Top 15 Best Road Trips in South India

South India has an authenticity of its own when it comes to nature with its exotic flora and fauna. From the sea beaches, backwaters, tea plantations, scenic routes to the holy temples, and divine places, it offers a plethora of tourist spots to explore. And one of the best ways to immerse yourself into its wonderful beauties is by road.

This part of the country has some excellent road journeys to indulge in and if you love traveling in a car or a jeep, then here is a treasure of information about the best road trips in South India. Be it your partner, loved ones, friends or family or even solo, you will love them all.

Without further ado, let’s explore and go for a virtual tour on the best road trips in South India.

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1. Bengaluru to Coorg in Karnataka

For honeymooners and newly married couples, looking for romantic getaways, the best road trips in South India are:

Bengaluru is known to be a bustling city with the high-rise mansions, food chains, and its majestic shopping malls. Crossing past the city in a car and then entering into the highway on the way to Coorg is an unparalleled transition. The Western Ghats manifest in glory as you cross the route. You will love to observe the dense forests, the greenery of the mountains, the tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, as they greet you with their lovely foliage. And needless to say, your target destination Coorg, does not require any description. Known as the “Scotland of India”, the hill station enchants tourists with its gorgeous valleys, quaint homestays, the plantations, and the misty hills. It is truly one of the best road trips in South India.

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2. Ooty to Coonoor in Tamil Nadu

The road trip from Ooty to Coonoor is also quite prominent among the travelers. Ooty, compared to other hill stations in India, is not so huge when it comes to magnitude, but while comparing beauty, it doesn’t fall back in the race. The meandering hilly roads, the astounding valleys, the glittering streams, and the tall trees are a treat to the eyes. The second largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor offers a platter of nature’s beauty to the travelers visiting the place. The forests, the plantations, the gardens, and many more attractions entice all.

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3. Kanyakumari to Varkala Coastal Road Trip

Coastal regions in South India are indeed picturesque and driving past the places is indeed an experience to cherish and remember. The entire route spans across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, covering the popular tourist destinations of Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry,

Kanyakumari and Varkala. You can witness the serene beauty of the beaches, sea views, and even savor your taste buds with the delectable seafood dishes.

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While being on a coastal ride, Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of the country, must be included in the itinerary. If you reach early morning, then it’s a bliss as you can watch the beautiful sunrise with the sun emerging out of the sea waters to glorify the horizon. And if you reach in the evening, you will observe the setting sun rays casting a golden hue across the sky.

Varkala is another amazing beach town, spanning the coastal region of Southern India. Another attraction of the place is the stunning cliffs that overlook the sea waters. The splashing sound of the waves is a music to the ears.

4. Chennai to Pondicherry through Mahabalipuram

While crossing the historic coastal town Mahabalipuram, you must not miss the renowned UNESCO heritage site – the Group of Monuments of the 7th and 8th century CE. The beach side is also one of the scenic places to venture into, truly a town with a combo of divine feeling and natural charm.

The next stop of the trip can be Pondicherry. Once a French colony, the serenity of the town is something you will love to be soaked in. And in addition to that, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is where you can find your mental peace and warmth. That’s not the end, the beaches and the old French quarters are to be listed in the must-visit places.

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5. Udupi Coastal Road through Marvanthe beach

Marvanthe beach in Udupi  at Karnataka which is situated next to the Highway and the Suparnika River flows on the other side of the road, that makes it one of the most beautiful beach roads to drive in South India. Truly a road trip across the coastal region of South India is one of the best one can think of.

7. Kochi to Alleppey in Kerala

Cruising on the roads and passing along the backwaters is indeed an astonishing experience to remember. The soothing air will calm the soul as you drive along the route and be a part of a memorable tour. And then you must not miss checking out the local cuisine and meeting the people around to gel with the culture.

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8. Coimbatore to Ooty in Tamil Nadu

This route will definitely create a love for the Nilgiri Hills. You will appreciate the winding roads, the meandering streams, the deep gorges, the gorgeous valleys and the incredible mountain views. It will truly be a phenomenal drive, a journey to be treasured.

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9. Mysore to Wayanad in Karnataka

The state of Karnataka is gifted with many beautiful places, be it temples, palaces, or nature’s greenery. So when you drive along this route, you are sure to be mesmerized.

