Top India’s Best Road Trips
India is known for its rustic charm, spectacular landscapes, and incredible roads – making it the dream destination for roads trips. Nowadays, there are roads that penetrate through forests, corners of India that are untouched by civilization, and picturesque routes along the coastline. Whether you’re looking for some solo time, a romantic getaway, or a much-needed backpacking journey, these India’s best road trips will give you an unforgettable experience.
Leh – Manali Highway, Himachal Pradesh
The Leh – Manali Highway is one of India’s most iconic drives, where you can witness some of the most beautiful routes in the country. The drive begins at Leh, a small mountain city in Ladakh and takes you through magical valleys, breathtaking mountain passes, majestic glaciers, and Tibetan villages that are cut off from the rest of the world. As you come out of the gigantic mountain ranges, you will reach Manali, a city that has become quite a tourist destination in recent years.
National Highway 66, West Coast
If you’re looking for a road trip along India’s coastline, then National Highway 66 is the perfect fit. Starting from Maharashtra, this highway takes you all the way down to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. The highway is full of beautiful views of pristine beaches, great seafood, and exotic temples. Along the way, you can also stop by Goa and Kerala.
Great Mountain Drive, Himachal Pradesh
The Great Mountain Drive is one of the most beautiful drives in the country and takes you through the majestic Himalayas. Starting from Manali and ending in Spiti Valley, the drive is full of breathtaking panoramas, lush green valleys, and snow-capped peaks. Also, you will encounter some of the most spectacular forts and temples in these parts.
Mumbai – Pune Expressway
The Mumbai – Pune Expressway is considered to be the most scenic and fastest highway in India and is the highlight of the road trip from Mumbai to Pune. From glam cities to small villages, you will pass through some of the country’s interesting spots. Here, you’ll also be able to go off the beaten path and explore some untouched places.
Mumbai – Goa Route
If you’re looking for a longer road trip, then the Mumbai-Goa route is the perfect option. Heading through one of the greenest parts of the country – Konkan – this route takes you through mesmerizing hills and valleys, as well as some of the most pristine beaches in India. This route offers you some exciting places and delicious coastal cuisine.
Jaipur – Udaipur – Mount Abu
The route from Jaipur to Udaipur and Mount Abu is one of the most awe-inspiring routes in India. This route takes you through some of the most spectacular architectures that range from the oldest fort in India—Amber Fort—to the City Palace in Udaipur and Dilwara Temples at Mount Abu. Along the way, you can also visit many fascinating cities which include Pushkar, Ajmer, and Jaisalmer.
Delhi – Agra – Jaipur
One of the most famous road trips in India is Delhi to Agra to Jaipur – a golden triangle tour. Also known as the ‘Heart of India’, this route takes you through the grandeur of the Mughal architecture, the charm of the Pink City, and the magnificence of the Taj Mahal. Along the way, you can also sample some of the best cuisines and explore the lively culture and heritage of the iconic cities.
Best Time to Take Road Trips
India has its fair share of scorching summers and incredulous monsoon. So, when it comes to planning a road trip, you should pick a time that you are most comfortable in.
• Summer (March – June): If you want to explore the cities then summer is the best time to go. The days are long, the temperature fluctuations are low, and the temperature is excellent for sightseeing.
• Monsoon (July – October): For those who like to explore unchanged landscapes and enjoy the plush greenery, monsoon is an ideal time. In This period, nature will be at its best and you will be able to see the best waterfalls and experience nature in its full potential.
• Winter (November – February): Winter is the ideal time for a road trip in India. The roads are clear, the weather is pleasant, and there are a lot of festivals to be enjoyed.
Essential Road Trip Gadgets
There are some crucial gadgets that you should bring along your road trips in India:
• A Dash Cam: A Dash Cam makes your road trip safer and provides assistance in case of any incident on the road.
• A First Aid Kit: A first aid kit is necessary, as it provides relief to minor injuries.
• An Extra Battery: Nothing is worse than running out of battery while traveling. So, make sure to bring an extra power bank and keep it charged.
• A Portable Speaker: Music is the best companion while on a road trip. A portable speaker will keep you company and make your trip even more fun and enjoyable.
• Navigation Device: A GPS or navigation device should be brought for convenience and to avoid getting lost.
Tips for Road Trips
Before going on a road trip, it is better to take some precautionary steps and plan ahead. Here are some tips to make your road trip much better:
• Plan Ahead: Make sure to plan your route in advance and know the places you want to cover and how much time you want to spend there.
• Know the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before starting on a road trip.
• Get Your Car Checked: Make sure to get your car serviced before the trip, especially if you plan on driving for long distances.
• Be Prepared for the Unexpected: Anything can happen during a road trip, so it is best to be prepared for the unexpected. Keep a spare tire, a puncture kit, a tool bag, and snacks in your car.
• Carry Enough Cash: Keep some extra cash with you as you don’t know when you might need it on the road.
• Don’t Rush: The main idea of a road trip is to enjoy the journey. Don’t try to rush it. Take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds of the places you visit.
India is home to some of the most beautiful roads and exhilarating road trips. A road trip can be one of the most thrilling experiences, and these India’s best roads trips will make sure you have a great time. So, be sure to bring the right kind of gadgets, prepare for the unexpected and make the most of India’s beauty. Happy road trips!
