How Many Days Will It Take to Travel the Entire India by Car?
Traveling the entire India by car can vary significantly based on your route, speed, and stops. Here are some factors to consider to plan your perfect road trip across this vast and diverse nation.
Distance and Route
India is the 7th largest and 2nd most populous country in the world, making it a land of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and numerous attractions. The country stretches approximately 3,000 km (1,864 miles) from north to south and around 2,500 km (1,553 miles) from east to west. This vast expanse means that covering major cities and attractions could easily exceed 7,000 km (4,350 miles) or more, depending on your chosen route.
Driving Speed and Duration
Assuming an average driving speed of 50 km/h (31 mph) on highways, you could cover approximately 500 km (310 miles) in a day, factoring in time for breaks and rest. This suggests that a focused drive across India could take around 14 to 20 days. However, this calculation does not account for the inevitable delays and the wide range of driving conditions throughout the country.
Stops and Sightseeing
If you plan to explore various cities, cultural sites, and natural attractions, the trip could take much longer. Depending on your route and how much time you spend in different locations, the duration could range from 4 to 6 weeks or even more. Major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai offer numerous cultural and historical sites, while smaller towns and villages provide a glimpse into traditional Indian life.
Factors Influencing the Trip Duration
Several factors can influence the duration of your India road trip:
Route Selection: Certain regions, such as the north, have shorter distances and more favorable road conditions compared to the south, which may require more winding roads and less optimized infrastructure. Driving Speed: The speed at which you choose to drive will significantly impact the total travel time. Slower speeds for sightseeing or in less developed areas will naturally extend the trip duration. Time Spent in Each Location: If you plan to spend more time in each destination to explore local culture, try the local cuisine, or engage in leisure activities, the trip will naturally take longer. Seasonal Weathers and Events: Different regions have varying climates, and specific seasons may impose driving restrictions or limit your ability to travel certain routes. Additionally, major events and festivals may also prolong your trip.A Sample Itinerary
To give you a better idea, here’s a sample itinerary for a 20-day road trip: Day 1-2: Delhi - Agra - Jaipur Explore the Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, and Lotus Temple in Delhi Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra Discover the picturesque streets of Jaipur and visit the Hawa Mahal and City Palace Day 3-4: Jaipur - Udaipur Drive through the Aravalli Hills to witness stunning natural scenery Explore Udaipur's Lake Palace and City Palace Day 5-7: Udaipur to Ranthambore Visit Ranthambore National Park for wildlife spotting Enjoy jeep safaris and tiger watching Day 8-11: Ranthambore to Jaipur via Jodhpur Admire the stunning Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur Drive through the desert regions and enjoy the scenic landscapes Day 12-14: Jaipur to Agra via Varanasi Experience the spiritual essence of Varanasi Visit Varanasi Ghats and enjoy river boat rides Day 15-17: Varanasi to Kolkata via Cooch Behar Explore the stunning Cooch Behar Palace Drive through lush landscapes and dense forests Day 18-20: Kolkata - Home Explore the iconic landmarks of Kolkata such as the Victoria Memorial and Park Street Enjoy the vibrant culture and food scene
While this itinerary covers many of the major attractions in central and northern India, it is just a starting point. You can adapt and expand it based on your interests and the amount of time you plan to spend in each location.
Conclusion
In summary, a focused drive across India could take around 2 to 3 weeks, but for a more leisurely journey with sightseeing, you might consider planning for 4 to 6 weeks or more. No matter the duration of your trip, ensure you plan ahead, respect local customs, and enjoy every moment of this incredible journey through the heart and soul of India.