These Are the Most Scenic Highways in India — So Stunning, You’ll Want to Skip Flights and Just Drive

From misty mountains to coastal charm and ultra-smooth expressways, India’s highways are redefining the joy of road trips. Thanks to rapid infrastructure growth, driving across states is now quicker, smoother, and far more scenic than ever. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a long-distance drive, these highways promise a journey as memorable as the destination itself. Here are seven of India’s most stunning highways that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list:

1. Mumbai–Pune Expressway, Maharashtra

India’s first expressway, this 6-lane stretch connects Mumbai and Pune in just about 2.5 hours. Surrounded by the lush Sahyadri hills, the drive becomes especially magical during the monsoon, with waterfalls and fog-kissed landscapes near Lonavala. Bonus: countless roadside joints serving piping hot vada pav and chai.

2. Yamuna Expressway, Uttar Pradesh

This 165-km expressway linking Delhi and Agra is a favorite for its seamless, straight drive and high-speed limits (with cameras to keep you in check). Reach the Taj Mahal in under three hours while cruising past vast farmlands and solar fields, with multiple service stops en route.

3. Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway, Karnataka

Cut travel time from over 3 hours to just 75 minutes on this newly built expressway. The road runs through green countryside, coffee shops, and heritage stops like Srirangapatna — making it perfect for both speed and sightseeing.

4. Pamban Bridge (NH 49), Tamil Nadu

Connecting the mainland to Rameswaram Island, this stretch over the sea is nothing short of cinematic. With water flanking both sides of the flat road, the drive across Pamban Bridge feels like floating above the ocean — a must-do for every road tripper.

5. East Coast Road (Chennai to Pondicherry), Tamil Nadu

Stretching along the Bay of Bengal, the East Coast Road is loved for its calm ocean views, salty breeze, and winding pine-lined stretches. It’s one of the most relaxing and photogenic drives in India, perfect for a coastal weekend escape.

6. Samruddhi Mahamarg (Mumbai–Nagpur Expressway), Maharashtra

This massive 700-km expressway connects two of Maharashtra’s major cities, passing through forests, farmlands, and tunnels — even including dedicated wildlife crossings. Built for high-speed, scenic travel, it’s a marvel of modern engineering and comfort.

7. Lucknow–Agra Expressway, Uttar Pradesh

This 302-km stretch stands out not only for its smooth ride through rural heartlands but also for its unique feature — a 3-km airstrip used by the Indian Air Force. It links up with the Yamuna Expressway, offering an uninterrupted journey straight to Agra.

So the next time you’re planning a trip, skip the flight and take the wheel — these Indian highways are built for experiences, not just travel.