We’ve all had those days when we packed our bags, loaded them into the car and set off on a road trip to nearby places. The scenic views, the stops at roadside dhabas and the carefree fun with family or friends, these memories stay with us for years. Road trips have always been about taking a break from the daily hustle and stepping into a slower, calmer world.
With better highways, smoother expressways and improved facilities along the way, more travellers now prefer driving out for weekend getaways. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru are especially lucky, with several destinations that are easy to reach, offer beautiful landscapes and have plenty to explore for all kinds of travellers.
Road trips near Delhi
One of the best things about living in Delhi-NCR is that it is connected to scenic hill stations, desert towns and even heritage sites. So what places can you explore if you’re based in Delhi-NCR?
1. Neemrana (139 km)
Neemrana in Rajasthan is one of the closest and most popular road trip spots from Delhi. The main attraction is the Neemrana Fort Palace, which is now a heritage hotel. You may consider this location if you want a quick break, lunch with a view, or a zip-lining experience. The drive via NH48 is smooth and usually takes around two hours, which makes it a perfect short trip.
2. Agra (232 km)
Agra is one of the most famous road trips from Delhi because of the Yamuna Expressway, which offers fast and comfortable travel. You can head to see the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh. Since the drive is around three to four hours, it is possible to do a day trip, though many prefer staying overnight.
3. Jaipur (310 km)
Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur is another popular choice. The city has forts, palaces, markets and food that attract travellers throughout the year. The Delhi–Jaipur highway is busy but improving, and the travel time is about five hours. Many people prefer leaving early in the morning to avoid traffic.
4. Rishikesh (259 km)
Rishikesh is a favourite for those who want a mix of adventure, nature and spirituality. The drive takes around five to six hours, depending on traffic near Haridwar. Travellers visit for rafting, camping, cafes and the Ganga aarti. The roads have become much better compared to earlier years making it a refreshing road trip.
5. Lansdowne (282 km)
Lansdowne in Uttarakhand is a quiet hill station known for its peaceful surroundings and pine forests. The drive is scenic once you get closer to the hills. It takes around six to seven hours and is ideal for those who want a slow, calm weekend away from the crowd.
Road trips near Mumbai
Mumbai, the city which never sleeps, has several coastal drives, hill stations and small towns located a few hours away. The Western Ghats and nearby beaches make the drives more scenic.
1. Lonavala and Khandala (85 km)
These twin hill stations are classic favourites for Mumbai residents. The Mumbai–Pune Expressway makes the journey smooth and quick. You can visit Lonaval for waterfalls during monsoon, Maggi points, Tiger Point and the pleasant weather. The drive usually takes around two hours.
2. Alibaug (88 km)
Alibaug is a popular beach getaway from Mumbai. The drive takes nearly three hours, depending on traffic at the outskirts of the city. Beaches like Varsoli and Nagaon are the main attractions. Many travellers prefer taking the Ro-Ro ferry from Mumbai to Mandwa and then driving to their stay, which reduces travel time.
3. Mahabaleshwar (214 km)
Mahabaleshwar is a longer but rewarding road trip. The hill station is known for viewpoints, strawberries and cool weather throughout the year. The roads through the Western Ghats offer beautiful scenery. It usually takes around six hours from Mumbai.
4. Igatpuri (148 km)
Igatpuri is one of the quieter hill towns near Mumbai and is known for greenery, the Bhavali Dam and the Vipassana Centre. The monsoon season is especially scenic. The drive via NH160 is comfortable and takes around two and a half hours.
5. Lavasa (192 km)
Lavasa offers a hillside lake view with colourful buildings and a peaceful environment. The drive is smooth for most parts, though the last stretch has winding roads. Many visitors come for a relaxed stay or photography. Travel time is four to five hours.
Road trips near Bengaluru
Bengaluru is considered one of the best cities for road trip lovers. The city has quick access to hills, wildlife, lakes and coffee estates. The highways around Bengaluru are wide and well maintained.
1. Mysuru (141 km)
Mysuru is one of the easiest drives from Bengaluru all thanks to the Mysuru–Bengaluru Expressway. The travel time has reduced significantly and now takes around two hours. Travellers visit Mysuru Palace, Chamundi Hills and the local markets. The city is clean, organised and perfect for a relaxed weekend.
2. Coorg (252 km)
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a top choice for those who love greenery and coffee plantations. The drive takes around five to six hours. Once you enter the hilly region, the view becomes lush and scenic. Many travellers prefer staying at homestays inside coffee estates.
3. Chikkamagaluru (248 km)
Chikkamagaluru is another popular hill and coffee district. The route includes scenic stretches and good highway sections. Places like Mullayanagiri, Baba Budangiri and Hebbe Falls attract nature lovers. The drive usually takes about five hours.
4. Nandi Hills (57 km)
Nandi Hills is the quickest road trip option from Bengaluru. The hill is famous for sunrise views and old fort structures. Many people leave early in the morning to enjoy cooler weather. The drive takes around one and a half hours.
5. Kabini (204 km)
Kabini is an ideal choice for wildlife lovers. The area is known for its backwaters, safaris and jungle resorts. Travellers often spot elephants, deer and sometimes even leopards or tigers. The roads are mostly smooth, and the journey takes around four hours.
So if you are planning a road trip with family or friends then wait no more! Whether you are in Delhi, Mumbai or Bengaluru, every metropolitan city has its own getaways which are just a few hours away. All you need to do is pack your bags and get going!
