10 Most Scenic Bus Routes in India
India’s diverse geography makes it one of the most scenic countries to travel through, and bus journeys offer an immersive way to experience its beauty.
From high-altitude mountain passes to lush coastal roads and desert landscapes, each route has something unique to offer. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or someone who simply enjoys long drives, these 10 most scenic bus routes in India will take you through some of India’s most stunning scenery.
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1. Manali to Leh (Himachal Pradesh – Ladakh)
Distance: 427 km
Best Time to Travel: June to September
This is one of the most thrilling and scenic bus journeys in India, taking you through some of the highest mountain passes in the world.
The road from Manali to Leh is known for its challenging terrain, but the breathtaking views make it worthwhile. As you travel through Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La, you’ll witness dramatic landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, vast barren valleys, and deep gorges.
The sudden change in scenery—from lush green hills in Manali to the cold desert of Ladakh—makes this route a dream for adventure lovers.
2. Munnar to Thekkady (Kerala)
Distance: 85 km
Best Time to Travel: September to March
This short but scenic route offers a glimpse of Kerala’s enchanting landscapes. The journey from Munnar to Thekkady takes you through rolling tea gardens, spice plantations, and mist-covered hills.
As you move closer to Thekkady, the terrain becomes dense with forests, eventually leading to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, tigers, and exotic birds. This route is perfect for those who love nature and want to experience the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
3. Guwahati to Tawang (Assam – Arunachal Pradesh)
Distance: 520 km
Best Time to Travel: March to May, September to November
This is one of the most picturesque yet challenging bus journeys in Northeast India. Starting from the plains of Assam, the road gradually ascends into the Himalayas, passing through deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and snow-covered peaks.
The highlight of this route is the Sela Pass (13,700 ft), a high-altitude mountain pass covered in snow for most of the year. Along the way, you’ll see Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and crystal-clear lakes reflecting the mountains.
4. Chennai to Puducherry (East Coast Road, Tamil Nadu)
Distance: 155 km
Best Time to Travel: October to March
If you enjoy coastal drives, the East Coast Road (ECR) is one of the most scenic routes in South India. Running along the Bay of Bengal, this highway offers stunning ocean views, fishing villages, and historic sites.
The drive is smooth and relaxing, with frequent glimpses of the beach and waves crashing onto the shore. Popular stops along the way include the ancient rock carvings of Mahabalipuram and the charming seaside town of Puducherry, known for its French colonial architecture and cafes.
5. Shimla to Kinnaur (Himachal Pradesh)
Distance: 250 km
Best Time to Travel: April to October
For those who love mountains, this route offers a dramatic and awe-inspiring journey through the Himalayas. The road follows the Sutlej River, with cliffs on one side and steep drop-offs on the other.
The Hindustan-Tibet Road, often considered one of the most dangerous yet beautiful roads in India, adds to the excitement. As you approach Kinnaur, you’ll pass through pine forests, apple orchards, and remote villages with traditional wooden houses.
6. Bangalore to Ooty (Karnataka – Tamil Nadu)
Distance: 270 km
Best Time to Travel: September to June
A classic hill station journey, this route is famous for its 36 hairpin bends, each offering a different perspective of the Nilgiri Hills. The road climbs steadily, revealing dense forests, waterfalls, and lush tea plantations.
The cool mountain breeze and misty surroundings make this a refreshing escape from the city. As you near Ooty, you’ll be greeted by vast stretches of green tea estates and colonial-era charm.
7. Mumbai to Goa (Maharashtra – Goa)
Distance: 600 km
Best Time to Travel: October to February
A favorite among travelers, this route offers a mix of lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Arabian Sea.
There are two main routes—one along the NH66 coastal highway, which provides stunning sea views, and another via NH48 through the Western Ghats, known for its scenic mountain passes. This journey is perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back yet picturesque drive.
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8. Siliguri to Darjeeling (West Bengal)
Distance: 80 km
Best Time to Travel: March to June, September to December
One of the most beautiful routes in Eastern India, this road takes you from the plains of Siliguri to the cool heights of Darjeeling.
The route winds through tea gardens, misty mountains, and dense pine forests, offering occasional views of the majestic Kanchenjunga range. The famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway runs parallel to the road, adding a nostalgic touch to the journey.
9. Rishikesh to Badrinath (Uttarakhand)
Distance: 300 km
Best Time to Travel: May to October
A spiritual and scenic journey, this route follows the Ganges River through the Himalayas. The winding roads offer spectacular views of deep valleys, fast-flowing rivers, and snow-capped peaks.
The journey is especially beautiful in the early morning when the rising sun bathes the mountains in golden light. Badrinath, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, is the final destination, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
10. Jaipur to Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)
Distance: 560 km
Best Time to Travel: October to March
For those who love desert landscapes, this journey through the Thar Desert is unforgettable. The golden sand dunes, traditional Rajasthani villages, and historic forts create a unique atmosphere.
During sunrise and sunset, the desert takes on a surreal glow, making the journey even more magical. Jaisalmer, the “Golden City,” with its iconic sandstone fort, is the perfect end to this scenic road trip.
Bus journeys in India offer an incredible way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, from the towering Himalayas to serene beaches and vast deserts. Whether you’re looking for adventure, tranquility, or a cultural experience, these routes provide some of the most scenic and memorable road trips.
