty heights of the  Monsoon Palace . This former royal retreat is definitely past its heyday, but the sweeping views over Udapiur are magic.

There’s so much more to see in and around Udaipur, but in the interests of brevity, our recommendations include the 18th century  Bangore-ki-Haveli  and, if you’re after more views,  Sunset Point Park . It’s a brisk hill hike or you can take the cable car to  Machla Magra hill . A short drive out of town is the ambient  royal cremation ground at Ahar .

It’s pretty clear though, our next visit will to Udaipur will need to be for a month.

Leg 8 – Udaipur to Bundi via Chittorgarh

Aim to spend a night in Bundi.

It’s a long, 5+ hour drive between Udaipur and Bundi, covering around 270-kilometres. So we break up our journey around halfway, in the town of Chittorgarh. It’s here that you’ll find the largest fort in India, the World Heritage-listed Chittor Fort.

Be awed at Chittor Fort, India’s largest fortress

The site of three major sieges by Muslim invaders, Chittor Fort is set high on a hill and sprawls over some 700 acres. So you’ll need wheels, and around three or more hours, to get around and see all the key sites.

Highlights of the fort include  Rana Kumbha palace , a vast 15th century structure; the 16th century  Rana Ratan Singh palace ; and the museum in  Fateh Prakash palace .

Don’t miss the fort’s two iconic towers: the leaning, 15th century  Vijay Stambha  (Tower of Victory), and the much older  Kirti Stambha  (Tower of Fame).

If you’re travelling from Udaipur, you’ll likely arrive in Bundi late in the afternoon. We recommend spending the night in Bundi and saving your energy for exploring its highlights in the morning.

Discover the forgotten glory of Bundi

Waking to the huge rise of 16th century  Taragarh Fort  shrouded in the morning mist was probably the highlight of Bundi for us.

Before you hit the road again, organise a guide and spend the morning exploring the fort and  Bundi Palace . It has some beautiful, still-colourful murals of scenes from the life of Krishna. These are hidden away behind locked doors, which can only be accessed by the palace’s keepers (more reason to have a guide).

It’s also worth taking some time to wander through the old town and search out Bundi’s  famous stepwells.  They’re extraordinary though, like the palace, some are fairly dishevelled these days.

For us, Bundi was a strange place. We seemed to be the only tourists there when we visited and, apart from our guide, we were accompanied only by the monkeys that inhabit the fort and palace, and the green parrots on the ramparts. Rudyard Kipling’s famous quote about the palace is one that perhaps best captures our own sentiments: ‘the Palace of Bundi, even in broad daylight, is such a palace as men build for themselves in uneasy dreams — the work of goblins rather than of men.’

Leg 9 – Bundi to Ranthambore

If you want to max your chances of seeing a wild tiger in Ranthambore, aim to spend a couple of days here so you can go on a few safaris. 

It’s a three hour, 150-kilometre drive from Bundi to Ranthambore.

Escape to the wilds of Ranthambore National Park

We arrived in Ranthambore in the late afternoon, and as we’d organised our tiger safaris in advance for the next day, we got to enjoy a rare lazy afternoon.

Ranthambore National Park  is one of the biggest and most renowned national parks in Northern India. The park is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, about 130-kilometres from Jaipur.

This was once a former hunting ground of Jaipur’s maharajas. Today, Ranthambore National Park is a major wildlife tourist attraction.

We set aside two days here so that we could up our chances of seeing a wild tiger by joining morning and afternoon safaris. We lucked out with a glimpse of just one tiger, and tantalising hints of others. We felt privileged to have even that experience, but actually, we were delighted to find a national park brimming with a huge range of other wildlife, from deer and monkeys to mongoose.

Check out this post where we describe  our Ranthambore tiger safaris  in more detail

Leg 10 – Ranthambore to Bharatpur

Overnight in Bharatpur.

It’s a long drive from Ranthambore to Bharatpur: around 200-kilometres and up to 5 hours.

You could opt at this point to continue straight on to Agra, another hour up the road. We chose to base ourselves at Bharatpur though, as our next highlight, Keoladeo National Park, is best visited very early in the morning.

The famous ancient site of Fatehpur Sikri is also just half an hour from Bharatpur. While we chose to visit this ambient place in the early morning on our last leg (read about it further on), you could visit it this afternoon instead.

Greet dawn with the birds at Keoladeo National Park

Dawn finds us greeting a misty scene in Keoladeo National Park, one of the world’s most important bird breeding and feeding grounds.

Like Ranthambore, this was once a royal hunting and game reserve for maharajas and the British Raj. Fortunately, in 1982 Keoladeo was declared a national park, and later listed as a World Heritage site.

Keoladeo is home to over 370 species of birds and animals, and while you can explore by foot or bike, we opted to go with one of the park’s eagle-eyed rickshaw guides.

Even if you aren’t bird nerds, cruising through the park in the early morn, spotting the park’s busy residents, whether winged, hoofed or scaled, is a wildlife highlight of a North India road trip. It ranks as one of our surprise favourite experiences on this journey.

Leg 11: Bharatpur to Agra

We’re squarely back in the state of Uttar Pradesh now and Agra is the last stop on our epic Rajasthan road trip. Spend a night or two here so you can make the most of the Taj Mahal and other sites.

It’s only 55-kilometres from Bharatpur to Agra, so we head in that direction once our bird watching tour is done.

Finish up with the epic wonders of Agra

A trip to northern India wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the world’s most renowned monuments, the  Taj Mahal .

This 17th century monument to Shah Jahan’s most beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is the highlight of Agra, and it needs no introduction.

It is worth noting, however, that in spite of its popularity, a brief, crowd-free moment at this incredible monument is possible. Just  make sure you are in the queue well before dawn , having purchased tickets at one of the nearby kiosks.

As soon as the gate opens, head into the complex, bypass the front-on view of the Taj – where most people will linger – and head straight for the eastern or western gates (to the right or left sides of the Taj itself). As one of the first there, those few moments of solitude, not to mention the crowd-free snaps, is priceless.

As the Taj is perfectly symmetrical, the view of the monument is similar from each gate, except from the eastern side, you’ll have the rising sun shining onto the white marble, while on the western side, the Taj will be in silhouette as the sun rises behind it. We’ve been on both sides at dawn and both are beautiful. You choose.

While you’re in Agra it’s worth taking a couple of hours to explore the dark red sandstone and marble pavilions of  Agra Fort , along with the understated beauty of the  baby Taj .

You can also enjoy  sunset views of the Taj from the Mehtab Bagh gardens  on the opposite side of the river. Or if you want a less crowded, better lubricated experience, order a beer and take in the view of the Taj from a rooftop bar nearby (low-key Hotel Kamal gets our vote).

Final Leg – Agra to Delhi via Fatehpur Sikri

From Agra, it’s a 3-4 hour drive of around 220-kilometres back to the capital Delhi, where this epic Rajasthan road trip ends.

If you’re game for an early start today though, there’s one final highlight worth exploring: Fatehpur Sikri.

Re-imagine the ancient glories of Fatepur Sikri

For us, the real benefit of an early start at Fathepur Sikri was that we had the mist-shrouded ancient city pretty much to ourselves.

Fatehpur Sikri is the 16th-century former capital of the Mughal empire, and it’s probably one of our favourite sites in India.

The city is particularly ambient in the early morning, when the low sun showcases the city in all its red gold stone splendour. You’ll need a couple of hours to really appreciate the ambient site, with its beautiful stone palace and temple buildings. They look as though they were carved yesterday.

After you’ve visited the palace complex, head to  Jama Masjid , one of the largest mosques in India. Walking up the steep stairs to the imposing, 54-metre high  Buland Darwaza gateway  is an experience in itself. The complex is a beautiful blend of Indian and Persian influences, and worth checking out before you continue on your way to Delhi and the conclusion of our epic Rajasthan road trip.

Extending Your Road Trip: The Road to Varanasi

We’ll forgive you for needing a rest at this point. It’s been an epic journey and you might well feel the  beaches and backwaters of southern India  calling.

But if you have a little more petrol in your tank (both literally and figuratively), and another week or so up your sleeve, we can highly recommend continuing the journey from Agra to Varanasi.

It’ll take you a few days to travel the 800 or so kilometres to Varanasi, but fortunately the trip is broken up by a couple of offbeat stops.

The first is  Orchha , a small (by Indian standards), 16th century city with an opulent fort complex with temples, palaces and gardens. It’s around 5.5 hours from Agra and we spend a night here to break up the journey and explore the fort and town.

The next day we continue to the renowned, and slightly risqué, World Heritage site of  Khajuraho . It’s a drive of nearly five hours from Orchha.

