BEAUTIFUL INDIAN ROAD TRIPS
Travelling by flights and trains may save a few hours, but when you want the journey to be as awesome as the destination, it is time for a road trip.
India, with its extensive network of roadways, has some of the most scenic and enjoyable roads in the world that can add elements of comfort as well as adventure to your holidays; not to mention the great distances that you can cover to explore the various cities and states.
Take a look at these 5 stunning road trip routes in India that will make you forget about holidaying in other countries!
01.
Manali to Leh- 478KM
The list of best road trip routes in India will always feature the Manali to Leh route. Cruising along snowy paths with breath-taking views all along surpasses every traveller’s expectations.
The route with a total of about 478 km takes 2 to 3 days to complete. As the road lies at high altitudes and in a region of extensive snowfall, it is open only for about 5 to 6 months every year, from May up to November. Travellers must check route status before planning a trip.This magnificent route passes through the Rohtang pass and one needs a permit to cross this pass. Registering yourself at the Kokhsar check post is also necessary. You can schedule an overnight break-in Keylong.
02.
Bangalore to Bandipur – 218.6KM
If high altitudes, cold weather and snow is not your thing, a trip through lush green forests with amazing wildlife, can certainly be a charming choice.
Established in 1941, the Bandipore National Park in 1973, included additional areas of the adjacent forests and became the Bandipore Tiger Reserve under the Project Tiger. Known as Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandipore in Karnataka, the roads that pass through this park, taking travellers from Bangalore to Ooty or Mysore are a wildlife lover’s delight.
The route has specific operating hours. One also has to follow the speed limit within the park premises. But good roads and the animals that watch you lazily from the roadside, make it worth the trip. Although spotting a tiger can be rare, you can easily see deer and elephants here. You will need 5-6 hours to complete this route.
03.
Guwahati to Tawang – 520KM
It is no exaggeration when they say that the North East is a land of immense beauty, picturesque landscapes and amazing culture. The destination Tawang, is famous for its 400-year-old monastery which is one of the oldest in India and attracts many tourists every year.
The route from Assam to Arunachal Pradesh takes you over some extreme yet enchanting terrain. The 520 km distance will require about 2 days to cover.
04.
Mumbai to Goa – 550KM
For years, this route has been the favourite of car and bike enthusiasts. Although some may call it a cliché, it is no doubt so for a reason. The smooth and scenic four-lane road along the Western Ghats is perfect for those who want to feel the wind in their hair. For others who prefer taking it slower, an alternative route to the same destination provides generous views of rice fields and coconut plantations.
The journey from Mumbai to Goa takes about 10 to 11 hours without a break, but if you wish to halt, Kolhapur is a good option.
05.
Chennai to Pondicherry – 150KM
The beauty of riding along the sea on a bike or in a car with the sun glinting off the water is an experience that cannot really be described in words. The journey from Chennai to Pondicherry is not very long (takes about 3 hours) but the wide-open roads and beautiful weather make it totally worthwhile.
The East Coast Road that you will have to take passes through Mahabalipuram which is a UNESCO world heritage site, and one that recently gained popularity due to a high-level meet between two heads of state held here.
Adventure Nation, Ride of my Life, Nomad Bikers, Viktorianz and Adventures Overland are some bike and car tour organizers in India who can offer you a comfortable and seamless trip.
There are numerous other routes in India, waiting to be explored. So, give flights or buses a pass and choose self-drive, for your next vacation!
Absolutely loved reading about these beautiful Indian road trips! Each route you mentioned showcases the stunning diversity of landscapes, cultures, and experiences our country has to offer. From the mountains of Himachal to the coastal roads of Kerala, every journey promises unforgettable memories. Thanks for the inspiration—I can’t wait to plan my next adventure on the open road.