Embark on some of the most exhilarating road odysseys through India, such as the meandering Manali-Leh Highway through the Himalayas to Mumbai-Goa stretch.
Which is beautiful next to the sea. So that you will not forget them, these voyages are an experience of diverse geographical locations and cultural backgrounds succeeding each other one after another.
Key Points & Road Trips In India
| Start Location | Destination |
|---|---|
| Manali | Leh |
| Mumbai | Goa |
| Chennai | Pondicherry |
| Delhi | Agra |
| Jaipur | Ranthambore |
| Guwahati | Tawang |
| Shillong | Cherrapunji |
| Ahmedabad | Kutch |
| Bangalore | Coorg |
| Kolkata | Digha |
| Pune | Lonavala |
| Hyderabad | Hampi |
| Amritsar | Dalhousie |
| Rishikesh | Auli |
| Mumbai | Mahabaleshwar |
| Visakhapatnam | Araku Valley |
| Mangalore | Gokarna |
| Gurgaon | Neemrana |
| Chandigarh | Shimla |
| Bangalore | Ooty |
| Srinagar | Zanskar Valley |
| Dehradun | Mussoorie |
| Jaipur | Jaisalmer |
| Kochi | Munnar |
| Delhi | Rishikesh |
| Jammu | Srinagar |
| Gangtok | Tsomgo Lake |
| Bhubaneswar | Puri |
| Varanasi | Bodh Gaya |
| Lucknow | Varanasi |
30 Best Road Trips In India Explained
1.Manali to Leh
The Rohtang Pass Resplendent, Lahaul, Spiti Valley, and other breathtaking landscapes are among the highlights of this exhilarating journey from Manali to Leh.
Pangong Lake’s calmness and Nubra Valley also mark one’s memory. This trip guarantees awe-inspiring views, thrilling experiences at higher altitudes, and an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
What Is Differences Between Manali to Leh
Leh Manali Highway is a 479 km long route which has breathtaking views of the Himalayas with green valleys and high mountain passes such as Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La.
On the other hand, Leh to Manali road is 473 km long characterized by dry desert sceneries and famous places of interest like Pangong Lake as well as Nubra Valley.
2. Mumbai to Goa
Mumbai is a bustling metropolis, while Goa boasts some of the best beaches on earth, so it only makes sense that driving between these two should be a scenic ride!
Drive down the Konkan coast with its picturesque beaches, lush green scenery dotted by quaint little villages alongside delicious seafood, and lively culture waiting at every corner – what more could you ask for? It’s like trading city life for tropical paradise!
What Is Differences Between Mumbai to Goa
Covering approximately 600 km of beautiful coast, the journey between Mumbai and Goa takes you through lush Konkan villages.
Historic forts including Murud-Janjira, and scenic beach towns such as Ganpatipule. The way to Goa gives a variety of experiences ranging from tranquil beaches to busy markets.
3. Chennai to Pondicherry
You can drive from Chennai to Pondicherry through the scenic East Coast Road. You will find delightful fishing villages, beautiful coastal scenery, and Pichavaram’s tranquil backwaters.
This trip combines natural beauty with cultural diversity – finishing in the French Quarter, where boulevards are lined up against beaches!
What Is Differences Between Chennai to Pondicherry
The East Coast Road (ECR) is a scenic road that connects Chennai and Pondicherry. It is about 160 km long and offers beautiful views of the Bay of Bengal.
It goes through small coastal villages, sandy beaches and cultural sites such as Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO world heritage site.
4. Delhi to Agra
Follow the Yamuna Expressway for a fast and picturesque drive from Delhi to Agra. You can visit Mathura, a historical city, or Bharatpur’s
Keoladeo National Park is home to many species of birds during migration season on your way there. Finally, you will see the Taj Mahal – the eternal symbol of love and architectural wonder!
What Is Differences Between Delhi to Agra
Roughly about 200 km, the trip from Delhi to Agra is made through Yamuna Expressway which is known for its smoothness and beautiful views.
Mughal architecture and history can be seen as expressed by such iconic structures as Taj Mahal or Agra Fort.
5. Jaipur to Ranthambore
Drive from Jaipur to Ranthambore through the beautiful countryside with small villages. This road trip mixes history with a wildlife safari experience at the end of it all.