In Khajuraho, you’ll find three groups of thousand-year-old Hindu and Jain temples. The devil is in the detail here. Take the time to appreciate the exquisitely carved and highly detailed stonework on the temples, while keeping an eye out for the erotic sculptures that the site is famous for. We spend a night here too.

It takes most of a day to get to  Varanasi , but when you do finally arrive, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most unique cities in India, if not the world.

Varanasi is a city to ponder. Sadhu ascetics colour the ghats with their orange garb and painted faces. The nightly  Hindu Aarti ceremony  brightens the riverbank of the Ganges with chant and flame. Hindu pilgrims from around the world make their way here to the river’s sacred ghats. This is the final stop before Nirvana and the most auspicious place for a Hindu to die.

Varanasi is a city to linger. It’s here, in this extraordinary, frenetic, eye-opening city, that we wrapped up a truly unforgettable journey through the India’s north.

Happy Rajasthan road tripping! If you’ve got any questions or thoughts, drop us a line below!

34 thoughts on “Highlights of an Epic Rajasthan Road Trip in India”

Wonderful road trip! My wife and I we are planning something similar for next march, can you send me some more info about the driver? Thanks a lot!

Hi Alessandro, many thanks for your lovely feedback, we hope you’ve found our post useful in your planning. We’ve sent you an email with further information about the car/driver company we used. All the best for your trip to India, have a wonderful time! Danielle & John

Wonderful trip report: thank you. I wonder would you recommend driving between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur as the train trip is said to be remarkable. We are headed there for 3 weeks in December and would appreciate your driver recommendations too. To get most bang from the time away: One can fly to Varanasi & to Jaisalmer to cover those long distances then cobble together towns in Rajasthan by train or road.

Hi Jenny, many thanks for your feedback, we hope you found our Rajasthan road trip post useful! Train travel is a must at some point on any journey in India and we have some great memories of our own train travels in the country. While we haven’t done the Jaisalmer – Jodhpur leg by train, if your research is saying it’s a fantastic way to get between the two cities and you’re keen to do some train travel, then it’s worth considering. The drive from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur is around 4-5 hours (though I understand the train journey is a bit longer) but the upshot of going by road is that you can stop where you like, and with a driver, you still get to enjoy the scenery along the way. Absolutely you could cover some of those longer legs with flights (though I would note Jaisalmer can only be reached on a direct flight from Delhi or Jaipur in the north). I’ve sent you an email with some additional information. India is amazing, we hope you have a wonderful trip! Cheers, Danielle & John

Hey John & Danielle, Inspiring – has me booking my road trip there now. Will be basically following your route, with car/driver. Any additional advice / insight will be appreciated. Can’t wait. Karl

Hi Karl, many thanks for your message! Very excited to hear you’ll be visiting Rajasthan – have a fantastic time!

This should be one of the epic road trip itinerary. Could you please share car and driver info.

Thanks for your kind comments.

Have sent you an email with some additional information.

All the best
, John and Danielle

Hey John & Danielle,

What an amazing help this site is. We are going oktober this year. Can you send me more info regarding the driver as well please?

Thx a lot! Kind regards, Sofie & Jan

Hi there Sofie and Jan,

Have sent you an email with some additional information which we hope you’ll find useful.

Hope you have a fantastic trip.

All the best
John and Danielle

This is such a great article, thanks so much for sharing. Please could you share your recommendations for a good driver/ company?

Thanks Natalie

Hi there Natalie

Thanks for your kind comment, we’re so glad you found this post useful.

We’ve sent you an email with some additional information and hope you have a wonderful time in India.

All the best John and Danielle

Hi, Great article. I have just booked my flights and can’t wait to be there. Did you have a car with a driver? If so do you have any recommendations for a good driver/ driver company Thanks Al

Hi there Al

Great blog with such a fantastic route mapped out and generously shared.

We head to Rajasthan for 3 and a half weeks after flying from London to Mumbai (our return leg is back from Delhi).

We plan Mumbai, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur and Delhi with trips out to see as many temples and forts as possible (having been to Jaisalmer, Udaipur and Pushkar and Ossian previously.

We are giddy, like children, to be coming back – and first re-visit since the pandemic.

We’ve been 8 times previously but that said on this trip we plan to be more spontaneous and impromptu (with less structured plans) and keen therefore to find a reliable source of recommendations for drivers/car… if you have any, please!!!

Roll on March 24th… can’t wait!

Thanks again!

Warmest wishes, Anthony

Hope you and your friends have a wonderful time in India.

Hello, I am planning a trip to Rajasthan with 2 friends from the US. Did you use a car rental/driver/ guide? Can you please recommend what company you used? Thank you.

Hi John an Danielle

This post is extremely helpful! We will be going to Northern India end of October for a month. First Bir and then we are planning to do a roadtrip in Rajasthan. Would you mind to send me the email with additional information as well please.

Hi Hannelie

Have sent you an email with the additional info.

Regards John and Danielle

Hi, Fantastic write up and ideal for me as I am planning to get on my Jeep Compass and travel all overRajasthan, using your itinerary. A couple of questions:

1) When did you do this trip? 2) What were the road conditions? 3) is there any place you would drop out, if you were to do this again?

Cheers! Shantanu

Hi Shantanu, really glad you found the itinerary helpful, we’re sure you will have an incredible trip.

We’ve done a few trips in Rajasthan over the years, most recently in 2018.

The roads were mostly ok, but can be poor in places, or be subject to construction work.

We loved the whole trip and wouldn’t want to miss any stops, however if you are time poor I guess Jaisalmer is quite far so you could save time there – although it’s a fabulous place to visit.

Happy travels John and Danielle

Thank you for sharing about Rajasthan road trip

Thank you, glad you liked the post – can’t wait to come back!

Really very nice blog. Thanks for sharing this post with us.

Thank you , really glad you like the post.

Cheers John and Dan

Totally liked your article as it is so brief that after few minutes you begin your virtual travel to Rajasthan, on top of that pictures shared doubles the experience. Thank you

Thanks so much Madhuri, really glad you enjoyed the post.

All the best, John and Dan

You enjoyed trip of Rajasthan which place is best as you think?

Hope you enjoyed the post. To be honest it’s almost impossible to have a favourite place on a trip that is so colourful, diverse, and full of incredible sights.

We loved the desert landscape and incredible fort at Jaisalmer, but to be honest the forts all over Rajasthan were stunning. Exploring Udaipur, especially the City Palace was a real treat, and there’s absolutely no compare to beautiful sights like the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri and the Red Fort in Delhi.

But honestly we loved absolutely all of it and would go back in a heartbeat.

Happy travels. John and Dan

Awesome description. Please let me know how many days and nights for this kind of trip.

Hi Arup, really glad you enjoyed the post.

The trip duration really depends on your mode of travel, and how quickly you like to move. We had a car and driver and took three weeks, but you could easily double that if you wanted to spend longer in each place. Also, if you want to continue on to Varanasi (an additional 800 or so kilometres) via Orchha and Khajuraho you’d need to add another week.

All the best and happy travels. John and Dan

When I visited Rajasthan with my family, none of us could bring ourselves to visit Karni Mata Temple. Even though we have heard a lot about this temple, it was just beyond us to visit a place filled with rats. It really is not for the squeamish. How did you manage to stay still there?

Hi there Pooja

You’re absolutely right, Karni Mata Temple is not for the squeamish. I’m really not quite sure how we managed it, the idea of all those rats did freak us out a little bit, but the experience is so unique, and the visit so memorable, I think we just somehow managed to push all the concerns away and enjoy the experience.

Would you ever go back and do it do you think?

All the best John and Dan

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Things To Carry on a Road Trip in India – Ultimate long drive packing list

If you know us personally or through our blog, you’d be aware of our love for road trips. Imagine driving in a lovely route off the beaten path and the phone’s battery runs out only for you to realize that you didn’t bring the car charger along. Certainly not the situation you want to be in, right?

So having a road trip packing checklist is important. Let’s find out the essential things to carry on a road trip in India.

Knowing what to pack into your car and what you need not take with you can make a huge difference in your trip costs and convenience.

We mostly travel as a couple, so we have a huge room for extras in our car. But that’s not the case when you are traveling with family and friends.

Don’t worry we do that too and we have made a practical road trip packing list keeping the space constraints in mind.

I’m also aware that our experience of road trips so far is limited only in India, but most aspects of packing for a road trip are universal. So here we go.

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

A Quick Outline

The Road Trip Essentials

There are certain things that are mandatory and often required by the law of the state.

Yet, I often hear people saying that they forgot to carry one of those and got into trouble.

That’s where this road trip checklist comes handy. You can download the printable checklist for free here.

Check out the best routes for long drives from Bangalore.

