India is a land of diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and breathtaking roads, making it one of the best countries for road trips. Whether you’re exploring the snow-capped Himalayas, the golden deserts of Rajasthan, or the serene coastal highways, a rental car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace.
With well-connected highways and car rental services available in major cities, taking a self-drive road trip in India has never been easier. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best road trips in India that you can experience with a rental car! 
Why Take a Road Trip in India with a Rental Car?
Freedom to Explore – No fixed schedules or tour group restrictions.Comfort & Convenience – Travel at your own pace with stops as needed.Cost-Effective – Rental cars can be cheaper than flights or train travel for groups.Scenic Routes – Drive through India’s most picturesque landscapes.Adventure & Thrill – Experience the joy of long drives, winding roads, and hidden gems.
Tip: Renting a car lets you customize your trip and explore offbeat destinations that aren’t easily accessible by public transport.
1. Mumbai to Goa – The Ultimate Coastal Road Trip 
- Distance: ~590 km
- Duration: 10-12 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October – March
- Route: Mumbai → Pune → Kolhapur → Goa (NH66)
Why Take This Road Trip?
Scenic Konkan coastal viewsSmooth NH66 highway with beautiful ghatsStops at Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar & Ratnagiri
Must-Do: Visit Malvan’s beaches, try authentic Goan seafood, and explore Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
2. Delhi to Leh – A High-Altitude Himalayan Adventure 
- Distance: ~1,000 km
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Best Time to Visit: May – September
- Route: Delhi → Manali → Jispa → Leh
Why Take This Road Trip?
Drive through world’s highest motorable roadsWitness stunning Himalayan landscapes & monasteriesExperience the thrill of driving on rough terrains
Must-Do: Stop at Rohtang Pass, Pangong Lake, and Magnetic Hill. Rent an SUV or a 4×4 for a smoother drive.
3. Bangalore to Coorg – The Green Escape 
- Distance: ~260 km
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October – March
- Route: Bangalore → Mysore → Coorg
Why Take This Road Trip?
Enjoy the lush greenery of coffee plantationsPerfect weekend getaway from BangaloreStops at Mysore Palace and Abbey Falls
Must-Do: Try authentic Coorgi cuisine and go on a coffee plantation tour.
4. Chennai to Pondicherry – The Picturesque ECR Drive 
- Distance: ~160 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: November – February
- Route: Chennai → Mahabalipuram → Pondicherry (East Coast Road)
Why Take This Road Trip?
Drive along the stunning Bay of Bengal coastlineVisit Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO heritage sitesEnjoy French cafés, beaches, and Auroville in Pondicherry
Must-Do: Take a sunset boat ride at Chunnambar Backwaters.
5. Jaipur to Jaisalmer – The Desert Drive 
- Distance: ~560 km
- Duration: 9-10 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October – February
- Route: Jaipur → Jodhpur → Jaisalmer
Why Take This Road Trip?
Experience Rajasthan’s royal heritageStop at Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort & Udaipur’s lakesEnjoy a desert safari in Sam Sand Dunes
Must-Do: Stay in a desert camp and enjoy Rajasthani folk performances.
6. Guwahati to Tawang – A Northeast Gem 
- Distance: ~520 km
- Duration: 2 days
- Best Time to Visit: March – June & September – November
- Route: Guwahati → Tezpur → Bomdila → Tawang
Why Take This Road Trip?
Explore Northeast India’s pristine landscapesWitness Sela Pass, one of India’s highest motorable roadsVisit the famous Tawang Monastery
Must-Do: Try local Arunachali cuisine and visit the Nuranang Waterfalls.
7. Manali to Spiti Valley – The Offbeat Adventure 
- Distance: ~200 km
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Best Time to Visit: June – October
- Route: Manali → Kaza → Spiti
Why Take This Road Trip?
Drive through Himalayan desert landscapesVisit ancient monasteries & the world’s highest post officeExperience stargazing in the clear mountain skies
Must-Do: Explore Chandratal Lake and Kibber village, one of the highest inhabited villages.
How to Rent a Car for a Road Trip in India?
Choose the Right Car – SUVs for mountains, sedans for highways, compact cars for city trips.
Book in Advance – Especially during peak travel seasons.
Check the Rental Agreement – Mileage limits, insurance, and additional driver policies.
Inspect the Car – Ensure it’s in good condition before starting your trip.
Plan Fuel Stops – Not all routes have frequent petrol pumps.
Tip: Use a GPS app like Google Maps and carry offline maps for remote areas.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Road Trip Unforgettable!
Road trips in India offer an exciting blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re driving through coastal highways, desert landscapes, or snow-covered mountains, a rental car makes your journey comfortable and flexible.
Planning your next road trip? Rent a car with Yatracar for a hassle-free experience!
