The 1,400-kilometre journey from Mumbai, the west coast’s energetic megacity, to Delhi, the historical heart of India, is a journey etched in the memories of countless road warriors. So, the next time you plan a Mumbai to Delhi road trip, there’s a lot left to plan and unpack. It’s a voyage through diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and historical grandeur. But, above all, you get to drive through some of the most iconic tourist attractions, getting to make the most out of the travel experience. This guide will equip you with all the insights that you need to unfold about your road trip from Mumbai to Delhi.
Best Time To Plan A Road Trip From Mumbai To Delhi
When planning your journey from Mumbai to Delhi, one of the most crucial factors is the climate. You don’t want to make this journey when the weather outside is hot and uncomfortable. So, it’s not surprising that summer seasons are usually out of the picture. Furthermore, the period from June to September accounts for the monsoon season. With how unpredictable rainfall can be, it’s better to avoid that period for your road-tripping experience as well. In situations with extreme rainfall, it can lead to road closures, which has the potential to entirely ruin your travel plan for good.
So, that leaves you with the winter months from October to February. These are the months when the weather is comfortable and with clear skies, you shouldn’t have to worry about road blockages, which usually happen when there’s rain. Moreover, the months from December to February generally account for cooler temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing as. So, if that’s something that you are comfortable opting for, it’s a great choice too.
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Route For Mumbai To Delhi Road Trip
Determining the most efficient route for a trip is crucial, even when the approximate Mumbai to Delhi distance via road of 1,400 kilometres. In such instances, the NH 48 route is a well-regarded option for many travellers. Here’s a breakdown of the travel route from Mumbai to Delhi:
- Begin your journey from Mumbai and head towards Nashik via NH48. Nashik, known for its vineyards and ancient temples, makes for an excellent pit stop.
- Once you reach Nashik, take the NH160 because your next stop on the list is Shirdi. You can stop and offer your prayers and seek blessings from Sai Baba.
- Following that, proceed towards Aurangabad via the Aurangabad-Nashik Highway. Depending on your itinerary, you can stop to explore a few of the tourist spots like Ellora and Ajanta caves.
- Taking the NH52, you have to then proceed towards Indore and ensure that you stop and try the local cuisine while there.
- Then, you have to take NH52 and NH48 to continue towards Jaipur and spend a day exploring the beautiful city as well.
- Later, make your way towards Agra via the Yamuna expressway. Stop and view the popular sightseeing spots there as well.
- The last stretch of your trip goes from Agra to Delhi, finally bringing your road trip to a successful end.
This happens to be a brief overview of the route and travel plan that you can follow to reach Delhi from Mumbai. However, depending on your itinerary, there could be detours, more stops and layovers along the way.
Must Visit Places Route Mumbai To Delhi Road Trip
Now that you have a detailed idea about the route for your road trip from Delhi to Mumbai, it is time to unfold a list of the best places to visit and explore the route. Depending on the time you have and the itinerary you have planned, the following are a few places to add to your stopovers.
1. Nashik
Nashik, situated on the banks of the Godavari River, is not only known for its vineyards but also for its rich history and religious significance. Besides exploring the Sula Vineyards, which are located there, you need to make a quick stop to explore the different temples that are present in the city. You can start your journey by visiting Trimbakeshwar Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. From there, make your way to Pandavleni Caves, which is in the Saputara range and is a Buddhist cave. End your stay there visiting Kalaram temple.
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2. Shirdi
The main highlight spot to explore in Shirdi is the Sai Baba temple. However, given the popularity of the place, the temple is usually overcrowded, so you’d have to wait your time in line to be able to offer your prayers. So, ensure that you plan this trip in a day at least. Some of the other attractions in Shirdi include Dwarkamai, Chavadi and Shani Shingnapur. Depending on your available time, you can plan the spots that best work in your favour.
3. Aurangabad
Aurangabad is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting its glorious past and architectural splendour. Some of the most popular sightseeing spots there include the Ellora Caves and Ajanta Caves. Both of these places have a charm of their own, making them spots that you wouldn’t regret indulging in. Given the epithet of “Taj of the Deccan,” Bibi Ka Maqbara is a mausoleum, which was built by Emperor Aurangzeb for his late wife. It is also a must-visit spot.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Aurangabad
4. Jaipur
Image Credit: Chainwit for Wikimedia Commons
What’s the point of planning a road trip from Mumbai to Delhi if you don’t stop to explore Jaipur in the middle? The culture, history and attractions are worth the time. You can start your trip by visiting the Amber Fort, followed by City Palace and end the stay with your trip down to Hawa Mahal. Some of these are iconic landmarks in Jaipur, ones that you can’t afford to miss out on.
5. Agra
Image Credit: Subhrajyoti for Wikimedia Commons
The last stop in your Mumbai to Delhi road trip is Agra. From the Taj Mahal to Agra Fort, there are a variety of amazing spots that you must explore while on your road trip. One of the often ignored and undermined spots is the Fatehpur Sikri. The architectural beauty of this place is beyond anyone’s imagination.
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Tips To Keep In Mind During Mumbai To Delhi Road Trip
Usually, the journey from Mumbai to Delhi by road is between 15-18 hours, depending on your driving speed, number of stops, etc. With that in mind, planning a secure road trip is a priority for many.
Start With The Preparation
This is the part that makes all the difference in your road trip. From ensuring that your itinerary is well planned to executing the said plan, preparation and research should simplify your road trip experience. If required, plan and research about the distance, stopping points, road conditions, weather, etc.
Sort Out The Navigation
When you are travelling for such a long distance by road, the key here is to invest in reliable GPS navigation. You can rely on the ones available on your mobile devices. But, it is usually safer to have a backup with an offline downloaded map. As a last resort, keep a physical map handy too.
Prioritise Safety
Be aware of varying road conditions. Highways may be excellent, while rural roads could be uneven. Drive defensively and adhere to speed limits. Avoid driving at night, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the route. Fatigue and poor visibility can increase the risk of accidents. If you feel tired, prioritise taking breaks in between.
Plan The Stops
Besides sightseeing, you must plan your stops for overnight stays, food, and refuelling as well. It is ideal if you research the route ahead of time so you aren’t confused in the middle of your trip. Also, regarding accommodation, look into the reviews and pre-book your stay.
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The Mumbai to Delhi road trip is an unforgettable adventure, offering a glimpse into the heart of India. By planning meticulously, prioritising safety, and embracing the unexpected, you can create lasting memories on this incredible journey. So buckle up, hit the road, and plan your next trip to Delhi from Mumbai using the details shared.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Mumbai to Delhi Road Trip
What are the speed limits on the highways?
The speed limits on the highways vary. Typically, they range from 80 km/h on single-lane highways to 120 km/h on multi-lane expressways. This gives you an approximate Mumbai to Delhi by road time of 15-18 hours
Are there any restrictions on driving at night?
There are no blanket restrictions on night driving. However, it's generally discouraged due to reduced visibility and increased fatigue. If you must drive at night, ensure you're well-rested and use high beams responsibly.
How much does a Mumbai-Delhi-Mumbai road trip cost?
The cost of the road trip from Delhi to Mumbai will vary and depend on factors like routes, stopovers, expenses, travel style, etc. A rough estimate would be ₹15,000-₹20,000
What is the approximate distance between Mumbai and Delhi by road?
The Mumbai to Delhi distance via road is approximately 1,400 kilometres. However, this can vary slightly depending on the specific route chosen.
What souvenirs to buy on the trip?
You can pick up a few items along the way of the road trip like clothes, accessories, etc. from stopovers like Jaipur, Agra, etc.
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