Best Road Trips in India You Must Experience in 2025 | Top Routes & Tips
Nothing compares to the thrill of hitting the open road with your favourite tunes on blast, windows rolled down, and tasty snacks to share with friends. In a country as vast and diverse as India, road trips offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
If you’re planning a vacation in 2025, here are some of the best road trips you should definitely experience.
1. Mumbai to Goa
This road trip is often hailed as a paradise for bikers and car lovers alike. The journey from Mumbai to Goa takes you through the stunning Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views all the way. It’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular road trips for people from Mumbai, often referred to as the “Father of Indian Road Trips.”
The NH4 route via Pune and Kolhapur is a smooth four-lane highway that takes about 10 hours to cover the 590 km distance. While this route is fast and safe, it has several toll booths, so keep some cash handy. For those looking for a bit more adventure, the NH66 route through Chiplun and Ratnagiri offers a scenic alternative. This road winds through lush paddy fields and coconut groves, covering around 577 km in 12 hours.
No matter which route you choose, you’ll find plenty of mouthwatering food stops along the way to keep you fueled for the journey.
Set off from Mumbai early in the morning, and you’ll arrive in Goa just in time for the famous beach parties!
Best Time for the Trip: September to March
Approximate Distance: 604 km
Estimated Driving Time: 12 hours non-stop
2. Manali to Leh Highway
The breathtaking beauty of the Manali to Leh road trip is beyond words—it’s the kind of journey that stays with you forever. If you remember Kareena Kapoor dancing to ‘Yeh Ishq Hai’ in the movie Jab We Met, you can picture the charm of this scenic route. Now imagine driving along these snow-covered roads on a Royal Enfield or in an open jeep—it’s like a dream come true!
This road trip offers everything: snow-capped mountains, thrilling hairpin bends, stunning valleys, and centuries-old monasteries that will fill your heart with awe. Covering around 478 kilometers, the route takes you through some of the highest motorable passes, with altitudes over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). It’s a two-day adventure with essential stopovers in places like Keylong and Sarchu to help you adjust to the high altitudes and recharge for the next leg of your journey.
Best Time for the Trip: May to mid-October (when the road is open)
Approximate Distance: 478 kilometers
Estimated Driving Time: 2 days (with stopovers)
3. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley
The meeting point of the Bay of Bengal and the Eastern Ghats in Visakhapatnam creates a stunning coastal landscape that will leave you speechless. But the true magic happens when you embark on a road trip to Araku Valley. The winding roads, gentle hills, and tranquil scenery make this journey unforgettable.
The 116-kilometer drive can be completed in just 3 to 4 hours, but every minute will be packed with beautiful views and fresh mountain air. Once you reach Araku Valley, you can explore attractions like the Tatipudi Reservoir and the fascinating Borra Caves.
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Best Time for the Trip: October to March
Approximate Distance: 116 kilometers
Estimated Driving Time: 3-4 hours
4. Shimla to Manali via Mandi
If you’re torn about where to go on your next trip, the Shimla to Manali road trip via Mandi is an easy choice. With the beautiful Beas River flowing beside you, this scenic route offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and escape the everyday hustle. Take a break from your busy schedule, and treat yourself to a refreshing dip in the chilly waters of the river along the way.
There’s something magical about driving through Himachal, especially when you’re surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, and deep valleys. This road trip is also a dream come true for photography lovers, with countless picture-perfect moments at every turn. The journey from Shimla to Manali is about 247 kilometres (153 miles) and takes around 7 hours via NH3 and NH205.
With the serene beauty of the mountains on one side and endless greenery on the other, this road trip is one of the best in India. It will leave you spellbound with memories that will last a lifetime.
Best Time for the Trip: Mid-September to mid-July (avoid monsoon season)
Estimated Driving Time: 6-7 hours
5. Chennai to Pondicherry
All you need is a cruiser bike to experience one of the most beautiful road trips in India. Even Chetan Bhagat captured the essence of this journey in his book 2 States. The sea view along the East Coast Road (ECR) is absolutely stunning, especially as the sun reflects off the water throughout the day. It’s a photographer’s paradise, so get ready for some amazing photo opportunities on this road trip!
The drive from Chennai to Pondicherry covers around 155 kilometers (96 miles) and can be completed in 3 to 4 hours via ECR. Along the way, you’ll pass through Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning beaches, and several other interesting stops like Idaikkazhinadu, where you can explore the historic Alambara Fort, and Marakkanam, famous for its salt pans. You can also enjoy water sports at Mudaliarkuppam and relax at a boat house, while Kalpakkam is known for its nuclear research facility.
Every stretch of this trip offers something special, with views that are sure to leave you in awe and provide endless photo opportunities.
