Road trips are a fun of their own, and the experience becomes even more special when the journey starts from Chandigarh. The city is famous for its clean roads and smooth connectivity, from where you can easily cover some of the most scenic and heritage spots of North India. Whether you want to plan a short day trip, take a relaxing weekend escape or go on a long adventurous drive, Chandigarh offers all the options. Road trips from Chandigarh are available from short spiritual getaways of 40 km to long heritage routes of up to 550 km. Each route has its own distinct charm, like at some places you get the natural beauty of green hills and at some places the cultural feel of ancient temples and forts. The best part is that you can choose a road trip as per your mood and time, and with every drive, you get a new experience. So, pack your bags, start your engines and choose your best road trip from Chandigarh today!
Quick One-Day Road Trips (< 150 km)
You can easily plan short drives from Chandigarh. The city is situated against the stunning backdrop of the Shivalik range, allowing travellers to enjoy the beautiful locations nearby. Whether you are planning a one-day road trip from Chandigarh or a long trip, the city offers you several options to choose from.
Morni Hills: If you are looking for a peaceful short escape, then Morni Hills is a perfect option. It is approximately 45 km from Chandigarh, and the drive takes 1.5 hours. The road is smooth and full of greenery, which makes the drive scenic. Here you can explore the beauty of trekking trails and Tikkar Taal lakes. The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Parwanoo: Just 35 km away from Chandigarh, Parwanoo is a small hill town that takes about 1 hour to reach. The road is winding but well-maintained, and the route goes between the mountains, which makes the drive extremely enjoyable. The Timber Trail cable car is the most famous attraction here. The best season to visit is summer and monsoon, when the hill town is filled with greenery.
Kasauli: Kasauli is a calm cantonment town 60km from Chandigarh that takes about 2 hours to reach. The road is narrow, but the drive is quite beautiful with pine trees all around. Mall Road, Monkey Point and Gilbert Trail are popular spots. It is very beautiful here in winter, especially December–February, with chilly weather and is a relaxing retreat in the summers too.
Barog: Barog is 65 km from Chandigarh, and the road trip takes around 2 hours. The road is smooth and curvy, offering amazing views of the hills. This is a quiet hill station from where the sunsets look very mesmerizing. It feels very good here in both the summer and monsoon seasons, but it becomes a bit cold in winter.
Solan: Solan is famous as the "Mushroom City of India" and is 68 km from Chandigarh. The drive is 2 hours, and the journey is smooth and fast on the NH5 highway. Sholini Mata Mandir and Solan Brewery are worth visiting here. The best season to visit is from March to October when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Nahan: Nahan is a less-crowded hill town, which is 85 km from Chandigarh and takes 2.5 hours to reach. The road is hilly, but the view of greenery and mountains makes the driving experience worth it. Rani Tal and Renuka Lake are the highlights of this place. The best time is every season except winter, as the climate is generally mild.
Shimla: Shimla is 112 km away from Chandigarh. You can easily travel from Chandigarh to Shimla by cab and reach in 3.5-4 hours. The road is winding and a little busy, but the views are breathtaking. Known as the Queen of Hills, Shimla Mall Road is best for Jakhoo Temple and the Ridge. Shimla shows its charm in both summer and winter seasons – a cool escape in summer and a snow paradise in winter.
Kufri: Near Shimla, Kufri is 130 km from Chandigarh, and the road trip takes around 4 hours. The road is a little steep and curvy, but the mountain views and apple orchards make the entire route memorable. Kufri is popular for adventure sports and snowfall. December to February is the best season for snow lovers, and people come here to enjoy the cool weather in summer as well.
Chail: Chail is 105 km from Chandigarh and is a 3-hour drive. The road is forested and peaceful, which makes the journey an adventure. Chail Palace and the highest cricket ground are quite famous attractions here. Chail is a refreshing getaway in summer and looks even more beautiful in the monsoon with the greenery.
