HIT THE ROAD: INDIA’S SCENIC DRIVES

India provides an enormous canvas of landscapes, varied terrains, and unique civilizations to treasure some of the most magnificent road trip experiences. From the lush green hills of the Western Ghats to the arid deserts of Rajasthan or from the high-altitude mountains of the Himalayas, this country always presents its visitors with something exciting at every turn. Here is a guide to the best road trips in India, with suggested routes and helpful hints for an easy-to-cover, memorable ride.

1. Manali to Leh (via Rohtang Pass)

Distance: 480 km   
Best time to visit: June to September
Itinerary: Manali – Rohtang Pass – Keylong – Sarchu – Pang – Leh

1. The ride from Manali to Leh on the roads is as iconic as possible. Snow-topped ranges, windy roads, and high-altitude passes like Rohtang and Tanglang La-do make this ride for its sheer beauty and adrenaline rush. You will find rural villages, ancient monasteries, and stark landscapes that will leave you speechless.

To enjoy the best experience possible, you must be prepared for the unique challenges and conditions of the high-altitude environment.

• To avoid altitude sickness, ensure full acclimatization. Before beginning your trip, spend some time in Manali and the surrounding area to acclimate to the higher elevation.
• Since petrol is scarce, fill up on petrol as much as possible. Plan your stops carefully and fill up your tank each time you can. This is most especially true before approaching any areas with rural settings.
• Carrying key drugs, especially antimalaria, along with medications for altitude sickness and general car repair essentials is recommended. In such places, make sure to prepare for any kind of medical crisis and bring along the essential tools for managing minor vehicle difficulties along the trip.

2. Mumbai to Goa (via NH66)

Distance: 590 km
Best time to visit: October to March
Itinerary: Mumbai – Chiplun – Ratnagiri – Goa

The road travel from Mumbai to Goa is now well-known for its beautiful coastline. However, NH 66, originally NH 17, is the only source of transportation along this route. It travels through the beautiful vegetation of the Western Ghats and lovely coastal communities before winding around the Arabian Sea. If one is a beach lover, seafood enthusiast, or loves the laid-back feel, then this road trip to Goa has treasures in store for each visitor’s sense.

• Plan your stops along the way since there are so many food joints and there are tons of places to get pictures in. Research local attractions and some lesser-known hidden gems to include in your itinerary.
• Just as the road becomes slippery during monsoons, drive steadily. Keep an eye on the weather and change your driving pace accordingly.
• A collection of old road-trip music guarantees that the vibe remains consistent. Create a soundtrack that complements your journey and makes it a memorable experience.

3. Delhi to Spiti Valley

Distance: 730 km
Best time to visit: May to October
Itinerary: Delhi – Shimla – Narkanda – Rampur – Reckong Peo – Nako – Tabo – Kaza (Spiti)

This road trip up to Spiti Valley via Delhi is great for adventure and serenity in the lap of the Himalayas. Often called the “Middle Land” between Tibet and India, Spiti Valley is an experience of captured landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a unique form of culture. The journey there is tough, especially on such rugged terrains, but the excitement of enjoying the scenery of the Sutlej and Spiti rivers, the high mountain passes, and quaint villages are all worth it.

Some tips for your journey to Spiti Valley are as follows.

• Book early and leave early. You should get out of Delhi before most of the traffic builds up. An early morning departure helps you avoid most traffic, which is usually building at this time. That saves you so much time spent in the traffic.
• Acclimatization is key, so it’s better to stay overnight in either Shimla or Narkanda. Do a night stop in Shimla or Narkanda, so you get acclimatized to the higher altitude before proceeding to the Spiti Valley.
• Always, keep an eye on the weather, since landslides and road closures can easily come about in this region. It is a good idea to check the forecasts and prepare in case of road problems.
• There are hardly any ATMs available in Spiti. Thus, carry a good amount of cash. Always have enough cash on you since ATMs may be fewer and far between those remote pockets of Spiti Valley.

4. Delhi to Jaipur (via NH48)

Distance: 270 km
Best time to visit: October to February
Itinerary: Delhi – Gurgaon – Dharuhera – Neemrana – Jaipur

The road trip from Delhi to Jaipur is perfect for a quick weekend break from the capital. The smooth drive is characterized by perfectly well-maintained highways and several dhabas that make your trip comfortable. Jaipur, the Pink City, welcomes you to its rich history, majestic forts, and vibrant markets.
Here are some tips to make the most out of your Delhi to Jaipur Road Trip:

• Depart very early in the morning to avoid Delhi’s rush-hour traffic. Try and leave before peak hour, to cut down on some travel time and make the journey easier for you.
• Stop by the Neemrana Fort for a quick detour and some heritage glance. Take a break and experience something historic in the history of India in the fort.
• Check the weather forecasting, in addition, winter fog reduces visibility on highways, so be aware of weather conditions, especially during winter months, and drive accordingly.

5. Bangalore to Coorg

Distance: 250 km
Best time to visit: October to March
Itinerary: Bangalore – Ramanagara – Mandya – Mysore – Madikeri (Coorg)

This Bangalore to Coorg Road trip is ideal for nature enthusiasts. The districts of Coorg have been fondly termed the “Scotland of India,” and nothing can beat the lush coffee plantations, misty hills, and serene waterfalls. The drive itself is quite scenic as you pass through beautiful villages, green fields, and forested tracts along the way.

Tips To Benefit Bangalore to Coorg Road Trip

• Roads are well laid out but show great caution in the winding sections near Coorg. The drive is scenic but be cautious with sharp turns and slopes.
• Spend some of your time visiting Mysore Palace or Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. You may want to explore attractions close to it: Mysore Palace or Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary for an entire experience.
• Pack some snacks as the choice of food is usually limited in ghat sections. Ready with packet snacks and drinks especially at remote places.

Road trip tips for a fun ride

1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Check: Your vehicle must be in top condition before you take it out. First, you need to check on the tire pressure, oil level, and fuel level. Do not forget to carry a spare tire and any basic tools.
2. Pack Essentials: Pack a first aid kit, as well as some extra water, snacks, and any types of medicines for which you might need them. After all, a power bank, your phone charger, and an offline map can prove lifesavers in a place where you least expect to have no coverage.
3. Plan your stopovers: On a long drive, stop after every few hours to take rest breaks. These help you avoid fatigue and help you explore the local food and culture.
4. Refuel frequently: Petrol pumps are widely spaced on some routes, such as Manali to Leh. Refuel whenever you have an opportunity to do so.
5. Hydrate and remain healthy: You need to drink plenty of water during your journey and eat light meals to remain energetic and fresh throughout your trip.

As a Final Note From the mighty Himalayas to the serene Western Ghats, each journey is a unique and memorable experience. India’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes have attracted travelers worldwide to take exciting road trips here. You can take off on a hassle-free adventure into the beautiful country using the recommended routes and tips. Whether it’s an adventure, comfort, and rest, or a cultural heritage of the places, India’s road trips are in store for the visitor. Pack your bag and hit the road to discover the magic of India’s diverse landscapes