Top 14 Road Trips in North 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.

Eight road trip destinations in North India that promise adventure, scenic beauty, and unforgettable moments are:

1. Amritsar to Dharamshala | 198 km

The road trip from Amritsar to Dharamshala takes you through picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and serene valleys of Himachal Pradesh. Dharamshala, with its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and breathtaking views of the mountain ranges.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Popular for Tibetan culture, Namgyal Monastery, trekking trails, and scenic beauty.
• Activities to do: Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, explore McLeod Ganj, trek to Triund, and indulge in Tibetan cuisine.
• Ideal Route: Amritsar - Pathankot - Dharamshala

2. Shimla to Manali | 235 km

The road from Shimla to Manali offers travellers the chance to witness the beauty of the Himachal Pradesh landscape. Manali, the most visited place,  serves as a base for numerous trekking trails and offers various water activities.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and  December to February 
• Popularity: Popular for adventure sports like paragliding, skiing, and rafting, as well as for its scenic beauty and temples.
• Activities to do: Visit Hadimba Temple, Rohtang Pass, and Solang Valley, indulge in adventure sports, and explore Old Manali.
• Ideal Route: Shimla - Mandi -  Manali

3. Jammu to Srinagar | 245 km

The road trip from Jammu to Srinagar is a mesmerising journey, flanked by majestic mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. Srinagar, with its serene lakes and houseboats, exudes an ethereal charm that enchants every traveller.

• Best Time to Visit: April to October
• Popularity: Popular for Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, Shikara rides, and authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
• Activities to do: Take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, visit the Mughal gardens, explore Shankaracharya Temple, and indulge in shopping for Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri handicrafts.
• Ideal Route: Jammu - Banihal - Srinagar

4. Chandigarh to Kasol | 254 km

The journey from Chandigarh to Kasol via Mandi is a mesmerising trip to the heart of the Parvati Valley. Known as the 'Amsterdam of India', Kasol is a backpacker favourite, offering a unique blend of scenic beauty and vibrant nightlife.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to November
• Popularity: Popular for its hippie culture, trekking trails, and proximity to Kheerganga.
• Activities to do: Trek to Kheerganga, explore Malana village, visit Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, and indulge in Israeli cuisine.
• Ideal Route: Chandigarh - Mandi - Kasol

5. Delhi to Lansdowne | 276 km

The road trip from Delhi to Lansdowne offers a serene getaway amidst oak and pine forests, tranquil lakes, and colonial-era architecture. Lansdowne's old-world charm and pristine beauty make it an ideal destination for a peaceful retreat.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, except during monsoons.
• Popularity: Popular for its colonial heritage, scenic beauty, and trekking trails.
• Activities to do: Visit Bhulla Lake, explore the Tip-in-Top viewpoint, trek to Snow Viewpoint, and indulge in nature walks.
• Ideal Route: Delhi - Meerut  - Lansdowne

6. Delhi to Jaipur | 277 km

The road journey from Delhi to Jaipur is a cultural odyssey through the vibrant state of Rajasthan. Explore the regal palaces, majestic forts, and bustling bazaars of the Pink City, immersing yourself in its rich history and heritage.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Popular for its rich history, culture, architecture, shopping, and tourism.
• Activities to do: Explore iconic landmarks like Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal, and shop for traditional handicrafts in Jaipur's bustling markets.
• Ideal Route: Delhi - Neemrana - Shahpura - Jaipur

7. Dehradun to Auli | 301 km

The road trip from Dehradun to Auli is a journey through verdant valleys, rivers, and dense forests of oak and pine. Auli, known for its pristine slopes and panoramic vistas of the Himalayas, is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Popularity: Popular for skiing, cable car rides, and breathtaking views of Nanda Devi Peak.
• Activities to do: Skiing, trekking, cable car ride to Auli, visit Gurso Bugyal.
• Ideal Route: Dehradun - Rishikesh  - Auli

8. Chandigarh to Dalhousie | 342 km

The road trip from Chandigarh to Dalhousie is a delightful journey through lush green valleys, dense forests, and charming hill towns. Dalhousie, with its colonial architecture and panoramic views, offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature's splendour.

• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October
• Popularity: Popular for its scenic beauty, colonial charm, and proximity to Khajjiar, the 'Mini Switzerland of India.'
• Activities to do: Visit Khajjiar, explore Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, stroll along Subhash Baoli, and indulge in local cuisine.
• Ideal Route: Chandigarh - Jalandhar - Dalhousie

9. Delhi to Shimla | 343 km

A road trip from Delhi to Shimla is a nostalgic journey to the erstwhile summer capital of British India. Traverse through winding roads and pine-clad hills, relishing the colonial charm and panoramic vistas of the Himalayas.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June.
• Popularity: Popular for Victorian architecture, colonial history, and scenic views.
• Activities to Do: Explore the Mall Road, visit the iconic Christ Church, and indulge in adventure activities like trekking and paragliding.
• Ideal Route: Delhi - Panipat - Ambala - Solan - Shimla

10. Delhi to McLeodganj | 474 km

The road trip from Delhi to McLeodganj is a refreshing escape to the tranquil hills of Himachal Pradesh. Experience the serene ambiance of Dharamshala and immerse yourself in Tibetan culture amidst the lush greenery of McLeodganj.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June.
• Popularity: Popular for rich Tibetian culture, monasteries, temples, and adventure sports.
• Activities to Do: Visit the Dalai Lama Temple, explore Bhagsu Waterfall, and trek to Triund for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Ideal Route: Delhi - Karnal - Kangra - McLeodganj

11. Delhi to Valley of Flowers | 495 km

Embark on a soul-stirring journey from Delhi to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse flora and ethereal beauty. Traverse through lush meadows adorned with vibrant blooms, creating a paradise on earth.

• Best Time to Visit: July to September.
• Popularity: Popular for impeccable natural beauty, spirituality, and enjoyment of nature at its best.
• Activities to Do: Trek through the valley, marvel at rare Himalayan flowers, and soak in the tranquility of this enchanting landscape.
• Ideal Route: Delhi - Muzaffarnagar - Rudraprayag - Valley of Flowers.

12. Jaipur to Jaisalmer | 558 km

A road trip from Jaipur to Jaisalmer offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Rajasthan. Drive through the golden sands of the Thar Desert and explore magnificent forts and palaces along the way.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February.
• Popularity: Popular for cultural richness, natural beauty, and peaceful environment.
• Activities to Do: Explore the majestic forts of Jaipur, witness the desert sunset at Sam Sand Dunes, and indulge in camel safari adventures.
• Ideal Route: Jaipur - Ajmer - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer

13. Delhi to Spiti Valley | 696 Km

The road from Delhi to Spiti Valley offers a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes. This trip introduces travellers to the cold desert valley in Himachal Pradesh, known for its mesmerising beauty and unique Tibetan culture.

• Best Time to Visit: April to July and October to  November.
• Popularity: Popular for its unspoiled landscapes, Tibetan culture, and adventure activities like trekking and camping.
• Activities to Do: Explore Key Monastery, visit Chandratal Lake, embark on trekking expeditions, and experience local culture.
• Ideal Route: Delhi - Ambala - Mandi - Spiti Valley.

14. Delhi to Leh | 1213 km

The road journey from Delhi to Leh is a mesmerising expedition through the picturesque landscapes of the Himalayas. As you traverse through winding mountain, you'll encounter breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and serene valleys.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September.
• Popularity: Popular for breathtaking views, unique culture, and challenging terrain.
• Activities to do: Indulge in adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and camping amidst the pristine beauty of Ladakh.
• Ideal Route: Delhi - Ludhiana - Srinagar - Kargil - Leh.