Beginning summer; nothing better than to support the heat on a road trip adventure? The family vacation you’re planning — whether it’s for the weekend or two weeks is nothing short of a dream of sitting on sand beneath a palm tree in the tropical island. Under the blazing sun, nothing beats it. Are you tired already? Well, not if it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg.
In this blog, we are going to explore some unique road trip ideas which are perfect for budget travelers. India is packed with remote coastal beauties and idyllic hill stations. So let’s fill your bag and get you ready for the trip of a lifetime. That’s the makings of a budget road trip right there.
Affordable Summer Road Trips from Major Cities in India
Gokarna is a laid-back township, which is just an hour away from Goa and is famous for the stunning Beaches. With beaches in Goa being all time packed, this road trip along the coast is perfect for those who want to unlock the beauty of Goa and the grandeur Arabian Sea but want to be away from the crowds. Since you can find a guesthouse, guesthouses, or homestays for any budget, making the trip will be easy on your bank account while providing a myriad of options for the amount one spends.
1. Manali to Leh – A Mountain Adventure
- Distance: 475 km
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Budget Tips: Plan, travel in a group, and opt for budget stays.
One of the absolute most popular road trips in India is the Manali to Leh Road trip. It might make the ride a little harder, but it utterly pays off. You can also do the costs by the shared cabs or renting a vehicle, and thus it is an affordable travel option for the group of people or also for the solo traveler. Cheap guesthouses and campsites are plentiful along the way, as is your bank account.
Key Stops:
- Rohtang Pass
- Keylong
- Sarchu
- Pang
- Leh
Pro Tip: Carry some snacks and water for the journey as the road stretches through remote areas with limited stops.
2. Goa to Gokarna – Coastal Beauty on a Budget
- Distance: 150 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Budget Tips: Choose homestays or budget hotels, and travel with friends to share costs.
Gokarna is a touristy and serene town is one of the must-visit beaches in India, located just an hour from Goa famous for its beautiful sandy beaches. If you want to escape the broader beaches where the masses flock in Goa, yet indulge in the natural beauty and immense splendor of the Arabian Sea, this is the ideal road trip along the coastline. A wide range of cheap hotels are available on the trip, including guesthouses, guesthouses and homestays enough to give travelers a lot of value for the money price.
Key Stops:
- Palolem Beach (Goa)
- Agonda Beach (Goa)
- Gokarna Beach (Gokarna)
- Om Beach (Gokarna)
Pro Tip: Stop at local dhabas along the way for delicious and affordable meals.
3. Mumbai to Alibaug – A Quick Weekend Escape
- Distance: 95 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- Budget Tips: Try to use local transport like buses and ferries to save money.
If you are from Mumbai and want to travel on a very cheap and short trip, then the place is Alibaug. Alibaug is a town located in the Konkan division of the Indian state of Maharashtra which is known for its picturesque beaches as well as amazing forts and serene ambience which makes it an ideal getaway for a weekend road trip. There are budget cottages and also a range of hotel options along the beach at affordable prices, so you will not have to go outside the budget of the city. Moreover, if you want to make your journey exciting, you can start your journey with ferry service to Mumbai.
Key Stops:
- Alibaug Beach
- Kolaba Fort
- Nagaon Beach
- Kihim Beach
Pro Tip: Visit local markets to buy fresh seafood at a reasonable price.
4. Jaipur to Pushkar – A Cultural Journey Through Rajasthan
- Distance: 150 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Budget Tips: To stay under budget, consider staying in hostels or guesthouses in Pushkar.
Discussing history and culture, the drive from Jaipur to Pushkar is quite memorable. It goes well with Pushkar’s famous culture and holy lake, which is useful for someone who’s interested to learn more about traditions of Rajasthan. Furthermore, there are thousands of budget accommodation facilities in Jaipur, plenty of guesthouses and budget hotels in Pushkar.
Key Stops:
- Amber Fort (Jaipur)
- Hawa Mahal (Jaipur)
- Pushkar Lake
- Brahma Temple (Pushkar)
Pro Tip: Scan for shops selling Rajasthani handicrafts and textiles at local markets that catch your fancy.
5. Bangalore to Coorg – A Nature Lover’s Dream
- Distance: 260 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Budget Tips: Opt for homestays and avoid peak season rates.
Coorg is a magnificent hill station with lush green terrains, coffee plantations, and serenity. Bangalore to Coorg road trip is ideal for the nature enthusiast and a peaceful weekend getaway. One reason for this is that there is a good number of homestays and guesthouses, although there are high-end resorts available, but this makes Coorg a reasonably budget-friendly destination.
Key Stops:
- Abbey Falls
- Dubare Elephant Camp
- Coffee Plantations
- Raja’s Seat
Pro Tip: Take a trek to Tadiandamol Peak, the highest point in Coorg, for stunning views.
6. Delhi to Nainital – A Peaceful Escape in the Hills
- Distance: 300 km
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
- Budget Tips: Book in advance and stay at budget-friendly guesthouses.
Nainital, which is popular Hill Station in Uttarakhand, beautiful hill station, tranquil lakes, and colonial charm India, especially the north, is a treat for road trip lovers and what better than a trip to Nainital! Nainital has ample budget hotels and guesthouses, which makes it a perfect wallet-friendly summer road trip destination in India.
Key Stops:
- Naini Lake
- Naina Devi Temple
- Tiffin Top
- Snow View Point
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on a boat ride on Naini Lake, which is an affordable and relaxing experience.
7. Chennai to Pondicherry – A Coastal Road Trip
- Distance: 160 km
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- Budget Tips: Pondicherry, with its charming French colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and lively culture, is a perfect summer road trip destination.
Only a few hours away from Chennai, this coastal town is the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. Here, you will easily find budget options like homely guest houses and backpacker hostels that don’t come with a hefty price tag. In between these activities, spend your days strolling the serene promenade, wandering the narrow streets of the charming French Quarter or just lounging on the beach, all while keeping your wallet happy.
Key Stops:
- Promenade Beach
- Auroville
- Sri Aurobindo Ashram
- French Quarter
Pro Tip: Savor authentic French and South Indian cuisine at local cafes and restaurants.
Also Read: Best Summer Vacation Destinations for 2025
Conclusion
There are many summer road trip destinations in India that offer best experiences at a pocket-friendly budget. From the magnificent mountains of Leh to stunning beaches of Gokarna, there’s so much to explore and so much to relax. Groups with budget accommodations will definitely have the best time if they plan their trips wisely. Woods need to fill the gas and pack your luggage for a thrilling road trip across India!
FAQs:
Q1: How can I make my road trip more budget-friendly?
A1: Travel with friends or family to share costs, choose budget accommodations like hostels or guesthouses, and eat at local dhabas for affordable meals.
Q2: Is it safe to travel on these road trips in India?
A2: Yes, most of these routes are popular among travelers, but always check for road conditions and travel advisories before starting your journey. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition for long drives.
Q3: Can I rent a car for these road trips?
A3: Yes, many car rental services are available in major cities. You can rent a vehicle, including self-drive options, for your road trip.
