India has an incredible diversity of landscapes and cultures. From the snow-capped Himalayan peaks to sun-kissed beaches, India has everything you could imagine. But sometimes it can be hard to know where to go and what to do when traveling in India, especially if you’re trying to get off the beaten path.
Here we’ve picked out some of the best places in India that are perfect for a road trip by car or motorcycle.
Go to the Nubra Valley in Ladakh and watch the sunset over the Himalayas
The Nubra Valley is about halfway up north India’s Kashmir valley and is one of the remotest places on Earth. It’s only accessible by road for about three months of the year, from May to August. You’ll need a special permit to travel there at other times. This area is famous for its unique culture and stunning landscapes, with sand dunes and wind-worn rocks contrasting with Buddhist monasteries and colorful locals. The Old Man of Dhalan stands out as a particularly distinctive sight. It’s said to represent the ancient king, Dhalendra, and sits at one extreme of a nearby valley with a snow-capped mountain visible in the background. It is a popular place for tourists to stop for a drink and take photos, but it can get unbelievably crowded at times.
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Then head north to the beautiful beaches of Goa
Goa is another popular destination in India that many travelers visit on their way across Europe or North America. The state is particularly well known for its beaches and warm temperatures all year round. You’ll find heaps of pretty beaches and resorts lining the coast where you can relax by the beach or go scuba diving in crystal clear waters. Goa also has a lot of culture and history, with a rich Portuguese culture embedded into the local lifestyle and architecture.
Go west to Manali and trek in the beautiful Himalayas
Manali is located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It’s known for its surrounding peaks, which offer amazing views all along the valley. There are several trekking companies based in Manali that will offer you guided treks around the area, exploring local villages, monasteries, and other attractions. The area is also known for its rich history and religious significance, with several monasteries dotted throughout the mountains as well as ancient Buddhist settlements where you can learn more about their lifestyle.
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Go to the friendly people of Kerala and take the local trains
Kerala is a region in the southern tip of India that has come to be known as ‘God’s Own Country’ due to its unique culture, traditions, and welcoming people. The region is best known for its beautiful beaches, astonishing temples, and days spent basking in the sun. Kerala also has a long history dating back to over 2000 years BC and is considered one of India’s oldest civilizations. You’ll find several high-tech trains operating across the state that are an essential part of daily life for locals. They’re run by two different companies – Southern Railway and Indian Railway (IR). Both offer comfortable trains with a host of stops along the way and modern amenities.
Then head north to Amritsar, home to Golden Temple and many more attractions
Amritsar is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in India. It’s vibrant and bustling with life, but at the same time has a calm and gentle quality that makes it peaceful and welcoming. The city has a rich history going back over 2000 years BC and numerous temples, monasteries, and other attractions dot the cityscape. The main attraction is undoubtedly the Golden Temple Gurudwara complex which sits on the banks of the River Sutlej. The complex has over 260,000 rooms and is a popular place of worship for the Sikh religion, with millions of pilgrims visiting the temple every year.
So if you’re looking for a road trip across India then try out any one of these places – it’s sure to be an adventure.
