Trunk Road Road Trip Itinerary
The Trunk Road is an incredible road trip from Kolkata in India to Peshawar in Pakistan. This 2665km journey is best done in 14 days to get the most out of the experience. The best time to drive this route is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and the views are at their best.
The route passes through several towns, such as Bodhgaya, Lucknow, Delhi, and Lahore, each with their own unique attractions. Bodhgaya is home to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of great spiritual significance. In Lucknow, visitors can explore the Bara Imambara, a Mughal-era monument with a labyrinth of courtyards, mosques, and pavilions. Delhi is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Humayun's Tomb and Red Fort. Lahore is known for its vibrant culture and is home to the iconic Walled City of Lahore, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Trunk Road is suitable for every driver, although it is important to be aware of the poor road conditions and the need for a border crossing along the route. Despite this, the Trunk Road is an unforgettable journey that will provide a high level of experience and memories, and it can be done on a low budget.
14
number of days
2,668 km
route length
low
budget
adventurer
good for
on the left
traffic direction
high
accident level
START
Kolkata
Distance 2,668 km
Driving time 42.5 h
Pace: modest
693.8 kWh
Airports
CCU
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Kolkata, the City of Joy, is located in the eastern part of India, on the east bank of the Hooghly River. It is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Kolkata is one of the most important cities of India, with a rich cultural and architectural heritage. For those looking to start their adventure on the “Trunk Road”, Kolkata is the perfect starting point.
Kolkata has a lot to offer for travelers. From the Howrah Bridge, which is the busiest cantilever bridge in the world, to the iconic Victoria Memorial and the Marble Palace, you will have plenty of amazing sights to explore. A visit to the Indian Museum is also a must. It is one of the oldest and largest museums in India, and it houses a collection of rare artifacts.
When traveling to Kolkata, the closest international airport is the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (IATA: CCU). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the city and start your road trip.
Kolkata is an incredible place to visit and the perfect starting point for a road trip on the “Trunk Road”. With its incredible sights and rich cultural heritage, Kolkata is sure to make your journey even more memorable.
1
Kolkata
- Bodhgaya
Distance 494 km
Driving time 9.9 h
Pace: modest
128.4 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Kolkata to Bodhgaya! This 479 km journey can be completed in fewer than 10 hours, making it the perfect weekend getaway. On this journey, you will pass through several iconic landmarks, each offering its own unique experience.
Start your journey in Kolkata, the City of Joy, and explore its many attractions such as the Victoria Memorial, the Indian Museum, and the Howrah Bridge. From here, drive to the historical city of Gaya, famous for its Vishnupad Temple. Make sure to also visit the Bodhi Tree, believed to be the site of the Buddha's enlightenment.
Continue your journey to Bodhgaya, the holy city of Buddhism. Here, explore the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Great Buddha Statue, the world's tallest monolithic statue of the Buddha.
This is just one of the many stages of the larger tour. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Bodhgaya - India - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Bodhgaya
- Varanasi
Distance 244 km
Driving time 5.6 h
Pace: modest
63.5 kWh
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Embark on a fascinating road trip from Bodhgaya to Varanasi! This 245 km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours to complete and is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Start off your trip in Bodhgaya, home to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the holiest places in Buddhism. From there, you'll pass through small villages, lush green fields, and picturesque landscapes, before arriving in Varanasi, a city steeped in history and culture.
On the way, make sure to visit the Nalanda University Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Rajgir, a city with a rich Buddhist and Jain heritage. These places will give you an insight into India's ancient history and culture. You'll also get to experience the beauty of the Ganges River, which is one of the holiest rivers in India.
This road trip is only one part of a larger tour, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Varanasi - India - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Varanasi
- Lucknow
Distance 314 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: fast
94.2 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Varanasi to Lucknow! This 320 km-long journey takes fewer than 6 hours and is one of the most interesting stages of a larger tour.
Start your adventure in Varanasi, one of the most sacred cities in India. Visit the iconic ghats of the Ganges, explore the rich culture of the city, and admire the mesmerizing architecture.
Continue your journey to Sarnath, a city of great religious importance. Here, you can visit the Dhamek Stupa, an ancient Buddhist monument, and the Chaukhandi Stupa, a 5th-century monument.
