Best Summer Road Trips in India You Can’t Miss

Road Trips
Updated: 3 Jun, 2025

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1. Manali to Spiti Valley: Is Silence the New Luxury?

Road Trips

If you’re sick of the constant buzz of urban life, the road that runs from Manali towards Spiti Valley is your escape.

It’s more than a simple journey—an unhurried journey through some of India’s most untouched and stunning landscapes.

Imagine winding roads as well as moon-like valleys and endless skies.

The high-altitude road will take you into the Himalayas, where the winds seem to tell tales of the past.

When you travel through the mountains, you’ll see raw landscape, ancient monasteries, and villages that seem as if they’ve been frozen.

It’s ideal for those who wish to take a moment, think, and reconnect.

Where to Eat:

– Dylan’s Café, Manali: Great for breakfast and coffee before you start your journey.

– Chacha-Chachi Dhaba, Batal: A must-stop for hot Maggi, rajma-chawal, and tea—especially when you’re cold and hungry.

– The Himalayan Café, Kaza: Offers local Tibetan food and a cozy place to relax after the long drive.

Where to Stay:

– Manali: Zostel Manali or The Johnson Lodge – both great options to rest before heading out.

– Kaza: Zostel Spiti or Hotel Deyzor – warm hospitality, clean rooms, and good food.

– Camping at Chandratal Lake (optional): For a true off-the-grid experience, try camping under the stars near the lake (available in summer).

Pro Tip:

Start your drive early in the morning. Weather conditions change quickly, and roads can become tricky after noon.

2. Mumbai to Goa: Why Does This Trip Never Get Old?

Certain road trips are timeless. And Mumbai to Goa is among the most classic.

It’s the most famous Indian road journey that is full of joy, adventure, and endless views.

If you’re looking for beach music, beaches, or the freedom of the open road, this is the route that offers it all.

While driving through the Konkan coastline, you’ll see beautiful villages, sweet coconut palms, and many photo-worthy locations.

The sea breeze, swaying palm trees, and the hidden food stands along the way make the drive itself the perfect celebration.

No matter if you’re on your own or with a group of friends, or with your family, this trip is suitable for all.

It’s a mix of tranquil landscapes, scenic roads, and a stunning beach spot towards the finish.

Detour:

Make a stop at Ganpatipule. This small coastal town has clean, quiet beaches and a peaceful vibe, a perfect contrast before diving into Goa’s lively energy.

Vibe:

Great for both hill lovers (the Western Ghats) and beach fans (Goa’s shores). This trip has the best of both worlds.

Pro Tip:

Take the NH66 route (previously NH17) for the scenic drive, but expect slower traffic. If you’re in a rush, take NH48—faster, but less scenic.

Where to Eat:

– Kamat’s, Chiplun: Known for clean, delicious South Indian meals.

– Hotel Abhishek, Ganpatipule: Great seafood and local Konkani thali.

Vinayak Family Restaurant, North Goa: Must-try fish thali and crab masala once you reach your destination.

Where to Stay:

– Chiplun: Riverview Resort – A peaceful place to relax midway.

– Ganpatipule (if you detour): MTDC Beach Resort – Right on the beach.

Goa: The Hosteller Goa, Casa Anjuna, or W Goa – options for every budget and vibe.

3. Delhi to Mount Abu: Can You Feel the Desert Cool Down?

When we consider Rajasthan, they picture hot deserts, palaces, and heat.

But Mount Abu breaks the stereotype completely.

Mount Abu is Mount Abu is the only hill station in the state that is situated on the highlands of the Aravalli Range, and offers an icy, green respite from the scorching summer heat.

The drive from Delhi to Mount Abu is the ideal weekend trip.

The road takes you away from the chaos of the city to calm hills, passing forts, lakes, and little-known villages on the way.

Once you arrive at Mount Abu, the cool breeze, peaceful views, and charming town atmosphere are worth the effort.


Where to Eat:

– Old Rao Dhaba (near Neemrana): Ideal for a perfect hearty North Indian breakfast on the way.

– 1559 AD, Udaipur (if you make a stop): Beautiful setting and delicious local food.

– Jodhpur Bhojanalay, Mount Abu: Simple but delicious Rajasthani thali.

– Cafe Shikibo, Mount Abu: Cozy cafe serving coffee, snacks, and light meals.

Where to Stay:

– On the way (Udaipur Stop): Jagat Niwas Palace or Zostel Udaipur – to enjoy a royal or budget-friendly stay.

– Mount Abu:

– Hotel Hillock, Fantastic hotel in a great location. Family-friendly.

– Sterling Mount Abu Modern comfort and hill views.

