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Chandigarh, the city known for its immaculate urban planning and serene beauty, is a lot more fun, especially if you enjoy exploring unique getaway experiences. Exploring Chandigarh in itself is fun but what adds to it is the culturally rich road trips in Northern India. The strategic location of this city close to nearby hill stations warrants for an amazing getaway experience. So, the next time you are in Chandigarh and have a few days to spare, plan one of the best road trips from Chandigarh for the ultimate fun.
10 Road Trips From Chandigarh
Depending on your preferences, there are numerous road trips from Chandigarh that you can enjoy:
1. Chandigarh To Shimla
Photo: Naman Pandey / Unsplash
The road trip from Chandigarh to Shimla is arguably one of the most popular among city dwellers and tourists alike. Getting to drive through the winding mountain roads and surrounding majestic hills makes Shimla a place worth visiting. The cool and crisp air of Chandigarh also makes it a place worth adding to your travel plans. Shimla, often called the “Queen of Hills,” is known for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and scenic viewpoints. Upon your arrival, you can immerse yourself in the iconic spots like the Mall Road and the Ridge.
Distance: 111 km
Travel Time: 3 – 4 hours
Must-See Attractions: The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, and Kufri
2. Chandigarh To Manali
Photo: Vinay Jilowa / Unsplash
For adventure enthusiasts, especially during the winter months, the trip from Chandigarh to Manali is one of the absolute best experiences. Passing through beautiful valleys, apple orchards, and river streams, this route is a visual treat. Once you reach Manali, prepare to indulge in different adventure activities like paragliding, trekking, and river rafting, all adding to the fun. The nearby Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass are major attractions, where one can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and more. If you love serenity, head to the nearby Beas River to soak in the lush green surroundings.
Distance: 269 km
Travel Time: 7 – 8 hours
Must-See Attractions: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, and Vashisht Hot Springs
3. Chandigarh To Kasol
Kasol offers a tranquil escape to the Parvati River, so if you are in the mood for unwinding and relaxing, a road trip from Chandigarh to Kasol is a must. Kasol has become a haven for backpackers and the youth who enjoy impromptu plans and a rustic travel experience. The drive takes you along the winding roads of Himachal, through forests and by the side of the roaring Parvati River, which flows to the town. Once you reach Kasol, start with strolls and then head to the nearby villages of Tosh and Chalal to immerse yourself in the local communities and their lives. Don’t miss out on the local cafes and bakeries too.
Distance: 250 km
Travel Time: 7 – 8 hours
Must-See Attractions: Parvati River, Manikaran Sahib, Chalal Village, Tosh Village, and Kheer Ganga Trek
4. Chandigarh To Dharamshala
Photo: Sridhar Rao / Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking to reconnect with nature and immerse in a spiritual retreat, a road trip from Chandigarh to Dharamshala could be the answer. The drive itself is a visual treat, passing through valleys, small towns, and lush forests. Dharamshala is renowned for being the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile, so that’s your first stop of exploration. While there, head to McLeod Ganj to learn about Tibetan culture by visiting monasteries like Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang Complex. The Triund trek is a must-do activity for trekkers, too.
Distance: 237 km
Travel Time: 5 – 6 hours
Must-See Attractions: McLeod Ganj, Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Waterfall, Triund Trek, and Tsuglagkhang Complex
5. Chandigarh To Amritsar
A road trip from Chandigarh to Amritsar is a journey that you have to explore the next time you are in Punjab. Amritsar is termed as the “spiritual heart of Sikhism” and home to the world-renowned Golden Temple. Stepping inside this city truly radiates peace and tranquillity. When in Amritsar, you also have to visit the Jallianwala Bagh complex to get a glimpse into the dark day of April 13, 1919, when British troops killed freedom fighters by open firing on them. Ensure to experience the Wagah Border ceremony that showcases camaraderie and patriotism.