The famous Ranthambore National Park is home to majestic tigers and has ancient ruins scattered within its dense forests.
What Is Differences Between Jaipur to Ranthambore
The route from Jaipur to Ranthambore, which is located in the state of Rajasthan and covers around 180 kilometers of hilly terrain, links the lively culture of the Pink City
With the wilds of Ranthambore National Park known for its tigers as well as historical attractions such as Ranthambore Fort.
6. Guwahati to Tawang
Guwahati to Tawang offers an exciting journey across the Eastern Himalayas. One negotiates scenic roads that provide breathtaking views en route, such as Sela Pass or Jaswant Garh War Memorial.
It promises a memorable trip where peace-loving monasteries meet vibrant local culture against an awe-inspiring mountain backdrop.
What Is Differences Between Guwahati to Tawang
Usually, the Guwahati-Tawang route passes through Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. In total it covers around 520 kms of distance.
The route has Sela Pass (4,170 meters) as its highest point which is one among other high altitude passes along with some Buddhist monasteries too.
It also provides breathtaking views over Eastern Himalayas that serves as a perfect amalgamation between cultural and natural experiences.
7.Shillong to Cherrapunji
Start a stunning journey from Shillong to Cherrapunji, where you can enjoy Meghalaya’s undulating hills and falling cascades.
Also, see the living root bridges, foggy valleys, and the wettest place on earth. This trip will take you through some enchanting landscapes of North East India and give an insight into their cultural heritage.
What Is Differences Between Shillong to Cherrapunji
Around 55 km from Shillong is Cherrapunji with a completely different landscape, it has more greenery that all the vegetation in Shillong.
Combined while also having the most rainfall ever recorded on Earth. The Living Root Bridges, Nohkalikai Falls and panoramic views of the Khasi Hills are among its attractions.
8. Ahmedabad to Kutch
Drive from Ahmedabad to Kutch while surrounded by the lively hues and the vibrant culture of Gujarat. Don’t forget witnessing the beauty of surreal Rann during the white desert festival.
Visit ancient temples and traditional handicrafts and explore the rich biodiversity unique to this region. Such aip lets one experience both – a natural wonder and a historical blend of all foundations.
What Is Differences Between Ahmedabad To Kutch
The route from Ahmedabad to Kutch covers roughly 400 kilometers, and shows various landscapes in Gujarat. From the bustling cityscape of Ahmedabad.
The journey takes one through Bhuj with its lively handicrafts industry before finally reaching the vast white salt desert of Kutch where Rann Utsav festival is held every year.
9. Bangalore to Coorg
Take a scenic drive from Bangalore to Coorg and lose yourself in the verdant landscapes of Karnataka.
As you move through the roads that wind between hills wrapped in mists and coffee plantations, let your hair down.
Visit the serene waterfalls, spice estates, and green valleys of Coorg. This is one of those trips where we can all agree with nature’s hug.
What Is Differences Between Bangalore To Coorg
The Western Ghats is home to the Bangalore-Coorg route. It covers a distance of about 250 kms and passes through coffee estates interspersed with misty peaks and the calm Cauvery river.
Also referred to as the “Scotland of India”, Coorg is abundant in wildlife as well as Kodava traditions.
10. Kolkata to Digha
Travel from Kolkata to Digha, a charming coastal town located in West Bengal. Take this route, filled with scenic beauties, and you will experience the true essence of rural Bengal and its colorful culture.
You can also have some delicious seafood and sunbathe on clean beaches here! With such laid-back vibes and breathtaking views during evening hours, this trip cannot be missed if anyone wants peace by their side.
What Is Differences Between Kolkata To Digha
The Kolkata to Digha route is a 180 km drive that winds along the coast of West Bengal. This road trip takes you past some untouched beaches.
Sleepy fishing villages and cultural attractions such as the Marine Aquarium and Research Centre. Digha is a favorite seaside hideaway for people seeking peace and quiet.
11. Pune to Lonavala
Take a fantastic ride through the beautiful Sahyadri mountains from Pune to Lonavala. Drive past greenery, waterfalls, and lakes.
