14 Outstanding Places To Enjoy Wonderful And Adventurous Road Trips In India

India is an exceptional destination for unforgettable road trips. The diverse landscapes crafted by Mother Nature across the country can only be fully appreciated through road travel. North India's hilly terrain provides stunning views of the Himalayas, while South India's roads showcase picturesque scenery with lush forests, waterfalls, and more.

Today, we’re highlighting some of the best locations for thrilling and scenic road trips in India.

# Mumbai to Pune

For a refreshing weekend getaway from Mumbai, take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to reach Lonavala. This route is popular among both tourists and locals seeking a relaxing break. The drive offers breathtaking views of green foliage that calm your senses and soothe your eyes. Along the way, you'll find charming roadside Dhabas perfect for enjoying delicious food. The journey takes about 2 to 3 hours on a two-wheeler.

# Mumbai to Goa

If you're a bike enthusiast, the road trip from Mumbai to Goa is a dream come true. The journey offers mesmerizing scenery, with the towering Western Ghats flanking the road. Expect to encounter several toll plazas, but the natural beauty of paddy fields, coconut plantations, and numerous roadside food stalls will make the trip worthwhile. This route is both adventurous and romantic, with the best time to travel being from September to March.

# Guwahati to Tawang

Experience the thrill of driving through hilly terrain with the Guwahati to Tawang road trip. The route offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains. Ensure you have excellent driving skills for the challenging terrain, and avoid traveling in winter due to possible landslides and snowfall. The ideal time for this trip is from March to October.

# Manali to Leh

This is a highly coveted road trip for adventure seekers. The route from Manali to Leh is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Though you can complete the trip in a jeep, riding a bike adds an unforgettable element to the journey. Expect a two-day trip with one stopover. The road is tricky and requires good bike control and speed management. For bikers, this is a bucket-list ride!

# Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

The 114 km journey from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley takes about 3 to 4 hours and is filled with stunning views. The winding roads through lush green valleys, hilly terrain, and verdant canyons offer numerous opportunities for scenic stops. Highlights include the roaring Bay of Bengal, forested hills, aromatic coffee plantations, and majestic waterfalls. This route is a photographer's paradise.

# Ahmedabad to Kutch

Embark on an exciting bike ride through salt fields with the Ahmedabad to Kutch route. The road conditions are excellent, ensuring a smooth ride. However, be prepared for potential traffic jams; starting early can help avoid delays. Don’t miss a visit to the Wild Ass Sanctuary and consider traveling on a full moon night for a magical experience. The local Hodko village is also worth a stop for handicraft shopping.

# Delhi to Spiti Valley

Covering 730 km, the drive from Delhi to Spiti Valley takes around 17 hours. Plenty of accommodations and food joints are available along the way. You can choose between two routes: via Shimla or via Manali. Both routes offer panoramic vistas, monasteries, Chandrataal Lakes, and more. The best time to undertake this trip is from March to June.

# Shimla to Manali

The drive from Shimla to Manali, passing through Mandi, provides unforgettable views. The River Beas will accompany you throughout, offering scenic stops and refreshing icy-cold water. This Himalayan road trip usually takes 5 to 6 hours, but expect it to be longer due to the hilly terrain. It's a wonderful vacation route for enjoying the beauty of the Himalayas.

# Jaipur to Ranthambore

This royal road trip stands out with its picturesque mustard fields and charming villages like Balsi and Lalsot. It’s a popular route for those visiting Ranthambore National Park to spot the Royal Bengal Tigers. While the road can be bumpy, a detour through Tonk provides smoother driving. The best time for this trip is from October to June, as the park is closed during other months. The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, with numerous Dhabas offering delicious food and breaks.

# Chennai to Pondicherry

Traveling along the East Coast Road, the 155 km journey from Chennai to Pondicherry takes 3 to 4 hours. The route offers stunning sea views, with the light reflecting off the water creating beautiful silhouettes. Along the way, you’ll pass Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and various other attractions. The trip is best enjoyed between October and February.

# Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo and Nathula Pass

North-East India’s unexplored roads offer vibrant trips like the one from Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake. The journey, showcasing untouched natural beauty, is especially thrilling for bikers due to its hilly terrain. Winter trips through the snow-covered Lake Tsomgo are particularly memorable. The drive takes less than 2 hours.

# The Golden Triangle Road Trip

Starting in Delhi, this trip covers Jaipur and Agra, visiting historical landmarks and culturally rich cities like the Taj Mahal. Drive along NH93 for smooth and enjoyable travel. The route is lined with eateries and restaurants where you can savor authentic North-Indian cuisine.

# Darjeeling to Pelling

This road trip from Darjeeling to Pelling, taking around four hours, offers lush forests, majestic mountains, beautiful tea gardens, and breathtaking scenery. Stop at tea gardens to enjoy freshly brewed Darjeeling Tea along the way. The best times for this trip are from March to June and September to December. The route features numerous food joints to enhance your experience.

# Bangalore to Bandipur Forest

A road trip from Bangalore to Bandipur Forest provides a taste of adventure through dense forests. Opt for a car with a sunroof to fully enjoy the trip with friends. You might spot deer crossing the road—take a moment to appreciate nature without disturbing them.