The western part of India is one of the culturally richest and diverse places to explore. From rare wildlife and unique indigenous cultures to magnificent architecture and glorious heritage, a trip through the arid landscapes and rugged hills will reveal many wonderful things to the curious visitor. Mumbai makes a good base for many enterprising road trips north into the interiors of Gujarat and Rajasthan. One can easily plan these epic road trips by booking a self-drive car. Here are two top recommendations.
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Udaipur, Rajasthan
The trip from Mumbai to Udaipur takes travellers through the rugged landscapes of Gujarat and Southern Rajasthan. As one starts ascending into the Aravallis, the scenery changes and Udaipur welcomes all with its shimmering lakes and palaces.
Straddling the Pichola Lake, the City Palace is a splendorous collection of architecture, showcasing the opulence and fine tastes of the erstwhile royals. Today most of these structures are home to hotels and other commercial ventures but the charm has not eroded, magnified in the twilight when the buildings light up. Udaipur is a good place to explore in a car. A winding road up the mountain leads to the Sajjan Garh Palace, which offers a mesmerizing view of the Fateh Sagar Lake and the rest of this historic Mewari city. Udaipur is a 760-km journey north from Mumbai via the NH 48.
Kutch, Gujarat
The Kutch district is the largest in India and there are many things to see and experience here. The journey from Mumbai is around 930 kms made more eventful with stops like Baroda and Surat. Its harsh open landscape is an almost other-worldly sight. The Rann of Kutch is also home to some of the rarest species on the subcontinent. It oscillates between salt flats and marshy wetlands depending on the season and exact location. The Great Indian Wild Ass is one of the iconic animals found here.
Kutch district is very famous for its textiles too. The designs have been passed on for generations and represent the many indigenous communities that call this region home. Some of the famous weaving communities here are the Rohanas and the Sodhas. Bhuj city in Kutch is known for its old heritage buildings. Some of the must-visit landmarks here are the Prag Mahal, an Italian Gothic masterpiece, and the Tapkeshwari Temple, located in a hill range near the city.
Why Self Drive?
The best way to enjoy the journey is by getting behind the wheel or getting a companion to do it. Chauffeured services restrict the experience. With the self drive option, travellers have complete privacy and they can change routes, make detours, and stop at will. For those trying to decide on a car rental Mumbai offers the most convenient choices. App-based services like Zoomcar offer very affordable rates, designed for the requirements of the traveller. One can also enjoy driving the latest hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs that are available in the Indian market. 24/7 on-road support and GPS tracking ensure a secure and hassle-free trip.