Face Mask, Glasses, Sanitizers

When I first wrote this well-researched post in November 2019, Sanitizers were definitely good to have, and glasses were optional (for those without eye-power of course). Now it is a norm, for an indefinite period of time.

No matter where in the world you live, whether it is enforced by law in your place or not, I advise you to carry things on your road trip.

Do not leave your home without hand sanitizers and  face mask (carry a spare one too).

Surface Sanitizer

I know few months back if I saw someone spraying sanitizer on his seat before sitting somewhere I would call him a germaphobe.

Today I’d call the person “normal”. Be better safe than sorry, so carry a surface sanitizer . Spray it on the toilet seat of public toilets, and wherever you deem necessary.

This has to remain in your trunk always. You never know when there’s a mishap, so it’s important to be prepared. Most cars come with a spare tyre and a jack.

Buy a small car repair kit here if you don’t already have it. If you car breaks down in the middle of a road trip, you should first try calling the numbers given in the car manual.

Insurance papers & Car documents

It’s actually illegal to take out your car without the insurance papers and car documents.

Have your valid insurance papers and smart card in an envelope and put it in the dashboard-cabinet. Check it inevitably before you go out for a long drive.

First Aid kit

Like the spare tire and car repair kit, this is one road-trip essential that I wish you never have to use. But you should always have it with you no matter what.

That way you are equipped not only for unfortunate circumstances for yourself but also a passerby in trouble.

You’d have typically got a first-aid kit with your car but do check the expiry date and replenish if needed. Buy a small pouch of first aid kit .

Car charger

Can you imagine your life without phones? If you can’t then don’t forget the car charger .

Downloaded maps & GPS tracker

Download the map of the region where you are going because you can never be sure of your phone network. It’s also a good idea to carry a printout of the maps.

Your pack of medicines

Paracetamol, antacids, and aspirins are what we normally always carry in our medicine bag.

That’s the bare minimum along with a first-aid kit. Make sure you pack all the medicines that you take regularly or occasionally in a small medicine bag.

You don’t want to skip the daily thyroid tablets or forget an inhaler that you use on a road trip.

For many hours you will be driving through remote areas that may not have medical shops, and the ones you get may not have the medicine you take.

Other Necessary Items on your road trip packing list

So, these are the must-haves on your road trip checklist, things you should check before you even start your car.

But there are a host of other things which you need to ensure that your road trip is hassle-free. Let’s start with the luggage.

What types of luggage do you need on a road trip?

For shorter road-trip with just the two of us, our cabin trolley doubles up as our road trip luggage as well.

This 55 cm polycarbonate suitcase easily fits in the space between my backseat and driver’s seat when we are traveling as a couple, and also inside my trunk when we have company. 

However now with our little one joining us on road trips, we found that having a versatile suitcase like Eminent hard case luggage can be very helpful.

Hardcase luggage is sturdy and thoughtfully designed for you to be able to carry even brittle and delicate items. They last longer than regular luggage and are a perfect investment for frequent road-trippers.

In any case, I don’t recommend more than two big luggage in a 5-seater car. Each person can carry a small tote bag or backpacks with essentials you may need in the course of your journey – chargers, snacks, etc.

I often use the same laptop bag that I take to my office because it has all my essentials – laptop, charger, pen, notepad, creams, comb, and my wallet.

Multiple water bottles

We always carry multiple reusable water-bottles so that we don’t need to buy packaged water on our journey. We keep them at the back-pockets of our car seat and the bottle holders.

If you don’t have enough spare bottles, consider buying the stainless steel bottles for your travel.

Now, this tip is for those who love carbonated drinks a lot (like Chayan) and end up having a lot of these empty reusable plastic bottles at home. While these bottles are 100% reusable and recyclable, make sure you wash them properly to get rid of the traces of soda before you start using them as water bottles for your trips.

Portable Power Bank

I know you have a car charger already but that uses your car battery. Power Bank is indispensable on any holiday, especially where you depend on public transport.

Though you can actually do without it in a car because you already have the car charger, it’s always good to have a backup. Be it for charging your phone, or digital camera or your Go-pro.

A Dashboard Camera

Attach a GoPro or X-mate ( a more economic version of GoPro) on your dashboard to capture the beautiful scenes of your road trip.

Photography Kit

The best thing about a road trip is the surprise of unknown places. You may have read all about the destination, where to visit what to see. But you could never have read all about the journey.

So don’t pack your cameras in the luggage but keep your photography kit separately. If you are a photography enthusiast you never know where you come across the most beautiful scene of your trip.

So, before you leave the home check that you have your DSLR , the extra lenses , the spare batteries, and chargers in your photography kit.

Healthy and tasty Munchies

Normally we tend to binge a lot of chips and cookies on a road trip.

But lately I have found a healthy alternative in Nut-mix . I love eating at the roadside eateries and CCDs which are found on most highways.

So normally we don’t pack a lot of homemade food.

Garbage bags

Please carry garbage bags on a road trip so that you don’t need to throw your trash outside if there are no dustbins around.

We are guilty of the carbon-footprint already, don’t want to leave behind any other trash.

Slippers or Flipflops

If your driving route includes pitstops at beaches and Hindu temples, it’s a good idea to carry a pair of slippers.

You need to open your shoes before entering a Hindu temple, and often have to leave them unattended outside while you climb multiple stairs barefoot.

For such excursions, we change into our slippers before we enter to leave the car.

A checklist of Roadtrip essentials people frequently forget

Has it happened before that you know you forget something that you thought you already had? For example, you know you have a hand sanitizer in your car, but when you take it out for use you find that it’s empty. Here’s a checklist of items people frequently forget to even check. 

• Hand sanitizer
• Glasses and Contact lens kit if you use one
• Chewable mints
• Sunscreen lotion
• BOROLINE – only a Bengali will understand that it’s not just a brand but it’s a part of our life (“Bongo jiboner Ongo”). Anyways, it’s basically an all-purpose antiseptic cream that doubles up as a moisturizer.
• Old newspapers, Colin and a wipe
• A quick change of clothes and a body towel for trips to beaches and waterfalls
• A sand-free towel for sitting outdoors (essential in the post-pandemic normal)

Take care of your special needs

There are certain things for which you just can’t have a universal checklist. Remember what Amitabh Bacchan carried on his road trip in Piku? # MovieReference

So, before you step out, just step back and think once again, “am I forgetting anything I need”?

Maybe a neck collar if you have been suffering from occasional back pain, a walking stick that your mom refuses to use, or a toy that your kid can’t be calm without. 

Fun things to carry on your road trip

When you have your own car, you can and you should take its advantages to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

These things below are no essentials but these are things that you can afford to try only if you are on a road trip.

You can’t carry so many things around if you are dependent on public transport or a bike, but with a car, you can actually go overboard with the fun elements.

Camping Kit

What if you are visiting a place like Gandikota from Bangalore , where there are not many options to stay?

Just throw in a camping kit inside your trunk. Of course, you need to research beforehand about the place whether camping is allowed there or not.

Outdoor Barbeque

You can easily combine your road trip with a quick picnic with an electric barbeque that is portable and light.

You can find my complete picnic checklist here .

Pillows and Blankets

Whether you want to camp or just relax in your car overnight, carrying a pair of pillows and blankets is a good idea.

Portable Cooler (to keep water bottles in)

Whenever we go on long drives, after a few hours of driving in the sun the water in our bottles taste like the lukewarm water the doctor advised you to gargle with.

Having the AC on all the time helps, but what if you park the car and go for a short hike?

You come back and find your car burning hot, along with your bottles. That’s where having a small portable cooler in the car helps.

Keep a couple of bottles of water or fruit juice inside it so that they are shielded against the harsh tropical sun.

Road trip games

Roadtrips with family is great fun and there are some amazing road trip games that you can buy. How about the good old Ludo or a novel travel monopoly game?

Good to have Car Accessories

Phone holder.

If your car doesn’t have a phone holder you need to buy one.  At an age where we are practically dependent on the GPS to guide us everywhere, we need a hand-free way to navigate using Google Maps.

Window sun-shield

Dark films are not allowed on car windows in India. So having a window sun-shield becomes necessary on long drives in the tropical sun.

Road Trip Tips

So that’s the end of this road trip checklist. I hope this helps you. Before we end here are a few essential dos and don’ts for your road trip ahead.

