Roads of India: Epic Road Trips in the Country
TRAVEL
Reshma Hasdah
4 min read
India is home to various mesmerizing landscapes, from majestic mountains to desert terrains, and coastal roads. The best way to experience this beautiful country is to hit the open road. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or stunning views, these road trips are bound to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Manali – Leh: An Adventure At High Altitude
The Manali to Leh highway is one of India's most iconic road trips, a dream for every travel enthusiast. Spanning nearly 480 km, the road takes you through some of the highest motorable passes, including Rohtang La, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La. It is best to embark on this epic road trip between June and September to witness stunning views of mountainous terrains, sky-kissing peaks, and temples.
Must-See Stops:
Rohtang Pass
Keylong
Pangong Lake
Magnetic Hill
Mumbai to Goa — The Great Road Trip
NH66 is a classic trip from Mumbai to Goa with beautiful views of the Arabian Sea and green landscapes. Covered over a distance of about 590 km, this journey is an amalgamation of beautiful coastlines, traditional towns, and delightful local cuisine. Best for: Weekend getaway Ideal for: Coastal routes
Must-See Stops:
Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Ganpatipule Beach
Amboli Ghat
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Jaipur to Jaisalmer: The Desert Trail
One of the most incredible road trips in Rajasthan would be a drive from Jaipur to Jaisalmer, which is around 560 km and takes about 8-9 hours. It will be situated between the golden sand dunes and skeletons of stunning forts and conventional Rajasthani towns at the centre of the Thar Desert. Enjoy it at its best while traveling between the months of October and March.
Must-See Stops:
Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Pushkar Lake
Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort
Sam Sand Dunes
Bangalore to Ooty via the Picturesque Western Ghats
Take a road trip from Bangalore to Ooty that passes through beautiful greenery to make your nature lover's heart happy, Covering a distance of about 270 km. Winding roads, thick forests and scenic waterfalls make this a great escape from city life.
Must-See Stops:
Mysore Palace
Bandipur National Park
Pykara Waterfalls
Nilgiri Tea Gardens
Guwahati to Tawang: A Himalayan Discovery
For adrenaline seekers , the drive from Guwahati to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is unmissable. This route, which is approximately 520 km, is full of beautiful views of the Himalayas, steep climbs, and Buddhist monasteries. Due to heavy snowfall, the best time to visit is March to June or September to November.
Must-See Stops:
Kaziranga National Park
Sela Pass
Tawang Monastery
Bum La Pass
Chennai to Puducherry: The Calming East Coast Road
A 3-4 hour drive covering about 160 km from Chennai to Puducherry along the East Coast Road (ECR) is one of the most scenic road trips you can do. With the Bay of Bengal on one side quaint fishing villages on the other, this road trip is one for when you’re looking for a leisurely escape.【More Travel】
Must-See Stops:
Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
Alamparai Fort
Auroville
Promenade Beach
An Offbeat Himalayan Journey from Delhi to Spiti Valley
A road trip from Delhi to Spiti Valley is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for thrill-seekers. This challenging terrain, covering over 750 km, features high-altitude landscapes alongside ancient monasteries and large green river valleys. The optimal season for this road trip is between June and October.
Must-See Stops:
Chitkul (the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border)
Nako Lake
Key Monastery
Chandratal Lake
Road Trip Tips for a Safe and Fun Journey
Plan Your Route: Check road conditions and hotels ahead of the trip.
Bring Snacks: Snacks, a first-aid kit, extra fuel, and warm clothes for trips in the mountains.
Check Your Vehicle: Get your motor car or bike serviced before hitting the roads.
Respect Local Culture: When travelling, it is important to be aware of traditions and the local community.
Be safe while driving: Abide by the rules of the Road, avoid night driving on deserted roads, and stay a tab on Weather Conditions.
Conclusion
Some of the best road trips await in India, and each route is woven with adventure, eyeful of natural beauty, and a rich culture. Whether that takes the form of coastal highways and rugged mountain passes or the heart of the desert, these trips will create memories to last a lifetime. So fill up your gas, get on the road, and let the adventure start!
Which of these road trips will be your next? Let me know !!!