– Shri Ganesh Hote is Clean and budget-friendly for backpackers.

4. Jaipur to Ranthambore: Royal Land to Royal Beast

Are you looking for a royal experience?

This road trip takes you from the pink city of Jaipur to the wild heart of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park, home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.

The journey isn’t just about getting to the destination but rather taking in the natural beauty of Rajasthan on the way.

While driving by beautiful mustard fields, quiet villages such as Balsi, as well as Lalsot, and picturesque countryside that gives you an authentic experience of the country.

The roads are generally smooth, except the distance of a 20-25 kilometer stretch that is slightly bumpy.

To avoid this, you should opt for the Tonkin Way, which is longer but also more comfortable.

Ranthambore is among the most well-known national parks in India, and seeing one of the tigers here is an experience that you will never forget.

The trip is quick and easy, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Mood:

Rustic, adventurous, and a touch of royal charm.

Best Season:

October to June – The park is closed during monsoon (July to September), so plan accordingly.

Pro Tip:

Book your safari slots in advance; they fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays.

Where to Eat:

– Lakshmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB), Jaipur: Great for breakfast or snacks before hitting the road.

– Midway Restaurant, Tonk Road: Clean, simple, and ideal for a tea or lunch break.

The Oberoi Vanyavilas Dining, Ranthambore: If you’re up for luxury dining with a jungle vibe.

 Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Ankur Resort or Sher Camp – good value and close to the park.
  • Mid-range: Ranthambhore Regency – family-friendly and comfortable.
  • Luxury: The Oberoi Vanyavilas or Aman-i-Khás – premium jungle retreats for a royal stay.


5. Guwahati to Tawang: Dare to Go Beyond the Map?


If you’re a person who enjoys adventures and isn’t afraid of bumps and a few tumblings on the way, the trip from Guwahati to Tawang is just what you need.  

It’s not your usual road trip – it’s an adventure through winding mountains, dramatic hairpin turns, a serene Buddhist monastery, as well as unspoiled natural beauty.

What makes it special:

This route takes deep into the heart of Arunachal Pradesh, which is among India’s most beautiful and least explored states.

The route will pass through charming towns such as Bomdila, along with Dirang, and then travel over the high-altitude Sela Pass, and finally reach the magical town of Tawang, home to India’s largest Buddhist monastery.

But beware:

The weather can be abruptly different here, sunny one day but foggy or snowy the next.

The roads can be rough, and the signal strength of networks may be inconsistent.

Therefore, be prepared with warm clothing, a power supply, offline maps, and a spirited spirit.

Ideal For:

Travelers who love going on scenic routes and trust their intuition better than their GPS and are always prepared to explore the undiscovered.

Where to Stay:

  • Tawang:

Hotel Tawang View – Clean, cozy, with great views of the valley.

Dondrub Homestay – A warm local stay, hosted by a friendly family.

Dolma Khangsar Guest House – Budget-friendly and close to the monastery.

– Dirang (en route):

Dirang Boutique Cottages – Wooden cottages beside a river.

Bomdila (en route):

Hotel La – A good stopover with clean rooms.

Where to Eat:

Tawang:

Dragon Restaurant – Tibetan and Chinese food, loved by locals.

Dirang:

Awoo Resort Restaurant – Local and Indian cuisine.

Bomdila:

Lungta Restaurant – Great Tibetan dishes.

About: Indian Travel House

Since 1981, Indian Travel House has been India’s go-to travel partner for epic road trips, corporate rides, and everything in between.

Backed by a well-maintained fleet, trained chauffeurs, and presence in 100+ cities, we make sure your ride is smooth, safe, and stress-free.

Mountains, beaches, or business?

Wherever you’re headed, we’ll get you there smoothly, safely, and in style.

Your road. Your rules. Our ride.

Ready to Turn the Key on an Epic Summer?

A flawless summer is not launched from a runway, it needs that crucial ignition to get going.

If by any chance your heart has been craving for the much-awaited chaos coupled with peace and an endless number of chai stops, it is high time to shut that phone and get going.

Do you know that Indian Travel House is your co-pilot for the ride of a lifetime?

Chauffeur-driven Cars?

Are you wondering which path to pick?

We are equipped with a brilliantly maintained fleet just for your kind of road and rider.

SUVs for those mountain rough roads, and probably sedans for smooth highway cruising, pick what you want. 

No maps? No problem.

We do help with your route planning and recommending all kinds of

offbeat places, so the only concern that will be left for you is what you want to hear next.

Hit the Road in 3 Easy Steps:– Call us for route ideas or car options.

Choose your ride – self-drive or with a pro behind the wheel.

Drive away into your story, one pit stop at a time.

Book now. Adventures are waiting.