Getting To Victoria
To reach the starting point of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay, from India, direct flights from Delhi to Melbourne are available via Air India. Alternatively,
carriers like Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines offer one-stopover options. Melbourne is approximately 100km away from Torquay, a journey that typically takes about 90 minutes.
Visa and Travel Essentials
Indian citizens will need to secure an Australian tourist visa, which costs approximately Rs. 13,000. The application process is entirely online, and no in-person interviews or biometrics are required. Expect visa processing times to range from one to three weeks. For airfare, flights from Delhi to Melbourne can cost around Rs. 138,000 on Air India, while Mumbai to Melbourne flights are about Rs. 135,000 with Singapore Airlines. Bengaluru to Melbourne flights are more budget-friendly, starting at Rs. 80,000 on Qantas (these prices are indicative for May 2026).
Optimal Travel Time
The months of April and May present autumn in full swing along the Great Ocean Road. During this period, anticipate cooler temperatures, generally below 20°C, with a possibility of rainy days and strong, gusty winds characteristic of the coastal environment. This weather adds a dramatic flair to the already stunning landscape.
Key Attractions Unveiled
Beyond the world-renowned Twelve Apostles, the Great Ocean Road boasts several captivating sights. Loch Ard Gorge, named after a historic shipwreck, offers picturesque scenery. The Gorge itself is a dramatic limestone sinkhole that has transformed into a sea cave, accessible by a wooden staircase. For panoramic vistas, the Cape Otway Lightstation is a must-visit, allowing you to ascend for breathtaking views of the coastline. These landmarks provide a glimpse into the region's natural beauty and maritime history.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation in Melbourne ranges from chic city hotels like QT Melbourne on Russell Street, with prices starting around Rs. 18,000, to options in the bohemian Fitzroy area such as The StandardX, costing approximately Rs. 13,000. Along the Great Ocean Road itself, ocean-view rooms at Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs in Warrnambool are available from Rs. 40,000. This hotel also features an award-winning Hot Springs Sanctuary, an ideal spot for relaxation after a day of exploration.
Additional Expenses
Budget for car rental, which starts at around Rs. 3,000 per day when picked up from Melbourne airport or the city center. Your Indian driver's license is valid for driving in Victoria, so no separate permit is needed. While the Great Ocean Road itself is free to access, there's a potential AUD 20 (approximately Rs. 1,300) entry fee being considered by the Victorian government for viewing the Twelve Apostles. Access to the Great Otway National Park is complimentary.
Daily Budget Estimates
Excluding accommodation, expect to allocate between Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 10,000 per day for essential expenses for a couple or a family of four. This daily budget covers costs such as car fuel, meals, and other miscellaneous expenditures, ensuring a comfortable and well-rounded experience of the Great Ocean Road.
Expert Insights
To truly appreciate the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge without the crowds, visiting early between 7 AM and 9 AM is highly recommended, allowing you to experience these natural wonders in solitude before the arrival of tour groups. For those interested in nature and wildlife, the Otway Fly Treetop Walk and the Redwood Forest in the Otways offer a serene, cool-temperate contrast to the coastal scenery, providing unique and often overlooked experiences.














