10 iconic road trips in India for the Diwali long weekend

As the festive season brings a welcome break, the Diwali long weekend is the perfect time to pack your bags, rev up your engine, and hit the open road. Whether you crave mountain air, coastal breezes, or rustic countryside charm, India’s diverse landscapes promise unforgettable drives. From misty mountains to golden beaches, India’s roads promise unforgettable journeys this Diwali. Here are ten of the best road trips to take this Diwali, combining scenic routes, short getaways, and festive experiences.

Located approximately 280 km from Delhi, Jaipur is that classic, timeless destination that one can never get bored of. There is always something exciting with Jaipur. Be it the palaces, forts and markets or leopards of Jhalana, there is always something to keep you busy. The Delhi–Jaipur route offers a royal Diwali experience. The drive through NH48 is smooth, with pitstops like Neemrana Fort for a quick coffee or zipline adventure.

Few road trips match the legendary Mumbai–Goa drive, especially during Diwali when the Konkan coastline comes alive. This drive is mandatory for many reasons, First one being the stunning NH66 route that winds through lush hills, charming villages, and sea views. Secondly, the road trip is fun, full of photo ops, and great stopovers for food and rest. Stop at Ratnagiri or Ganpatipule for a temple visit and seafood lunch before reaching Goa.

Escape the city lights and celebrate Diwali amid Coorg’s misty hills and coffee plantations. The drive from Bengaluru via Mysuru Road is about 270 km long, and approximately 5-6 hours. The route is dotted with scenic spots and local eateries. Once there, visit Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and savour a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The peaceful vibe of Coorg offers a refreshing contrast to the urban chaos of the festival season.

From Gujarat’s plains to Rajasthan’s cool highlands, this drive is short yet scenic. It is around 225 km between these two destinations, and takes about 5 hours. The road ascends through winding hills to Mount Abu, offering incredible views and crisp mountain air. When in Mount Abu, visit Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temples, and Sunset Point for a serene Diwali evening.

If you’re in Maharashtra, this road trip is a classic. The distance is approximately 120 km, perfect for a short getaway, and it winds through the Western Ghats, offering panoramic valley views. Mahabaleshwar’s cool weather, scenic viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, and fresh strawberry farms make it a perfect festive escape.

The approximate distance between Hyderabad and Araku Valley is 720 km, and driving time is around 12-13 hours.This is a lesser-explored route as compared to other popular routes, but stunning nonetheless. The drive from Hyderabad to Araku Valley takes you through dense forests, tribal villages, and tunnels of the Eastern Ghats. The road is long but beautifully scenic.

The distance between Manali to Leh is approximately 480 km and the driving time is around 14–16 hours on a good weather day. This high mountain pass usually stays shut during peak winter season because of snow, but around this time, the conditions are perfect for a long weekend getaway. The dramatic landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and high-altitude lakes like Pangong and Tso Moriri are pure magic.

The Kolkata–Digha stretch is a perfect Diwali road trip. Digha is approximately 185 km from Kolkata. It takes around 4 to 5 hours to reach Digha. The well-maintained NH16 takes you past rural Bengal’s fields and small towns before opening up to Digha’s sandy shores. The seaside town gets lively during Diwali with fireworks, seafood stalls, and family picnics. It’s a quick, rejuvenating escape for those wanting the sea without leaving the stat