Distance: 226 km
Travel Time: 4 – 5 hours
Must-See Attractions: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, Partition Museum, and Gobindgarh Fort
6. Chandigarh To Jaipur
Photo: Annie Spratt / Unsplash
If you are up for an adventure and want a change of scenery, a road trip to Jaipur offers just that. The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur offers a look into the royal heritage and architectural grandeur of the city. The journey itself, though long, offers a glimpse of the changing landscape as you travel through the arid regions of Rajasthan. In Jaipur, your trip must include all the tourist highlights, including Amber Fort, which is located on top of a hill. You can also visit Maotha Lake and without a doubt, Hawa Mahal Jantar Mantar and Nahargarh Fort are an absolute must.
Distance: 573 km
Travel Time: 9 – 10 hours
Must-See Attractions: Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Nahargarh Fort
7. Chandigarh To Rishikesh
Photo: Guptaele / Wikimedia Commons
Called the “Yoga Capital of India,” Rishikesh is one of the nearest destinations from Chandigarh to embark on a road trip to. The drive to Rishikesh is filled with scenic views of the Shivalik Hills and the Ganges River. Once there, you can explore ancient ashrams, indulge in yoga and meditation sessions, or visit the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges that span the Ganges. For adventure enthusiasts, you can indulge in activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining. A trip down to Rishikesh is perfect if you are seeking some peace.
Distance: 203 km
Travel Time: 5 – 6 hours
Must-See Attractions: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, and Beatles Ashram
8. Chandigarh To Mussoorie
Photo: Being.the.traveller / Pexels
Another nearby road trip destination from Chandigarh that’s worth exploring is Mussoorie. The road trip from Chandigarh to Mussoorie takes you through Dehradun and winding mountain roads that lead to stunning vistas of the Garhwal Himalayas. Mussoorie is famous for its colonial-era architecture, mist-covered hills, and scenic viewpoints. There are numerous activities and tourist attractions to explore including the iconic Mall Road, Kempty Falls or take a walk along Camel’s Back Road. You can also plan a trip to Dhanaulti from Mussoorie.
Distance: 191 km
Travel Time: 5 – 6 hours
Must-See Attractions: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Mall Road, and Lal Tibba
9. Chandigarh To Spiti Valley
Photo: Timothy Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
For the adventurer in you, the road trip from Chandigarh to Spiti Valley is nothing short of an expedition. Located between India and Tibet, the beauty of Spiti Valley and the road trip journey to this place is a one-of-a-kind experience. The drive itself is filled with treacherous roads, but the scenery makes it all worthwhile. You will pass through snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and barren desert-like landscapes. You can start your exploration at Key and Tabo monasteries, which are reportedly a thousand years old. Also, Chandra Taal and Suraj Taal are must-visit spots.
Distance: 445 km
Travel Time: 12 – 14 hours
Must-See Attractions: Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Chandra Taal, Suraj Taal, and Kibber Village
10. Chandigarh To Nainital
Photo: Supratik Deshmukh / Unsplash
Another fun and long road trip experience that you can set out on from Chandigarh is to Nainital. The drive itself is a pleasure as you pass through picturesque landscapes and small towns that reflect the natural beauty of the region. The beauty of Nainital is best explored at the emerald-green Naini Lake, which is surrounded by seven hills. You can enjoy boating on the lake, explore the Naina Devi Temple, or take a cable car ride to Snow View Point for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Ensure to explore the local evening markets in Nainital to pick up handmade woollens, candles, and local produce.
Distance: 442 km
Travel Time: 9 – 10 hours
Must-See Attractions: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top, and Nainital Zoo
Road trips from Chandigarh are fun and abundant. Depending on your budget and the kind of experiences you want to indulge in along the way, there are several nearby destinations that you can set out on. Each destination has something unique to offer. Be it the cultural heritage in Jaipur or the adventure activities in Manali, you get to experience them all. So, without any further delay, book your experience with TripXL for a perfect mix of exploration, adventure, and relaxation.
Cover Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
