4 Road Trips in India That Will Take You To The Lesser-Explored Corners of the Country

Start your journey in Jhansi, a city renowned for being one of the first cities to wage war against the British for the independence of our country. Visit the historic Jhansi Fort, Rani Mahal, Mahalaxmi Temple and the Government Museum.

In Orchha, travel back in time, and visit the ancient monuments that still retain the grandeur of the bygone era. Visit the Jahangir Mahal, Raja Mahal, Chaturbhuj, Rama Raja and Lakshmi Narayan temples. End the day with a sound and light Show, learning about the mighty Bundela kings.

In Khajuraho, learn the art of Kama Sutra through the delicate but intricate carvings on the temples. The stunning sculptures are living proof of the advanced thinking and ideologies of our ancestors. Don't be put off by guides or kids giggling at the erotic carvings. Khajuraho is standing proud, showing off to the world how us Indians mastered the art of lovemaking.

Start off the experience of taking road trips in India by visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra. An ivory-white marble mausoleum, a symbol of love and commitment, Taj Mahal is also one of the seven wonders of the world. Also check out Fatehpur Sikri, located at an hour's drive away from Agra and the Agra Fort.

From Agra, leave for the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow. A foodie's paradise, Lucknow is known for the world-renowned tunday kebabs. But there's much more to explore in this underrated city. Buildings reminiscent of the British Raj, mausoleums, and a bhool bhulaiya (maze) to get lost in this city, make it a fun place to visit.

Varanasi, or Benaras, is a spiritual escapade. Rightly considered as one of the most colourful places on earth, the spellbinding beauty of this city will imbibe in you a sense of wonder. Take a dip in the holy Ganges to wash away your sins and experience a transcending aarti on the ghats. Varanasi is magical and will leave you with a sense of peace.

The birthplace of Buddhism, Bodh Gaya is the place where Prince Siddhartha of Lubini attained enlightenment and became a Buddha. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bodh Gaya is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex and just soak in the vibe of peace and calm that almost floats in the air here.

Rajgir was the capital of the Magadh Empire before Patna. This place is also of huge religious significance for both Buddhist and Jain religions. The Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Ajatshatru Stupa, Ajatshatru Fort and Venu Vana are important Buddhist sites. Digambar Jain Siddha Kshetra Temples are a group of eight temples in the four hills surrounding Rajgir and are an important pilgrimage site for followers of Jainism.

Nalanda was established as an undisputed seat of the highest form of learning in ancient India. It was a residential university that is believed to have had teachers from China, Japan and many other parts of the world. Today, the ruins of this esteemed centre of education reflect the holistic nature of knowledge that was sought and imparted at this university.

While in Bhubaneswar, you can either go on a religious tour and visit temples such as Lingraj (a temple where Vishnu and Shiv are worshipped together), Parsurameswar and Mukteswar (a temple known as the 'gem of Odiya architecture'). You can also go the other way and visit Nandankanan Zoo (famous for its white tiger safari), botanical gardens and tribal museum.

An architectural masterpiece, built centuries ago, the Sun Temple in Konark stands proudly as one of the most iconic structures in Odisha. Designed in the shape of a chariot, with seven stone horses and 12 massive wheels, this temple is where you get to experience how our ancestors combined religion and science effortlessly. The temple is built to carry the Sun God to heaven and therefore the first light in the morning falls on the front of the temple and the last ray of sunlight in the evening passes through the entire temple before vanishing!

Konark-Puri is one of the four holy pilgrimage site for Hindus and is one of the most popular routes for taking road trips in India. The Lord Jaganatha Temple here is visited by millions of pilgrims every year. But there's more to Puri than just the temple. The long sandy beaches are perfect for a romantic stroll and the marijuana, which is legally sold here, has been attracting tourists since ages! Head out to this pilgrimage site to discover a beach town that isn't crowded by your usual tourists.