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10. Coimbatore to Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu

Another one of the best road trips in South India within the state of Tamil Nadu. A promised serene trip crossing through Pollachi and Pazhani. You can drop by Valapari also within the journey. You will love the pleasant view around, especially the coconut trees. The destination spot Kodaikanal is a wondrous place with gushing waterfalls, caves, dense hills and a misty atmosphere.

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11. Chennai to Yelagiri in Tamil Nadu 

One more to add to your list of the best road trips in South India. The journey is indeed picturesque with the quaint hamlets, stunning valleys and the sensational views of the mountains. The entire route is filled with nature’s bountiful beauty and you can feel the vibes of peace reigning through the heart, a perfect ride to rejuvenate oneself.  You can go for a boat ride in the Yelagiri lake. And if you love adventure and have sufficient time to trek then do not miss venturing into the trails of Swamimalai Hills. Another tourist attraction that you can stop by while on the journey is Kanchipuram.

If you are really planning for a road trip and want to explore the breathtaking views of the southern states of India, then just pack up, book a cab or rent a cab or carry on with your car for a drive into the core of Mother Nature.

12. Kochi to Munnar in Kerala 

One is a heaven for beaches and that is Kochi, and the other is a paradise for hills and that is Munnar. Imagine a road trip between these places, a splendid transition. And the best part is you can opt for this road trip with your car or your bike. It’s perfectly doable by both. The tea and coffee plantations, the majestic mountains, the sea views, the lighthouses, the churches, the temples, and many more serve a delightful treat to the entire journey.

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13. Bengaluru to Chikmagalur in Karnataka

Every state in South India offers a mix of experience and Karnataka is not an exception. The trip from Bengaluru to Chikmagalur is thrilling in its entirety. You will love the mountain trails, winding roads along the hills, a perfect adventurous ride to experience. Yet you won’t feel the tiredness, nature’s charming beauty being the medicine for being fresh.

14. Hyderabad to Hampi in Karnataka

If you love history, then the trip to Hampi will be the perfect road trip for you. Witnessing the ancient ruins and driving past it is indeed an adventure to remember. Over and above, do not forget to drive along the roads in the evening and stop by a viewpoint to watch the beauty of the sunset.

15. Bengaluru to Gokarna and even to Goa

A long and interesting trip to Goa from Bengaluru. You can end at Gokarna or continue up to Goa. The majestic Western Ghats, and the golden beaches along the coast of the Arabian Sea are the specialties of this trip. It’s a wonderful rendezvous of vivacity of nature which you must experience. The best part being the thrill behind this trip, which you will love at every moment.

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16. Chennai to Munnar

Both very popular tourist spots, one being a busy city with beaches and temples, and another being tranquil within the hills. The transformation of experience witnessed during this road trip is indeed an adventure. You can go for trekking, hikin,g and some wildlife photography to add more spice to the journey.

While opting for the above road trips, be mindful of packing the right gears and travel essentials for a safe ride.

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If you love adventure and want to explore it ruggedly, then you must check out the most adventurous and best road trips in South India. The roads are a bit rough yet thrilling. The view is awesome and spectacular, a perfect combination of excitement and fun. Here are some of the most action-packed tours to venture into South India

Tips for planning a safe and smooth road trip

1. You must switch on your Google map and follow the route cautiously to avoid any detour as it eats up your time and delays the whole journey
2. Keep a track of the sight-seeing spots within the trip and do not miss out the attractions
3. Carry water bottles, juices, and sufficient food, as you may not find good shops during the journey
4. Medicine kit and emergency medical kit are a must to keep in your vehicle.
5. Have your vehicle thoroughly examined before starting a road trip to avoid any surprises in the middle of the journey
6. Keep some buffer to mingle with the locals
7. Check out some of the local cuisine and beverages
8. If it’s a long trip, plan for contingency by stopping over in a hotel or a homestay. Do not overstress if you are driving.
9. Be mindful to stop the vehicle if you feel sleepy or tired.
10. Carry mobile chargers, power cables, and other necessary electronic devices required for the journey
11. If you want to hike or trek in between the trip, ensure to carry the appropriate gear for it
12. Check out the weather forecast while starting from any destination.

Hope, by now, you have been able to list down your preferred road trips which you will love to explore in South India. Plan your trip well and you will surely have a wonderful experience.