• Check the fuel levels and air pressure of the tyres before you start. If you plan to start your journey in the wee hours post mid-night, make sure you do these the day before the trip. Go to the nearest Gas Station and get your things done.
• Load your phone or iPod with a great collection of your favorite songs.
• Check your car freshener beforehand. Long drives in a smelly car can be a real pain
• Consider getting an Air filter. It’s a bit expensive to install but it’s an investment in your health and wellbeing. Research says that the air inside the car tends to be more polluted than the air outside. It’s because all our dead cells, invisible food-dust, etc. remain trapped in the small space inside the car. Imagine being exposed to the air for 8-10 hours, and what it does to your body!
• This is specific to India – get a Fast Tag now. It saves a lot of time and money at the tolls
• If you are traveling with small kids, carry their toys along. Otherwise, it will be hard to keep them engaged during long journeys.
• Don’t carry carbonated drinks in the car
• Don’t smoke in the car
• Don’t ignore the basic road rules just because you are a pro now

Save the post and share it with your friends if you liked it. Subscribe to our monthly newsletters to download a printable road trip checklist.

You will also get our best stories, updates and much more printable along with it. Check out our amazing road-trip itineraries for inspiration to take a road trip in India.

• Western Ghats Road Trip Itinerary
• Massive Roadtrip from Bangalore to Kolkata
• Bangalore to Bekal Road Trip

Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

43 Comments

Nicely done and so timely. Several items on this list I had never thought of! Thank you.

This is such a comprehensive and useful list. We have a similar one for international travel and for sure would have forgotten important things without it. I love road trips and have done them in several countries, but OMG I’d never drive in India lol. The traffic is terrifying. We love India so much and have been several times, and did a road trip! But we hired a driver for the driving.

Haha.. driving in India can be a crazy experience. Thanks a lot for your time.

I love going on road trips, so thanks for the packing list! I always end up forgetting something.

I love a good road trip!!

Thanks for the detailed post. I m planning a road trip to my sasural in october end… and you post make the preps easy.

Road trips are fun and we are kind of pro by now.. So do take care of all the pointers mentioned in your post. Thanks for the share.. Very useful tips.

It’s good to have readymade checklist like this. I’d rather stay away from journeys now.

Wow! What a beautifully written detailed post. Now that the lockdown is lifting up in most of the places and people are moving out freely it becomes even more important that we take precautions while traveling. Great post. Keep the good work going.

a thorough list for all travel enthusiasts

Hey, this is really such a detailed list for all travellers, I am sure to post COVID people need to be double sure and ensure they carry everything so that they may have to stop less. Great Post

You’ve got just about every aspect covered. Loved it.

That’s so much to think of.. but they are indeed necessary..

this is a helpful list. thanks for sharing #MyFriendAlexa #Hemareads http://www.zenithbuzz.in

These new additions in the travel backpack, post-covid may seem disheartening at first, but now that we have to accept these as part of our lives, they are the new essentials. Very helpful post, and keeps the travelers in us quite motivated. Detailed list and well explained.

We too love road trips. This is a comprehensive list which I will come back to before our next trip. I always carry first aid medicines in my hand bag on trips.

This is such a detailed list. Road trip is rare for us, but few points are takeaway like a newspaper! I always forget these and a dashboard camera stand. And of course the new normal additions of mask, sanitizer.

Loved this list, I have a packilist infact too, that I wrote very recetly for corona times.

Omg! That is surely an exhaustive list there. You have covered every minute detail. And along with a couple of N95 masks, I would suggest a pack of disposable ones too :)Just to be on the safe side. Surface sprays are a total must now!

Thanks Harjeet. I carried a set of disposable ones on my last road trip. I found them more cmfortable than the cotton ones.

Such a detailed post covering all aspects of road travel. Now it is even more important because people are going to prefer a road trip and visiting places closer to their cities. This is a post to save for reference.

Going for a road trip is no less than carrying your home along nowadays! This is indeed the one list that addresses every need and concern.

Traveling during this pandemic is really tough and I really loved the list you shared which we need to carry on a road trip!!

Kudos to the detailing..now I know.where to head before I start planning my next trip. #tmmreads

Oh, this is really a long list. I some of those things are preferential. Anyways thank you for sharing this list.

Travel has been something that we all have been craving for. Now that the lockdown is lifting up we all are eagerly waiting to venture out. This detailed post will surely help to plan things in a much better way!!

What a comprehensive list of must-haves for all safe road trips, I really like the handy options you have mentioned above.

Surface sanitisers are very important in the post covid world. I guess we will not remove masks too even after the pandemic ends.

Germophobe is the word I also used to tag the person when I would see someone with sanitizer or paper soap for every little thing. But now it’s normal, in fact, the ones who don’t sanitize are abnormal now. Yes, times are changing and people are getting back to normal including making travel plans too. Thanks for sharing such a helpful list.

This is surely an incredible list

A perfect list for travel in this Pandemic.The entire headache of maintaining sanitization is definitely added now.

A list worth saving. It’s so confusing when we go out. We really don’t know what to do where to touch and where not to! Travel is only going to make me more paranoid

i wrote a similar post in pre covid times now will update my list with your post covid additions. precisely compiled list.

Superb… This is a great checklist with the details. Thanks for sharing. I’m gonna save this for sure.

Wow…this is one detailed list…I would keep a print out handy lest as always I forget something, now that one shouldn’t take any chances.

Nice list Sinjana, I am using a DDPai Front and Rear dashcam and the quality is good, it captures the sudden acceleration or deceleration photos and videos automatically along with GPS, there is also a possibility to share GPS link for your near and dear to track your roadtrip.. You have covered an exhaustive list, do look for engine oil levels, threading on the existing tyres, inflatable pump and a puncture kit if you have non-tubeless tyres.

A nice post with all the essentials listed out for a future which is going to be more Roadtrips and Camping…

thanks a lot Srikanth. Yes, I was planning to write about the engine oil and tyre pressure the night before the journey. We always do that.

A brilliant and comprehensive list of must haves. Well compiled.

You have covered all the necessary changes we need to incorporate keeping in mind the current situation.

This is such a comprehensive list. Very handy.. Bookmarked

Thanks Pratikshya!

That’s very helpful list for packing while traveling during this pandemic. #MyFriendAlexa #dewreads

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Most Famous Road Trips from Delhi

Delhi to ladakh (1011 km).

Top Experiences To Do in Ladakh

Delhi to Rishikesh (270 km)

Your road trip is absolutely incomplete if you haven’t visited Rishikesh. The pleasing city of Rishikesh packs a punch with serene surroundings and thrilling activities. Visit between October and May to get the best out of rafting and temple tourism. Things to do: Go river rafting , trekking, camping or indulge in bonfires, Rishikesh has quite a lot to serve on its plate. Rishikesh is not just a temple abode, it has officially become a popular white water rafting destination, a backpacker's paradise and a Himalayan trekking zone. Distance from Delhi: Ride 270 km from Delhi to experience the spirituality of the Ganges and the ghats.   Best Route: NH334. Where to Stay:  1.  20 Best Resorts in Rishikesh                           2.  10 Best Homestays in Rishikesh Also Read:  17 Best Adventure Sports in Rishikesh

Top Experiences To Do in Rishikesh

Delhi to Spiti (1021 km)

Celibate beauty is the perfect destination for nature lovers and trekkers. Get hypnotised by visions of stunning valleys, imposing mountains and glaciers. Spiti offers some breathtaking routes, passes for treks and Buddhist monasteries that captivate us to this restrained beauty. It is the best place to enjoy trekking near Delhi . Spiti or the ‘Land of the Lamas' is popular for Tabo Monastery, a UNESCO heritage site that has some painting marvels on display. Suraj Tal Lake and a plunge into the wild at the Pin valley national park are prime attractions best visited in summers and winters. Things to do: You can go trekking, skiing and river rafting in this pure concealed beauty Distance from Delhi: 1021 km from Delhi Best Route: NH44.

