10 Best Road Trips in India: Your Ultimate Guide to Scenic Drives

1. Manali to Leh Highway

If you’re looking to experience the raw beauty of the northern Himalayas, the road trip from Manali to Leh is an essential adventure. This route is beloved by bikers and travelers alike for its thrilling twists and breathtaking scenery. As you set out from Manali, you’ll traverse four remarkable mountain passes—Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Lungalacha La, and Tanglang La—each offering its own spectacular view of snow-clad peaks and deep valleys.

Scenic Highlights & Hidden Gems

Beyond the dramatic high-altitude passes, this journey treats you to a panorama of ever-changing landscapes. One of the route’s most enchanting surprises is the chance to catch a glimpse of Pangong Lake, where the clear blue waters seamlessly blend with the expansive sky. Whether you’re riding on a motorcycle or driving, every turn reveals a picture-perfect moment that makes the challenges of the road well worth it.

• Time: Approximately 2 days (including acclimatization stops)
• Distance: ~1102 km
• National Highway: NH1
• Where To Eat: Sample local Tibetan and Himachali cuisine at roadside dhabas and small eateries in Leh and Manali
• Where To Stay: Leh offers a range of guesthouses and budget hotels; in Manali, consider mountain resorts or cozy homestays
• Best Travel Season: June to September (when the weather is more stable and roads are clear)

Travel Tip: Ensure you’re well-acclimatized for high altitudes and plan for extra rest stops along this challenging route.

Off-Season

Off-season travel is all about peace and affordability. This period, often during extreme weather conditions like monsoons or intense heat, sees fewer tourists and quieter attractions.

Destinations like Alibaug during the monsoons or hill stations in winter offer serene getaways. The tranquil environment allows you to relax and enjoy without the typical hustle and bustle of tourist crowds. Suppose you're planning a trip and wondering where you can go on vacation during quieter months. In that case, off-season destinations are a great option.

One of the biggest perks of travelling out of the station during the off-season is the cost savings. Hotels, flights, and activities come with substantial discounts. However, some attractions may have limited hours, and weather conditions could impact outdoor plans.

With a bit of research and preparation, off-season trips can provide a budget-friendly, stress-free escape.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season lies between the peak season and the off-season, and this is the sweetest moment for travellers. Transition months, which include the pre-summer or post-monsoon time, reward tourists with cool temperatures, solitude, and affordable rates.

It is the shoulder season in the months of October and March, which is an off-season for many places as well. These destinations are perfect for travelling. You can have a good time, and nature is very close to you when you take trips there since not many people are around.

This period strikes a perfect balance, letting you explore popular attractions without inflated prices or long queues. For those seeking a relaxed yet fulfilling travel experience, shoulder season is a fantastic choice.

Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Time

• Align Your Destination with the Season: Choose destinations that are best suited as of the season. Head to hill stations during summer for cool weather, and opt for beaches in winter to enjoy pleasant temperatures.
• Plan Around Festivals and Events: Trips around Local festivals or cultural events are great for a more decadent experience.
• Take Advantage of Off-Season Deals: Travel during off-peak periods to enjoy significant savings on hotels, transportation, and activities. This is a great way to explore more while spending less during travel holidays.
• Check the Weather Forecast: Stay up-to-date with the weather situation. You need to prepare the proper outfit and carefully plan your time ahead of any weather changes.

2. Mumbai to Goa Coastal Drive

If you want to experience India's iconic west coast, the Mumbai to Goa route is a must-do. Popularized by Bollywood films, this drive promises a mix of adventure, freedom, and stunning coastal views.

Leave behind the hustle of Mumbai and enjoy the scenic charm of the Konkan coast. Along the way, you'll pass through palm-lined roads, tranquil beaches, and quaint coastal villages.

Every stop along this route offers its own delight—from local markets and food shacks to hidden beaches perfect for a quick dip or some relaxation.

• Time: Approximately 12–14 hours (can be split over 2 days)
• Distance: ~597 km
• National Highway: NH 66
• Where To Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies at coastal shacks in towns like Ratnagiri, Ganpatipule, or Malvan along the way
• Where To Stay: Choose beach resorts or boutique hotels in Goa, or stop at charming coastal guesthouses en route
• Best Travel Season: November to February (for pleasant weather and less crowded roads)

Travel Tip: Plan your trip during the cooler winter months to enjoy pleasant weather and a smoother drive along the picturesque coast.

