10,000 KM Road Trip Across India: A Family Adventure: A family of three, one car, and 10,000 kilometers. This was our dream come true. Our journey across India took us two months to complete, and it became more than just a trip—it became a passion. We embraced the roads, the diverse cultures, and the stunning landscapes India has to offer, making memories that will last a lifetime.
After our 9,000 km road trip in 2020, when the pandemic lockdowns were lifted, we were ready for another adventure. That trip introduced us to new people, cuisines, cultures, and places. It ignited our passion for traveling and made us realize how much we wanted to explore the diverse beauty of our country. While many of us long to travel, life’s many challenges often hold us back, but this time, we decided to make our dreams a reality.
Why We Chose This Road Trip
We had always wanted to experience snow, something we had never encountered before. So, we set our sights on Manali. Little did we know that this journey would offer so much more. Among the highlights of the trip was the Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest tunnel above 10,000 feet, which was on our bucket list.
We had also dreamed of visiting Leh-Ladakh for years, but due to snowfall, we hadn’t made it past Darcha, a village in Himachal Pradesh. Our goal was to finally reach Leh, and the road ahead promised to be filled with adventure.
The Route: A Journey Across 11 States
Our journey began in Chennai, and over the course of two months, we covered some of the most beautiful and culturally rich places in India. Here’s the route we followed:
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Chennai -> Hyderabad -> Nagpur -> Jabalpur -> Jhansi -> Gwalior
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Manali -> Atal Tunnel -> Jispa -> Darcha -> Rohtang Pass
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Katra, Jammu -> Amritsar -> Bikaner -> Jaisalmer
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Rann of Kutch -> Pune -> Goa -> Chennai
We crossed through 11 states, each offering something unique. From the mountains of Himachal Pradesh to the deserts of Rajasthan and the vibrant culture of Gujarat, we witnessed India in all its glory.
Key Highlights of Our Road Trip
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Atal Tunnel: The Atal Tunnel, a marvel of engineering, was one of the most exciting stops on our journey. Located above 10,000 feet, it is the longest tunnel at such a high altitude. The experience of traveling through it was unforgettable.
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Leh-Ladakh: Although we couldn’t make it to Leh in our previous trip, this time, we reached Rohtang Pass and continued our journey north. The beauty of Leh-Ladakh and the rugged terrain left us in awe.
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Rann of Kutch: The Rann of Kutch, a salt desert, was another incredible destination. We visited during the Rann Utsav, experiencing the cultural festival and the beauty of the vast white desert. The experience was magical, with local handicrafts, traditional dances, and stunning views of the desert.
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Desert Adventures in Rajasthan: From Jaisalmer to Bikaner, the golden sand dunes and historic forts took us back in time. Rajasthan’s royal history was visible in every corner, from the intricate carvings of forts to the colorful markets.
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The Beaches of Goa and Chennai: After a long stretch of mountains and deserts, we reached the beautiful beaches of Goa and Chennai. The coastal towns offered relaxation and a break from the long drives.
Conclusion: A Road Trip of a Lifetime
This 10,000 km road trip across India not only fulfilled our desire to travel but also brought us closer as a family. It reminded us that no matter how challenging life gets, there’s always an adventure waiting if we step out of our comfort zones.
Traveling across India gave us the opportunity to experience its diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and, most importantly, the warmth and hospitality of its people. From the snow-capped mountains of the north to the golden deserts of the west and the serene beaches of the south, our journey was a reflection of the rich tapestry of India.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone looking to embark on your first road trip, India offers endless possibilities. Our journey was proof that with a family, a car, and a dream, you can truly discover the beauty of the world around you.
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