Best Road Trips in India: Discover the Thrill of the Open Road

Published on May 28, 2025

Why Road Trips in India Are Truly Special

There’s something magical about hitting the open road in India. Whether you're driving a car through winding Himalayan roads or cruising on a bike along scenic coastal routes, road trips are one of the most exciting ways to explore the country's diverse landscapes and cultures.

In this article, we will explore the best road trips in India, perfect for weekend getaways, long vacations, or spontaneous adventures with friends. You’ll learn about top routes, tips for each journey, and how to make the most out of your travel experience.

The Allure of Road Tripping Across India

India’s vastness and variety make it a paradise for road trippers. With snow-capped mountains in the north, golden deserts in the west, lush greenery in the south, and vibrant cities all around, every road tells a different story.

Whether you are looking for adventure, serenity, culture, or food, a road trip in India has something for everyone.

Best Road Trips in India by Car

Travelling by car offers flexibility, comfort, and the ability to carry more luggage or even camp gear. These are some of the best car routes for road trip lovers.

1. Manali to Leh – A Journey Through the Himalayas

• Distance: 478 km

• Best Time: June to September

• Duration: 2–3 days (one way)

This high-altitude drive takes you through one of the most scenic and adventurous terrains in the world. With majestic peaks, rivers, and rugged landscapes, Manali to Leh is a bucket-list road trip for many.

Highlights:

• Rohtang Pass

• Baralacha La

• Pang Valley

• Magnetic Hill

Tips:
Carry extra fuel, warm clothes, and get your vehicle checked before the trip. Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

2. Mumbai to Goa – Coastal Bliss

• Distance: 589 km

• Best Time: October to March

• Duration: 10–12 hours

This drive along the NH66 highway is one of the most scenic coastal routes in India. Palm-fringed roads, beaches, and Konkan cuisine make this road trip unforgettable.

Highlights:

• Panvel

• Ratnagiri

• Malvan beaches

Tips:
Start early and take breaks at local eateries to enjoy authentic Maharashtrian and Goan food.

3. Delhi to Spiti Valley – The Road Less Travelled

• Distance: ~730 km

• Best Time: May to October

• Duration: 3–5 days

For those who crave isolation, spirituality, and dramatic landscapes, Spiti Valley is perfect. The barren beauty and ancient monasteries create a surreal experience.

Highlights:

• Nako Village

• Tabo Monastery

• Chandratal Lake

Tips:
A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. Roads can be rough and weather unpredictable.

Best Road Trips in India by Bike

India is a biker’s dream. Whether you're on a Royal Enfield or a sportbike, these routes offer the freedom and thrill of two-wheeled exploration.

1. Bangalore to Ooty – From City to Hills

• Distance: 270 km

• Best Time: October to June

• Duration: 6–8 hours

This ride winds through forests, tea estates, and hairpin bends. Ooty, the "Queen of Hills", is a popular destination for bikers from Bangalore.

Highlights:

• Bandipur Forest

• Masinagudi Ghats

• Ooty Lake

Tips:
Start early to avoid city traffic and enjoy the misty hill roads.

2. Chennai to Pondicherry – Ride Along the ECR

• Distance: 155 km

• Best Time: November to February

• Duration: 3–4 hours

The East Coast Road (ECR) offers a breezy ride along the Bay of Bengal. End the ride in the peaceful French quarters of Pondicherry.

Highlights:

• Mahabalipuram Temples

• Auroville

• Promenade Beach

Tips:
Wear a helmet and protective gear. The route is popular but can be busy during weekends.

3. Jaipur to Jaisalmer – A Desert Ride

• Distance: 560 km

• Best Time: October to March

• Duration: 2 days

Ride through the heart of Rajasthan with stretches of golden deserts, forts, and vibrant towns. It’s a visual treat and a photographer’s paradise.

Highlights:

• Pushkar

• Bikaner

• Sam Sand Dunes

Tips:
Keep yourself hydrated and fuel up in towns as distances between petrol pumps can be long.

Best Road Trips in India with Friends

Road trips become more memorable when you travel with friends. Laughter, shared playlists, and endless stories make the journey unforgettable.

Suggested Group Road Trips

1. Delhi to Rishikesh

• Adventure sports like river rafting, bungee jumping

• Spiritual vibes of Ganga Aarti

2. Mumbai to Lonavala

• Quick weekend getaway

• Chikki, waterfalls, and hilltop views

3. Ahmedabad to Kutch

• Visit during Rann Utsav

• White desert, handicrafts, and local music

Real-Life Experiences

Amit, a biker from Delhi, shared his story of a 14-day road trip to Leh with three friends:

"We started with excitement and ended with unforgettable bonds. We got stuck in a landslide, camped near Pangong Lake, and made friends with locals. It was life-changing."

Neha and her college group drove from Bangalore to Coorg:

"We planned a quick 3-day trip. Waterfalls, coffee estates, and endless selfies made it the best short road trip of our lives."

Road Trip Tips for First-Timers

• Vehicle Check: Service your car or bike before the journey

• Plan the Route: Keep both online and offline maps

• Emergency Kit: Include medicines, flashlight, power bank, tools

• Snacks & Water: Stock up for long stretches

• Local Laws: Carry ID proof and follow traffic rules

• Accommodation: Pre-book hotels, especially in peak season.

FAQs on Best Road Trips in India

Q1: What is the best time for road trips in India?

Ans: October to March is ideal due to pleasant weather, except for high-altitude areas like Ladakh which are best visited in summer.

Q2: Are Indian roads safe for solo travellers?

Ans: Major highways and tourist routes are generally safe, but it's better to avoid night travel in remote regions.

Q3: Do I need special permits for places like Spiti or Leh?

Ans: Yes, Inner Line Permits are required for certain areas in Ladakh and Spiti. You can get them online or from local authorities.

Q4: Is it safe to do a road trip by bike in the monsoon?

Ans: While monsoon rides are scenic, they can be risky due to slippery roads. Avoid hill areas and ride cautiously.

Conclusion: Pack Your Bags and Hit the Road

The best road trips in India are more than just travel—they're journeys into the soul of the country. From the Himalayas to the coastline, each route offers something unique.

Whether you're planning a road trip by car or bike, with friends or solo, India welcomes you with open roads and unforgettable moments.

So pick your route, prep your ride, and let the adventure begin.