3. Chennai to Pondicherry: Surf & Sands Of The South

Experience a road trip where the journey is as unforgettable as the destination. Cruising along the East Coast Road, you’ll be treated to uninterrupted views of the Bay of Bengal, pristine beaches, and a gentle sea breeze that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

Every mile introduces you to charming fishing villages, bustling local markets, and plenty of opportunities to refresh with a chilled coconut or fresh seafood from a roadside shack. As you approach Pondicherry, immerse yourself in the unique blend of South Indian culture and French colonial elegance—where pastel-hued buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and quaint cafés create a distinctly European ambience that transports you to another era. For an extra dash of adventure, consider a quick detour to Mahabalipuram, where ancient temples and captivating coastal scenes add an extra layer of historical charm to your ride.

• Time: Around 2–3 hours
• Distance: ~152 - 165 km
• National Highway: Primarily along the East Coast Road (ECR) and NH 332A
• Where To Eat: Savor fusion cuisines and traditional South Indian snacks at popular cafés like Café des Arts or Baker Street in Pondicherry
• Where To Stay: Opt for boutique hotels or heritage guesthouses in the French Quarter of Pondicherry for an authentic experience
• Best Travel Season: October to March (when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for a short drive)

Travel Tip: An early morning departure helps avoid traffic and lets you catch a beautiful sunrise along the coast.

4. Jaipur to Udaipur

Discover the royal charm of Rajasthan with a drive from Jaipur to Udaipur. This journey is steeped in history, taking you past magnificent forts, bustling bazaars, and majestic palaces that define the state’s regal heritage.

• Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
• Distance: ~400 km
• National Highway: NH 48
• Where To Eat: Enjoy authentic Rajasthani cuisine at roadside dhabas or local eateries in Jaipur and Udaipur—like dal baati churma and laal maas(mutton curry)
• Where To Stay: In Udaipur, opt for heritage hotels or lakeside resorts that echo the city’s royal past
• Best Travel Season: October to March (to avoid the intense heat and enjoy cooler weather for sightseeing)

Travel Tip: Plan your trip during the cooler months for a more comfortable drive and a better overall experience.

5. Kochi to Alleppey – Kerala Backwaters Drive

Experience the tranquil charm of Kerala on the drive from Kochi to Alleppey. This short journey immerses you in lush landscapes and the serene beauty of the backwaters, where nature and tradition blend seamlessly.

• Time: Around 1.5–2 hours
• Distance: ~52 km
• National Highway: NH 66 (formerly NH 47 in this region)
• Where To Eat: Relish traditional Kerala meals featuring fresh seafood and spices at local eateries or boat-side shacks in Alleppey
• Where To Stay: Choose a houseboat for an authentic backwater experience or book a stay at a lakeside resort in Alleppey
• Best Travel Season: September to March (when the weather is cool and the backwaters are at their most inviting)

Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely drive during the cooler months to fully appreciate the natural beauty along the route.

6. Shillong and the North East Loop

Begin your adventure in Shillong, the vibrant capital of Meghalaya, and set off on the North East Loop—a circular route spanning about 200–250 km that takes you deep into the heart of the region’s natural beauty.

• Route Highlights:
  
  • Cherrapunji: Discover breathtaking waterfalls and lush, green landscapes.
  • Dawki: Marvel at the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River.
  • Mawlynnong: Explore Asia’s cleanest village and experience unique local culture.
• What to Expect:
  
  • Winding roads that offer panoramic views of dense forests and cascading waterfalls.
  • A mix of serene natural settings and vibrant indigenous culture.
  • A complete loop that brings you back to Shillong, ensuring you experience a full circle of Meghalaya’s charm.
• Quick Facts:
  
  • Distance: Winding roads that offer panoramic views of dense forests and cascading waterfalls.
  • Time: Around 6–8 hours (depending on stops and detours)
  • Best Travel Season: March to June

Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for an offbeat adventure, the North East Loop from Shillong is the perfect escape into untouched landscapes and cultural wonders.

• Time: Approximately 6–8 hours (depending on chosen routes and stops)
• Distance: ~200–250 km (variable based on the loop options)
• National Highway: Predominantly along NH 40 and regional state highways
• Where To Eat: Sample local Khasi dishes and Northeastern specialties at small cafés and roadside eateries in Shillong
• Where To Stay: Shillong offers a range of accommodations—from budget guesthouses to comfortable hotels with panoramic hill views
• Best Travel Season: March to June (when nature is in full bloom and the weather is ideal for exploration)

Travel Tip: Spring is the best time for this trip , as the region’s flora is vibrant and the temperatures are pleasant.