Weekend Escape Road Trips (150–300 km)
For weekend road trips from Chandigarh, tourists can choose from the serene hill station of Manali to the spiritual dive into the ghats of Rishikesh. Every site will offer you a new experience that is unique and authentic to the destination. If you are planning a Chandigarh weekend drive, choosing among the following is a great option.
Manali: If you want to combine mountains and adventure, then the Chandigarh to Manali road trip is the best option. The distance is approximately 300 km, and the travel time takes 8-9 hours. The roads are mostly smooth with a mix of highway stretches and some hilly turns near the Kullu valley. The Beas River and lush green mountains appear quite scenic during the journey. The best season is May to June and October to February, when there is either greenery or the charm of snowfall.
Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj: Chandigarh to Dharamshala distance is around 250 km, which is covered in 6–7 hours. The road condition is decent with a combination of highway and mountain curves. Tibetan vibes, monasteries and tea gardens attract here. McLeod Ganj's hilltop view and cafes add the perfect weekend vibe. The best time to visit is March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.
Kasol: If you want an offbeat and chilled vibe, then a road trip to Kasol is absolutely perfect. It is 270 km away from Chandigarh and takes approximately 8 hours to drive. The roads are narrow and winding, especially near Parvati Valley, but the views are next level with the river flowing side by side. This trip is quite popular among young travellers and backpackers. The best time is May to June and September to October when one gets the best experience of trekking and camping.
Mussoorie: The distance from Chandigarh to Mussoorie is approximately 200 km, and it takes 6-7 hours to drive. The route mostly consists of smooth highways, and winding hill roads start in the last stretch. The speciality of this trip is the Doon Valley and mountain views, which attract every traveller. The best time is March to June and December for winter, when one can also experience snowfall.
Lansdowne: If you want a peaceful hill station without much crowd, then Lansdowne is an amazing weekend option. It is 250 km away from Chandigarh, which can be covered in around 7 hours. The roads are quite smooth, and driving through the pine forests gives a relaxing experience. The charm of peace and natural beauty here is different. The best season is October to March for cool weather and May-June for relaxation in summer.
Rishikesh: If you want to mix spirituality and adventure, then the Chandigarh to Rishikesh road trip is perfect. The distance is 200 km and is covered in around 5-6 hours. The highway route is quite smooth, and the feeling of reaching the banks of the Ganga in the end is unique. Here, everything like river rafting, yoga and Ganga aarti is available at one place. The best season for adventure activities is September to November and March to May.
Delhi: If you want a city vibe weekend, then the Chandigarh to Delhi drive is easy and fun. The distance is 250 km and the travel time is 4-5 hours via the NH44 expressway, which is quite smooth and fast. The highway dhabas and food joints during the trip make the trip even more exciting. There are endless options for culture, food and shopping in Delhi. The best season for exploring is October to March when the weather is pleasant.
Getaway to Hill Stations (300–600 km)
Chandigarh is also the starting point for several beautiful hill stations of the Himalaya. You can easily plan your hill station road trip from Chandigarh at your own pace by taking a cab service from Chandigarh. A road trip to these destinations offers you a wonderful experience that is full of luxurious stays, serene sightseeing and spiritual detours.
Dalhousie: Dalhousie is a perfect hill station to go for a road trip from Chandigarh, which is approximately 315 km away, and it takes around 6 to 7 hours to reach there. The road is mostly smooth, but as the hills start, there are some winding and sharp turns. During the drive, one gets to see lush green valleys and pine forests, which make the journey even more memorable. The best season to visit Dalhousie is from March to June or from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the crowd is manageable.
Khajjiar: Khajjiar is around 320 km away from Chandigarh, and the drive takes approximately 7 hours. It is also called the Mini Switzerland of India because of its green meadows and surrounding cedar forests. The road is a little narrow and curved, but the scenic appeal is so strong that one does not feel tired. The Chandigarh to Khajjiar trip is best for those travellers who want to relax amidst nature. The best seasons here are the summer months and early winters when one gets the perfect combo of both greenery and clear skies.
