Travel Trysts 
Road trips are one of our favorite ways to travel: Our hair and minds blown away with the gushing wind, beautiful landscapes passing by and the freedom to stop and enjoy the paused moment whenever we like. Ofcourse, we can’t forget the amazing kulhad chai or desi lassi along the way that make our road trips the biggest hit. As Sabya and I tick off some of our bucketlist list trips, we’d love to share with you our compilations of India’s most scenic road trips
Most Scenic Road Trips in India
The subtle transitions from one place to another, vivid landscapes and diversity of cultures every 100 kms is a feeling that only a road trip can give you. While all roadtrips are fun, sometimes the journey is as beautiful as the destination (if not more).
Some of these are on top of our recommended list while others are on our wishlist too. Do try it out and let us know about your experience!
Guwahati to Shillong
While this is a standard route for anyone heading to the Meghalaya capital, its worth planning a special roadtrip to witness the lush greens and emerging hills on either side of the wide roads. A 2-3 hour ride across the two sister states of Assam and Meghalaya, this is definitely a must do if you want to experience the hilly, winding roads through beautiful valleys.
Numerous mountain villages and towns dot the route to Shillong. You will find the famous Umiam Lake (Bara Pani) on your way. Make sure you visit the stunning Umiam Lake which is surrounded by hills and mountains and almost brings out the poet in you.
Shimla to Manali (via Lahual & Spiti)
One of the most popular stretches for travel enthusiasts, Shimla to Manali is a dream drive. The transition from Shimla, a hustling and bustling city centre, to the apple country and then Kinnaur region of Himachal almost feels unreal. As you wave goodbyes to the locals in traditional Himachali caps, you move slowly towards Spiti Valley’s cold desert vibes that offers you peaceful silence and breathtaking landscape.
As you drive through Lahual, you can’t miss the ChandraTaal lake which literally means Lake of the Moon. If you happen to go during the springtime, you can spot hundreds of varieties of wild flowers across the meadows nearby.
Finally end your journey at Manali where traces of civilization catch up with you. Enjoy the scenic views, fabulous food and gorgeous skies.
Srinagar to Pahalgam
While the most recommended roadtrip for avid travelers is Srinagar to Leh. But if you are seeking to experience the opulent beauty of the Himalayan mountains with evergreen pine forests and colourful gardens, Srinagar to Pahalgam should be your pick.
With a drive time of approximately 3 hours, the gorgeous views of mountain ranges, pine forests and saffron cultivations or apple orchards, seem too much to absorb in one go.
Delhi to Jaipur
Another popular route in northern India, Delhi to Jaipur is a great choice for foodies and art enthusiasts alike. Known for its beautiful forts and north Indian dhabas along the way, it’s hard to miss.
Exploring places like the Neemrana palace, especially during the sunset, bring alive the royal vibe. But for those who aren’t exactly history or art lovers, there’s always the yummy food at the classic dhabas.
Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
The desert state of Rajasthan is one of the most tourist-friendly states in the country. Every city has a story of its own, and one can spend hours exploring it. But the straight road from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer right through the That desert is an experience in itself. The golden sand dunes, beautiful sunsets, dry khejri trees and occasional camel merchants crossing your path – they all have a charm of their own.
The roads are sparcely populated and almost seem unending at times, but like most good things it’s an experience to be had. If you are seeking something different from the mundane urban city life, Rajasthan will definitely intrigue you. Explore the Jaisalmer city, enjoy the camel back rides or jump into one of those jeeps for a desert safari – there’s plenty of things for all types of travellers.
Mumbai to Goa: along the Konkan coast
An exquisite route along the Konkan coastline, the drive from Mumbai to Goa is one to add to your bucket list. Beautiful wide roads with lush greens on one side and the sea on the other, a drive through these roads will make you fall in love with nature again.
Adorned with palm-fringed beaches and quiet fishing villages, if you can catch a glimpse of the setting sun, you feel like you’re in heaven. Goa is said to be a heaven for party-lovers and foodies alike, but the journey along the Konkan coast almost beats the destination.
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We would love to explore more of India’s most scenic road trips, so here’s hoping to check off some of the following bucket list road trips:
Tea Gardens in Munnar
Apparently, the drive to Munnar entails driving through the tea gardens. While the beautiful Assamese tea gardens are on the plains, the plantations in Munnar are on the hills and give a very different view. I hope to catch the sunrise or sunset across these hills.
Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari
I hope to cover the Coromandel coast by road. Chennai to Pondicherry and Rameshwar to Kanyakumari are supposed to be two picturesque drives on the eastern coast of India.
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Things to keep in mind during India’s most scenic road trips
While each trip is personal and there are numerous way to take up a journey between two destinations, keep an eye out for the following things as you plan your next big adventure from India’s most scenic road trips.
1. Plan ahead, but leave room for impromptu itineraries
Before you embark on your adventure, take time out to plan the route, stops, hotels etc. on the way (especially if you are travelling with family or children). Take into account your interests, amount of time available etc.
But magic happens in the unplanned moments so try to leave room for buffer and plan Bs and truly go with the flow.
2. Vehicle maintenance
Your car is your true companion on the road, so keep it in good condition. Check the oil, tires, breaks and essential components and make sure you carry spare tires, toolkit and first-aid kits for emergencies.
3. Pack smartly
Try to pack light (I know it’s far easier said than done!) and remember to put in travel documents. Keep in mind the climate of not just the destination but also the stops along the way. Don’t forget chargers, power banks, and water bottles.
4. Snacks and essentials
Always carry snacks incase you can’t spot eateries on the way. But you must try the local dishes and dhabas along the way.
5. Safety first
Remember to prioritize your safety – follow traffic rules, keep an eye on the fuel levels especially in unfamiliar territory and keep GPS or navigation apps handy incase you lose your way.
Conclusion: When the journey becomes the destination
These scenic roadtrips are not just about reaching a specific place, its about enjoying the journey itself. From snowcapped mountains in the north, to the tranquil beaches of the south, India’s roads offer an array of experiences that make it every mile worth it.
So irrespective of whether you are a seasoned traveler or someone looking for a new adventure, hit the road and explore the magic of India’s landscapes. After all, it’s the memories made, the fellow travellers and local met, and stories collected that truly form the essence of India’s most scenic road trips!