Tips to Travel by Road in India

Travel by road in India is altogether different as compared with the USA. This is due to the conditions of the roads, condition of the vehicles, and the sudden unknown and random traffic conditions prevailing in India. It really becomes a tough challenge for the people who are used to driving in almost perfect conditions in the USA. There is no speed limit specified for the driving on Indian roads, except on the express highways that are very rare to find in India. There are mainly three types of the highways in India, namely Express highways, National highways, and the state highways. Express highways are very few in India: between Delhi and Agra, Mumbai and Poona, and Vadodara and Ahmedabad. The national highways are reasonably good, but are sometimes overcrowded due to heavy traffic. The state highways are generally having only one lane and that too with very rough roads. Even if you are the expert driver and are used to drive in Indian conditions, you will not be able to travel more than 50 kms per hour. In spite of these adverse facts, it is still convenient to travel by road for some particular destinations, located into much interior parts of the country. The extremely high cost of petrol (Rs.60 per liter, about $6.5 per gallon) also restricts travel by road in India for the common men.

For the tourists, there are few options available. The state transport, allotted to each state, runs the buses between all the cities in their respective states. However, there are some routes plying across from one state to another. Such buses are available from the city bus station, generally situated near to the railway station. However, looking to the rush in such ordinary buses, it is suggested to travel by super deluxe luxury coaches that ply between some important locations. Recently, many private companies have also started running their buses providing good facilities with comfortable push back type chairs and video, and music facilities. Some buses also provide the sleeping births to each passenger, with a toilet facility inside the bus. The rates for travel in ordinary state transport buses are around Rs0.3 per km (1cent a mile app.). The rates for super deluxe coaches vary a lot depending upon the facilities provided but are generally 4 to 5 times of this rate. In view of heavy rush and limited facilities provided, it is not advisable to travel by such buses, particularly for the foreigners.

Looking to this scenario, I would suggest traveling by an independent hired vehicle of suitable type. Such vehicles are available in ample in almost all the cities. They range from a car having capacity of 4 passengers to mini van and mini luxury buses that can accommodate 8 to 20 passengers. Such vehicles are provided with the drivers. The rates for the non AC car are RS. 3.50 Per km with minimum travel of 250 kms per day. If you cannot travel these many kms, you will be charged at least with 250 kms for that day. The rates for non AC mini van accommodating 8 to 10 passengers is Rs.7 per km. Over and above these charges, night halt charges of around Rs.150 per night are also levied. AC vehicles are also available at around 40 % higher rates. The road tolls are not included in these rates. The main benefit is that you are not required to drive the vehicle and can enjoy the beautiful countryside while traveling. Though, there are some precautions need to be followed in case of such travel.

Always insist on having driver who is fully familiar with the routes you are going to travel. This is the most vital factor as it may be real difficult to have the detailed road maps showing the exact route in India. Make sure that he does not drink alcohol while traveling. Follow strictly all the rules of each state you are passing through. Avoid night travel to the extent possible. Ensure that the condition of the car allotted to you is tip top and is not likely to break down in the way. Keep the contact details of the transport company handy with you in case you need to contact them due to any emergency. Keep some cash handy with you in all denominations for paying the toll tax during the travel. Insist the driver to always drive at a steady, safe speed. Always carry mineral water bottles and some light food items with you. Never try to take food in the road side dhabas/hotels as such outlets do not observe the proper cleaning and hygiene practices. Try to book your hotels in advance so that you can reach directly to your hotel in your car. Make arrangements for your driver to stay in the same hotel but in a common dormitory or in a room with 2/3 other drivers. Your hotel manager would be able to do this at a very reasonable rate.

It will be really the most pleasant and memorable experience of such travel, if the tips given are followed. The conditions in India for the travel by road are quite safe except few localized dacoit areas situated in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. So, get ready to enjoy the inner most beauty of India and have real fun while traveling by road.