Top 10 Best Road Trips in India 2025 Ultimate Guide

Road trips are one of the best ways to explore the beauty of India, offering breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and the thrill of adventure. If you are a beginner and planning your first road trip, it is essential to choose routes that are safe, scenic, and not too challenging. In this guide, we will cover some of the best road trips in India that are perfect for beginners.

Top 10 ideas for the Best Road Trips in India in 2025

1. Mumbai to Goa: The Classic Coastal Ride

Distance: 590 km

Estimated Travel Time: 10-12 hours

One of the most iconic road trips in India, the Mumbai to Goa journey offers smooth highways, picturesque landscapes, and plenty of food joints along the way. The NH66 highway is a popular route, but if you want an even more scenic drive, take the Pune-Kolhapur route via NH48.

Highlights:

• Stop at Lonavala for delicious chikki and scenic views.
• Explore the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
• Visit the beautiful beaches of Goa upon arrival.

2. Delhi to Jaipur: A Taste of Royalty

Distance: 280 km

Estimated Travel Time: 5-6 hours

For beginners, the Delhi to Jaipur road trip is an excellent start, offering a well-maintained highway and a short travel time. The journey along the NH48 is smooth and filled with interesting places to explore.

Highlights:

• Enjoy delicious food at roadside dhabas in Haryana.
• Visit Neemrana Fort for a quick stopover.
• Explore Jaipur’s historic forts, palaces, and vibrant markets.

3. Bangalore to Coorg: The Coffee Trail

Distance: 265 km

Estimated Travel Time: 5-6 hours

For those who love greenery and tranquillity, a road trip from Bangalore to Coorg is perfect. The roads are well-maintained, making it an ideal trip for beginners.

Highlights:

• Stop at Bylakuppe Tibetan Monastery for a cultural experience.
• Enjoy breathtaking views at Mandalpatti.
• Relish Coorg’s famous coffee and local delicacies.

4. Chennai to Pondicherry: The Scenic East Coast Road

Distance: 160 km

Estimated Travel Time: 3-4 hours

The Chennai to Pondicherry route via the East Coast Road (ECR) is one of the most scenic coastal drives in India. With minimal traffic and a stunning sea view on one side, it’s an ideal road trip for beginners.

Highlights:

• Visit Mahabalipuram’s ancient temples.
• Stop at cafes along the way for delicious seafood.
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Pondicherry.

5. Manali to Solang Valley: A Short Himalayan Adventure

Distance: 14 km

Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes

If you want to experience a mountain road trip without a long drive, the journey from Manali to Solang Valley is perfect. The roads are smooth, and the views are mesmerizing.

Highlights:

• Try adventure sports like paragliding and skiing.
• Enjoy the breathtaking view of the snow-capped Himalayas.
• Experience a cable car ride in Solang Valley.

6. Ahmedabad to Kutch: The White Desert Experience

Distance: 400 km

Estimated Travel Time: 8-9 hours

The drive from Ahmedabad to Kutch is an exciting journey through Gujarat’s diverse landscapes, including the mesmerizing White Rann of Kutch.

Highlights:

• Visit Bhuj for its heritage sites.
• Experience the stunning White Rann at sunset.
• Attend the Rann Utsav festival if travelling between November and February.

7. Guwahati to Shillong: The Meghalaya Beauty

Distance: 100 km

Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

For those who wish to explore the Northeast, a road trip from Guwahati to Shillong is perfect. The roads are smooth, and the landscape is breathtaking.

Highlights:

• Stop at Umiam Lake for a scenic view.
• Explore Shillong’s lively cafes and music scene.
• Visit Elephant Falls and the living root bridges nearby.

8. Hyderabad to Warangal: A Cultural Road Trip

Distance: 150 km

Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

The drive from Hyderabad to Warangal is short and simple, making it a great choice for beginners. The journey takes you through historic and culturally rich sites.

Highlights:

• Explore the famous Warangal Fort.
• Visit the Thousand Pillar Temple.
• Enjoy local Telangana cuisine.

9. Kolkata to Mandarmani: A Relaxing Beach Drive

Distance: 180 km

Estimated Travel Time: 4-5 hours

For a relaxing weekend getaway, the drive from Kolkata to Mandarmani offers a peaceful and scenic experience. The road conditions are good, making it suitable for first-time road trippers.

Highlights:

• Relax at Mandarmani Beach.
• Experience water sports and beachside resorts.
• Visit nearby Digha and Tajpur for more scenic beaches.

10. Jaipur to Udaipur: The Royal Rajasthan Drive

Distance: 400 km

Estimated Travel Time: 7-8 hours

This road trip through Rajasthan’s royal landscape is an experience in itself. The roads are smooth, and the journey takes you through the land of palaces and lakes.

Highlights:

• Explore the historic Chittorgarh Fort.
• Visit Udaipur’s mesmerizing lakes and palaces.
• Enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

Tips for the Best Road Trips in India 2025

If you’re a beginner, here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:

• Plan Your Route: Use Google Maps or offline navigation apps for directions.
• Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your car or bike is in good condition before the trip.
• Carry Essentials: Keep a first aid kit, water, snacks, and a spare tire.
• Drive Safely: Follow speed limits and avoid driving at night on unfamiliar roads.
• Take Breaks: Stop every 2-3 hours to rest and stretch.

Conclusion

India offers some of the most exciting road trips, even for beginners. Whether you prefer coastal drives, mountain adventures, or cultural routes, there is something for everyone. Start with a short and easy journey before taking on longer and more challenging routes. Happy road-tripping!