Next, head to Jaunpur, located on the banks of the Gomti River. Here, you can explore the Atala Mosque and the Jama Masjid, two of the most iconic monuments of the city.
Finally, you will reach Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. Visit the iconic Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara, two of the most popular monuments in the city. Admire the grand architecture of the Rumi Darwaza and explore the unique culture of the city.
More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Lucknow - India - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Lucknow
- Agra
Distance 330 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
99.0 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip from Lucknow to Agra? This beautiful journey of 328km will take you fewer than 5 hours to complete. You will get to explore some of India's most fascinating historical sites and UNESCO Heritage sites along the way.
Start your journey at the Bara Imambara, a grand Mughal monument in Lucknow, and then head to the famous Chota Imambara. As you drive through the countryside, you will pass through Fatehpur Sikri and the ancient city of Sikandra.
Once you reach Agra, be sure to visit the iconic Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort. Both of these monuments are renowned for their architectural beauty and are a must-see for any traveler.
On your way back, you can also make a stop at the Fatehpur Sikri, a 16th century Mughal city, and the ancient city of Sikandra.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Agra - India - Asia - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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5
Agra
- New Delhi
Distance 210 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: fast
63.1 kWh
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Are you planning a road trip in India? Then you must include the Agra-Delhi stage in your itinerary! This 218-km route is one of the most fascinating stages of a larger tour, with driving time of fewer than 4 hours.
Start your journey in Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see for any traveler. You can also visit the Agra Fort, a 16th-century Mughal fortress, and Mehtab Bagh, a beautiful garden complex.
Continue your journey to Delhi, India's capital. Here, you can explore iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and India Gate. Another must-see is Chandni Chowk, a vibrant bazaar with a variety of shops and eateries.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
New Delhi - India - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
New Delhi - India - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
New Delhi - India - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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6
New Delhi
- Amritsar
Distance 469 km
Driving time 7.6 h
Pace: fast
140.6 kWh
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Welcome to the Delhi - Amritsar road trip! This incredible 467 km journey is the perfect way to explore the vibrant culture, history and beauty of India. With an estimated driving time of less than 8 hours, you can easily fit in a few exciting stops along the way.
Begin your adventure in Delhi, India's capital and the heart of its culture. Here, you can explore the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, two of India's most iconic monuments. Take a stroll through the bustling Chandni Chowk bazaar or visit the Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple for a spiritual experience.
Continue your journey to Amritsar, the spiritual home of the Sikh religion. Here, you can visit the iconic Golden Temple and explore the Jallianwala Bagh memorial, the site of a massacre by British troops in 1919.
Along the way, you'll have the chance to enjoy stunning views of the countryside and experience the unique culture of India. Be sure to take plenty of photos to capture your memories!
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!
Amritsar - India - Asia - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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7
Amritsar
- Lahore
Distance 48 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: slow
11.2 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Amritsar to Lahore! This 45 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete. Along the way, you'll cross the border of India and Pakistan, and have the chance to explore some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the Golden Temple of Amritsar to the breathtaking Lahore Fort, you'll be amazed by the architectural wonders and cultural gems you'll find along the way. Don't forget to take a stroll through the famous Wagah Border Ceremony to experience the unique atmosphere of the region. Make sure to take some time to explore the many bazaars and markets of Lahore, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Lahore - India - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Lahore
- Islamabad
Distance 377 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
113.1 kWh
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Experience the best of Pakistan on your road trip from Lahore to Islamabad! This journey of 377 km will take you approximately 4 hours, and you’ll have the chance to explore some of the most interesting places in the country.
Start your trip in Lahore, the cultural capital of Pakistan. Here you can visit the iconic Badshahi Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, the Lahore Fort, a marvel of Mughal architecture, and the Shalimar Gardens, a stunning example of Mughal horticulture.
Next, make your way to the city of Taxila, an ancient archaeological site that is home to some of the oldest ruins in the world. Here you can explore the ruins of Bhir Mound, Sirkap, and Jandial.
Continue your journey to the city of Rawalpindi, where you can visit the Rawalpindi Arts Council and the Ayub National Park.
