Travelling is a getaway from our dull boring routine life. Thus, we seek unconventional unique experiences when we travel. Road trips are one avenue which provides a life changing treat to us. It is one of those sojourns of life where we reinvent and discover ourselves. India, with its large networks of roads spanning the length and breadth of this country offer a range of possibilities.
Today, we are seeking to redeem some of the most thrilling hill stations for road trips available in India.
The Exotic North-East, Gangtok –Tsomgo Road Trip
Tsomgo lake, Photo by Varun Pratap, CC BY-SA 4.0
The north-east beckons with its wide arm. The charm of the hills on this of the country is out totally out of this world. People vouch for road trips in this area and it is the only way to travel here. The gangtok-Tsomgo is a thrilling experience along the ancient silk route in nathula pass region. This 55km long road trip along the Indo-china border has a rare scenic beauty.
The Mesmerizing Srinagar To Leh Road Trip
Zojila pass, Photo by Anwaraj, CC BY-SA 3.0
This is a 417km trail starting from Srinagar in Kashmir and ending at Leh. This is ideal for campers and bike tours. The road moves along the Zojila pass covering the picturesque hilly terrains of kargil and grass Valley. One of the most taken hill station for road trips in India is Srinagar. It offers a unique challenge to travellers.
The Enchanting Shillong-Cherrapunji Road Trip
Noh Kali Kai Falls, Photo by Cherrapunji road, CC BY-SA 2.0
Speaking of road trips, here comes a pleasant surprise. Meghalaya, the abode of clouds is an easy but interesting option for beginners. This 53km road trip amidst the lush green mountains is a joyous ride. The trail starts from the capital city, Shillong and reaches the wettest place on earth, Cherrapunji all the while meandering through singing hilly roads.
The Astounding Manali To Leh Trip
Photo by Silver Blue, CC BY 2.0
An article on road trips simply can’t miss out the most promising road trips of all- the Manali-Leh highway. This trip is the talk of the town. It is the mother of all road trips. The kind that we see in movies and include in our bucket list. In one word, it is synonymous to the famous “goa trip”. This winding trail starts from Manali and travels for 479 km and ultimately culminates at Leh. It is best for bike tours. The whole trip takes about 2 days and occurs at height of 3-4km above sea level. Hence, the level of difficulty while travelling. The road is open in summer till mid-October. During winter, it remains closed due to heavy snowfall.
The Charming Vizag-Araku Valley Tour
Araku valley, Photo by Raj, CC BY 2.0
Heading towards the southern peninsula, the southern part of the land isn’t far behind when it comes to road trips. Andhra Pradesh takes a lead here. The 116km long Vizag to Araku Valley trail is a bewitching sight. The winding roads climbing the elevated land amidst the cool breeze coming from hilly trees. On the way one gets to uncover the mystery of Borra Caves. March and October are the ideal time for a trip down this road.
The Breath-Taking Guwahati-Tawang Route
Dirang valley, Photo by Itrajib, CC BY-SA 4.0
One of the most surreal road-trips of your lifetime is this. A tiring 9hour route starting from Guwahati in Assam and ending at Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. The 480km trail spans 4 different states – Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh. It takes you through the Kaziranga in Assam, Cherapunji in Meghalaya, Imphal in Manipur finally culminating at Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. It is the ultimate gateway for discovering the north-east. Dirang and Tezpur acts as stopping points. The changing terrain and its beauty is best witnessed in March.
Rediscover the Forest, Bangalore-Bandipur Trail
Photo by Aditya945, CC BY-SA 4.0
Enough of mountains and hilly roads, let’s look for some vibrancy and rigour- wildlife and, flora and fauna. How about a road trip to forest? Yes! We are just taking you on that route. The 235 km forest trail starts from Bangalore and ends in the Bandipur National Park. Here one gets a glimpse of nature, a sight of animals and the chance to speak with the trees. One can extend the trip by adding Ooty on your list and you get a win-win situation.
The Beach Trip, Chennai-Pondicherry Trail
Chennai marine beach, Photo by DARSHAN SIMHA, CC BY 2.0
Forest and hills done, now head to the seas. How about a beach trip? A cool pleasant drive along the coastline- that too the longest coastline of India, South-eastern coastline. This short cosy trip starts from Chennai and ends at Pondicherry covering a distance of 153km. The cool breeze from the sea and tranquil atmosphere has a calming effect on the soul. Trying out different roadside places can offer exciting opportunities.
The Ethereal Spiti Valley Road Trip
Photo by Carlos Adampol Galindo, CC BY-SA 2.0
Himachal is a land of road trips. It is the junction point of many such road trips. The Shimla to Manali road trip through the spiti valley is one hell of an experience. The 300-km trail starts from Shimla and accents height step by step in 3-4days. By this time, it covers the most beautiful landscapes of himachal- Naco Lake, Sangla valley, Kaza, Rohtang Pass Kinaur and then ending in Manali. This stretch is the best road trip experience for all.
A Drive to The Glistening Silver Land, Ahmedabad-Kutch Trail
Photo by Nagarjun Kandukuru, CC BY 2.0
We are closing the chapter, with the shimmering silver land- the white sand desert of Kutch. Take the exciting but uneven route from Ahmedabad to Kutch. The 400km road starts from the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad and ends at the Kutch desert. An interesting tale of 11hours, this road trip is one that remains etched in the memory.
These are the best road trips of India cutting across various topographies. Pack your bags and hit the road!
