Traveling by road from India to London is as exciting as it sounds, but it is also full of challenges and preparations. This journey of about 11,000 kilometers will introduce you to different cultures, geography and climate. In this blog, we will know what routes you will have to take, which countries you will have to cross, what important documents you will need, budget estimate, safety measures and some tips that will make your trip memorable.

India to London by Road: Detailed Road Map

There are mainly two routes to reach London from India by road:

Route A (most classic):

India → Pakistan → Iran → Turkey → Bulgaria → Serbia → Hungary → Austria → Germany → France → UK

Route B (a bit longer, but quieter):

India → Nepal → China (via Rohtang Pass) → Kazakhstan → Russia → Belarus → Poland → Germany → Belgium/France → UK

The stopover options, visa and road conditions will vary on both routes. Route A mentioned above is the most popular as the PACS (Pakistan-India) document is simple and road connectivity is good in Europe.

1. Visa and Permit Requirement

India-Pakistan Visa:

Pakistani Visa on-a-Reward is not available. Apply in advance to the Pakistan High Commission in India.

It is better to get multiple entry visa, as the same visa can be used for re-entry from Pakistan in future.

Iran Visa:

An e-Visa is available on arrival, but there may be problems if crossing the border directly.

It is better to get a visa in advance from the Indian Embassy in Iran.

Don’t forget to get a ‘Car Temporary Import Permit’.

Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, France Visa (Schengen Visa):

Get a Schengen visa from Germany/France – it is valid in 26 countries.

Documents: Passport, insurance, bank statement, travel route plan, hotel booking, or camping permit.

UK Visa:

A Schengen visa will not work in the UK; you have to get a UK tourist visa directly.

Apply online, and an interview may be required in India or the UK.

2. Vehicle and import permits

IMP (International Driving Permit):

Get it from the RTO in India.

Valid for all visa-holding countries.

Green Card Insurance:

In Europe, ‘Green Card’ insurance is generally required. Some agencies in India provide this facility.

Non-green insurance is acceptable in Iran and Pakistan.

TMP (Temporary Import Permit) or ‘Carnet de Passage’:

Mandatory in some countries (e.g., Iran, Turkey).

Get it from customs as a tourist permit.

3. Stops and road conditions

Route	Distance (approx.)	Road Condition	Important Notes
India–Pakistan	2,200 km	National Highways, petrol stations are good	Border checks near the Indus River can be lengthy
Pakistan–Iran	700 km	Desert roads, few refueling points	Avoid night driving; security forces are present
Iran–Turkey	1,600 km	Two-lane highway; mountainous terrain	The highway may close in snowy weather
Turkey–Bulgaria	550 km	Motorways and European roads	Pay attention at toll plazas
Bulgaria–Serbia	450 km	A mix of freeways and local highways	Carry mineral water
Serbia–Hungary	350 km	Four-lane motorway	Petrol is cheap; tolls are paid online
Hungary–Austria	200 km	Excellent motorways	A vignette (toll sticker) is required
Austria–Germany	800 km	Famous Autobahn	Varying speed limits—stay alert
Germany–France	500 km	Both toll and non-toll roads	Tolls in France can be expensive
France–UK	Tunnel or ferry	Eurotunnel or ferry crossing	Book the tunnel in advance; the ferry is cheaper but slower

4. Budget Estimate

Fuel: Around 1,000-1,200 litres (car mileage ~12 km/litre, total distance ~11,000 km)

Visa Fees:

• Pakistan Visa: ~$100

• Iran Visa: ~$50

• Schengen Visa: ~$80

• UK Visa: ~$100

Tolls etc: European tolls ~€200–€300

Accommodation: A compound or budget homestay ~₹1,500–₹2,500/night, hotels ₹5,000–₹8,000/night

Food and Water: ~₹1,000–₹1,500 per day (including local food and drinks)

Overall, for this 30-35 days trip, a budget of around ₹2.5–3 lakh is ideal.

5. Safety and health tips

1. Multi-destination insurance:

• This includes medical cover, vehicle cover, and personal liability.

2. Safety kit:

First-aid box, power bank, torch, tool kit, spare tyre

3. Night precautions:

• Don’t drive at night in desert areas.

• Don’t choose areas like African Pulse.

4. Local rules:

• Traffic rules are different in every country—check overtaking, speed limits, alcohol and petrol limits.

5. Emergency numbers:

• Police, ambulance, breakdown service—note them all down in your phone.

6. Fun experiences during travel

• Pakistan:

• Enjoy Rajasthani food in Lahore, and taste the mohalla food.

• Iran:

• Food and bazaar of Meydan-e-Iran in Tehran.

• Historic bridges and mosques in Isfahan.

• Turkey:

• Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.

• Europe:

• Budapest Thermal Baths in Hungary, the Alps of Istria.

• Evening at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, and shopping at Rodeo Drive in London.

7. Best time and season

1. April-June:

The weather will be mild from the Indian subcontinent to Europe.

2. September- October:

Autumn season in Europe is beautiful, less crowded, and has comfortable temperatures.

3. July-August:

Some areas are extremely hot, making it difficult to drive overnight in the desert.

Also Read: India To Dubai By Road: A Thrilling Adventure

Conclusion

This road trip from India to London is somewhat challenging, but with good preparation, the right documents, and a strong adventurous spirit, it can be an experience of a lifetime. You will encounter new cultures, new languages ​​, and new friends at every turn. Just plan, decide on a budget, and set off with your route map – the world is at your feet!

FAQs About The India to London by Road