Embark on a journey through India's diverse landscapes with our top 10 scenic drives, promising adventure and unforgettable memories. From the Himalayas to coastal bliss, each route offers a unique experience
waiting to be explored. Read on to discover your next road trip destination!
India, a land of diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, offers some of the most breathtaking road trip experiences in the world. From the towering Himalayas to the serene coastlines, adventure seekers can find a route that caters to their wanderlust.
So, buckle up, fill your tank, and get ready to explore our top 10 scenic drives that promise unforgettable memories and a deep connection with the beauty of India. These drives are perfect for those who love the open road and the thrill of discovering new horizons.
Manali-Leh Highway: The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure
The Manali-Leh Highway is not just a road; it's an experience that tests your mettle and rewards you with unparalleled views.
This high-altitude road, open for a few months each year, takes you through some of the highest mountain passes in the world, including Rohtang La, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La. The landscape is stark yet mesmerizing, with snow-capped peaks, rugged terrain, and the clear blue skies of Ladakh.
You'll encounter monasteries steeped in Buddhist culture, tiny villages where time seems to stand still, and campsites under a blanket of stars. Remember to acclimatize to the altitude to avoid sickness and carry extra fuel as petrol pumps are few and far between.
Driving through Manali-Leh is a challenge, but the sense of accomplishment and the memories you make will last a lifetime. The roads are difficult to negotiate, so it's advisable to use a vehicle that is able to go through such difficult terrain.
Srinagar-Leh Highway: A Journey Through Paradise
An alternative route to Ladakh, the Srinagar-Leh Highway is equally stunning, offering a different perspective on the Himalayan landscape. The journey begins in the lush green valleys of Kashmir and gradually ascends into the arid mountains of Ladakh.
You'll cross the Zoji La Pass, known for its challenging conditions, and pass through picturesque towns like Sonamarg and Kargil, each with its unique history and charm.
The highlight of this route is the opportunity to visit the Kargil War Memorial, a poignant reminder of India's bravery and sacrifice.
The Srinagar-Leh Highway is generally open for a longer period than the Manali-Leh Highway, making it a more accessible option for those planning a summer road trip. The road is well-maintained, making it easier to drive through.
The route however passes through several areas where military movement is common , so expect delays along the way.
Mumbai-Goa: Coastal Bliss and Western Ghats Magic
Escape the city hustle and embark on a refreshing drive from Mumbai to Goa. This route offers a diverse landscape, from the bustling cityscapes to the serene beaches and the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
You can choose between the coastal route via Chiplun or the more inland route via Kolhapur, each offering its unique attractions.
The coastal route is perfect for those who want to explore the beaches and historical forts along the Konkan coast, while the inland route takes you through sprawling farmlands and quaint towns.
Goa, with its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and rich Portuguese heritage, is the perfect destination to unwind after a long drive. The best time to take this road trip is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.
The stretch contains several narrow lanes that are difficult to navigate if you are new to it.
Chennai-Pondicherry: A Coastal Sojourn with French Flair
For a shorter but equally delightful road trip, consider the drive from Chennai to Pondicherry along the East Coast Road (ECR). This scenic route hugs the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal.
You'll pass through ancient temples, fishing villages, and the historic town of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut monuments.
Pondicherry, with its French colonial architecture, charming cafes, and serene atmosphere, is a perfect blend of Indian and European cultures. The ECR is generally well-maintained and offers a smooth driving experience, making it ideal for a weekend getaway.
The roads are well maintained, so cars can easily drive. However the roads can become very crowded during long weekends, so start early if you want to beat the traffic.
Jaipur-Jaisalmer: A Royal Ride Through the Desert
Experience the grandeur of Rajasthan with a road trip from Jaipur to Jaisalmer, taking you through the heart of the Thar Desert. The landscape transforms from the bustling cityscapes of Jaipur to the golden sand dunes of Jaisalmer, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
En route, you can visit the historic city of Jodhpur, known as the "Blue City," and explore its majestic forts and palaces. Jaisalmer, with its stunning sandstone architecture and vibrant culture, is a perfect destination to immerse yourself in the desert experience.
Enjoy camel safaris, explore the Jaisalmer Fort, and witness the mesmerizing sunset over the dunes. The best time to take this road trip is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant and ideal for desert exploration.
Driving can be difficult for new drivers as the roads are deserted and there may be a tendency to speed on an empty road.
Guwahati-Tawang: A North-Eastern Odyssey
Embark on an adventurous road trip through the remote and stunning landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, starting from Guwahati and culminating in the serene town of Tawang.
This route takes you through lush green valleys, dense forests, and challenging mountain roads, offering a unique glimpse into the tribal culture and natural beauty of the region.
You'll cross the Sela Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, and visit the Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India. The journey is challenging but rewarding, offering a sense of adventure and a deep connection with nature.
Remember to obtain the necessary permits to enter Arunachal Pradesh and be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions. Having an experienced driver will be an advantage, as the roads may get difficult to drive during rains.
Valparai – Pollachi: Green Carpet Route
In Tamil Nadu, this unexplored route takes you through beautiful tea estates and dense forests. A hidden gem that takes you to an elevation of 3500 feet through 40 hair pin bends that is a pure driving pleasure. A thin traffic ensures that you can enjoy the scenery.
Many viewpoints on the way ensures that those scenic views get ingrained into your memory.
Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley
This is another coastal route, which provides a lot of scenic beauty along the way. The journey starts at Visakhapatnam, on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. The journey takes you through lush green hills, thick forests and coffee plantations.
The road has many hairpin bends and curves, so it takes time.
Shillong to Cherrapunjee
Shillong better known as "The Scotland of the east" is a small town in Meghalaya situated between valleys and greenery. This road trip runs for 60 kilometers through the winding roads of Meghalaya, offering the tourists the view of lush green landscapes.
Cherrapunjee is a hill station in Meghalaya, and is known for being wettest place.
Gangtok to Nathu La Pass
This route to Nathu La, a mountain pass in the Himalayas connecting Sikkim with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. The road is scenic, but at certain places you can get motion sickness and breathing problems due to high altitude.
The weather is very unpredictable and weather can change anytime from sunny to hailing to snow.
AI Generated Content. Glance/InMobi shall have no liability for the content
