For hearts smacked by wanderlust, long drives form the true essence of thrill, fun and frolic. In pursuit of tranquility and fantasy, they look for paradise on earth to get drenched amid nature’s splendor, ecstasy and exhilaration. If you are overwhelmed with the allure of navigating through snow-covered routes, sand-swept roads, treacherous terrains, and highways bounded by lush beauty, here are the 13 best road trips in India that promise an astounding long drive experience.
Best Road Trips in India For Long Drives
- Mumbai to Pune
Escape on a lovely weekend getaway to Lonavala, driving through the marvelous Mumbai-Pune Expressway, a fantastic way to unwind and rejuvenate. The 93-km long Expressway promises one of the most fascinating long drive experiences. Nestled amid lush environs and picturesque beauty of the Western Ghats, the journey is one to be cherished forever. The road condition is good, with petrol pump stations and other conveniences available frequently. The Kinara Village Dhaba and Sunny da Dhaba are good places to eat.
- Jaipur to Jaisalmer
A long drive from Jaipur to Jaisalmer truly promises an exhilarating experience. The 570-km long highway is as smooth as butter, dotted with quaint towns and villages that welcome you in warm embrace. As the golden sand of majestic Thar Desert beckons, pack your bags and take the route via Merta Road, Jodhpur, Mathaniya, Osiyan, Phalodi, Ramdevra, Pokaran, and Lathi to Jaisalmer. Vibrant colors, warm people, and delicious food awaits everywhere.
- Manali to Leh
Imagine cruising along a road that exhibits breathtaking snowy glory on a Bullet or open jeep! A long drive from Manali to Leh promises such astounding experience that cannot be captured in words. The 479km long National Highway 3 is open during the summer, perched amid majestic mountains, and connects Manali, Zanskar Valley, and Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
- Vishakapatnam to Araku Valley
Indulge into nature’s charming splendor as the majestic Eastern Ghats embrace the Bay of Bengal. A road trip from pristine Vishakapatnam to Araku Valley will completely mystify and rejuvenate your jittery nerves, promising an experience to be cherished forever. The meandering roads, gentle elevation, mystifying hills, salubrious weather and sweet serenity makes it an awesome long drive experience. Don’t miss to explore the Borra Caves and Tatipudi Reservoir.
- Mumbai to Goa
The long drive from Mumbai to Goa promises an amazing experience that will etch a memory in your heart for eternity. Take Mumbai-Pune Expressway and reach Kolhapur via NH-4, amid stunning beauty of the Western Ghats. Drive through the mesmerizing mountain roads to Sawantwadi and then reach Goa via Pernem. You can also take the NH-17 to reach Goa via picturesque environs and nature’s splendor.
- Siliguri to Darjeeling
The glorious mountains beckon! Catch the National Highway 55 that connects Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling. The road has an appealing old world charm that will mystify you. Picturesque mountain ranges, exotic tea plantations, and tow train lines running parallel to the highway are greatest attractions of this fascinating experience. There are many places to eat and relax as you drive through Kurseong, Sonada, and Ghoom to reach Darjeeling.
- Shimla to Manali
Unwind and relax as you drive from Shimla to Manali, with the beautiful River Beas trudging together. The 250km stretch mostly covers hilly terrain, perched amid breathtaking beauty of mountains, clear blue sky above, and shimmering Beas River. Take a much-awaited break and play in the water of the river for an exhilarating experience. Shimla to Manali is undoubtedly one of the best road trips in India that will mystify you with its splendor and magic.
- Bangalore to Coorg
Escape from the hustle and bustle of city chaos and drive to the mesmerizing ‘Scotland of India,’ Coorg, Karnataka. A charming long drive through the meandering Western Ghats, lush greenery of coffee and spice plantations, and rugged terrain ensures a thrilling and pleasant experience. The 260km long road is in good condition and takes 5 hours to reach Coorg via Srirangapatna.
- Guwahati to Tawang
For a truly memorable long drive experience, take the mystifying route from Guwahati to Tawang that takes you to some of the most splendid attractions such as Imphal, Cherrapunji and Kaziranga. The road is 480 km long and takes 9 hours to reach via Bomdilla. There are several roadside food joints that serve momos, Maggi and tea.
- Kalimpong to Zuluk
Travel back in time, driving through the breathtaking Old Silk Route, steeped in rich history and natural splendor that will behold your senses. It is the oldest trade route in South Asia, and connects Kalimpong to Zuluk. Stunning beauty of lush mountains, snow-drenched roads, and rugged terrain will truly enthrall and enchant you. This is definitely one of the best road trips in India, where you can indulge into romance and adventure for a memorable experience.
- Gangtok to Nathu-La Pass and Lake Tsomgo
North East is undoubtedly a paradise of some of the most exciting road travel experiences in India. Take a long drive from Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo and Nathu-La Pass and take back home memories to cherish for eternity. The rugged hilly terrain and high altitude may make driving a challenging experience, but the beauty of the road will amaze you. Take the 55km long road trip in winter and know happiness and excitement like never before.
- Ahmedabad to Kutch
Take one of the most memorable road trips of your life from Ahmedabad to Kutch, discovering the implausible beauty and magical charm of the Rann of Kutch. A land of contrasts, white and barren, and flanked by warm-hearted people, Rann of Kutch truly promises an enchanting experience. It takes 7 hours to reach Kutch via Viramgam – Dhrangadhra – Halvad – Lakadia – Bhachau – Bhuj.
- Chennai to Thoothukudi
Drive from Chennai to Thoothukudi via East Coast Road, flanked by the majestic Bay of Bengal that promises a beautiful long drive experience. Indulge into limitless hospitality and marvels of beautiful destinations that you will come across through this journey. Quaint fishing villages en route will also mystify you. Escape the city chaos, driving through the verdant East Coast Road.
