It’s not about the destination, it’s about how you get there. So, here are some memorable Indian Road Trips for you!
Happiness is traveling across scenic roads of India. If you have already been on a road trips at least once, you’re the luckiest! If not, you hit the right spot! Because experiencing the land, water, and culture changing after crossing every border is inexplicable.
Close your eyes and enjoy the moment of being on the most beautiful road trips in India. See yourself savoring the hot Chai Pakora, Maggie, Idli Vada, Poha Jalebi, Paratha, or Lal Cha.
How beautiful is this imagination, right? You’ll thank me later once you pack your bags for this. I bet you are going to pack your bags for this ultimate experience!
Top 10 Road Trips for Experiencing the Best of India
Here are the top 10 most scenic road trips that I enjoyed a lot, and there are a few yet to be explored ( wish-listed)-
1. The Leh Ladakh Road Trip:
The most iconic road trips of India on every biker’s list is Leh Ladakh, and worth it. This trip takes you close to the Himalayas- white snow-covered hills, crystal clear lakes, and scenic mountain beauty, all you need. Seven days are needed to complete the 426 km trail. The budgeted hotel starts from 800 to 10000 INR per day.
It starts from Manali via Rohtang Pass, Keylong, Sarchu, and Leh. You must be strong-hearted to drive on steep and treacherous roads on this adventurous journey. But if you are determined to take on this journey, visit here from May to September ( for lesser crowds- September- Mid-October) for a lifelong experience.
Here are the details of the Leh Ladakh Road Trip. The budget is subject to many things like:
- Budget Range: 50,000 to 1,40,000 INR ( for two persons)
- Car or Bike Rent: Car for 2500 to 10000 INR per day, 1000 to 5000 INR per day ( plus fuel and other charges), Toll: 500- 1000 INR
- Local Food: Try Thukpa, Momos, Khambir, Skyu, Chhurpi, Chang and Apricot Jam.
- Activities: Trekking in Markha Valley Trek, Nubra Valley Trek and Stok Kangri Trek, River Rafting in the Indus River, Motorcycle expedition in Khardung La, Monastery Hopping in Hemis Monastery, Thiskey Monastery, Shaey Monastery and Diskit Monastery, Wildlife Watching in Hemis National Park and Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary, and Breathtaking night skies in Pansang Tso.
- Nearby Attractions: Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass, Magnetic Hill, Tso Moriri Lake, Shanti Stupa.
2. The Golden Triangle Road Trip:
This one is the classic and easiest road trips of Northern India covering the most popular tourist cities, including Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. It is a six day journey which is approx 720 km long. There are many staying options on this route, from luxury resorts to pocket-friendly hotels that begin from 1000 INR.
Aside from the Taj Mahal, you’ll see ancient forts like Amer and Delhi vibes along the way. If you wish to explore the diversity and beauty of North India, this trip is for you.
Here are the details of the Jaipur- Delhi- Agra Road Trip:
- Budget Range- 40,000 to 200000 INR ( for two people)
- Local Food: In Delhi do try: Chole Bhature, Aloo tikki, Samosa, Paranthas, Butter Chicken, Rogan josh and Dal Makhani- Naan Combo, In Agra: Petha, Dahi Bhalla, Bedmi Puri, Kebabs, BIryanis and Korma, In Jaipur- Dal Bati Churma, Ghevar, Laal Mans, Pyaz Kachori, Mirch Vada & Mahaveer Rabdi Bhandar ki Rabri
- Nearby Attractions: Neemrana Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, Mathura- Vrindavan, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park, Chand Baori in Abhaneri Village
3. The Konkan Road Trip
If you love the beautiful beauty of coastal regions- Go for this Konkan Trip via Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. This distance is about 700 Km and takes 5-7 days for completion. Enjoy the beautiful coastline of Maharashtra, Goa’s pristine beaches, and much more. If you love soaking in the sun and sand, take your bike.
