There is an old proverb "the journey is more important than the destination", its time pack your bags and hit the road to know what this really means.
ATLANTIC ROAD, Norway
This zigzagging road on the Norwegian coastline, eight kilometres long, passes across seven bridges. The most famous of these, the Storseisundet Bridge, is known for its scary twists and turns. The ride comes with breathtaking views of the western fjords, and the surprising glimpses of seals, whales and exotic birds along the way are an added attraction. Daredevils head during autumn to experience spectacular storms, but the seaside is equally attractive in calmer weather, thanks to the numerous fishing spots.
YAMUNA EXPRESSWAY, India
If you're looking for a high-speed blitz, there's not better stretch than the 165 Km Yamuna Expressway. A ride on India's longest six-lane highway will take you from Greater Noida in the National Capital Region to tourist mecca Agra. There are open spaces, green fields and sundry villages on either side, but the countryside is little more than a backdrop to the smooth tarmac in front. The only interruptions on this beautiful stretch are five toll plazas.
INTEROCEANIC HIGHWAY, Peru - Brazil
Completed in 2011, this 2,600km-long transcontinental highway links the South American countries of Peru and Brazil, and passes through several dramatically contrasting landscapes. It runs along the Peruvian coast, through remote stretches of the Andes and dense Amazonian rainforests. Stop at the Incan and Spanish colonial capital of Cusco for a slice of history - from here, you can take a diversion to the famous ruins of Machu Picchu.
MANALI - LEH HIGHWAY, India
This winding 490 kilometre-long highway has spectacular views of the snow-clad Himalayas, mountain passes, glaciers, streams and high-altitude plains. It's covered in snow for much of the year, and only opens during the summer months, between June and October. Keep your camera ready for some stunning Kodak moments, but be prepared for some hairpin bends as well! The two-day drive will take you through five mountain passes, including favourites like Rohtang La and Taglang La, the highest point in the journey.
THE AMALFI COAST, Italy
The Amalfi coast in southern Italy's Sorrento Peninsula is home to one of the most legendary drives in the world. It is, in UNESCO's words, "an outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape". Expect stunning sights all along its 25-mile sweep, with cliffs, towns and historic, terraced villages on one side and mesmerising views of the Mediterranean Sea on the other. Stop en route to admire Positano's stack of pastel houses, Amalfi's grand cathedral and town square and Ravello's hilltop gardens. Don't forget to taste the local citrus liquor, limoncello, at the lemon groves in between.
MUMBAI - GOA HIGHWAY, India
The journey to everyone's favourite beach gateway is both smooth and picturesque though at 600 km, it can get a bit tiring. This highway is NH 17 and runs from Mumbai to Thiruvananthpuram through the Western Ghats and caressing the Konkan coastline. On the way there are numerous attractions: bridwatching and trekking at the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, panoramas of Vashishti River mendering through the Western Ghats and the pristine beaches of Ganpatipule, Diveagar and Tarkali. The surrounding clouds-kissed hills are at their greenest during the monsoon and the steep turns only add to the thrill.
EAST COAST ROAD, India
Lined with rice fields, swaying coconut palms, fishing villages and glimpses of the Bay of Bengal, this state highway in Tamil Nadu runs along the Bay of Bengal, connecting Chennai with Cuddalore. This stretch has enough to delight both nature lovers and culture vultures. Travel back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mamallapuram, soak in Puducherry's unique French ambience, stroll on the pristine beaches of Tharangambadi, or go boating through Pichavaram's mangrove forests and backwaters.
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