Top 14 Road Trips in India

Road trips aren't just about getting from one place to another - the adventure, the sights you see along the way, and the memories you make.

From the serene valleys of Himachal Pradesh to the rugged terrains of Uttarakhand, road trips in North India are replete with destinations that are perfect for those looking to explore the road less travelled.

Explore the 14 best places for road trips in India, highlighting the most picturesque destinations and routes that promise an unforgettable experience:

1. Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo | 41 km

A short but mesmerising journey from Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo, this road trip is a gateway to the mystical beauty of Sikkim. The route offers spectacular views of the Himalayan range and a chance to witness the serene beauty of Lake Tsomgo.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to December
• Popularity: Famous for its changing colours, yak rides, and pristine surroundings.
• Activities to do: Yak rides, visiting nearby monasteries, enjoying the natural scenery.
• Ideal Route: Gangtok - Lake Tsomgo

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2. Chennai to Pondicherry | 151 km

Cruise along the scenic East Coast Road from Chennai to the charming French colonial town of Pondicherry, known for its vibrant culture, tranquil beaches, and delectable cuisine.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Popularity: Famous for its colonial charm and beachside promenades.
• Activities to Do: Beach walks, exploring French heritage, and trying local cuisine.
• Ideal Route: Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry

3. Kolkata to Digha | 184 km

The road trip from Kolkata to Digha offers a quick getaway to the coastal paradise of West Bengal. Digha is known for its pristine beaches, relaxation, serene surroundings, and delicious fresh seafood.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February.
• Popularity: Known for its flat beaches, sea-facing resorts, and seafood.
• Activities to do: Beach activities, seafood tasting, visiting the local markets.
• Ideal Route: Kolkata - Nandakumar - Digha

4. Bangalore to Coorg | 261 km

This road trip from Bangalore to Coorg takes you through the verdant landscapes of Karnataka's coffee plantations and misty hills. Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is famous for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Coorg's highlights include Abbey Falls, Brahmagiri Peak, and the Nagarhole National Park.
• Activities to do: Coffee plantation tours, trekking, wildlife safari.
• Ideal Route: Bangalore - Mandya - Coorg

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5. Ooty to Kolli Hills | 273 km

Driving from the picturesque hill station of Ooty to the serene Kolli Hills is a journey through the lush greenery and misty landscapes of Tamil Nadu. This road trip offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing you to reconnect with nature.

• Best Time to Visit: February to December.
• Popularity: Hill stations, waterfalls, and  viewpoints.
• Activities to Do: Trek to Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic views from Kolli Hills.
• Ideal Route: Ooty - Annur - Avinashi - Kolli Hills.

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6. Ahmedabad to Kutch | 368 km

Rann of Kutch is a cultural odyssey through the heart of Gujarat. This road trip offers a glimpse into the rich heritage, colourful traditions, and surreal landscapes of the region, making it a unique and memorable experience.

• Best Time to Visit: August to February
• Popularity: Famous for the Rann Utsav and its mesmerising salt marshes.
• Activities to Do: Desert safaris, cultural shows, handicraft shopping.
• Ideal Route: Ahmedabad - Dhrangadhra - Bhachau - Kutch

7. Mysore to Kodaikanal | 378 km

Driving from the cultural city of Mysore to the serene hill station of Kodaikanal is a delightful journey through the verdant landscapes of South India. This road trip offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and tranquillity, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Popularity: Natural beauty, adventure sports, stargazing, Coakers walk and rare flowers.
• Activities to Do: Boating in Kodai Lake, trekking, horse riding, and visiting Coaker’s Walk for panoramic views.
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Gundlupet - Ooty - Kodaikanal.

8. Srinagar to Leh | 418 km

This road trip from Srinagar to Leh is an epic journey through the rugged terrains of the Himalayas. Leh, in Ladakh, offers breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, ancient monasteries, and Tibetan culture.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September.
• Popularity: Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and adventurous passes.
• Activities to do: Monastery visits, trekking, and experiencing Ladakhi culture.
• Ideal Route: Srinagar - Kargil - Khalsi - Leh.

9. Shimla to Spiti Valley | 427 km

A road trip from Shimla to Spiti Valley is a thrilling escapade through the rugged terrain of Himachal Pradesh. This route offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, quaint villages, and ancient monasteries, making it a paradise for adventure seekers.

• Best Time to Visit: April to July and October to November
• Popularity: Lush valleys, remote villages, snow-capped mountains and Buddhist monasteries.
• Activities to Do: Monastery visits, nature walks, and exploring local lanes.
• Ideal Route: Shimla - Mandi - Dhar Dindii - Spiti Valley

10. Guwahati to Tawang | 434 km

Journeying from Guwahati to Tawang offers a mesmerising glimpse into the untouched beauty of Northeast India. This road trip takes you through lush greenery, snow mountains, and serene monasteries, promising an unforgettable adventure.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to October.
• Popularity: Known for its scenic beauty and Buddhist monasteries.
• Activities to Do: Monastery visits, nature walks, exploring local culture.
• Ideal Route: Guwahati - Udalguri - Bomdila - Tawang.

11. Mumbai to Tarkarli | 494 km

From the city's hustle to the tranquillity of Tarkarli's beaches, this road trip offers an escape into nature's serenity. Tarkarli is known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and thrilling water sports activities.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Popularity: Tranquil beaches, water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving, and delectable Malvani cuisine.
• Activities to do: Beach hopping, water sports, dolphin spotting, exploring Sindhudurg Fort.
• Ideal Route: Mumbai - Chiplun - Tarkarli.

12. Bangalore to Munnar | 528 km

This road trip from Bangalore to Munnar is a scenic journey through the Western Ghats, dotted with tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty mountains. Munnar, in Kerala, is renowned for its tea estates and breathtaking natural beauty.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February.
• Popularity: Tea estates, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Activities to do: Explore tea gardens, trek to Anamudi Peak, and visit Mattupetty Dam.
• Ideal Route: Bangalore - Salem - Hosuri - Munnar

13. Bangalore to Goa | 562 km

This road trip from Bangalore to Goa takes you on a journey from the bustling city to the pristine beaches of Goa. Goa is famous for its vibrant culture, sandy beaches, greenery and Portuguese heritage.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Popularity: Famous for stunning coastal drives and beach destinations.
• Activities to do: Beach hopping, water sports, exploring Portuguese heritage.
• Ideal Route: Bangalore - Sira - Ranebennur - Goa

14. Mumbai to Goa | 605 km

Travelling from the bustling city of Mumbai to the vibrant beaches of Goa is a quintessential road trip experience. This route offers a blend of coastal vistas, charming towns, and delicious cuisine, making it perfect for a getaway.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Popularity: Famous for stunning coastal drives and beach destinations.
• Activities to Do: Beach hopping, water sports, exploring Portuguese heritage.
• Ideal Route: Mumbai - Chiplun - Panaji - Goa

India's diverse landscapes offer an array of road trip experiences, each unique in its allure and charm. The best road trips in India connect you with the country's heart, offering glimpses into its soul through scenic beauty, cultural richness, and unparalleled adventure.