Are you someone who loves the chilly weather and looking to set out on winter road trips in India? Well, look no further! India’s winter weather is relatively pleasant, with dreamy, foggy mornings, mild afternoons, and chilly evenings. This makes it the perfect reason to gear up your vehicle and hit the road for an unforgettable road trip. After all, you’ve the perfect excuse to create your own Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara moment!
Road trips allow you to explore lesser-known places at your own pace and offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. Winter is an ideal season to explore India, as the monsoon has subsided, and the harsh summer heat is yet to make its annual comeback. Also, many places in North India start experiencing snowfall, making a winter road trip all worthwhile. So, what are you waiting for? Here’s a list of the best winter roads that you can explore in India.
5 Best Winter Road Trips In India You Must Explore
- Delhi-Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti
- Mumbai-Goa-Gokarna
- Delhi-Katra-Patnitop
- Pune-Mahabaleshwar-Shrivardhan-Harihareshwar
- Kolkata-Darjeeling
Delhi-Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti
Delhi to Spiti Valley is a popular road trip for travelers during winters. Passing through scenic mountains, valleys, rivers, and making your way through hairpin bends in this Spiti winter road trip is sure to be an exhilarating experience. On your way, you’ll come across the Chandratal and Dhankar Lakes as well as the picturesque Tabo and Lhalung monasteries. There are a number of small hamlets and villages en route where you can grab a quick bite or stop for a break. Also, note that Spiti can be visited both via Shimla and Manali, however, during peak winters, the Manali route becomes inaccessible, so plan accordingly.
Road trip distance: 785 km, majorly through NH44 and NH5
Travel time: Approximately 20 hours
Mumbai-Goa-Gokarna
For your next road trip, head south to the city of dreams, Mumbai. While the classic Mumbai to Goa road trip has been a staple in many movies – like the iconic Dil Chahta Hai, this one takes it a step further. You’ll not just be stopping at Goa, but also making your way to Gokarna, famous for its Murudeswara Temple. Thanks to videos and reels, Gokarna has quickly become one of the top tourist destinations in South India. During the winter months, especially during Christmas, Goa and Gokarna are comparatively populated, but that is what will add to the festive, year-end vibes to your winter road trip. And, don’t forget to try out authentic Goan cuisine while en route to Gokarna.
Road trip distance: 713 km, via NH66
Travel time: Approximately 17 hours
Delhi-Katra-Patnitop
The Delhi-Katra-Patnitop route is one of the most scenic winter road trips in India. During winters, the famous Vaishno Mata Temple at Katra attracts pilgrims from all over the country. So, during your Delhi-Katra-Patnitop road trip, you can pay your respects at the temple and make your way ahead. Prepare for a scenic drive through snow-capped mountains, stunning valleys, and quaint villages as you make your way to Patnitop. Here you can try winter sports activities and explore the snowy hill station at your own pace. What a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities!
Road trip distance: 727 km, via majorly via NH44
Travel time: Approximately 17 hours
Pune-Mahabaleshwar-Shrivardhan-Harihareshwar
This winter road trip in India may be lesser-known, but it’s sure to be one of the best journeys you’ve ever taken. While Maharashtra’s winters aren’t as cold as those in North India, hill stations like Mahabaleshwar are quite popular during this season. Drive from Pune to Mahabaleshwar, indulge in delicious strawberries, and then head towards the stunning Konkan coastline. The beach towns of Shrivardhan and Harihareshwar are famous for their golden sands, magnificent temples, and mesmerizing views of the Konkan landscape. While on this road trip, do not forget to try out local street food as well as authentic Malvani seafood.
Road trip distance: 264 km, majorly via NH48
Travel time: Approximately 7 hours
Kolkata-Darjeeling
Winters in the east and northeast India are an experience in themself. The landscape is filled with the winter fog, lush emerald green landscapes, and scenic mountains and valleys. The route from Kolkata leading to Darjeeling is filled with plenty of tourist attractions and places to eat. Arrive in Darjeeling, explore the fragrant tea gardens, sample authentic Darjeeling tea, and end your day with a breathtaking sunset view from the hilltop. Now, this is a road trip you must not miss out on!
Road trip distance: 623 km, majorly via NH12
Travel time: Approximately 13 hours
Summing Up
By now you must’ve realized that winter road trips in India offer a different experience depending on where you are in the country. If you’re in the south, be prepared for chilly mornings with comparatively pleasant, sunny weather. If you’re making your way to the hilly north, gear up for some snow and temperatures that count in a single digit. Regardless, you are guaranteed to have a fun, rewarding experience with your family and friends.
FAQs
Which Is The Most Scenic Place In India?
Here are some of the most scenic places in India that are also ideal for a road trip:
- Spiti Valley
- Alleppey Backwaters
- Goa
- Darjeeling
- Gangtok
- Shimla
- Daman & Diu
Which Is The Most Used Road In India?
Here are some of the most used roads – national highways in India:
- NH48
- NH44
- NH52
Is Mumbai To Goa Road Trip Worth It?
Yes, the trip is definitely worth it because of the beautiful Konkan landscape. While on your way from Mumbai to Goa, you’ll come across many other destinations like Tarkarli, Malvan, Vengurla, Dapoli, etc. Enroute your road trip, you’ll many a times be surrounded by the gorgeous shoreline on one side and the mighty Sahyadaris on the other.
