Best Road Trips in India for Every Type of Traveler
India isn’t just a place you visit, it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. And the best way to experience it is by hitting the open road. Chances are, you’ll agree once you experience it yourself. Indian road trips offer scenic, diverse, and breathtaking landscapes. As every traveler desires a different kind of adventure, some seek the thrill of mountain passes and others dream of quiet beaches or food trails that make every mile delicious. That’s why we have put together a quick guide to the best road trips in India. Whether you’re a couple, solo traveler, or family, there’s a route made just for you. The Wild Wanderer: Delhi to Spiti Valley Distance: ~730 km | Ideal Time: May to October If your idea of travel is scaling new heights, then literally this remote Himalayan journey is for you. The roads might be rough, but the views of the valleys are stunning, and the calm inside the monasteries is worth every mile. This is one of the most fulfilling solo road trips you can take in India. Route Snapshot: Delhi → Shimla → Kalpa → Nako → Kaza → Spiti Valley Don’t Miss: Tabo Monastery (built in 996 AD) The world’s highest post office at Hikkim Pro Tip: Pack altitude sickness meds and extra fuel because petrol pumps are few and far between. The Food Explorer: Delhi to Amritsar via Ludhiana Distance: ~470 km | Ideal Time: All year This is a trip for the taste buds. I still think about that buttery naan and smoky dal I had at a tiny roadside dhaba. Picture buttery paranthas, creamy lassi, and plates you’ll still be dreaming about on the ride back. Start your journey early and make sure to stop at some iconic dhabas along the way because they’re the real part of the adventure! Route Snapshot: Delhi → Murthal → Ludhiana → Amritsar Flavors to Savor: Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba (Murthal) Pal Dhaba (Chandigarh) Langar at Golden Temple Pro Tip: Start early to avoid NH1 traffic and hit Murthal in time for breakfast. The Romantic Rover: Mumbai to Gokarna via Goa Distance: ~700 km | Ideal Time: October to March Skip the crowds and take the road less traveled. This coastal route offers serene beach towns, old Portuguese charm, and golden sunsets best enjoyed hand-in-hand, with wind in your hair, dust on your shoes, and the kind of silence that only feels right when you’re with the right person. So grab your partner and hit the road as this romantic road trip waits for you. Route Snapshot: Mumbai → Alibaug → Ratnagiri → Goa → Gokarna Top Experiences: Breakfast at a beach shack in Palolem Sunset at Om Beach Try a clifftop Airbnb near Anjuna, where the breeze carries the scent of salt and music drifts in from beachside cafés. Pro Tip: Avoid NH66 traffic by starting at dawn and do not miss the early light on the Konkan coast, as it’s one of the most amazing views. The Nature Seeker: Bangalore to Wayanad Distance: ~280 km | Ideal Time: October to May This peaceful road trip takes you through green forest reserves, beautiful coffee plantations, and quiet little hill towns. It’s a perfect escape when you need to slow down. Step away from screens and into a kind of quiet that makes your shoulders drop and your breath slow down. Get away from the busy noise of the city. Plan a road trip now as nature calls your name. Route Snapshot: Bangalore → Mysore → Bandipur Forest → Wayanad Sights to See: Edakkal Caves Banasura Sagar Dam Chembra Peak Pro Tip: Plan a stop at Bandipur early in the morning; it’s one of the best times to spot elephants in the wild! The Family Bond Builder: Ahmedabad to Udaipur via Mount Abu Distance: ~330 km | Ideal Time: October to February Looking for a drive that’s fun, scenic, and doesn’t tire everyone out? This one’s packed with forts, lakes, hill stations, and it’s all in the little things, kids waving at passing boats, elders soaking in the peace with their feet in the water, and you just taking it all in. It’s a perfect family road trip that’s both fun and interesting. The best part is, everyone who visits ends up loving it. Route Snapshot: Ahmedabad → Mount Abu → Udaipur Must-Dos: Boating on Lake Pichola Toy train ride in Mount Abu Sunset at Sajjangarh Palace Pro Tip: Mount Abu gets quite cold in winter, especially in the evenings, so don’t forget to pack your warm layers. The Offbeat Dreamer: Chennai to Tharangambadi (Tranquebar) Distance: ~270 km | Ideal Time: November to March Skip the crowds of Pondicherry and head a little further along the ECR to Tharangambadi. This quiet Danish town by the sea is known for its calm waves and colonial charm. It is also a kinda road trip that is one of those rare finds that makes you feel like a true traveler, not just a tourist. So if you are looking for something offbeat, this is for you. Route Snapshot: Chennai → Mahabalipuram → Tranquebar Hidden Gems: Danish Fort The Bungalow on the Beach Old Danish Governor’s bungalow Pro Tip: The Danish museum closes early, so try to visit before noon. You’ll find it more informative than you might expect. Honorable Mentions for Offbeat Travelers: Tawang to Ziro (Arunachal Pradesh): Ideal for spiritual travelers seeking untouched nature. Shillong to Cherrapunji: For monsoon lovers and photographers. Rameswaram to Dhanushkodi: For spiritual and coastal vibes on a ghost town road. PRO TIP: Use Highway Cafés & Local Stays to Elevate Your Trip Instead of sticking to typical stops, explore some of the best highway cafés or local eateries along the way. Opt for homestays to enjoy a more authentic cultural experience and get better value compared to standard hotels. Road Trip Packing List: Essentials You Shouldn’t Forget If you’re heading for a scenic drive filled with beautiful stops, winding coastal roads,
