When it comes to roads, India does not have the reputation around the world for having the highest quality of roads. However, in the last few years, things have been changing, and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways under the leadership of Nitin Gadkari has been working relentlessly. It has managed to create some of the most amazing roads across the country, and today we bring to you the 15 most beautiful and mesmerizing highways and roads of India.
Tirunelveli – Kanyakumari Highway, Tamil Nadu
To kick things off, here is a picture of the scenic Tirunelveli – Kanyakumari Highway (NH44). This lovely four-lane highway offers a scenic drive through lush greenery, small villages, and vast stretches of paddy fields. Any person who drives on this road can get a glimpse of the Western Ghats, which culminate at the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari, where the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, and Bay of Bengal converge.
Maravanthe Beach Road, Karnataka
Next up on this list is the Maravanthe Beach Road (NH66). This particular road is known for its unique landscape, where the road runs between the Arabian Sea on one side. Meanwhile, on the other side, the Souparnika River can be seen flowing as well.
The scenic view that this road offers can bring peace to any driver’s mind and heart. It is one of the most picturesque stretches of roads in India, offering stunning views of the sea and river simultaneously, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Valparai Mountain Road, Tamil Nadu
If you are one of those people who love mountains and greenery, please plan a drive through the Valparai Mountain Road (SH78). It is a long winding route through the Anamalai Hills. It features numerous hairpin bends and passes through dense forests.
The road also goes through a number of tea plantations and waterfalls. The road is popular among nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts for its panoramic views and serene environment.
The Old Silk Route in Zuluk, Sikkim
Known for the Eurasian trades, the Old Silk Route is a historic trade route that passes through Zuluk in Sikkim. This snake-like road offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas and the Kanchenjunga range.
This route is filled with ancient monasteries, lakes, and rhododendron forests. So, if you are one of those who are planning to visit northeast India, try to drive on this scenic road. We promise you, you will not be disappointed.
Munnar – Thekkady Road, Kerala
We all know that the southern state of Kerala is filled with some of the most beautiful and picturesque roads in India. Of these, one road is the Munnar – Thekkady Road (NH185). This road takes its drivers through the Western Ghats, passing tea gardens, spice plantations, and dense forests. The road offers stunning views of the hills and valleys, with numerous spots to stop and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife.
Hyderabad to Warangal Highway, Telangana
We know that driving on long stretches of highways can be boring. But the Hyderabad to Warangal Highway (NH163) is not your average straight highway. It offers smooth and well-maintained roads that have a blend of urban and rural scenes. You’ll witness fields, small towns, and historical sites like the Bhongir Fort when you drive on this highway.
Guwahati to Tawang Highway, Arunachal Pradesh
Now taking a deviation from the four-lane highway of Hyderabad, here is a picture of the Guwahati to Tawang Highway (NH13). It is a challenging yet breathtaking route through the Eastern Himalayas. The road passes through picturesque valleys, rivers, and snow-capped mountains. Key attractions on this national highway include the Sela Pass, Dirang Valley, and the iconic Tawang Monastery.
Mumbai Pune Expressway
This particular highway might be one of the most, if not the most, popular ones on this list. We are talking about the iconic Mumbai Pune Expressway (Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway). It was India’s first six-lane concrete, high-speed expressway.
It offers a smooth and scenic drive with views of the Western Ghats, especially during the monsoon when the landscape turns lush green with numerous waterfalls along the way.
Almora State Highway, Uttarakhand
This particular road is not a national highway; however, it is still one of the most beautiful and scenic roads in India. This is the Almora State Highway (SH37). It offers a calming drive through the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.
The road is lined with tall pine and oak forests and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The route passes through charming hill stations and traditional Kumaoni villages, and we are sure you’ll find the most peace on this road.
Ranchi – Patratu Highway, Jharkhand
This particular highway is not for the faint-hearted. We say this because the Ranchi – Patratu Highway (NH33) is known for its twisty, windy roads that take you up the hill. This picturesque landscape road features rolling hills, dense forests, and the scenic Patratu Dam. Make sure to go on this road with an empty stomach.
Thamarassery Churam, Kerala
Another similar road with a ton of blind turns is the Thamarassery Churam (NH766) highway. It is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats that connects Kozhikode to Wayanad. The road is famous for its hairpin bends and offers stunning views of the lush green hills, forests, and waterfalls. It’s a popular route for travelers heading to the hill station of Wayanad.
Pauri Garhwal Road, Uttarakhand
Another beautiful and peaceful road from Uttarakhand is the Pauri Garhwal Road (NH119). This single-lane highway offers a serene drive through the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The route passes through pine forests, small villages, and terraced fields, with the majestic Himalayas in the backdrop.
Marine Drive, Vizag, Andhra Pradesh
You thought only Mumbai has the Marine Drive, right? Well, you are wrong. The Marine Drive in Visakhapatnam (Vizag) is another more beautiful scenic coastal drive along the Bay of Bengal.
The road is lined with palm trees and provides beautiful views of the sea, especially during sunrise and sunset. Key attractions along the drive include the RK Beach and the INS Kursura Submarine Museum.
Dhanushkodi Beach Road, Tamil Nadu
If you like water on the side of your road, the Dhanushkodi Beach Road is the perfect road for you. This is because this unique route that leads to the abandoned town of Dhanushkodi has water on both sides.
This road offers a surreal experience, with the Bay of Bengal on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other. The pristine beaches and ruins of Dhanushkodi add to the mystique of this journey.
Leh-Manali Highway
You thought we’d forget about the most scenic road in India, right? Well, don’t worry; we have saved the best for last. The Leh-Manali Highway, as we all know, is one of the most adventurous and scenic roads in India.
The route passes through high mountain passes, including Rohtang La and Tanglang La. It offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas, barren landscapes, and alpine meadows. It’s a favorite among bikers and adventure seekers. So, if you are one of those people, make sure to plan a drive through this road.
