Top 10 Road Trips To Make in 2016

“She’s got a ticket to ride”, crooned the Beatles. So why not plan a road trip in 2016? When you’re packing for a road trip, take along your travel apps, snacks, spare keys and tyres, and a sense of humour!

Srinagar – Leh

The Srinagar-Leh Highway goes through the rugged Himalayan terrain to Sonmarg and then through the picturesque Drass Valley. After an overnight halt at Kargil, drive to Pangong Lake, Leh’s most shining jewel. You will need permits to visit some places in the area.

Mumbai – Goa

Inspired by the classic coming-of-age film Dil Chahhta Hai? Plan a road trip from Mumbai to Goa down the NH 17. Stop in the strawberry land of Mahabaleshwar en route. Or take a detour at Tarkarli for its gorgeous beach.

Ahmedabad – Rann of Kutch

The surreal desert landscape of the Rann of Kutch is one of India’s most stunning vistas. On the way, check out the forts at Dasada as well as Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. Or drive via Khavda village and get a panoramic view of the Rann from Kalo Dungar (Black Hill). Make sure you have the necessary permits in place.

Coorg – Kabini

The Kabini River and Forest Reserve has lush forests, steep valleys and wetlands, which are home to several species of flora and fauna. The drive from the coffee country of Coorg (Kodagu) to Kabini is especially charming and you can visit the Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary on the way.

Nainital – Ranikhet

If you find yourself in the lake district of Nainital, a short drive to Ranikhet is a must-do. The route to the cantonment town of Ranikhet is through dense pine and deodar forests with an almost continuous view of the snow-capped Himalayas; if you’re lucky you might spot a deer or two.
 

Mumbai – Lonavala

Think of a short road trip from Mumbai and Lonvala springs to mind almost immediately. You can take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and then exit at Khandala. On the way, stop off at Rajmachi Point for a view of the Rajmachi Fort.

Delhi – Jaisalmer

A road trip from Delhi to Jaisalmer takes you right into the heart of the Thar Desert. On the way, visit the pink city of Jaipur. Later, stop at Samode for its beautiful palace and then Bikaner for its ancestral havelis. In Jaisalmer, take a camel safari to the sand dunes, camping overnight in the desert.

Phobjikha – Bumthang

A road trip to Bhutan from India is a journey worth making. From the massive alpine wetland of Phobjikha, a narrow road through mountain passes takes you to the valley of Bumthang. Forests, waterfalls, monasteries, prayer flags and the odd yak-herder – the drive is full of interesting sights.

Sangla – Kaza

The alluring landscape of Sangla Valley in Himachal Pradesh is dotted with lush orchards and the rushing waters of the Baspa River. Driving from Sangla to Kaza in the Spiti Valley, you will see the landscape dramatically changing to an arid, cold desert, which is gorgeous in its own right.

Manali – Leh

Reaching Leh from Manali is a more arduous than approaching it from Srinagar. A challenging climb at Rohtang Pass, stark mountains and valleys and quaint little villages – there is never a dull moment. Remember that patience is a virtue; the road is narrow and there will be traffic jams!

Take a look at MakeMyTrip’s special packages to enjoy your destination even more. Hit the road and don’t forget to take along your favourite road trip games and songs!