Taste delicious local snacks such as chikki or vada pav on this small journey. A short drive will always be an energizing experience surrounded by nature.
What Is Differences Between Pune To Lonavala
A distance of roughly 65 kilometers is covered by the Pune to Lonavala route which meanders through the Sahyadri mountains.
This stretch offers a number of beautiful spots including Tiger Point and Bhushi Dam besides verdant valleys and foggy hills.
Lonavala is renowned for its pleasant weather, Chikki (a type of sweet) as well as numerous waterfalls.
12. Hyderabad to Hampi
Traveling from Hyderabad to Hampi means passing through some of the rugged terrains and historical wonders the Deccan Plateau offers. Witness boulder-strewn landscapes that are home to remains from the Vijayanagara Empire.
Visit majestic temples, explore ancient ruins, or shop at riverside bazaars – there is something for everyone! This trip will take you across different parts of Karnataka, showcasing its heritage richness through architectural brilliance.
What Is Differences Between Hyderabad To Hampi
The trip from Hyderabad to Hampi takes about 370 km, which demonstrates the shift from Telangana’s cityscape to Karnataka’s ancient ruins.
It features UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Vijayanagara Empire, rocky terrains and beautiful scenery along the Tungabhadra River.
13. Amritsar to Dalhousie
Start from Amritsar and finish at Dalhousie, a scenic route through Himachal Pradesh, which offers tremendous beauty.
The journey will be along winding mountain roads with pine trees on both sides of the road and small towns where people live their lives away from the hustle-bustle of big cities.
The British left some impressive structures worth visiting for anyone interested in history or architecture; many lakes around Dhalozi give panoramic views over the Himalayas – this will surely make you feel rejuvenated after such a trip.
What Is Differences Between Amritsar To Dalhousie
Going from Amritsar to Dalhousie takes around 200 kilometres and changes from a busy city in Punjab to peaceful mountains in Himachal Pradesh.
In addition to British-style buildings, tourists can enjoy the view of the Himalayas or visit Khajjiar which is called “Mini Switzerland” of India.
14. Rishikesh to Auli
Auli is an exciting destination for those who love skiing and snowboarding activities while traveling from Rishikesh.
Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, it takes around 10 hours to reach here by car. This place has some fantastic slopes where one can indulge in their favorite winter sports amidst breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.
What Is Differences Between Rishikesh to Auli
The Rishikesh to Auli route stretches about 270 kilometers within the Garhwal area of Uttarakhand, featuring breathtaking sights such as the Ganges River.
Thick pine woods and the Auli Ski Resort with its downhill slopes that offer sweeping views over the Himalayas.
15. Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar
Go on an exciting journey from Mumbai to the hill town of Mahabaleshwar. This route takes you through the lush green mountains of the Western Ghats and foggy valleys.
You can look at strawberry fields, waterfalls, and vantage points that provide panoramic views. Being cold and full of natural beauty, this trip is guaranteed to take away all your stresses.
What Is Differences Between Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar
The way from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar is about 260 km long and it passes over the Western Ghats. Arthur’s Seat, Lingmala Waterfall, strawberry farms as well as peaceful
Venna Lake are just some of the attractions along this route. The city itself has beautiful weather all year round and is always covered with greenery.
16.Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley
One of the most stunning drives in India is from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley, which passes through dense forests of Eastern Ghats and rugged terrains.
The drive offers beautiful views over coffee plantations, tribal villages, cascading waterfalls, and other places worth seeing on its way, such as mountains covered with clouds or small rivers flowing down from them into deep ravines.
It ends at Araku Valley – a quiet hill station known for its pleasant weather conditions year-round, coupled with a rich tribal culture that still lives in harmony with nature around it.
What Is Differences Between Visakhapatnam To Araku Valley
115 kilometers in length, the Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley route goes down from coastal plains to the Eastern Ghats.
It provides a wide range of natural experiences — with waterfalls such as Katiki and Chaparai; lush coffee plantations; and unique stalactite formations found within the Borra Caves among other things.
17. Mangalore to Gokarna
Go on a journey from Mangalore to Gokarna along the coast, tracing Karnataka’s unspoiled shores. Drive by beaches with palm trees, picturesque fishing villages, and scenic cliffs.