Top Experiences To Do in Spiti Valley

• Spiti Valley

Delhi to Jaipur (280 km)

The pink city of Jaipur presents galore sightseeing activities coupled with great food to make your break worth it. Valiant battles and resplendent palaces, Jaipur is the union of old historic world and contemporary. The prime attraction is Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar. The local bazaars are full of Jaipuri attraction including shibori and chunari with meticulously etched handicrafts. Things to do:   Jaipur offers activities like elephant and camel rides, jungle safaris, Zorbing, and a bite into the moto sports park. Distance from Delhi: Come ride from Delhi only 280 km in the months between October and March to enjoy the most. Best Route: NH48. Also Read:  25 Best 2 Days Trip near Delhi

Top Experiences To Do in Jaipur

Best of Jaipur

Delhi to Manali (540 km)

The snow-capped beauty of a hill station Manali will offer you visions of great magnificence. With beautiful flora, lush greens, and exuberant sapphire streams, Manali has been blessed with tremendous scenic beauty. Tourists every year flock to this wonder to experience snowfall. There are mesmerizing places to visit in Manali, our recommended locations are the Beas Kund trek, Rohtang pass, Hadimba temple, and Solang valley to be visited between October and February which is considered the best period. Things to do: Adding to the unruffled surroundings there is a splurge of activities like rafting , paragliding, camping and trekking . Distance from Delhi: From Delhi, you will have to ride 540 km to experience the best road trips from Delhi Best Route: NH44. Where to Stay:   Best Resorts in Manali for an amazing stay Check Out:   20 Best Adventure Sports in Manali

Top Experiences To Do in Manali

Delhi to Agra (235 km)

Ride your way to Agra to see the majestic wonder Taj Mahal with a splendid display of architecture and old world history. But, there is more to Agra than just Taj Mahal. The historical city can be visited between October and March when you can see all the historical monuments in the pleasant weather. Things to do: While you are there you can take joy in visiting the Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort and the grand tomb of Akbar. You can also go shopping in the old markets where you can get hold of ethereal charms as well as a contemporary artefact. Distance from Delhi: With just 235 km from Delhi, experience the historic wonder. Best Route: Taj expresses highway/ Yamuna Expressway. Also Read:  15 Best Places to Visit in Delhi for Couples

Top Experiences To Do in Agra

Delhi to Shimla (350 km)

Famous for Mall road, toy train and the ridge Shimla poses as the most popular hill stations. Enriched with colonial history, you will be taken aback with the impeccable city full of natural marvels. The toy train takes you through the beautiful valleys and gigantic hills. For religious seekers visit the numerous shrines or visit the heritage museum to experience old world charm. For the snow, visit here in the winters as it is the best time to visit Shimla but summers too are pleasant enough to plan your trip Things to do: mall road shopping,  trekking , toy train adventure and exploration ice skating and rafting are the best entertainment here. Distance from Delhi: From Delhi enjoy the joyful road trip on the circling roads is positioned just 350 km away. Best route: NH44/NH5. Where to Stay:   20 Best Resorts in Shimla Check Out: 20 Best Hill Stations Near Shimla

Top Experiences To Do in Shimla

Road Trips Near Delhi within 100 km

Delhi to surajkund (42 km).

Also known as the “Lake of the Sun”, the artificial basin created along with circular embankment is an ideal picnic spot for fun and frolic. The remnants of the sun temple are found around the sun pool along with a beautifully crafted garden. Road hitters can devour their trip to this place between the months of December and February. Come surrender to the beauty and uniqueness of what is considered as the best road trips from Delhi  Things to do: Every year in the first week of February, the popular Surajkund international crafts Mela is organised here to showcase some of the best works of craftsmen with pastoral folk dances and musical nights which you can become a part of. Distance from Delhi:  It is located at a mere 42 km from Delhi. Best route: Mahatma Gandhi Marg – outer ring road – Suraj Kund road. You may also like:  30 Places to Visit near Delhi within 100 Km

Best of Manali

Delhi to Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary (48 km)

A photographer’s paradise and a bird watcher’s secret cloak, this is unquestionably the ideal getaway for the weekend near Delhi . From the melodious tunes sung by vivacious birds, the recently declared national park presents itself as the idyllic destination for road trips near Delhi. Winters are considered the best time to visit the aviary owing to the presence of a large number of migratory and rare bird species. Things to do: The entire day can be devoted to the haven while you take long walks amongst the luxuriant jade beauty and bird watching Distance from Delhi: The home of some of the most atypical birds is just 48 km away from Delhi. Best Route: NH9 or Dabri Gurgaon road. Also Read:  45 Best Things to Do in Delhi

Delhi to Manesar (49 km)

The sleepy village of Manesar and the towering industrial town also has its bag of surprises with lush green sceneries inviting you. The town gives you a rustic feeling and if you are up for an offbeat experience then driving down to Manesar will be a good change from the usual city life. Things to do: Damdama Lake is the perfect spot for camping near Delhi . For those birdwatchers who love to hear the chirps of birds, the Sultanpur bird sanctuary is a must visit. The richly designed temple beckons its devotees in full swing. Distance from Delhi : Manesar is 49 km away from Delhi Best route : Gurgaon highway.

Top Experiences To Do in Manesar

Delhi to Damdama Lake (50 km)

The Damdama lakes pose as the perfect picnic spot near Delhi for those bike lovers who like quick trips. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Aravalli range, there are gamuts of activities to do here. Things to do: The nature lovers can indulge their mind and body into boat paddling, rock climbing, hot air ballooning, parasailing and trekking. The site presents a confluence of adventure and natural beauty. It is a haven for thrill seekers and camp mongers who love to spend their twilights like a hermit. Distance from Delhi: Located just about 50 km from Delhi, the heaven on earth will rejuvenate your core. Best Route: Delhi-Alwar highway. You may also like:  55 Best Places to Visit in Delhi

Delhi to Camp Wild Dhauj (50 km)

Set in the valleys of the gigantic Aravalli range, camp wild Dhauj offers an exhilarating ride into the most thrilling adventures. The highlight of the camp is its very own forest surrounded by the Kikar trees where activities are organised. October to March is considered the best time to visit here. Things to do: Passionate bike riders can also take a forest trek along with enjoying a host of activities like rappelling, wall climbing, flying fox; hill hikes, Burma Bridge and monkey crawling. Die-hard adventure lovers can also participate in mountain biking and zorbing.  Distance from Delhi: It is only 50 km from Delhi. Best route: NH 44 or Mathura road (Chennai – Delhi highway). Check Out:   25 Best Adventure Sports in Delhi

Best of Ladakh

Delhi to Badkhal Lake (52 km)

Come visit the paradise of bird lovers on your scramblers this winter. The Badkhal Lake is the fortress of contentment bordered with hills. It is surely positioned as an exemplary spot for water laden sports.  If you seek peace, then ride your way here between October and March to enjoy the birds, the stillness of the lakes and the abundant thrills. Things to do: If you are looking for a gratifying boat ride then hire a private jetty or indulge in the adventure facilities of canoeing, Kayaking, rock climbing and trekking. Distance from Delhi: It is a mere 52 km from Delhi Best route: NH 44 & Chennai – Delhi highway.

Delhi to Botanix Nature Resort (62 km)

The eco-friendly Botanix Nature resort near Delhi , nestled at the base of Aravalli range and at the edge of the Damdama Lake offers an array of flora collection and themed gardens for you to enjoy. The unique exposition of beautifully styled gardens running into each other. Since this is predominantly a day outing activity, winters between October and February is considered the best time to visit this magnificence. Things to do: Get set with your squad of bikers to this blissful spot and enjoy numerous activities like meditation, cliff jump, Nature walk, Trust fall and Rappelling. Distance from Delhi: The destination is 62 km from Delhi Best route: NH8.

Road Trips Near Delhi within 200km

Delhi to karnal (118 km).

The rice bowl of India occupies an important place in Hindu Mythology. Visit the beautiful Karnal Lake that tricks the busy city life, or opt for some religious rumination at the Cantonment church tower. September to March is a great time to come here. Things to do: The city also has its fair share of forts among which the Karnal fort and Qualander Shah’s tomb stand tall. If you are looking for your share of architectural charm and fanfare come here to experience the Hariyali Teej festival held in the months of September and October. Distance from Delhi:  it is just 118 km from Delhi Best Route: NH44.

Delhi to Kuchesar (130 km)

The trip to Kuchesar will be a rewarding experience for those who seek calm. The key attraction here is the famous mud fort that stands above the village. When in Kuchesar you can also drive down to Brigat, hailed as a wonderful picnic spot by the Ganges.  Winters are the best time to visit here. Things to do: The mud fort will be the most fulfilling experience for the range of activities for its visitors. So while you leave our bikes for an enjoyable bullock ride or the village walk, you can see the splendid mango orchids or just explore the village market on a tractor. Distance From Delhi: It is placed 130 km from Delhi. Best Route: Eastern Peripheral expressway / NH 9. Also Read:  50 Best Hill Stations Near Delhi

Best of Shimla

Delhi to Garhmukteshwar (140 km)

The holy town of Garhmukteshwar located in Uttar Pradesh is only 5 km from the holy Ganges. The place is extremely famous for its 80 sati pillars where wives in the ancient times were believed to commit Sati. Its divinity lies in the temples and ancient palaces lined for your eyes best visited between October and March Things to do: The month of Kartik is also worth a visit for the bathing fair takes place in full grandiose. The most famous temples are the Mukteshwar Mahadev temple, Ganga temple and the Vedanta temple which you can visit. Distance from Delhi: The sacred site is located 140 km from Delhi Best Route: Eastern Peripheral expressway / NH 9. Suggested Read:  30 Best Places to Visit in Delhi with Friends

Delhi to Barsana (150 km)

Ride to the absolute divinity of Barsana considered being the birthplace of Krishna's gopi Radha. Barsana is famous for the celebration of Holi festival known as lath mar holi. October to April is the best time to visit Barsana where you can become a part of the Holi festival. One of the least discovered places, it is a rare place to enjoy one day trip from Delhi . Things to do: Sightseeing is the best activity here. The Shriji temple, Radha Kushal Bihari temple, Maan Mandir, Sankari Khor and the Prem Sarovar pond are considered the best places here to take a look at. Distance from Delhi: Barsana located about 150 km from Delhi Best Route:  Mathura road / NH 19 & 44.

