Top 10 Most Scenic Routes And Highways In India

Waquar Habib

Manali to Leh Highway (NH-3)

This high-altitude highway offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and pristine lakes like Pangong Lake. Major attractions include Rohtang Pass, Tanglang La, and the monasteries of Leh. It is open seasonally from June to October.

Vehicles travel on the Manali-Leh highway near Rohtang Pass | Shutterstock

Mumbai to Goa (NH-66)

Dense greenery, coastal views, and charming villages make this route scenic. Major attractions include the beaches of Goa, Dudhsagar Falls, and forts like Chapora. This highway is operational year-round, providing a picturesque drive along the western coast.

A view of the Dudhsagar Falls on the way from Mumbai to Goa | Shutterstock

Chennai to Pondicherry (East Coast Road)

This route offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal, serene beaches, and fishing villages. Major attractions include Mahabalipuram, Auroville, and Pondicherry’s French Quarter. The East Coast Road is open year-round, making it a popular choice for travellers.

A view of the Pondicherry Beach | Shutterstock

Shimla to Manali (NH-3)

Lush green valleys, apple orchards, and snow-capped mountains characterise this scenic route. Major attractions include Kullu Valley, Solang Valley, and Hidimba Devi Temple. The highway is open year-round but can be affected by heavy snowfall in winter.

Snowy peaks of Solang Valley along the way from Shimla to Manali | Shutterstock

Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley (NH-516E)

Rolling hills, coffee plantations, and waterfalls make this route picturesque. Major attractions include Borra Caves, Katiki Waterfalls, and the Tribal Museum. This highway is operational year-round, offering a serene drive through the Eastern Ghats.

Waterfalls near Araku Valley | Shutterstock

Shillong to Cherrapunjee (NH-206)

Verdant hills, waterfalls, and living root bridges define this scenic route. Major attractions include Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. The highway is open year-round, providing a lush, green journey.

A view of the Nohkalikai Falls on the way from Shillong to Cherrapunjee | Shutterstock

Kalinga Ghati, Odisha

Dense forests, winding roads, and panoramic views of the Eastern Ghats make this route scenic. Major attractions include Daringbadi, known as the “Kashmir of Odisha,” and the Kalinga War Memorial. This route is operational year-round.

Crossing the beautiful Kalinga Ghati in Odisha | @PureOdisha/x

Munnar to Thekkady (NH-185)

Tea gardens, spice plantations, and dense forests characterize this scenic route. Major attractions include Eravikulam National Park, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Anamudi Peak. The highway is open year-round, offering a lush, green journey through Kerala.

View from the Anamudi Peak on way from Munnar to Thekkady | Shutterstock

Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo & Nathu-La Pass (NH-310A)

High-altitude lakes, snow-covered landscapes, and mountain passes make this route picturesque. Major attractions include Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathu-La Pass. The highway is open year-round but subject to weather conditions.

Yak at the Tsomgo Lake | Shutterstock

Jaipur to Jaisalmer (NH-11)

Desert landscapes, historic forts, and golden sand dunes define this scenic route. Major attractions include Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Desert Safari. The highway is operational year-round, offering a unique desert experience.

A view of the intricate Patwon Ki Haveli on the way from Jaipur to Jaisalmer | Shutterstock

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