Seven incredible roads for a long drive that showcase India’s beauty in under 500 kilometres

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Going on a long ride or drive in not a like getting a cup of tea for most of us. Many of us are not comfortable on hopping onto a bike or getting in a car, simply to soak in a monotonous scenery while staring at the road. But for many of us, this is what we want to chase. The feeling of being on the road, just absorbing the scenery around and soaking in the joy of lush green landscapes, mountain views, or farms as vast as the eyes can see. (Image: PTI)

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And this article is precisely for those, who like a long drive, but the ones that are not too long ― may be like a morning to noon kind of drive and then a break and then again an afternoon to evening kind of drive. If you fit in this category, then you’ve landed at the right place. Mentioned below are seven scenic routes where the distance you’d cover is typically under 500 km and, we bet most of us would enjoy the views. These routes are handpicked by the CNBCTV18TravelDesk. (Image: Shutterstock)

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No 1. Manali to Ladakh across the Himalaya | Distance: 432 km | This iconic Himalayan journey winds through some of the world’s highest motorable passes, including Rohtang and Tanglang La. The dramatic changes in terrain—from lush green valleys to stark mountain deserts—offer a visual spectacle at every turn. Travellers often break the journey at key stops like Sarchu or Keylong, where the views are as breathtaking as the altitude. (Image: Shutterstock)

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No 2. Ahmedabad to Kutch | Distance: 454 km | This road trip takes you from the urban vibrancy of Ahmedabad to the vast, surreal expanse of the Rann of Kutch. The journey is best timed during the Rann Utsav, when the white salt desert comes alive with music, dance, and craft bazaars. En route, you can explore traditional Gujarati villages known for their textiles and handicrafts.

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No 3. Dehradun to Nainital | Distance: 278 km | The drive from Dehradun to Nainital offers a refreshing escape through the forested hills and pine-scented air of Uttarakhand. Along the way, charming hill towns and sparkling rivers make for scenic halts. Once in Nainital, the emerald lake and colonial architecture add to the charm of this mountain retreat. (Image: PTI)

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No 4. Bangalore to Munnar | Distance: 477 km | This route from the tech capital to the tea capital leads you through a lush landscape of forests, waterfalls, and spice plantations. As you climb into the Western Ghats, the air grows cooler and the roads wind through mist-covered hills. Munnar’s rolling tea estates and tranquil ambience offer a perfect contrast to city life. (Image: shutterstock)

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No 5. Nagpur to Pachmarhi through Kanha National Park | Distance: 259 km | This central India road trip combines wildlife adventure with hill station serenity. A detour through Kanha National Park adds a thrilling chance to spot tigers and barasingha in their natural habitat. Pachmarhi, often called the ‘Queen of Satpura’, greets travellers with caves, waterfalls and forested trails.

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No 6. Delhi to Agra to Jaipur | Distance: 449 km | Known as the Golden Triangle, this route offers a deep dive into India’s rich history and architectural grandeur. From the Taj Mahal in Agra to the forts and palaces of Jaipur, each city reveals a different facet of Mughal and Rajput heritage. The drive is well-serviced by the Yamuna and expressway networks, making it both scenic and efficient.

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No 7. Mumbai to Tarkarli | Distance: 488 km | This coastal road trip threads through Maharashtra’s Konkan belt, dotted with coconut groves, quiet beaches, and charming villages. Tarkarli, known for its crystal-clear waters and scuba diving opportunities, is a lesser-known gem for beach lovers. The journey also offers chances to savour Malvani cuisine and explore historic sea forts en route.

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