As August and September roll in, so do a string of long weekends that offer the perfect opportunity to break away from the routine. If you’re eyeing an unforgettable getaway without hopping on a flight, road trips are your best bet. Whether you’re chasing mountain air, coastal serenity, or lush greenery, these Long Weekend Drives 2025 will recharge your spirit. Here are the Best road trips in India to plan for August-September 2025.
1. Delhi to Spiti Valley: High Altitude Adventure
If you have a long weekend plus a day or two to spare, Spiti Valley is a surreal escape. This drive through Himachal Pradesh is dotted with dramatic mountain passes, Buddhist monasteries, and stark desert landscapes. Starting from Delhi, you can travel via Shimla or Manali, depending on road conditions.
Highlights:
- Stopover in Narkanda, Kalpa, and Tabo
- Visit Key Monastery and Chandratal Lake
- Drive through Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass
Distance: Approx. 740 km (Delhi to Kaza)
Best Time: August-end to early September (before snowfall begins)
2. Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar: Monsoon Bliss
For those based in Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is a time-tested favorite. The Western Ghats are lush and vibrant during this season. The winding roads, misty valleys, and strawberry farms offer a scenic, relaxing experience ideal for a three-day weekend.
Highlights:
- Venna Lake boating
- Sunrise at Wilson Point
- Stop by Panchgani en route
Distance: Approx. 260 km
Best Time: Throughout August and September
3. Bangalore to Wayanad: Nature Meets Culture
One of the most scenic Long Weekend Drives 2025, this route winds through the dense forests of Karnataka and Kerala. Wayanad offers a beautiful blend of waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and spice plantations.
Highlights:
- Visit Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Falls
- Trek to Chembra Peak
- Explore Banasura Sagar Dam
Distance: Approx. 280 km
Best Time: August to mid-September
4. Chennai to Pondicherry: Coastal Charm
A classic drive along the East Coast Road (ECR), this short but delightful route is perfect for a spontaneous escape. The journey is smooth, scenic, and filled with coastal breezes. Pondicherry offers colonial architecture, French cuisine, and peaceful beaches.
Highlights:
- Stop at Mahabalipuram temples
- Enjoy Auroville and Paradise Beach
- Explore cafes and bakeries with French influence
Distance: Approx. 160 km
Best Time: Late August to September (post-monsoon freshness)
5. Guwahati to Tawang: Northeast Expedition
This one’s for the adventurers. Tawang, in Arunachal Pradesh, is a hidden gem that demands both courage and curiosity. The drive from Guwahati is long but spectacular, especially as the monsoon subsides.
Highlights:
- Cross Sela Pass at 13,700 ft
- Visit Tawang Monastery, India’s largest
- Spot waterfalls and alpine forests
Distance: Approx. 520 km
Best Time: September
Pro Tips for Long Weekend Drives 2025
- Plan early: Book accommodations in advance as long weekends can get crowded.
- Vehicle prep: Ensure your car is road-trip ready with tire checks, fuel, and essential supplies.
- Download offline maps: Connectivity may drop in remote areas.
- Pack light but smart: Include a first-aid kit, torch, and rain gear.
FAQs on Long Weekend Road Trips 2025
Q1. Are these road trips safe for solo travelers?
Yes, but it’s advisable to inform someone about your travel plan, especially in remote areas like Spiti or Tawang.
Q2. How to check if a route is open or blocked due to weather?
Use live traffic apps like Google Maps and follow regional weather updates and travel advisories.
Q3. Which is the most budget-friendly trip among the list?
Chennai to Pondicherry is the most affordable with minimal travel costs and plenty of budget stay options.
Q4. What’s the best way to find offbeat spots during a road trip?
Connect with local hosts, use platforms like Tripoto or Google Local Guides, and avoid the main highways when possible.
Q5. Can I rent a car for these trips if I don’t own one?
Absolutely. Self-drive rental services like Zoomcar and Revv operate in most major cities.
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