Delhi to Kurukshetra (160 km)

This is a city of extreme historical significance best visited between October and March. Things to do: The site has many temples and landmarks like the Krishna Museum, Sheikh Chilli tomb and the Mahadev temple being amongst the prime attractions. You can reroute to the Brahma Sarovar especially in the evening for calm. Do not also forget to see the Bhishma Kund Narkatari where the legendary Bhishm Pitamah rests in peace.  If you want to see the amalgamation of science and religion then devote some time to visit the Panorama and science centre to get blown away. Distance from Delhi: Kurukshetra is about 160 km from Delhi Best Route: NH44. Suggested Read:  30 Best Museums in Delhi

Delhi to Neemrana (162 km)

Snuggled in the Aravalli ranges, Neemrana is an enchanting historical beauty famous of forts and palaces. The most sought after getaway, the journey to Neemrana presents the most aesthetic ride from Delhi. The location is celebrated for Neemrana fort which has now been converted into a heritage hotel known for its folk music, camel rides, dry sand and architectural marvel located atop the hill and is most visited between July and March. Things to do: For photo fanatics and nature lovers, the Siliserh Lake will summon you to experience your walk to remember a moment. You can also participate in the colourful festival to get to know the real Rajasthan. Distance from Delhi: Neemrana is positioned 162 km from Delhi Best Route: NH48. Check Out:   25 Best Historical Places in Delhi

Best of Rishikesh

Delhi to Alwar (167 km)

The pride of Rajputs, Alwar is encompassed with beautiful palaces and ancient forts to take your breath away. Alwar is popular mainly due to its vicinity to the Sariska tiger reserve where you can go aboard on a safari tour and it is also one of the best places to visit near Delhi in December . Things to do: The vibrant city of Alwar is the perfect escape to gaze at places like the city palace, Moosi Rani ki Chatri and tomb of Fateh Jang. Wildlife take-off or a camel safari, this place never ceases to enchant you with its ethnicity and colours. Distance from Delhi: From Delhi, the one road distance would be 167 km. Best Route: NH 48.

Top Experiences To Do in Alwar

Delhi to Mathura (180 km)

The birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura is known for its narrow lanes and crumbling edifices. Situated in the banks of Yamuna experience nirvana amidst the rich history of Indian culture. Come riding here to experience peace and harmony at the Krishna Janam Bhoomi temple where Lord was born. The best time to visit Mathura would be between November and March Things to do: The city is famous for its street food in the constricted lanes served with love. You can also visit the Dwarkadheesh temple and the Gita Mandir or opt for a boat ride at the immaculate Vishram Ghat. Distance from Delhi: It is situated 180 km from Delhi. Best Route: Taj expresses highway/ Yamuna Expressway. Also Read: 50 Best Places to Visit near Delhi within 200 Km

Delhi to Vrindavan (182 km)

Located on the banks of Yamuna is one of the oldest cities of India. Touted as the place where Lord Krishna served his childhood, it is full of temples dedicated to the mischievous Lord. Every year lakhs of devotees come and visit the scattered temples of this sacred city. It was in this city that the love story of Lord and Radha bloomed. The best time to visit here are the months of winters. Things to do: Lined with ghats, the best spots of the city are Govind hills, ISKCON Vrindavan, Radha Damodar temple and the Madan Mohan temple for you to explore. Distance from Delhi: Separated by 182 km from Delhi Best Route: Taj express highway/ Yamuna Expressway. Check Out: Delhi Tour Packages

Road Trips Near Delhi beyond 300km

Delhi to haridwar (250 km).

If you want to go aboard on a spiritual and cultural journey then Haridwar is your next destination. The city is always overflowing with innumerable tourists yet the best time to explore it is between October and December and between February and May. Things to do: While you take a dip in the holy waters, you can also opt to go temple hopping or get daring with rafting in the white waters. For those interested in peace, can visit ashrams and go trekking in the woods. Distance from Delhi: To attend the Ganga Aarti or explore the wild, visit Haridwar located 250 km from Delhi Best Route: NH334.

Top Experiences To Do in Haridwar

Best of Kullu

Delhi to Dehradun (255 km)

Top Experiences To Do in Dehradun

Delhi to Corbett (260 km)

Features as the best places for road trips from Delhi, Corbett offers many types of safaris including Elephant Safari, Canter Safari and the Jeep safari to take you into the deep wilderness. You will enjoy the dense jungles bundled with Flora and Fauna, rough hills and grassland. Things to do: Spot the deadliest of animals including the handsome Royal Bengal Tiger, enjoy jeep safari , explore the paradise for photographers and wildlife freaks with camping options at various buffer zones in the premise. Distance from Delhi: Only 260 km from Delhi visit here between November and June to explore the wilds. Best Route: Upper Ganga Canal road. Where to Stay: 30 Best Resorts in Jim Corbett Check Out: J im Corbett National Park Tour Packages

Top Experiences To Do in Corbett

Delhi to Mussoorie (320 km)

The queen of hill stations is nuzzled at the foothills of the Himalayas. If your idea of a holiday is tranquil hills and unscathed nature then ride your way to the most sought after road trips from Delhi. The undulating green gradients juxtaposed with the snow-capped beauty are sure to make your jaws drop. The city offers a distinct colonial vibe with traces of archaic surroundings. Mussoorie can be best explored during winters and summers. Things to do: Envision heavenly bliss at Cloud’s end, calm at the Lake Mist, Lal tibba and the Mall standing tall amongst the best places to visit. Distance from Delhi:  The perfect retreat is 320 km from Delhi. Best Route: Saharanpur Road. Where to stay: 1.   14 Best Resorts in Mussoorie                           2.  10 Best Homestays in Mussoorie Also Read:  20 Best Places to Visit in Mussoorie

Top Experiences To Do in Mussoorie

Delhi to Landour (320 km)

Away from noise, into the mystic lays the cantonment town of Landour. Inhale fresh air with deodar forests lined up for you to take a glance at the thick. Landour is peaceful all year round but April to June is the best to visit  Things to do: The sleepy town will give you the best experiences especially when you have a chance meeting with Mr Ruskin Bond at the Ivy Cottage. You can also taste some delectable meals at the Char Dukan near Sister's bazaar when you can shop non-stop. To experience the wonders of gothic architecture you can go to the Kellogg’s church located amidst wilderness. Distance from Delhi: It is located only 320 km from Delhi.   Best Route: Saharanpur road. Suggested Read:  20 Best Amusement Parks in Delhi

Best of Gurgaon

Delhi to Nainital (350 km)

There are amazing places to visit in Nainital and the valley envelopes the captivating Naini Lake best visited throughout the year but the best in March till June. Things to do: Go boating in the freshwater lakes or trekking  or opt for nature walks and discovering wildlife. Come with your friends and enjoy camping by the lake or just go on a shopping spree at the Tibetan market for great deals. The ropeway ride gives a holistic view of the town that makes this place a must experience for road trips from Delhi. Distance from Delhi: Located at about 350 km from Delhi Best route: NH9. Where to Stay:   16 Best Resorts in Nainital Check Out:  15 Best Places to Visit near Nainital

Top Experiences To Do in Nainital

• Naukuchiatal

Delhi to Ranikhet (400 km)

The queen’s farm is a British developed hill station surrounded with colourful temples and the heaving Himalayas. There are amazing tourist attractions in Ranikhet like Kumaon regimental museum, Nanda Devi peak, vast trekking ranges, and arduous climbs to the mountains, orchards and golf courses. Ranikhet is outstandingly beautiful in winters when you unravel the beauty of Ranikhet this coming winter. Things to do: Fishing and Paragliding are the most popular activities here with tall conifers and delectable wildlife that swathes you. You will be swayed by the hilly ranges and verdant greenery for your nature walk and aggressive treks. Distance from Delhi:  located around 400 km from Delhi. Best Route: NH9.