Kullu: Chandigarh to Kullu drive is a popular route, which is 270 km and takes approximately 7 to 8 hours. The road is mostly on NH3, which is well maintained, but the riverside hairpin bends feel quite exciting and adventurous. The view of snow-capped peaks along with the Beas River is unforgettable in scenic beauty. The best time for a Kullu road trip is May to June and September to October when the weather remains cool and pleasant.
Palampur: Palampur is around 255 km away from Chandigarh, and the drive takes 6 to 7 hours. This place is famous for its tea gardens and views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. The road conditions are smooth, and the winding turns are moderate, which makes the driving easy and comfortable. The Chandigarh to Palampur road trip is best for those who want to spend time amidst peace and greenery. The best season to visit here is March to June and September to November.
Spiti Valley: Spiti Valley is approximately 500 km away from Chandigarh, and the drive is long, which can take 12 to 14 hours depending on stopovers. Road conditions are a bit challenging with narrow passes and rugged terrain, but the scenery is so surreal that it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every traveller. High altitude desert, monasteries and crystal clear skies make Spiti special. The best time for the Chandigarh to Spiti Valley road trip is from June to September when the roads are open and the weather is pleasant.
Kinnaur: Kinnaur Valley is around 335 km from Chandigarh, and the drive takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. The road is through NH5, which gives a mixed experience of tunnels, riverside tracks and mountain cliffs. The view of apple orchards and the Baspa River is the highlight of the scenic appeal. The Chandigarh to Kinnaur trip is best for those who want to taste both adventure and nature. The best season is from April to October.
Nainital: Chandigarh to Nainital road trip is around 485 km and takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. Roads are quite smooth with a mix of highways and hilly terrain near Uttarakhand. The scenic beauty of lakes, pine forests and misty hills has a different charm. This drive is considered perfect for family trips and couples getaways. The best time for the Chandigarh to Nainital road trip is March to June and then September to November.
Auli: Auli is around 500 km from Chandigarh, and the drive here takes about 10 to 12 hours. The road is mostly highway, but the last stretch has steep and winding hilly roads. The scenic beauty includes views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and lush green meadows. This place is best known for winter sports and skiing. The best season is December to February for snow lovers and April to June for trekking and sightseeing.
Almora: Almora is approximately 480 km away from Chandigarh, and the drive takes around 10 hours. The road is smooth with moderate curves, which do not make the driving tiring. The scenic beauty is a perfect blend of Kumaon hills, pine forests and cultural charm. The Chandigarh to Almora road trip is perfect for both cultural seekers and nature lovers. The best season to visit here is March to June and September to November when the weather is clear and pleasant.
Offbeat & Heritage Road Trips
If you are looking for offbeat or heritage road trips from Chandigarh, planning a trip to one of these destinations offers you a great experience. All these destinations are home to several distinct cultures and heritage activities that allow you to indulge in them to gain experience.
Kanatal: If you want an offbeat road trip from Chandigarh, then Kanatal is a great option. It is around 310 km away from Chandigarh, and the drive takes around 8-9 hours. Roads will be mostly hilly and winding, but the conditions are good. The scenic appeal is very amazing, where you will find pine and deodar jungles, snow-capped peaks and peaceful vibes. The best season here is from late September to March, when the cold and clear skies give you a refreshing feel.
Tirthan Valley: Chandigarh to Tirthan Valley distance is around 250 km, which takes approximately 7 hours. This road trip is a bit adventurous as there is a combo of mountains and riverside roads. The scenic beauty looks like a postcard with lush greenery, the Tirthan River and apple orchards being the highlights. If you want to do an offbeat road trip from Chandigarh, then this valley is a perfect choice, especially between March and June and September and November.
