The great Indian road trips: 6 iconic routes and scenic drives

India is one of the best places to enjoy some of the amazing road trips of your life. There are winding mountain roads to sun-soaked coastal drives to choose from. Whether you're an adventure seeker or someone who enjoys peaceful drives, you can pick any one from some of the most iconic routes and scenic drives for that ultimate road trip of your life.

The drive from Manali to Leh is unmatched for anyone looking for an exhilarating road excursion. This route passes through some of the highest motorable passes in the world, including the famous Rohtang Pass and Khardung La. Further, the breathtaking scenery you will get to see at almost every bend, will make this drive definitely memorable.

National Highway 66, which connects Mumbai with Goa, provides the ideal balance of leisure and exploration. This picturesque journey down the coast passes through the centre of the Konkan area and is dotted with coconut palms and immaculate beaches. You will travel alongside the Arabian Sea, small towns, and verdant surroundings. For both nature lovers and beach fans, this road trip is perfect, whether you're going to one of Goa's well-known beaches or just enjoying the ride.

The Golden Triangle, which includes cities Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, is one of the most popular routes for road trips in India. This tour will take you through famous sites like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur's Amber Fort, and Delhi's Red Fort, which means you will be getting a glimpse of India's Mughal and Rajput past. It's an ideal road trip that combines history and culture, and easy too as cities are situated close to one another.

You should absolutely take this road trip from Guwahati to Tawang if you're looking for an off-beat experience. The stunning Sela Pass is the route's highlight; do keep the cameras ready. As you drive through this route, you will be passing through verdant forests, picturesque mountain passes, and rushing rivers. This trip is perfect for adventurers and those looking to explore the lesser-known parts of India.

The East Coast Road (ECR) from Chennai to Puducherry is a delightful journey for those seeking a peaceful drive by the sea. The highway runs parallel to the Bay of Bengal, with stunning views of the ocean on one side and charming villages on the other. The French colonial town of Puducherry is the perfect destination to unwind after the scenic drive.

The road trip from Shimla to Spiti Valley is a must for all those who love to hit the roads for adventure, and to witness unadulterated, unspoiled scenery. The route is dotted with stunning vistas of rocky mountains, beautiful monasteries, high-altitude deserts, and as you take every turn, you are treated with some of the most amazing views.