Here are the details of the Konkan Road Trip:
- Budget Range- 35,000- 2,00,000 INR ( for two people)
- Car or Bike Rent: 1000- 5000 INR per day (bike), 3000- 20000 (car), Toll- 500- 2000 INR
- Local Food: Goa is a seafood paradise, do try Xacuti, Prawn Curry, Calamari Fritters, Vindaloo, Goan Sausages, and pancakes- Bebinca, Allebeli,
- Karnataka- Dosa, Bisibele Bhat, Mangalore Buns, Pesarattu, Karimeen Fry, Coconut Fish Curry, Mysore Pak, Holige, Obattu.
- Maharashtra- Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Misal Pav, Sabudana Khichdi, Kolhapuri Mutton, Chicken Maratha, Pandhara Rassa Tambda Rassa, Bhel Puri, Shrikhand and Puran Poli
- Nearby Attractions: In Maharashtra: Tadoba Andhari National Reserve, Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, Mehrangarh Fort in Satara, Shivneri Fort, Ajanta Ellora Caves, Gateway of India.
- In Goa: Calangute Beach, Anjuna Beach, Agonda and Palolem Beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Panjim, Kayaking in Backwaters, Goan nightlife
- In Karnataka: Hampi, Mysuru Palace, Badami Cave Temples, Coorg-Talakaveri, Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park and Jog Falls
4. The East Coast Road Trip:
It is the most scenic east coast road journey that begins in Tamil Nadu and ends in Pondicherry. It is about 780kms which takes 8 days, but these days are just apples for your eyes. Mahabalipuram temple to French architecture of Pondicherry and Chennai vibes- It is perfect if you want a less crowded yet soothing journey alongside the East Coast.
Here are the details of The East Coast Road Trip:
- Budget Range– 50,000- 1,00,000 INR( for two people)
- Local Food: Idli, Dosa, Appam, Avial, Chettinad Chicken, Chettinad Fish Curry, Filter Coffee, Croissants, Pain au Chocolat, Crepes, Steak frites, Coq au vin, Ratatouille, Meen Curry, Prawns Masala Fry, Khowsuey
- Nearby Attractions: Auroville, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Arikamedu, Serenity Beach, French War Memorial, Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Tiruchirapalli, Thanjavur (Tanjore), Chettinad
5. The Spiti Valley Road Trip:
For a hormonal strike ride on your Harley Davidson, head for the Spiti Valley trip of Himachal Pradesh. The landscape and terrain of this covers a distance of 1000 km and takes about 8 days where you will get many affordable stays ranging from 1000 INR to 10,000 Per night.
It is a thrilling trip with the natural beauty of the Himalayas. The stunning Spiti Valley views and snow-covered mountains of Kinnaur and Manali make this journey one of the most exciting trips you will ever have.
Here are the details of the Spiti Valley Trip: Journey begins from Delhi- Spiti- Manali or Shimla:
- Budget Range- 50,000 to 1,25,000 INR ( for two people)
- Local Food- Siddu, Aloo Gobhi, Veg Pulao, Momos, Thukpa, Thenktuk, Israeli Breakfast like falafel, pita and hummus, Tingmo, Skyu, Chha Gosht, Sepu Badi
- Activities: Rafting in Sutlej river, trek on Chadwick Falls, Hatu peak trek, Paragliding and mountain biking in Manali
- Nearby Attractions: Shimla (The Queen of Hills), Narkhanda, Sarahan Bhimakali temple, Kinnaur, Kamakhya temple, Chitkul village, Kalpa for majestic Kinnaur Kailash peak views, Swargath temple, Manali- Hidimba Devi Temple, hot springs of Vashisht village
6. The Rajasthan Road Trip:
If you are planning a winter road trip- the Rajasthan circuit with major cities like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur should be on your list. Why? Because you will love the cold weather crossing these captivating cities and enjoying the famous food. It is a week trip, approx 1150 km, you may extend after experiencing the charm. Well, here also the budget room starts from 800 INR per night.