Discover peace of mind in Gokarna, which has serene beaches famous for their laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets. This trip offers an ideal combination of restfulness and adventure on the sea.
What Is Differences Between Mangalore to Gokarna
This route goes from Mangalore to Gokarna along the coast of Karnataka for about 230 kilometers. Along the way are included unspoiled beaches such as Om Beach or Kudle Beach
Old temples like Mahabaleshwar temple; as well as lively Gokarna, which is a favorite among backpackers and beach bums alike.
18. Gurgaon to Neemrana
Get away from the noise of cities by driving from Gurgaon until one reaches Neemrana, which reveals all that is majestic about Rajasthan. Move through dry terrains while going past old forts and vibrant towns.
Have a stopover at Neemrana, where you will find an imposing fort situated on top hillsides that give visitors panoramic views over its surroundings in addition to being a window into Indian nobility history. Therefore, this drive guarantees a mixture of historical sites plus luxurious facilities.
What Is Differences Between Gurgaon to Neemrana
Neemrana Fort Palace, a hotel that used to be a 15th-century heritage site stands out in the Gurgaon to Neemrana route of about one hundred and twenty kilometers.
Zip-lining is offered there along with panoramic views over the Aravalli Range, thus making it an exceptional weekend getaway.
19. Chandigarh to Shimla
Drive through the green Shivalik range and the pine forest. Move across this winding path by riding on twisting roads that pass many delightful villages on hillsides and provide fantastic panoramas between them.
Reach Shimla, often called “the queen of hills,” whose colonial buildings are set at the foot of lofty mountains under a pleasant climate, making it well worth wandering around for some time.
What Is Differences Between Chandigarh to Shimla
The Shivalik Hills are covered in the route between Chandigarh and Shimla for about 120 km. This route is famous for its winding roads, pine forests and colonial architecture.
Once the summer capital of British India, Shimla has good views of the Himalayas all year round and pleasant climate.
20. Bangalore to Ooty
Travel from Bangalore to Ooty through the scenic Nilgiri Hills by driving along undulating landscapes dotted with tea plantations and dense forests before entering into quaint villages filled with British-era architectural marvels or take a toy train ride provided here if feeling like seeing more such things while passing through.
Located in serene surroundings, this hill station has botanical gardens that can be visited during a stopover, which also provides chances for enjoying scenic lake views besides riding toy trains, among other attractions, ensuring one gets closer to nature while remaining peaceful.
What Is Differences Between Bangalore to Ooty
The Bangalore-Ooty route covers nearly 270 km across Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, passing through beautiful parts of the Nilgiri Hills.
With many attractions such as Dodabetta Tea Factory among tea estates, Botanical Gardens and Ooty Lake.
21.Srinagar to Zanskar Valley
Travel to Zanskar Valley from Srinagar. Ride through Ladakh’s rough terrains and high mountain passes.
Drive alongside the Indus River, which is considered picturesque, while marveling at surreal landscapes, ancient monasteries, and remote villages. A hidden gem among the Himalayas is Zanskar Valley.
What Is Differences Between Srinagar To Zanskar Valley
The journey to the Zanskar Valley from Srinagar covers around 400 km of difficult and high-altitude passages, which provide stunning vistas of the Himalayas.
Such as Karsha and Phugtal monasteries, as well as the Zanskar River where treks over ice are possible during winter.
22. Dehradun to Mussoorie
Only a short distance from Dehradun, Mussoorie is a drive that takes you through the green hills of Uttarakhand.
The roads are lined with pine forests, orchards, and beautiful waterfalls on one side, while they offer panoramic views of colonial architecture and cool mountain air on another. What more could you ask for?
What Is Differences Between Srinagar To Zanskar Valley
An approximate distance of 450 km is covered while travelling from Srinagar to Zanskar Valley, across high mountain passes such as Pensi La and Zoji La.
The journey will take you through breathtaking scenery, untouched villages and Buddhist monasteries that give a taste of Ladakhi culture as well as some stunning views.
23. Jaipur to Jaisalmer
Drive through the Rajasthan desert, starting at Jaipur and ending at Jaisalmer. Pass by lively villages, old forts, and beautiful dunes.
