Nh 6 Road Map
India is a land of diversity, and one of the best ways to explore it is through a road trip. NH 6 is a popular highway that runs through the western part of the country, connecting Mumbai and Kolkata. It spans across four states – Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal – and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and culinary delights of these regions. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey along NH 6, exploring its top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more.
Top Attractions
NH 6 is dotted with several tourist hotspots that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:
- The Gateway of India in Mumbai
- The Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra
- The Chitrakoot Falls in Chhattisgarh
- The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha
- The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are a must-visit, NH 6 also has its fair share of hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. Some of these include:
- The Lonar Lake in Maharashtra – a crater lake formed by a meteorite
- The Sirpur Heritage Site in Chhattisgarh – an ancient Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage center
- The Chilika Lake in Odisha – Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon
- The Bishnupur Terracotta Temples in West Bengal – a cluster of unique clay temples
Food Scene
One of the best ways to experience the culture of a place is through its food. NH 6 has a diverse culinary scene that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Vada Pav in Mumbai – a popular street food made with a potato patty and bread
- Bhakri and Thecha in Maharashtra – a traditional meal of flatbread and spicy chutney
- Mahua Drink in Chhattisgarh – a sweet alcoholic beverage made from the mahua flower
- Rasgulla in Odisha – a famous dessert made with chenna and sugar syrup
- Rosogolla in West Bengal – a variation of the Rasgulla that is softer and spongier
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Here are some tips to help you save money on your NH 6 trip:
- Travel during the off-season to get better deals on accommodation and transportation
- Eat at local eateries instead of high-end restaurants
- Use public transport or carpool instead of hiring a private vehicle
- Stay at budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, homestays, and guesthouses
Outdoor Adventures
NH 6 offers several opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in thrilling activities. Some of these include:
- Jungle Safari at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra
- White Water Rafting at Indravati River in Chhattisgarh
- Surfing and Jet Skiing at Puri Beach in Odisha
- Paragliding at Darjeeling in West Bengal
Historical Landmarks
The NH 6 route is steeped in history and is home to several important landmarks. Some of these include:
- The Elephanta Caves in Mumbai – an ancient UNESCO World Heritage site with rock-cut temples
- The Bhoramdeo Temple in Chhattisgarh – a 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
- The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha – a 13th-century temple dedicated to the Sun God
- The Howrah Bridge in Kolkata – a cantilever bridge that is an iconic landmark of the city
Family-Friendly Activities
NH 6 has plenty of options for families traveling with kids. Some of these include:
- Elephanta Caves in Mumbai – a great place for kids to explore and learn about history
- Chitrakoot Falls in Chhattisgarh – a scenic picnic spot with waterfalls and lush greenery
- Puri Beach in Odisha – a fun place for kids to play in the sand and water
- Nicco Park in Kolkata – an amusement park with rides, games, and attractions for all ages
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something different, NH 6 has some off-the-beaten-path experiences that you can try:
- The Warli Art Trail in Maharashtra – a unique art form practiced by the Warli tribe
- The Bastar Dussehra Festival in Chhattisgarh – a cultural extravaganza that showcases the state’s tribal heritage
- The Raghurajpur Artist Village in Odisha – a quaint village that is home to several traditional artists
- The Kalimpong Science Centre in West Bengal – a science museum that is a great place for kids and adults alike
Natural Wonders
NH 6 is blessed with several natural wonders that are worth seeing. Some of these include:
- The Lonar Lake in Maharashtra – a unique crater lake formed by a meteorite impact
- The Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh – a sanctuary that is home to several rare and endangered species
- The Simlipal National Park in Odisha – a biodiversity hotspot that is home to tigers, elephants, and several other animals
- The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in West Bengal – a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the Himalayas
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for some nightlife action, NH 6 has a few options to offer. Some of these include:
- The Marine Drive in Mumbai – a popular promenade that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea
- The Korba Club in Chhattisgarh – a club that is known for its music and drinks
- The Swosti Premium in Bhubaneswar – a hotel that has a rooftop bar with a great view of the city
- The Park in Kolkata – a popular nightclub that hosts some of the best parties in the city
Local Markets
If you’re a shopaholic, NH 6 has several local markets that are worth exploring. Some of these include:
- Colaba Causeway in Mumbai – a bustling market that sells everything from clothes to jewelry to souvenirs
- Naya Raipur Haat in Chhattisgarh – a weekly market that sells local handicrafts and food items
- Bapu Bazaar in Cuttack – a market that is famous for its silver filigree work and textiles
- New Market in Kolkata – a historic market that sells everything from clothes to spices to electronics
Beaches and Mountains
NH 6 has something for everyone – from beaches to mountains. Some of the best ones include:
- Ganpatipule Beach in Maharashtra – a pristine beach with clear waters and white sand
- Kanger Valley National Park in Chhattisgarh – a park that is home to several waterfalls and caves
- Puri Beach in Odisha – a popular beach that is crowded but has plenty of activities to offer
- The Darjeeling Himalayas in West Bengal – a mountain range that offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks
Cultural Immersion
One of the best ways to experience a place is to immerse yourself in its culture. NH 6 has several opportunities for cultural immersion, such as:
- The Kala Ghoda Art Festival in Mumbai – a week-long festival that celebrates art, music, and culture
- The Bastar Dussehra Festival in Chhattisgarh – a cultural extravaganza that showcases the state’s tribal heritage
- The Konark Dance Festival in Odisha – a festival that celebrates classical dance forms of India
- The Durga Puja Festival in