The vast majority of us have been glued to the news this whole year (or memes, if that was your daily dose of news). We’ve been asked to stay home and for the right reasons were restricted from travelling literally anywhere. If nothing, we’re sure most of us can agree that 2020 taught us patience and appreciating the simple joys in life. Speaking of simple joys, we believe that there is nothing as joyous as travelling, especially taking road trips with your family and close friends. Which is why we’ve curated a list of all the road trips we recommend you take in 2021.
Ain't No Trip Like A Road Trip: Make This Your 2021 Checklist
Bombay To Goa
This has got to be one of the most enjoyable trips for many of us and we’re sure this route has crossed our minds several times this year. At a distance of approximately 590 kilometres, the National Highway 17 offers the opportunity to cruise through the road while also enjoying the infinite amount of restaurants available. With all the sunsets and sunrises we missed staying at home, hopefully in 2021 we’ll be able to enjoy it on our favourite beach in Goa. Anywhere to Goa is also a good idea, so we're just leaving that open to you! When there, check out this amazing spot by a dam and if you're looking for a place to stay, check in here.
Total distance: 590 Kms
Time taken: 12 hours approximately
Hyderabad To Hampi
An approximate nine-hour drive from Hyderabad, Hampi is a world heritage site and probably one of the best places to visit in India to enjoy some peace and quiet and, of course, the beautiful architecture. Hampi has something for everyone, rocky mountains, great vegetation and a great mix of ancient and modern sights. What's not to love?
For offbeat things to do in Hampi, click here.
Total distance: 378 Kms
Time taken: 9 hours
Delhi To The Valley Of Flowers
There’s nothing more we missed than the smell of outdoorsy nature, right? Witness the best road trip starting from Delhi and at your arrival, you’ll be drawn by the fresh scent of flowers and the soulful sound of a river flowing at The Valley Of Flowers. The place has the best combination (especially for people looking to escape urban life) to offer. It's also home to beautiful wildlife that you will lucky to have witnessed.
Total distance: 512 Kms
Time taken: 16 hours
Delhi To Royal Rajasthan
For the ones in the mood to enjoy some royal treatment and views, now you know exactly where you should be heading. Rajasthan is a great destination and even before you get to your location, you will enjoy the rustic feels of old-style villages as you pass by them via road. When you get to your choice of city in this state, go crazy with shopping, restaurants and breathtaking palaces. This makes would also make for a great destination for all the lovebirds who had to stay apart during this pandemic. If you end up in Udaipur, check into this lovely lake view hostel.
Total distance: 463 Kms
Time taken: 9 hours
Chennai To Pondicherry
Within a distance of approximately just 150 kilometres, Pondicherry is the best escape. We don’t know when we’ll be able to tour around France (hopefully in 2021) but until then, I think Pondicherry is beyond an awesome option. You’ll enjoy it all here - beautiful cafes, the 18th-century colonial building, the colours, the bougainvillaeas, and if you want to get some peace head to Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
For the best things to do in Pondicherry, click here.
Total distance: 150 Kms
Time taken: 3 hours
Tezu To Kibithu
Dream any dream you want to dream when you get to Kabithu, the easternmost point in India located in Arunachal Pradesh. For the best road trip, start your journey from Tezu and take the two-way highway which then leads to a single lane uphill, of course, this is both thrilling and adventurous. The best part? You’ll cross the Lothi river that runs parallel to the stretch, so be sure to stay awake to enjoy the sounds of gushing river water.
For the best mountains to see in Arunachal Pradhesh, click here.
Total distance: 221 Kms
Time taken: 7 hours
Visakhapatnam To Araku Valley
A short three-hour drive from Vishakhapatnam will get you to the beautiful Araku Valley, which we think this is one of the best road trips in Indian because of all the variations you will see on your journey via road here. Hillsides, streams, tunnels, waterfalls, - your journey is going to be nothing short of mesmerising (you’re going to want to keep your cameras on the whole time). Araku Valley is known for its coffee plantations and you can pick some up from organic coffee brands while you’re here. We all need this scenic trip to refresh our minds. When back, get this coffee.
Total distance: 115 Kms
Time taken: 4 hours
Ahmedabad to Kutch
Explore India’s most exotic wilderness at Kutch, which is a native place for many tribes. The best time to visit Kutch starts in October until February, so we don’t need to be too sad about not being able to go here during this intense quarantine period. If you’re planning to head out in the month of January to start your 2021 with some meaningful travel plan, this is the place.
Total distance: 400 Kms
Time taken: 8 hours