The Best Road Trips in India to Do

Everyone needs a break from the everyday routine every now and again. And getting away seems like the ideal therapy. Going on a vacation is a dream come true when you have a few friends in tow, the windows down, and the music blaring. Hitting the highway gives you the chance to explore new areas as well as oneself.

This guide lists some of the best road trip destinations in India, which you should definitely check out.

Manali-Leh Road Trip

Distance: Approximately 430 km (one way)

Time: 2–3 days (acclimatization recommended)

Pass through some of the most breathtaking views on the road trip. Start from Manali, en route to Ladakh. Be ready to admire the Himalayas. Cruise through the steep roads of Rohtang Pass. Along the way are the monasteries of Thiksey and Hemis. You can stop and explore the culture of Tibetan Buddhism.

Visit:

• Pangong Tso to see how it shifts colors
• Nubra Valley to stop by the Diskit Monastery and see double-humped camels
• Magnetic Hill to feel your car defying gravity

Tips:

• For pleasant weather and clear roads, visit from June to September.
• For a comfortable journey, hire SUVs with good ground clearance.

Mumbai to Goa Road Trip

Distance: Approximately 585 km (one way)

Time: 10–12 hours

The best places for road trips from Mumbai? Definitely, Goa! Take the Konkan coastal highway. All along the way, relish the green views through quaint villages and forts. If you want to go hands-free and appreciate the views? Rent a self-drive car in Mumbai. Goa, your final destination, is well worth the journey. Here, you can relax on one of the many beaches and enjoy the laidback nightlife.

Visit:

• Old Goa churches with Portuguese heritage
• Kolhapur to sample the local Maharashtrian cuisine
• Palolem and Agonda beaches in Sawantwadi for their laidback nightlife

Tips:

• Anytime between October and February is perfect to visit Goa.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses on the beach!

Chennai to Pondicherry Road Trip

Distance: Approximately 160 km (one way)

Time: 3–4 hours

This will be a cultural and historical journey along the East Coast Road. This best road trip starts in Chennai. Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Try the famous filter coffee and head towards Pondicherry. With its beautiful architecture, boulevards, and beaches, this former French colony won’t disappoint you.

Visit:

• Unique international township of Auroville
• French Quarter to cherish colorful houses, cafes, and bakeries in Pondicherry

Tips:

• For a weekend getaway near Chennai, go over to Ooty.
• For a relaxing drive, take the East Coast Road with ocean views of the Bay of Bengal.

Jaipur to Jaisalmer Road Trip

Distance: Approximately 580 km (one way)

Time: 10–12 hours

Jaisalmer – the best place for road trips from Jaipur. This is going to be a royal Tour around Rajasthan. First, explore the Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal in “Pink City.” If travelling with family or friends you can opt for a car rental in Jaipur. Continue your journey westward towards the Thar Desert. Here, you will encounter some historic towns and the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. Finally, reach your destination—Jaisalmer. This “Golden City” harbors Jaisalmer Fort.

Visit:

• Ranthambore National Park for a wildlife safari and spot tigers
• Thar Desert to camp under a blanket of stars with a night stay

Tips:

• To escape the summer heat, visit during the winter months of October to March.
• Pack light and breathable clothes and comfortable shoes for roaming the dessert.

Guwahati to Tawang Road Trip

Distance: Approximately 520 km (one way)

Time: 2–3 days

This road trip begins in Guwahati, Assam. Start by visiting the revered Kamakhya Temple. Through the breathtaking Eastern Himalayas, ascend into the hills. Travelling through the traditional Assamese villages, stop to check out tea plantations and waterfalls. Your destination is Tawang. The largest monastery in India, Tawang Monastery, is located there.

Visit:

• Bomdila Monastery to experience the Monpa culture
• Sela Pass for panoramic views of the Himalayas
• Nuranang Falls to witness a cascading waterfall

Tips:

• To pass through restricted areas in Arunachal Pradesh, you will an Inner Line Permit (ILP). Get them in advance.
• The best time to visit? The spring months (March to May) or autumn months (September to November) for pleasant weather.
• Higher altitudes cause chilly evenings. Pack warm clothes and comfortable walking shoes.

The takeaway

These road trip destinations in India will appease every kind of traveler. But wait! To start your travel right, check if your vehicle (car or bike) is up for the journey. Moreover, pack what you will need and sketch up a rough itinerary for these best road trips in India.

Buckle up, hit the road, and create your unique Indian adventure!

(India CSR)