- Budget Range- 40,000 – 80,000 INR
- Local Food– Dal Bati Churma, Ghewar, Laal Mans, Pyaz Kachori, Kota Kachori, Mirchi Vada, Ker Sangri, Gatte ki SAbji, Kadhi Pakoda, Marwar Mirchi Ka Saag, Makhaniya Lassi
- Activities– Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Thar Desert, Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Gadi Sagar Lake, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan Palace
- Nearby Attractions- Galtaji Temple, Nahargarh, Sisodia Rani Garden, Anokhi Museum, Khilchipur, Desert National Park, Lodurva, Mandore Gardens
7. The North East Road Trip- Guwahati to Tawang:
It is an underrated gem with stunning Himalayan views. A serene environment, soothing greenery, and Buddhist monasteries are some of the delights of this destination. It is a perfect getaway to experience the most beautiful India without crowds and noises away from the city’s bustle. Here, you will get a hotel for a night stay from 1000 INR, however, there are fewer hotels on this route, but the peace is unmatched.
- Budget Range- 40000- 60000 INR for two people
- Local food- Rice dishes, Thukpa, Momos, Thenku, Apong, Lumade, Doh Piu
- Activities- Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Gorichen Peak, Bomdila, Nuranang Falls, Local festivals in Feb/ March
- Nearby Attractions- Manas National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Sangti Valley
8. The Mumbai Goa Circuit
If you’ve seen Go Goa Gone or Dil Chahta Hai, this is the hot favorite route of Bollywood films. Well, why not? On the west coast of 600 km, you can find awesome resorts and many budget hotels. Enjoy the beaches, suntan, palm trees, and incredible local delicacies.
- Budget Range- 50,000 – 1,50,000 INR for two people
- Local delicacies- Vada pav, Misal Pav, Puran Poli, Fish curry, Prawns curry, Pork Vindaloo, Xacuti, Sausage Platter, Feni
- Activities- Lonavala, Karla Caves, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, Kolhapur, Matheran, kachori Caves, Malvan, Dudhsagar Falls,
- Nearby Attractions- Shivneri Fort near Junnar, Ajanta, and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, Murudeshwar, Amboli
9. Chennai to Pondicherry Road Tour
Chennai to Pondicherry or vice versa, this Southern India road trip has to be on your list if you love the French architecture, food, lively villages, and pristine beaches of Chennai. This route is approx 150 km, so you can make this your weekend trip if you stay here.
- Budget Range- 10,000 – 50,000 INR
- Local Food- Idly, Vada Sambhar, Masala Dosa, Chettinad Cuisine, Filter Coffee, French Crepes
- Activities- Shopping, boating, yoga meditation, French Colonial Architecture
- Nearby Attractions- Mahabalipuram, Auroville, French Quarter, Botanical Garden, Marina Beach, Rock Beach, Promenade Beach
10. Mysore to Hampi
The last on our list is the Mysore to Hampi road trip of Karnataka, a state brimming with rich history, architectural marvels, and scenic landscapes. Your road trip from Mysore, the royal city, to Hampi, the Vijayanagara Empire’s ruins, promises to be an unforgettable experience.it is approximately 393 km i.e. 5 hours driving route.
- Budget Range– 10,000 – 40,000 INR
- Local Food- Mysore Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak, Bisi Bele Bhat, Filter coffee, Mandi, Saaru, Holige, Lassi
- Activities- Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Jaganmohan palace, Devaraja Market, Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Elephant Stables, Tungabhadra river, Matanga hill, Hampi Festival in November
- Nearby Attractions- Bangalore, Badami Caves, Bijapur
Tips for a Smooth and Enjoyable Road Trip:
Check your vehicle and keep all the safety essentials like medicines, fire extinguishers, jumper cables, and a reflective warning triangle. Do not over-pack as you are on your bike. Keep light clothes and sturdy hiking shoes.
Map from where you are beginning and where you will stop. Keep some cookies and a water bottle if you don’t find a good spot. Go for morning drives as they are safer and better.
Stay hydrated and take breaks every 200 km to avoid fatigue.
Read Also : Top Beaches in India: Discovering Coastal Paradises
Conclusion:
That’s all for today! But remember, it is better to be late than never. So, drive safely, follow the traffic rules, and enjoy the trip.
Despite being a hotfoot, take a day more out of your busy schedule, come out of your comfort zone – QKI ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA!!