Jibhi: Heritage road trip from Chandigarh to Jibhi is a hidden gem of Jibhi, which is approximately 270 km away and takes 7-8 hours to drive. Roads will be narrow and hilly but manageable. The scenic view of traditional Himachali wooden houses, waterfalls and thick forest will attract you. The best time is April to June and October to November when the weather is pleasant and the crowd is less.
Bir Billing: If you want to explore both adventure and culture together, then the Chandigarh to Bir Billing trip is a must-try. The distance is around 260 km, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. Roads are smooth and go with mountain curves. The scenic appeal is on a different level, as the valley and sunset views from here are mind-blowing. The best season is March to May and October to November, when the fun of paragliding also doubles.
Anandpur Sahib: Anandpur Sahib is perfect for a heritage road trip from Chandigarh, as it is just 90 km away and can be easily reached in 2 hours. The roads are wide and smooth, which makes the drive extremely comfortable. The background of the Shivalik hills and the heritage Gurudwara give a divine feel to the scenic beauty. The best season here is throughout the year, but going during the Hola Mohalla festival gives a different experience.
Rishikesh: Chandigarh to Rishikesh road trip is a mix of heritage and adventure. The distance is around 230 km, and the travel time is approximately 5–6 hours. Roads are mostly in plains, and then there is some hilly terrain. Ganga riverfront, ghats and mountains are the highlights of scenic charm. The best season is from October to April, when one gets the best experience of both rafting and spiritual vibes.
Haridwar: Chandigarh to Haridwar distance is approximately 200 km, which takes 4–5 hours. The road is smooth and in the plains, which makes it an easy drive. Holy Ganga, evening aarti and vibrant bazaar attract scenic appeal. This is an iconic destination for a heritage road trip. The best season is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
Amritsar: The real fun of culture and heritage can be experienced in the Chandigarh to Amritsar cab drive, which is around 230 km, and the drive takes approximately 4-5 hours. Roads are mostly absolutely smooth highways. Scenic highlights include lush fields, dhabas and the divine beauty of the Golden Temple. The best time is from October to March when the weather is cool and best for sightseeing.
Road Trip Planning Tips
If you are planning a Chandigarh road trip, then first of all, it is important to keep the timing in mind. The best season is usually from October to March because the weather is cool and comfortable. The highways become quite hot in summer, and the drive can feel tiring due to the heat. Delhi to Chandigarh is a distance of approximately 250 km which can be covered in 4.5 to 5 hours via NH44. The road is wide and smooth, and at some places you get scenic views of greenery and fields, which makes the journey relaxing.
Vehicle preparation should also be a top priority in road safety tips in India. Get your car or bike serviced, don’t forget to check the tyre pressure and leave after getting the fuel tank filled. There are toll booths on the route where fasting is a must; otherwise, time will be wasted in queues. Another point in Chandigarh road trip tips is that roadside dhabas and fuel pumps are easily available, but it is still best to carry water bottles and basic snacks.
For safety, avoid night driving and follow the speed limit. There are police patrolling on the highway, and overtaking should be done strictly as per the rules. Mobile coverage is mostly strong, but the network can be weak in some rural patches, so downloading offline maps will be helpful. Including a first aid kit, power bank, extra cash for tolls, and light jackets in packing essentials is a smart move.
Overall, if you prepare for the Chandigarh road trip in the right way, then the journey will be smooth and enjoyable.
Sample Road Trip Itineraries
Chandigarh is the epicenter of travel and tourism activity. If you are in Chandigarh, you don’t have to worry about the number of attractions and tourist sites; however, it becomes a bit difficult to choose from. There are lots of attractions that are perfect for a one-day trip to the weekend gateway. For you, we have curated two samples in India, one is for a day trip that takes you to Shimla, famous as “Queen of Hills”, and the other is to Manali, a wonderful hill station.