Top Experiences To Do in Ranikhet

Delhi to McLeodganj (470 km)

Move ahead from Delhi and as your bike or car slowly begin to hike up in ranges of Himalayas, it will bring you closer to serene and cool environ of Mcleodganj. An ultimate road trip from Delhi has Mcleodganj within its ambit due to a distance of 480 km. It is one of the best  tourist places to visit near Delhi within 500 Kms .  Pass through the crowded city, tiny villages, hamlets of plains to scattered areas of Himalayas! While you move ahead, enjoy the views and reach. Things to do: Trekking , Head Out to Dal Lake, Camping , Boat Ride, Shop at the Local Markets etc. Distance from Delhi: The destination is  470 kilometers from Delhi Best Route:  NH503 Where to Stay:  1. 20 Best Resorts in Mcleodgan                           2.  10 Best Homestays in Mcleodganj Popular Reads:  24 Best Places to Visit in Mcleodganj

Top Experiences To Do in Mcleodganj

Delhi to Dharamshala (475 km)

Wishing to take an ultimate weekend road trip from Delhi? Then your perfect destination has the shining name of Dharamshala, indeed! A distance of 475 km, which requires an approximately one-night journey, will let you land at Dharamshala. From plain landscape to hills while rivers and dams crisscross the path become your partner all through the way. As one enters this yoga capital from Delhi, calm yet tall trees, Tibetan flags and lovely cafes in local style welcome each of the travellers. A road trip to Dharamshala with a group of friends is worth to cherish! Things to do:   Sightseeing, shopping, camping , heritage walk, trekking , mountain biking, etc are the main activities that can be done in Dharamshala. Distance from Delhi: Located at about 475 kilometers km from Delhi. Best Route:  NH44. Where to Stay:  14 Best Resorts in Dharamshala Suggested Read:  15 Best Places to Visit near Dharamshala

Top Experiences To Do in Dharamshala

• Dharamshala

Best of Kasol

Delhi to Udaipur (665 km)

Top Experiences To Do in Udaipur

Delhi to Bhopal (775 km)

The city of lakes, Bhopal is the historic beauty with architecture to hanker after. Enveloped between hills and two wondrous lakes, Bhopal is a worthy destination for road trips from Delhi. Awarded the second cleanest city in India there is a plethora of lakes and rich heritage to watch out here to be seen in Winters. Things to do: Bhopal surprisingly offers a host of water sports activities in its water bodies like Upper lake and Bhojtal. You can also do street shopping in Chowk bazaar and market Haat. A tour of the Van Vihar national park is the most popular things to do. Distance from Delhi: 775 km from Delhi by road. Best Route: Taj Express Highway. You may also like:  30 Fun Places in Delhi for Youngsters

Top Experiences To Do in Bhopal

Delhi to Jaisalmer (830 km)

The Golden City of Rajasthan invites you to take a tour of the golden sand dunes of the Thar Desert on the Camel. The city is embellished with lakes, and castles with golden hues. The prime attractions are Jaisalmer Fort, Badal palace and the very many beautifully adorned Jain temples.  October to March is inarguably the best months to visit here in order to become a part of the unique desert festival full of festive colours and folklore. Things to do: Jaisalmer offers Paramotoring, quad biking. Dune bashing and a patriotic visit to the India Pakistan border. Distance from Delhi: The city is only 830 km from Delhi. Best Route: NH11.

Top Experiences To Do in Jaisalmer

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Rising gracefully from lush gardens and surrounded by a symmetrical charbagh (four-part garden), Humayun's Tomb exudes an air of tranquility and grandeur. The use of red sandstone and white marble in its construction adds a captivating contrast to the monument's façade, making it a visual delight for visitors and photographers alike.Interestingly, Humayun's Tomb served as an architectural inspiration for the world-famous Taj Mahal, which was built later by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife. The intricate geometric patterns, arched entrances, and delicate lattice work seen in Humayun's Tomb can be traced in the design of the Taj Mahal.Today, the tomb complex houses the graves of several other members of the Mughal dynasty, making it a cherished historical site and a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, marvel at the detailed calligraphy adorning the walls, and immerse themselves in the captivating history that surrounds this majestic monument.

Home to the President of the world’s largest democracy, Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi stands as a symbol of national strength. The nation’s most important democratic functions like the swearing-in ceremony of its elected leaders are carried out in these very grounds. The Rashtrapati Bhavan has been witness to honour giving ceremonies of the country’s bravehearts and achievers, signing of historic pacts between India and other nations, of India’s independence and republic day ceremonies, and the hosting of many world leaders.The Rashtrapati Bhavan is a true architectural masterpiece in its own right. The magnificent building spreads across 320 acres, including the splendid ‘Mughal Garden’ and the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum. The design of the Rashtrapati Bhavan mainly imparts the Mughal architectural styles blended with classical and grand European signatures, credited to the British architects- Edwin Lutyen and Hebert Baker.The building is also diversified with a number of other typically Indian motifs such as ornate Elephant statues on the outer wall or the main gate of the building with the ‘Jaipur column’. All in all, it is quite a visual treat to behold!The building is open to visitors by three different segments or tour circuits. The first circuit comprises of the Main building and the Central Lawn. The second circuit houses the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum Complex. In the same circuit, you can get a tour of the Clock Tower, the Stables, and the Garages. The third circuit has the magnificent Mughal Garden and other ancillary gardens of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Tourists can request a trip of each of the circuits separately on the days assigned for each segment respectively for daytime visits from 9 AM to 4 PM. There is much to take in and marvel at around the complex-- the intricate craftsmanship of carved marble statues, the sprawling Mughal Gardens featuring masterful landscaping concepts, the Clock Tower, and a myriad of presidential mementos preserved inside the Museum. Upon exit, you can explore the premier surroundings of this important historical site, often called as the ‘Lutyens Delhi’.

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Epic road trip from Manali to Leh, and the must-visit places for your travel itinerary

Panchali Dey , TIMESOFINDIA.COM , TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA Updated : Apr 4, 2024, 09:41 IST

When it comes to picking a road trip, many would pick their favourite one as the most sought-after Manali to Leh trip, and we can’t agree more. The very journey through the rugged terrain on your vehicle is an experience that will be etched in your heart forever.

This time, if you set off on your road trip, seize the opportunity to explore the resplendent beauty of the region. With snow-capped mountains, distant valleys, and the refreshing mountain breeze, the journey becomes even more exhilarating. As you travel through the rugged terrain, you'll pass through some of Ladakh's most renowned passes, which will allow you to marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of the region no doubt.

The best time to travel to Leh Ladakh via this route would be from June to September. If travelling by road, it typically takes at least 2 days to cover this 473 km route with ample stops for rest.

If you have also been planning to hit the road and enjoy this road trip, here are some places that you should add to your itinerary for an unforgettable Manali Leh road trip.

Perched at an elevation of 6725 ft above sea level, this hill station captivates with its enchanting vistas. While summers offer pleasant weather, winters adorn the peaks with glistening snow, rendering it a picturesque destination en route from Manali to Ladakh.

Rohtang Pass

En route from Manali to Leh, the Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views. Situated 51 km from Manali at an altitude of 3900 m, this route leads to destinations, such as Pangi, Lahaul Spiti, and Leh, offering vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, with the Chandra River flowing nearby.

Keylong Pass

Whether you seek scenic strolls through quaint villages or awe-inspiring mountain vistas, Keylong is one such place that you won’t want to miss. Set adjacent to this locale is the magnificent Bhaga Valley, replete with verdant greenery. Serving as the administrative centre of Lahaul and Spiti district, Keylong is a favoured stopover among tourists and trekkers en route from Manali to Ladakh for an overnight stay.

Nestled beside the Chandra River, Jispa is a picturesque hamlet offering a captivating stopover during the Manali – Leh tour. Adorned naturally with streams, scenic peaks, verdant valleys, and lush foliage, it offers visitors an intimate encounter with Mother Nature.

Discover the charming Himalayan village of Darcha, nestled beside the Bhaga River, roughly 23 km from Keylong. It’s one of those places in India where you should try camping for a change. Frequented by tourists journeying from Manali to Ladakh, this place surely makes for a great pitstop.

Baralacha La

Nestled amid the lofty Zanskar region, Baralacha La serves as a pivotal mountain pass and confluence point of several roads. Connecting Lahaul to Ladakh, this plateau is enveloped by the Pir Panjal and Himalayan mountain ranges, offering a spectacular destination during the journey from Manali to Ladakh.

A hidden gem known primarily to those traversing the Manali – Leh route, Gata Loops captivates visitors with its stunning vistas nestled in the Western Himalayas. Accessing and departing from this location is as thrilling as the journey itself, making it a must-visit destination during the Manali to Ladakh journey.

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When it comes to picking a road trip, many would pick their favourite one as the most sought-after Manali to Leh trip, and we can’t agree more. The very journey through the rugged terrain on your vehi...

Experience India’s best Road Trips. Discover the beauty of India with our tours. Choose from a wide range of road trip packages.