Finally, you will arrive in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. Here you can visit the majestic Faisal Mosque, the Pakistan Monument, and the Lok Virsa Museum.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Islamabad - India - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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9
Islamabad
- Peshawar
Distance 182 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
54.5 kWh
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Take a road trip from Islamabad to Peshawar, a journey of 184km that takes less than 3 hours. Start off your trip in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan and visit the famous Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in South Asia. From there, head to the Rawal Lake, a man-made reservoir and a popular picnic spot in the city. Take a stroll along the lake and enjoy the views of the Margalla Hills.
On the way to Peshawar, you will pass through the beautiful city of Taxila, home to many historical sites like the ancient Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and the archaeological museum. Make sure to visit the Taxila Museum to learn more about the history of the region.
Once you reach Peshawar, you can explore the city's many attractions like the Peshawar Museum, the old city walls, the historic Qissa Khawani Bazaar, and the Mahabat Khan Mosque.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip from Islamabad to Peshawar!
Peshawar - India - Asia - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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Peshawar
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Peshawar is the end point of the famous Trunk Road, a well-known route that passes through several cities in Pakistan. It is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious local cuisine.
The city of Peshawar is situated in the northwest region of the country, and it is home to many historic sites and ancient monuments. The old city is full of narrow alleyways and bazaars, and it is a great place to explore and learn about the traditional culture of the region. One of the most popular tourist attractions is the Qissa Khwani Bazaar, where locals gather to buy and sell goods. For those looking for some outdoor activities, the Peshawar Zoo is a great place to visit.
The city is also home to some of the finest restaurants in the region, where visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes. Additionally, Peshawar is known for its traditional handicrafts and jewelry, making it a great place to shop.
For those looking to travel further, the Bacha Khan International Airport (IATA: PEW) is the closest international airport to Peshawar. It is served by several major airlines and offers direct flights to several destinations around the world.
Peshawar is an exciting destination for travelers, offering a unique combination of culture, history, and cuisine. From the vibrant bazaars to the ancient monuments, it is sure to make for an unforgettable journey.
Trunk Road Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Kolkata
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End:
Peshawar
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Distance:
2,668 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embarking on the legendary Grand Trunk Road, Roadtrippers will undertake a monumental journey of approximately 2,665 kilometers, connecting Kolkata, India, to Peshawar, Pakistan. Spanning roughly 14 days, this expedition not only offers Scenic Drives but also a profound dive into the heart of the Indian subcontinent's storied past and vibrant culture.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Kolkata: Start by exploring the cultural capital of India, with its colonial architecture, including the Victoria Memorial and the bustling flower market by the Howrah Bridge.
- Bodhgaya: A pivotal site for Buddhists, Bodhgaya is home to the magnificent Mahabodhi Temple Complex, marking the location where Buddha attained enlightenment, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Varanasi: One of the world's oldest inhabited cities and spiritual heart of India, where the ghats by the Ganges offer a profound experience.
- Lucknow: Discover the architectural splendor of the Bara Imambara and its bewildering Bhool Bhulaiya (labyrinth), reflecting the rich Nawabi culture.
- Delhi: A city brimming with history, Delhi's Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, and the iconic Red Fort narrate the saga of empires, all recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Amritsar: The Golden Temple not only glistens with devotion but also serves Langar (community meal) to thousands daily, epitomizing equality and charity.
- Lahore: The heart of Pakistani culture, Lahore's Walled City is a treasure trove of historical sites including the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, showcasing Mughal grandeur.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal times to venture on this Road Trip are during the spring (February to April) and autumn (October to November). These months offer clement weather and clearer skies, providing the most comfortable conditions for travel and sightseeing.
Potential Risks:
Roadtrippers should anticipate uneven Road conditions in some segments and comply with visa and border crossing requirements. It is crucial to remain informed about the current political climate and any travel advisories issued for specific regions along the route.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Grand Trunk Road is one of Asia's oldest and longest Roads, with a history that dates back over 2,500 years.
- It was significantly expanded during the reign of Emperor Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century and later by the British colonial administration.
- The Road has played a central role in facilitating trade, migration, and cultural exchange across the subcontinent.
- Planning accommodations and local transportation in advance can not only improve the travel experience but also provide opportunities to engage with diverse communities and traditions.
A good choice for:
Navigating the Grand Trunk Road is an unforgettable odyssey that weaves together the thrill of the open Road with immersive cultural encounters. It stands out as a quintessential experience for those who yearn to intimately understand the depth and dynamism of South Asia's historical and cultural landscape.
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