Visit stunning sandstone architecture in Jaisalmer, along with bustling markets and desert landscapes. This journey will remain in your memory as it takes you deep into the Thar Desert of India.
What Is Differences Between Jaipur to Jaisalmer
The journey from Jaipur to Jaisalmer covers about 550 km through the desert state of Rajasthan. It contrasts Jaipur’s vibrant culture and historic forts like
Amber with Jaisalmer’s golden sandstone architecture, the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, and the vast Thar Desert.
24. Kochi to Munnar
Travel from Kochi to Munnar through the picturesque Western Ghats of Kerala. Drive past tea plantations, spice gardens, and hills covered in mist.
In Munnar, enjoy peaceful hill station vibes where you can experience incredible views of their famous tea estates and overall breathtaking landscapes created by nature, thanks to the cool climate there all year round. This road trip is like an escape into the arms of Mother Earth.
What Is Differences Between Kochi to Munnar
Kochi and Munnar are about 130 km away from each other. When you travel from Kochi to Munnar, you pass through the Western Ghats crossing the coastal plains of Kerala.
This route is beautiful because it goes through tea gardens and foggy peaks besides spice farms before ending at a hill station with cooler weather called Munnar.
25. Delhi to Rishikesh
Take a spiritual vacation from Delhi to Rishikesh, following the Ganges astheytflows through the Himalayan foothills. You will drive past dense woods, pretty little towns, and ancient temples.
At Rishikesh — also known as the world capital of yoga — you can stay at ashrams overlooking the river or take part in sessions (including meditation) that are held on its banks, shop for trinkets and clothes in lively markets that cater mainly to backpackers; swing over ravines on giant ziplines. Oh, and don’t miss the setting sun’s rays turning Laxman Jhula bridge a gleaming gold.
What Is Differences Between Delhi to Rishikesh
Delhi and Rishikesh are about 240 Km apart. When you’re on the way to Rishikesh from Delhi, you start at the midst of urban buzz in Delhi then go through Uttar Pradesh plains.
Which is a gateway to the lower Himalayas. It is recognized as one of the holiest places in India where people come for yoga and meditation retreats whereas most adventurous activities include rafting the Ganges River.
26. Jammu to Srinagar
Travel from Jammu to Srinagar, a stunningly beautiful drive across Jammu and Kashmir. Go along next to the pretty, grey-blue Jhelum River through green valleys terraced with fields growing opium poppies and saffron; via villages where locals doze beside stalls selling buffalo curd; around mountainsides where soldiers patrol beneath pine forests pierced by minarets poking out between chinar trees with flaming leaves.
In Srinagar — often called “paradise on Earth” — hire a shikara boat to drift through lotus-filled lakes while snacking on spiced roasted corn from floating vendors; visit 17th-century Mughal gardens with manicured lawns before picnicking among roses beside Dal Lake’s waterfront Nishat Bagh.
What Is Differences Between Jammu to Srinagar
It is said that the approximate distance between Srinagar and Jammu is 270 km. It goes through mountains, beautiful valleys and some tunnels on the way to Srinagar from Jammu within the landscape of the scenic Jammu-Srinagar highway.
The city of Srinagar in Jammu & Kashmir acts as its summer capital which boasts of an enchanting Dal Lake with Mughal gardens around its periphery where you can find houseboats too.
27.Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake
Set off on an enchanting path from Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake amid awe-inspiring views of the eastern Himalayas.
You will drive along curvy roads that snake through mountains, passing by dense forests and idyllic villages.
Arrive at this holy lake, which looks like a turquoise gemstone, and bask in its calmness and spiritual atmosphere.
What Is Differences Between Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake
The approximate distance that separates Gangtok from the Changu Lake (Tsomgo Lake) is 40 kilometers. On the way from Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake.
There are winding mountain roads which are very beautiful because of the snow-capped peaks and forests having tall trees there.
The Tsomgo lake is a sacred glacial lake situated at an altitude of 3,753 meters above sea level where its colors change time by time and yak rides around it make for a peaceful high-altitude experience with scenic beauty.
28. Bhubaneswar to Puri
Travel from Bhubaneswar to Puri – a journey through Odisha’s cultural heartland. Drive through green fields, ancient temples, and busy bazaars on your way there.