Best Time for the Trip: October to February
Approximate Distance: 151.2 kilometers
Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours (non-stop)
6. Guwahati to Tawang
The road trip from Guwahati to Tawang is one of the most exciting adventures you can embark on in Northeast India. Covering a distance of about 520 kilometers, this journey can take anywhere from 14 hours to 2 days, depending on how many stops you make. While the roads can be rough at times, the stunning scenery at every twist and turn makes it all worthwhile.
You’ll be treated to lush green landscapes, rugged terrain, and majestic snow-covered mountains, making this trip a visual delight. Since the journey is long, it’s best to break it up with a stopover. One popular option is Dirang in West Kameng, where you can immerse yourself in the local Buddhist culture at the Ngingmapa and Kalchakra Monasteries.
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Another great stopover is Tezpur in Assam, known for its rich history and cultural attractions. And, of course, don’t miss the chance to savor some delicious momos from roadside stalls along the way—it’s the perfect snack for the road!
Best Time for the Trip: March to October
Estimated Driving Time: 14 hours to 2 days
7. Puri to Konark
The road trip from Puri to Konark is a dream come true for anyone who loves scenic drives and photography. With tree-lined roads creating a natural canopy on both sides, this short but breathtaking journey is a visual treat. The Puri-Konark highway is known as one of the most beautiful roads in India, and it’s no wonder why—you’ll want to stop at every turn to capture the perfect shot!
The blend of the misty ocean breeze with the fresh, earthy scent of the surrounding forests creates a magical atmosphere. It’s the ideal setting for a romantic drive, where every moment feels like it’s out of a storybook.
Though the journey is just 36 kilometers and takes only about an hour, the beauty of the road will make you wish it lasted longer.
Best Time for the Trip: October to February
Approximate Distance: 35.8 kilometers
Trip Duration: Around 1 hour
8. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore
The road trip from Bangalore to Ooty, via Mysore, is one of the best routes for nature lovers in South India. Ooty, often called the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is nestled in the stunning Nilgiri Hills, and this drive offers miles of breathtaking scenery on both sides.
This picturesque journey takes you through lush green mountains, tranquil forests, and scenic landscapes that will leave you spellbound. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful Bandipur Forest, famous for its wildlife, and the historical city of Mysore, with its grand palaces and rich heritage.
As you approach Ooty, you’ll be welcomed by tea plantations, serene lakes, majestic waterfalls, and the sunlit beauty of the Nilgiris. Whether you’re driving a car or riding a motorbike, this trip is a must for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and experience South India’s natural beauty.
The 278-kilometer journey takes about 6 hours via NH275, with plenty of food stalls along the way to keep you energized.
Best Time for the Trip: October to June
Approximate Distance: 278 kilometers
Trip Duration: About 6 hours
9. Mumbai to Mount Abu
For those seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos, the road trip from Mumbai to Mount Abu is perfect. Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravalli Range, offers a serene getaway for Mumbaikars looking to relax and unwind.
This scenic drive along NH-48 covers a distance of about 758 kilometers and takes around 13 to 14 hours. You’ll pass through bustling cities like Ahmedabad and Vadodara, each offering a unique cultural experience. The long journey is well worth it, with plenty of dhabas and food stalls along the way to keep you fueled and energized.
This road trip lets you experience the rich diversity of three states—Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. While the drive is long, the journey itself is as exciting as the destination, with plenty of opportunities to rest, eat, and explore short getaways along the route.
Best Time for the Trip: July to October
Approximate Distance: 755.9 kilometers
Trip Duration: 13-14 hours
10. The Classic Golden Triangle: Delhi to Agra to Jaipur
No list of road trips in India is complete without mentioning the iconic Golden Triangle route. This trip connects three of the country’s most culturally rich cities—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—via NH8 and the Yamuna Expressway. Known for its incredible historical and architectural significance, the Golden Triangle is a must for any traveller seeking to dive deep into India’s heritage.
Covering around 449 kilometres (279 miles), this road trip can take about 7 hours or can be stretched over 2 to 3 days if you want to explore each destination at a relaxed pace. Begin your journey in Delhi, visiting famous historical sites like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Then head to Agra to witness the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, marvelling at their timeless beauty.
Finally, drive to the Pink City—Jaipur. Here, you can immerse yourself in the splendour of the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and the majestic Amer Fort. Don’t miss the chance to shop for traditional Rajasthani clothes and jewelry in bustling local markets like Chandpole Bazar and Tripolia Bazaar.
Best Time for the Trip: August to March
Approximate Distance: 449 kilometers
Trip Duration: 7 hours (or 2-3 days if exploring)
Final Thoughts
India is a country of diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences. The best way to truly explore and embrace this diversity is through road trips. Whether you’re driving along the coast, through mountains, or across cities, each road trip offers its own unique adventure. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the thrill of travelling India by car or bike.
If you have more road trip ideas or solo bike trip recommendations, feel free to share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you.
