The best way to make the most of the coming year is by turning your long weekends into unforgettable road trip adventures. With so many opportunities to escape, thanks to holidays like Republic Day, Holi, Good Friday, Eid, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, and Diwali, you'll have plenty of chances to explore exciting destinations across India. Whether you're planning a 3-day weekend getaway or a quick mid-week escape, each holiday offers the best excuse to pack your bags and hit the open road. We've curated a list of road trip ideas in this blog to suit every type of traveler, whether you're chasing stunning views, exploring vibrant cities, or unwinding in peaceful beachside retreats, with the perfect destination for every kind of traveler, embrace the exhilarating journey creating unforgettable core memories on the open road.
This year's long weekends begin with a four-day weekend from January 11 to 14 on the occasion of Makar Sankranti and Pongal. Taking Monday off makes it ideal for a getaway. In March, there are two long weekends, a three-day weekend for Holi from March 14 to 16, and another for Eid-ul-Fitr from March 29 to 31.
April brings a four-day weekend from April 10 to 13 for Mahavir Jayanti if you take Friday off, as well as a three-day weekend for Good Friday from April 18 to 20. May offers another three-day weekend from May 10 to 12 for Buddha Purnima, making it ideal for a short retreat.
Additionally, August offers a long weekend for Independence Day, August 15 to 17, which is a good opportunity to travel. In September, there are two long weekends, Onam from September 4 to 7, which provides a four-day break if Friday is taken off, and Milad-un-Nabi from September 5 to 7.
October also includes two long weekends, Dussehra from October 2 to 5, featuring a four-day weekend with Friday off, and Diwali from October 18 to 20, offering a festive three-day break. Finally, the year concludes with a four-day weekend from December 25 to 28 for Christmas, providing a relaxing break if you take Friday off.
The Manali to Leh road trip is one of India's most scenic journeys, covering 480 km of breathtaking views, including high mountain passes like Rohtang La and Tanglang La. Along the way, you'll pass through beautiful spots like Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley, with snowy peaks, meadows, and rugged landscapes. You can indulge in activities like camping, stargazing, and exploring monasteries, with roadside dhabas offering comforting local food like maggi, momos, and Ladakhi tea. Just be mindful to acclimate to the high altitudes and pack warm clothes.
Duration of Road Trip: 15–16 hours (one way)
Distance: 480km approx.
Best time to visit: June–September
Perfect for long weekends in 2025, this trip offers heritage, shopping, and delicious Rajasthani food with a blend of history and culture. The 600 km route takes you through the iconic Amber Fort in Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, and Udaipur's tranquil lakes. Be sure to visit the vibrant streets, and taste local dishes like jalebis and dal baati churma.This journey is ideal for long weekends in 2025, especially during Dussehra, when the festive spirit fills the air. You can also enjoy elephant rides, folk music, and traditional dances. Each city offers something unique, making it a perfect weekend getaway for history buffs and food lovers.
Duration of Road Trip: 10–12 hours (between cities, total trip spread over 2–3 days)
Distance Covered: 600 km approx.
Best time to visit: October-March
The Mumbai to Goa road trip is the ultimate blend of coastal views, beach fun, and relaxation. Stretching 600 km, the drive offers views of lush hills and small beach towns, perfect for stopping and enjoying local seafood, Goan curry, and beachside cocktails. Whether you're into water sports, dolphin-watching, or sunset cruises, Goa has something for everyone. This trip is ideal for long weekends in 2025, especially around Christmas or Holi, when the weather is perfect for fun-filled beach days and Goa's lively nightlife.
Duration of Road Trip: 10–12 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 600 km approx.
Best time to visit: October-March
A quick getaway from Delhi, this road trip takes you to the peaceful banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh, just a few hours away. The drive offers scenic views of the Ganges and green hills. In Rishikesh, you can enjoy adventure activities like river rafting, yoga, and bonfires by the river. Don't miss out on local treats like Garhwali thali, chaat, and the famous Lassi. This trip is perfect for long weekends in 2025 when you want a mix of adventure, peace, and delicious food.
Duration of Road Trip: 5–6 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 250 km approx.
Best time to visit: February-April
The Bangalore to Coorg road trip offers a refreshing escape, covering 270 km through lush coffee plantations, serene waterfalls, and hills. Coorg is known for its coffee, so make sure to enjoy some along with delicious Coorgi dishes like pandhi curry. Popular activities include trekking to Abbey Falls and visiting Madikeri Fort. With nature, relaxation, and adventure all in one, it's the perfect quick getaway to enjoy with your loved ones for long weekends in 2025.
Duration of Road Trip: 5–6 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 270 km approx.
Best time to visit: March-August
The Ahmedabad to Kutch road trip takes you through 400 km of stunning salt deserts, colorful villages, and local culture. Be sure to explore the Rann of Kutch, experience the vibrant Kutch Festival, and visit beaches and historical sites. You can also tryout the local food like khaman, dhokla, and Kutchi kebabs. With activities like camel rides, folk music, and shopping for handicrafts, this trip is ideal for culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It's best visited between November and February when the weather is pleasant, and you can catch the Rann Utsav.
Duration of Road Trip: 7–8 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 400 km approx.
Best time to visit: November-February
The Shillong to Cherrapunji road trip is a short, scenic 55 km drive that sights misty hills, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls. You can go for treks, explore caves, and visit the famous living root bridges here. Trying local Khasi dishes like jadoh, dohkhlieh, and momos is a must. This is the ideal weekend escape for nature and adventure seekers, especially from June to October, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Duration of Road Trip: 2–3 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 55 km approx.
Best time to visit: June to October
The Chennai to Pondicherry road trip is a perfect weekend getaway, just around 3-4 hours' drive. This short and picturesque road trip along the East Coast Road offers mesmerizing ocean views and lush greenery leading to the French-inspired town of Pondicherry. You can visit serene beaches, explore French colonial architecture, enjoy peaceful vibes with cozy cafes and serene temples, as well as try French-Indian fusion cuisine like crepes, baguettes, and seafood. It's perfect for a long weekend in 2025, especially during cooler months like October to March, when the weather is just right for exploring and relaxing by the beach.
Duration of Road Trip: 3–4 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 150 km approx.
Best time to visit: October-March
This 600 km road trip takes you through beautiful tea gardens, winding hills, and views of the majestic Kanchenjunga. On the way, visit Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop and sip on local Darjeeling tea, and savor food like momos and thukpa. The ideal time to visit is during Dussehra when the weather is pleasant, and the views are stunning. This journey is highly recommended for travelers looking for a peaceful yet scenic retreat.
Duration of Road Trip: 12–14 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 640 km approx.
Best time to visit: March-May and September-November
The Hyderabad to Hampi road trip is an exciting mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, revealing the stunning ruins of a once-great empire surrounded by surreal landscapes. It's around 400 km one way, and you'll pass through scenic landscapes with rocky hills and green fields. Hampi is full of ancient temples, ruins, and beautiful monuments. You can explore the ruins, take a coracle ride on the river, and enjoy local food like dosas and chutneys. Ideal for travelers who love history and adventure, this road trip is perfect for spending long weekends in 2025, especially from October to March, when the weather is pleasant.
Duration of Road Trip: 8–9 hours (one way)
Distance Covered: 400 km approx.
Best time to visit: October-March
With many long weekends uniformly distributed throughout the year, make the most of 2025 by planning fun road trips with your loved ones for quick getaways or even longer excursions, building amazing memories and discovering the best of India.