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Our experienced team of travel enthusiasts ensures that each journey is methodically planned, offering a seamless and immersive experience. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, or a group of friends, we strive to create a personalised itineraries that cater to your interests and preferences. Embark on a remarkable adventure with Road Trip India and discover the true essence of india.

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Northeast India Road Trip: Many Dream but Few Dare

Northeast India is full of offbeat attractions and incredible wonders, most of which are unseen, unknown, and unexplored till date . This mystic part of India spans from Darjeeling in North Bengal to the Indo-Tibet, Indo-China, and Indo-Burma borders through geographically diverse forested landscapes penetrated by rivers and streams in hilly terrains and green valleys. Many are flattered by illusions of making trips to Northeast India, but a few dare to drive or travel all the precarious way. One such road trip to Northeast India by Jatin Kapoor and Karan Jung at Alternate Atlas makes a fulfilling story for aspiring road trippers and adventure enthusiasts at Travel Beats .

We started our road trip to Northeast India from Siliguri in West Bengal with cups of Darjeeling and Lopchu tea adding to our gusto for the adventure ahead. Our first stopover was Darjeeling where we spent a night in a planter’s bungalow. Tea plantation is the backbone of economy in North Bengal and most of Northeast India as it seemed from a huge number of men and women working in sprawling tea gardens there. Corporates like Tata own some of the tea estates in Darjeeling and Assam. We caught an eyeful of the lush green landscape dotted with tea plantations across highs and lows of the valleys where pluckers (most of whom are women) work meditatively like the Solitary Reaper in a poem of the same name by William Wordsworth.

We drove the car from Darjeeling to Shillong, one of the best road trips in India . The beauty of nature in different concrete forms on both sides of the winding road overpowered our senses. Known as the Scotland of the East , Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It is a springboard of entertainment and a hotbed of activities through the atmosphere feels laidback there. [pullquote] Located in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Mawlynnong Village is also known as ‘God’s own garden’. For its unmatched cleanliness, the village is featured among the Inspirational Stories of Rural India . [/pullquote] We explored caves, visited Mawlynnong (the cleanest village in Asia), and trekked a little. Cherrapunji where the highest rainfall occurs in the world welcomed us too. What is the most surprising about the villages of Meghalaya is the way the living roots of trees form natural bridges. Such bridges last for centuries. We took a walk across one such bridge and had a nice time over great food at the night bazaar in Shillong.

Meghalaya’s living root bridges are among the most offbeat attractions in India . Huge thick roots naturally get intermingled to form bridges which are so strong that around fifty people can walk on them at a time. Such natural wonders are common sights to behold across the banks of streams in Meghalaya. The Living Root Bridge in Cherrapunji is a UNESCO heritage site. – Indian Eagle

Then, we drove from Meghalaya to Nagaland, the land of head hunters . It is a customary practice for the people of the Naga tribe to severe the heads of their enemies and put them as trophies on display in their homes. Even such trophies are preserved and exhibited in Nagaland’s State Museum. Hornbill Festival of Nagaland is a major festival when all the 16 tribes of the state get together to celebrate their unity. Hornbill Festival was the main reason that this road trip to Northeast India was planned.

We were overwhelmed with warm welcome in Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. A group of natives took care of our needs, served us with platefuls of mouth-watering dishes from their local cuisine, and treated us to the best of hospitality. The locals are decent, humble and warm. The influence of mother figures in the society of Northeast India did not elude our attention. Little did we know that the Second World War actually concluded on the soil of Kohima . The corpses of hundreds of American, English and Indian soldiers lay buried at DC’s Tennis Court.

The next destination was Assam where we stopped by the Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World heritage site. Watching one-horned rhinoceroses and wild elephants was as exciting as walking on the Living Root Bridge. Inside the park, we took a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River and caught glimpses of the Gangetic dolphins. On the way back from the park, we came across a few local boys playing soccer. We went into a game with them and lost miserably only to realize that Northeast India has the best soccer talent in the country.

Our untamable lust for road tripping took us to Pangsau Pass at a height of 3727 feet on the India-Burma border . It is close to the famous Still Will Road built during the Second World War. This could connect with the much talked about road from India to Thailand. Carpet making is a means of sustenance for the natives of this seemingly uninhabited place. They weave beautiful carpets out of the raw materials imported from New Zealand through their awesome craftsmanship.

Named after a Burmese village, Pangsau Pass was the route that led to the invasion of Assam by the Ahoms, a Shan tribe, in the 13 th century. It was nicknamed “Hell Pass” during the Second World War as its fierce gradients formed a mammoth obstacle for the American soldiers on their way to China. The Pangsau Pass Winter Festival is a famous event in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh. – Indian Eagle     

Debang Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh was the next episode of adventure during our road trip to Northeast India. Also known as the Nampada National Park, the sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, snow leopards and clouded leopards. The only way to explore the park is on foot. Trekking is full of blood-chilling thrills in the park. Generally, tour guides carry weapons for protection from animals. An expanse of dense forests with marshy land on the river bed creates a supernatural environment. Dr. Salim Ali, a most reputed ornithologist, described Debang Wildlife Sanctuary as the most beautiful national park sans the human intervention.

There are many things to see and do in Darjeeling, Shillong, Kohima and Khonsa. The unseen and unexplored part of this road trip will surely get us back on another drive.

Indian Eagle , a leading international travel agency booking the best   USA to India flights   at the lowest airfare, brings this exclusive road tripping story with inputs from Jatin Kapoor and Karan Jung.

About the Contributors  

Jatin Kapoor and Karana Jung are young road trippers & dynamic travel professionals at  Alternate Atlas . They are on a mission to help travelers explore the natural and cultural uniqueness of India. At Alternate Atlas, they organize village walks, road trips, birding trips, jungle safaris, home stays, and trips to offbeat destinations across India.

Are you a traveler or travel photographer? We would like to share your travel story and experience with our readers. Pitch to us at [email protected] and get published.  

3 thoughts on “ Northeast India Road Trip: Many Dream but Few Dare ”

We are thinking of a road trip into the North East in November. Looking to see how you can assist us. Five of us men and women only.

We would have been glad to help you out but we only book flights to India and other parts of the world from the United States. Apart from booking best flights at the cheapest prices, we provide travel tips and ideas.

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8 Most Scenic And Adventurous Road Trips You Must Take

I ndia boasts diverse landscapes and unique cultural experiences. A road trip through India offers a chance to explore the hidden gems and natural beauty of this vast and captivating country. From the snow-capped mountains of the north to the tropical beaches of the south, India has something to offer to every traveller. Road trips in India offer breathtaking views and unique experiences along the way.

These routes will take you through some of the most stunning regions of the country, showcasing the natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance of India. Whether you’ve taken road trips before or this is your first time, these routes will provide you with lifelong experiences. So, get ready to hit the road and discover the best in India!

Mumbai to Goa

This road trip takes you through picturesque towns, charming villages, and stunning landscapes. The 600 km journey passes through some of the most beautiful places in India, such as Ratnagiri, Malvan, and Sawantwadi. The journey is perfect for those who want to explore the beautiful beaches of Goa and the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats.

Manali to Leh

One of India’s most well-liked and beautiful road journeys is this one. The 475 km journey takes you through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, through breathtaking landscapes. The journey passes through some of the most stunning locations in India, such as the Rohtang Pass, Keylong, and the Zanskar Valley.

Delhi to Agra

This road trip takes you through the scenic Yamuna Expressway, offering stunning views of the countryside. The 230 km journey passes through some of the most beautiful towns in India, such as Mathura and Vrindavan. The highlight of the journey is the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Bangalore to Goa

This road trip is perfect for those who love the beach and want to explore the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats. The 600 km journey takes you through picturesque villages, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls. The route passes through some of the most beautiful towns in India, such as Chikmagalur, Karwar, and Gokarna.

Chennai to Pondicherry

This road trip takes you through the scenic East Coast Road, offering stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. The 160 km journey passes through some of the most picturesque towns in India, such as Mahabalipuram and Auroville. The highlight of the journey is the French colonial town of Pondicherry.

Jaipur to Jaisalmer

This road trip takes you through the stunning Thar desert, offering breathtaking views of sand dunes, palaces, and forts. The 550 km journey passes through some of the most beautiful towns in India, such as Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer.

Kolkata to Darjeeling

This road trip takes you through the scenic Darjeeling hills, offering stunning views of tea gardens, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains. The 600 km journey passes through some of the most beautiful towns in India, such as Siliguri, Kurseong, and Darjeeling. The highlight of the journey is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ahmedabad to Kutch

This road trip takes you through the stunning Rann of Kutch, offering breathtaking views of salt flats and desert landscapes. The 400 km journey passes through some of the most beautiful towns in India, such as Bhuj and Mandvi. The highlight of the journey is the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival that takes place in the winter months.

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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.