7. Rann of Kutch Circuit (Gujarat)

Embark on a surreal journey through the vast salt deserts of Kutch. The Rann of Kutch Circuit offers an extraordinary landscape that transforms under the sun—a truly otherworldly experience.

• Time: Around 8–10 hours (can be extended with overnight stops)
• Distance: ~300 km (depending on the chosen circuit route)
• National Highway: Segments of NH 947 and state highways in Gujarat
• Where To Eat: Enjoy authentic Gujarati snacks and meals at local dhabas near Bhuj or on the outskirts of the salt desert
• Where To Stay: Stay in Bhuj for comfort or opt for a tent/eco-resort experience during the Rann Utsav for a more immersive stay
• Best Travel Season: November to February (to enjoy both the cultural festivities and the visual splendor of the salt plains)

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Rann Utsav for a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and extraordinary landscapes.

8. Sikkim and North Bengal Scenic Byways

Set off on a picturesque journey through the Himalayan foothills of Sikkim and North Bengal. This road trip is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers, offering awe-inspiring views, lush tea gardens, and charming hill stations.

• Time: Approximately 7–8 hours (depending on stops and the chosen route)
• Distance: ~300 km (this may vary with different byways)
• National Highway: Portions of NH 31 along with regional roads through the hills
• Where To Eat: Taste local Tibetan and Nepali-influenced dishes at roadside restaurants in Darjeeling or Gangtok
• Where To Stay: Opt for boutique hotels or mountain resorts in Gangtok, Darjeeling, or nearby hill stations
• Best Travel Season: March to May or September to November (when skies are clear and the weather is mild)

Travel Tip: Clear, crisp weather during these months makes for excellent photography and comfortable driving in the mountains.

9. Bangalore to Coorg

Escape Bangalore’s hustle and set off on a refreshing road trip to Coorg, where urban chaos gives way to the serenity of the Western Ghats. Known as the "Scotland of India," Coorg delights with lush coffee plantations, misty hills, and sparkling waterfalls.

As you drive away from the city, enjoy smooth highways interspersed with charming rural stretches that reveal quaint villages and expansive green vistas. Every turn offers a refreshing change—a visual treat for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

This journey isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s a rejuvenating escape into nature, a perfect antidote to the concrete jungle of Bangalore.

• Time: Around 5–6 hours
• Distance: ~260 km
• National Highway: Primarily along NH 75
• Where To Eat: Stop at local eateries along the way or indulge in Coorg’s authentic cuisine at popular restaurants in Madikeri
• Where To Stay: Choose from charming homestays, coffee estate resorts, or boutique hotels that offer a serene retreat
• Best Travel Season: Monsoon (August to October) for lush greenery, or November to February for a milder climate

Travel Tip: Both monsoon and post-monsoon seasons offer unique charms—lush landscapes in the rain and a refreshing climate afterward.

10. Honorable Mentions / Bonus Road Trips

India’s vastness means there are countless routes worth exploring. Here are a couple of bonus options that didn’t quite make the top nine but still promise incredible experiences:

Himachal Pradesh Routes

• Time: Varies (typically 4–8 hours depending on the route)
• Distance: Varies
• National Highway: Includes parts of NH 3 and other regional routes
• Where To Eat: Enjoy local Himachali dishes at mountain dhabas and eateries
• Where To Stay: Choose from cozy homestays and guesthouses in popular hill stations like Shimla or Manali
• Best Travel Season: May to June and September to October (to enjoy pleasant weather and avoid the peak monsoon)

Desert Drives in Rajasthan

• Time: Varies (from half-day to full-day trips)
• Distance: Varies
• National Highway: Various routes including portions of NH 62 or NH 65
• Where To Eat: Savor Rajasthani specialties at roadside dhabas or local restaurants
• Where To Stay: Opt for heritage hotels, desert camps, or traditional havelis in cities like Jaisalmer
• Best Travel Season: November to March (when the desert heat is at its lowest)

Travel Tip: Use these bonus routes as inspiration for your next adventure. Local recommendations and offbeat detours can add unexpected delights to your journey.