Summer’s here, and with it comes the itch to ditch the usual routine. Sure, beaches are fantastic, but wouldn’t it be awesome to swap the crowds for some fresh mountain air or serene countryside views?
Buckle up, because here are some memorable road trip ideas:
1) Mountains Majesty: Manali to Leh
Picture this: roadside booths serving steamy cups of Maggi, snow-capped peaks sparkling in the distance, and the crisp alpine air ripping through your hair. That is the Manali to Leh route’s magic. There’s a reason why this 473 km voyage is legendary. Have you heard of one of the highest motorable highways in the world, the Khardung La pass? This trip, you’ll conquer that! The breathtaking scenery of Ladakh is revealed at every turn, making it a photographer’s dream come true. This excursion is best spaced out over two days, so take it slow, enjoy the vistas, and perhaps get used to the altitude. For the finest weather, aim for June through September.
2) Sunset Bliss: Mumbai to Goa
Remember the classic Veer-Zaara car trip scene? The Mumbai-Goa road entails sunsets, swaying palm trees, and the promise of coastal relaxation. This 600 mile trip is easy, with good roads that take away the tension of the city, unlike the Manali-Leh route. Feel the sand between your toes and take in the salty air. Breathe in the salty air, feel the sand between your toes – this is pure vacation bliss, minus the crowds (if you pick the right season!).
3) History Buff’s Bonanza: Bengaluru to Ooty
Calling all history lovers! The drive from Bengaluru to Ooty, the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a heritage buff’s dream. Mysore, with its majestic palaces and famous wineries, is a perfect pitstop. This 6-7 hour journey is so popular that there are even cab drivers who specialize in this route – for those who want the views without the responsibility of driving.
4) Pink City Memories: Delhi to Jaipur
Delhiites, this one’s for you! A quick five-hour jaunt separates you from the vibrant hues of Jaipur. Depending on your chosen route, you might whiz past Neemrana’s majestic fort, the historical city of Alwar, or charming local villages. This drive is a feast for the senses – vibrant colors reflecting the Pink City’s heritage, and the aroma of local delicacies like chaat and gol gappa wafting from roadside stalls.
5) Bonus: Off the Beaten Path – Guwahati to Tawang
Feeling adventurous? There’s no road excursion like the one offered by the recently constructed Trans-Himalayan Highway. This undiscovered path from Arunachal Pradesh to Tawang passes by roaring rivers and gorgeous Himalayan scenery. This is an opportunity to fully transcend the mundane and relish the unadulterated splendor of the northeast.
So, what’s stopping you? Get some road trip munchies (think local delicacies! not McDonald’s burgers), forgo the plane tickets, and choose a soundtrack that fits the mood. The best part is that you can customize these road trips to India to suit your interests, pace, and manner of travel, making them guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Cheers to your exploring spirit!