Stop over at Puri, a coastal paradise famous for its golden beaches, and the Jagannath Temple, considered one of the holiest Hindu shrines. This ride mixes history with spirituality against a backdrop of seaside charm.
What Is Differences Between Bhubaneswar to Puri
The approximate distance from Bhubaneswar to Puri is 60 kilometers. The path that goes through scenic coastal areas and small towns of Odisha state is heavily trafficked between
Bhubaneswar and Puri. Puri has the Jagannath Temple as its most famous site, along with untouched ocean shores and a lively community; whereas Bhubaneswar boasts ancient temples among other things within its busy cityscape.
29.Varanasi to Bodh Gaya
Take off on a religious expedition from Lucknow to Bodh Gaya in the footsteps of Buddha. Cruise via scenic villages, green fields, and sacred places.
Get to Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment, and discover its quiet temples among other ancient stupas within a peaceful atmosphere.
What Is Differences Between Varanasi to Bodh Gaya
The distance between Varanasi and Bodh Gaya in rural Bihar is around 250 kilometers. It is believed that Buddha achieved enlightenment
In this place which has the Mahabodhi Temple among others. Spiritual legacy and holy rituals along the River Ganges are what make Varanasi special.
30. Lucknow to Varanasi
Travelseasideback to Varanasi could be considered one of the most exciting road trips you could ever take across this nation. This is because it will see you pass by different historical sites, including bustling markets, vibrant street scenes, etc, an era before getting into what many call the spiritual capital city of India.
According to them, time has stood still for centuries on end, at least when compared against any other place so far visited during our entire stay here, none other than Banaras, also known as Kashi or Benares but commonly referred to simply as The City Eternal every since time immemorial.
What Is Differences Between Lucknow To Varanasi
Uttar Pradesh lies between 300 kilometers from Lucknow to Varanasi. The Nawab culture of Lucknow and the Bara Imambara are famous for their historical sites.
While Varanasi is popular for its spiritual environment along the Ganges River and old temples at ghats.
What Are the Selection Criteria for Best Road Trips In India?
When picking the finest road trips in India, you should consider these things:
Beautiful scenery: It should have lovely landscapes such as mountains, coastlines, forests, and countryside views, which make the journey visually appealing.
Cultural heritage: The best route should give chances to experience different cultures of this land, including historical sites or monuments, festivals, etcetera.
Road conditions: Quality roads ensure a smooth and safe drive. Good highways with less traffic will be better off any day.
Accessibility: A starting and endpoint that significant transport networks like airports, railway stations, and highways can easily reach.
Security/Safety: Do not expose yourself unnecessarily to risk when traveling on unknown routes; always go for those tested before regarding crime rates or natural calamities.
Amenities/services: Fuel stations, rest areas (restrooms), eateries (restaurants), and places where people can sleep along the way must not be missed from any sound highway system; hence, their availability can be overlooked.
Adventure/activities: Exciting activities such as adventure sports, wildlife safaris, and trekking, among others, should feature to add thrill and variety into one’s journeying experience;
Eat local: Accessing different authentic cuisines from various regions would give travelers a taste of what is prepared locally.
What Is The Best Time of Year for Road Trips In India?
The perfect time for road trips in India depends on the region. In many parts, it is between October and March when the weather is nice, and travel becomes convenient.
On the other hand, Himalayan hill stations are best visited from April to June because there are no snow-blocked roads, making them safe for travelers.
The roads were better, and people could see all those incredible high-altitude places without any heavy snowfall getting in their way.
Conclusion
In summary, India has many kinds of great road journeys that are appealing and fascinating because they provide originalities and mind-blowing visions.
These expeditions serve adrenaline junkies as well as cultural enthusiasts and environmentalists, starting with huge mountains like the Himalayas down to calm seaside highways.
The roads are in good condition; there is plenty of service along the way, such as food, gas stations, hotels or lodges for resting places are also available, so it will be enjoyable without many problems for travelers’ convenience wherever they want to resleephile traveling.
Such drives not only offer independence and thrill but alseaside an occasion for learning about diverse landscapes through which one passes during their trip across this country rich in history and natural wonders.