There’s something magical about hitting the open road—the freedom to explore at your own pace, the thrill of discovering hidden gems, and the joy of bonding over scenic drives. Whether you crave mountains, coastlines, or cultural detours, road trips offer a perfect escape from routine. Here’s a list of the best road trips to take, both in India and abroad.
Best Road Trips in India
1. Manali to Leh (Ladakh Highway)
Route: Manali – Sarchu – Leh
Distance: ~470 km
Highlights: Breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, high mountain passes like Rohtang and Tanglang La, monasteries, and clear night skies.
Best Time: June to September
2. Mumbai to Goa via NH66
Route: Mumbai – Chiplun – Ratnagiri – Goa
Distance: ~600 km
Highlights: Coastal charm, lush greenery, Konkan cuisine, and a seamless blend of culture and beach life.
Best Time: October to February
3. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore
Route: Bangalore – Mysore – Bandipur – Ooty
Distance: ~280 km
Highlights: Palace towns, wildlife sightings in Bandipur, and scenic hairpin bends through the Nilgiris.
Best Time: October to June
4. Guwahati to Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh)
Route: Guwahati – Tezpur – Bomdila – Tawang
Distance: ~520 km
Highlights: Snow-covered passes, Buddhist monasteries, and untouched Himalayan beauty.
Best Time: March to May or September to November
5. Chennai to Pondicherry via East Coast Road
Route: Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry
Distance: ~160 km
Highlights: Sea views, UNESCO heritage temples, French colonial architecture, and café culture.
Best Time: November to February
🌍 Best Road Trips Abroad
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA (California Route 1)
Route: San Francisco – Big Sur – Los Angeles
Distance: ~750 km
Highlights: Ocean cliffs, beaches, redwood forests, and vibrant California towns.
Best Time: April to October
2. The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Route: Melbourne – Torquay – Port Campbell
Distance: ~250 km
Highlights: Dramatic coastlines, the 12 Apostles, rainforests, and charming seaside towns.
Best Time: November to April
3. The Ring Road, Iceland
Route: Reykjavík – Vik – Akureyri – Hofn – Reykjavík
Distance: ~1,300 km
Highlights: Volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and Northern Lights.
Best Time: May to September
4. Garden Route, South Africa
Route: Cape Town – Knysna – Port Elizabeth
Distance: ~750 km
Highlights: Coastal cliffs, game reserves, lush forests, and adventure activities.
Best Time: September to April
5. Amalfi Coast Drive, Italy
Route: Sorrento – Positano – Amalfi – Ravello
Distance: ~75 km
Highlights: Mediterranean views, colorful cliffside towns, lemon groves, and Italian cuisine.
Best Time: April to June or September
Conclusion
Whether you’re navigating hairpin bends in the Himalayas or cruising along coastal highways in Australia, road trips offer unforgettable adventures. With the right route, good company, and a sense of curiosity, every turn can lead to a new story. So fuel up, buckle in, and let the road take you somewhere extraordinary.