One-day: Chandigarh → Shimla → Dinner at Highway Dhaba → Return
If you are in the mood for a short break, then the Chandigarh to Shimla itinerary is the perfect option. The distance from Chandigarh to Shimla is approximately 115 km, and the drive takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. The road goes through NH5, which is mostly smooth, but there are some winding, hilly stretches as well, which make the drive more scenic. En route, one gets stunning views of pine forests and valleys, which make the trip memorable. For a one-day plan, you can start from Chandigarh in the morning and reach Shimla by afternoon. Enjoying a local mall road walk and quick sightseeing with a Car rental in Shimla is both comfortable and convenient. And ends your trip with dinner at an authentic highway dhaba on the return drive, making a perfect road trip experience. The best season for this itinerary is from March to June and September to November because the weather is pleasant and the hill drive is safe.
Weekend Hill Trip: Chandigarh → Manali (Stay) → Local Sight Early → Return
For those who want a refreshing weekend, the Chandigarh to Manali weekend hill trip plan is a popular choice. The distance is approximately 300 km, and the driving time takes 8 to 9 hours, depending on traffic. The road is via NH3, which is broad but gives an adventurous feel with its hilly turns. The scenic appeal here is of the highest level as the drive is along the Beas River, and the whole route looks like a postcard with the backdrop of the mountains. You can start from Chandigarh on Friday night or Saturday morning, reach Manali and stay there the same day. The next morning, it is possible to explore local sightseeing like Hadimba Temple and Mall Road, and return to Chandigarh on Sunday evening. The best season is from April to June or then October to February when the weather is cool and natural beauty is at its peak.
FAQs
1.When is best time to take a road trip from Chandigarh?
The most common question in the Chandigarh road trip FAQs is what the best time is. Generally, the weather from October to March is perfect for road trips because during this time the weather is pleasant and the heat is also less. If you are planning a trip to Himachal or Uttarakhand, then you can also get a chance to see snow. Summer months like April to June are also good, especially for hill stations, but it gets a bit hot in the plains.
2. Are these routes suitable for self-driving?
It is absolutely suitable for self-driving from Chandigarh. The highways from Chandigarh to destinations like Shimla, Manali or Amritsar are smooth and well-maintained. Distances usually range between 200 km and 300 km, and the average duration is 4 to 8 hours, depending on the destination. The scenic appeal is also quite awesome, like the route through the Shivalik hills, green valleys and local towns. If you are fond of driving, then you will find these routes quite enjoyable.
3. How safe are these routes at night?
Safe road trip from Chandigarh. One needs to be a little careful when driving at night. Highways like NH5 and NH44 are well-maintained and have streetlights, but mountain routes, especially on the Shimla or Manali side, can be dangerous due to fog and sharp turns at night. It is best to avoid night travel and drive in the morning or during the day so that you can enjoy the scenic views as well.
4. Accommodation options?
Accommodation options are easily available on every route. If you go on a road trip from Chandigarh, you can get everything from mid-budget hotels, homestays and luxury resorts. Kufri and Mashobra resorts are famous on the Shimla side, and river-side cottages are popular in Manali. If the short road trip is to the Amritsar or Patiala side, then affordable hotels and guest houses are also easily available near city centers.
5. What about fuel and toll costs?
Fuel and toll costs are the most important part of the Chandigarh road trip FAQs. Generally, if you plan a 250km to 300km round trip, the average cost can be around 2500 to 3500 INR, depending on petrol or diesel. Toll tax will be levied on major highways like the Chandigarh to Delhi expressway or the Shimla highway, where the toll is around 200 to 500 INR. This cost varies a little according to the vehicle type and route, but is overall manageable.
Road trips from Chandigarh always offer a unique experience which includes smooth highways, short getaways and long scenic drives. Whether you want to go to the side of the mountains or explore the green plains, each route here has its own distinct charm. The best part is that you can easily choose the km, travel duration and season as per your preference and make a perfect plan. Now don't delay and explore the best road trip from Chandigarh with ease and fun. Start your next Chandigarh road trip—bookmark this guide!
