India’s vast bus network is a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the country’s many tourist destinations. From government-run state buses to luxurious private coaches, buses offer flexibility, scenic routes, and the opportunity to experience India like a local. Whether you’re traveling to remote hill stations or popular beach towns, buses are often the best option for regions with limited train or flight connectivity.
As someone who has traveled extensively across India by bus, I can guide you on how to plan your journey, choose the right bus type, and make the most of your travel experience.
1. Delhi to Manali (Himachal Pradesh) – Gateway to the Himalayas
- Distance: 540 km (12–14 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC): Government-run Volvo and semi-sleeper buses
- Private operators: Himachal Travels, Royal Travels
- Highlights:
- Scenic mountain roads through Kullu Valley
- Comfortable Volvo sleeper and semi-sleeper options
- Cost: ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 for Volvo buses
Tip: Choose an overnight bus to save time and arrive refreshed in the morning.
2. Bengaluru to Coorg (Karnataka) – Coffee Country
- Distance: 260 km (6–7 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC): Air-conditioned sleeper and luxury buses
- Private operators: SRS Travels, VRL Travels
- Highlights:
- Winding roads through coffee estates and forested hills
- Early morning buses offer spectacular misty views
- Cost: ₹500 to ₹1,500 for AC sleeper buses
Tip: Opt for a window seat to enjoy the scenic Western Ghats.
3. Mumbai to Goa – Beach Paradise
- Distance: 590 km (10–12 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- MSRTC Shivshahi (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation)
- Private luxury operators: Neeta Travels, Paulo Travels
- Highlights:
- Scenic drive along the Konkan Coast, especially during monsoon season
- Sleeper and semi-sleeper buses with onboard entertainment options
- Cost: ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 for luxury sleeper buses
Tip: Book an overnight bus to maximize your time in Goa.
4. Chennai to Pondicherry (Tamil Nadu) – The French Connection
- Distance: 150 km (3–4 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- TNSTC (Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation)
- Private operators: Parveen Travels, KPN Travels
- Highlights:
- Drive along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR), with views of the Bay of Bengal
- Quick weekend getaway from Chennai
- Cost: ₹300 to ₹800 for AC buses
Tip: Sit on the left side of the bus for ocean views along the ECR route.
5. Delhi to Jaipur (Rajasthan) – The Pink City
- Distance: 270 km (5–6 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC): Volvo and express buses
- Private operators: Shree Mahaveer Travels, Vikas Travels
- Highlights:
- Well-maintained highways and convenient rest stops along the Delhi-Jaipur Expressway
- Comfortable seating with reclining seats and AC
- Cost: ₹500 to ₹1,500 for Volvo buses
Tip: Early morning buses avoid traffic and get you to Jaipur in time for sightseeing.
6. Ahmedabad to Udaipur (Rajasthan) – Lake City Escape
- Distance: 260 km (6–7 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- GSRTC (Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation)
- Private operators: Eagle Travels, Shreenath Travels
- Highlights:
- Scenic desert landscapes and traditional Rajasthani villages along the route
- Comfortable sleeper options for overnight travel
- Cost: ₹500 to ₹1,200 for AC sleeper buses
Tip: Udaipur’s bus stand is close to the city center, making it easy to explore Lake Pichola upon arrival.
7. Kochi to Munnar (Kerala) – Tea Plantations and Hills
- Distance: 130 km (4–5 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC)
- Private operators: Atlas Travels, SPS Travels
- Highlights:
- Serpentine mountain roads through tea estates and waterfalls
- Cool, misty air as you ascend into the Western Ghats
- Cost: ₹400 to ₹800 for AC buses
Tip: Avoid night buses to fully enjoy the stunning scenery.
8. Hyderabad to Hampi (Karnataka) – Ancient Ruins
- Distance: 380 km (8–9 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- KSRTC Airavat sleeper buses
- Private operators: Orange Travels, VRL Travels
- Highlights:
- Smooth highway routes through rural Karnataka
- Convenient sleeper options for overnight travel
- Cost: ₹800 to ₹1,800 for luxury sleeper buses
Tip: Arrive early in Hampi to start exploring its ancient ruins before the heat sets in.
9. Delhi to Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) – Adventure and Spirituality
- Distance: 240 km (6–7 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- Uttarakhand Transport Corporation
- Private operators: Shekhar Travels, Yatra Travels
- Highlights:
- Scenic drive through the foothills of the Himalayas
- Access to yoga retreats and adventure activities like river rafting
- Cost: ₹500 to ₹1,200 for Volvo buses
Tip: Book buses with drop-off points near Laxman Jhula or Ram Jhula for easy access to major attractions.
10. Guwahati to Shillong (Meghalaya) – Gateway to the Northeast
- Distance: 100 km (3–4 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- ASTC (Assam State Transport Corporation)
- Private shared taxis and mini-buses
- Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of hills, pine forests, and waterfalls along the route
- Easy access to Meghalaya’s famous living root bridges and caves
- Cost: ₹300 to ₹800 for buses and shared taxis
Tip: Take a morning bus to enjoy the scenic drive under clear skies.
11. Jaipur to Jodhpur (Rajasthan) – Blue City Journey
- Distance: 340 km (6–7 hours)
- Best Bus Options:
- RSRTC Express and Volvo buses
- Private operators: Shrinath Travels, Jain Travels
- Highlights:
- Drive through the Thar Desert with glimpses of traditional Rajasthani life
- Comfortable sleeper and semi-sleeper options
- Cost: ₹600 to ₹1,500 for AC sleeper buses
Tip: Opt for an evening bus to arrive in Jodhpur early and explore Mehrangarh Fort.
Types of Buses and Booking Tips
- Types of Buses:
- Volvo/Scania AC Sleeper: Best for long-distance, comfortable travel
- Semi-Sleeper: Reclining seats with air conditioning
- State Transport Buses: Budget-friendly, non-AC options
- How to Book:
- Book online via platforms like RedBus, MakeMyTrip, or AbhiBus.
- Compare prices and amenities before booking.
- Tips for a Smooth Journey:
- Arrive early to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.
- Carry essentials like a neck pillow, water, and snacks.
- Confirm your drop-off point to avoid confusion upon arrival.
Bus travel in India is an affordable and flexible way to reach both popular and offbeat destinations. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, beaches, or heritage cities, a comfortable bus ride can make your journey both scenic and enjoyable.
Which bus route are you excited to take? Share your travel plans and tips in the comments below!
