Self-drive car rentals have become incredibly popular in India, offering travelers freedom, flexibility, and affordability. Whether you’re planning a road trip, business travel, or local sightseeing, renting a car for self-driving is a hassle-free way to explore cities and beyond.
But which cities in India are best suited for self-drive car rentals?
In this guide, we’ll cover:
The top 10 cities for self-drive car rentals in IndiaBest routes and attractions in each cityWhy self-drive rentals are better than taxis & public transportTips for renting a self-drive car in India
Ready? Let’s hit the road! 
Why Choose Self-Drive Car Rentals in India?
Freedom to Explore – No dependence on taxis or public transport.Privacy & Comfort – Enjoy the trip with family or friends without a chauffeur.Cost-Effective for Long Trips – More affordable than booking multiple taxis.Great for Road Trips – Plan your own itinerary and stop wherever you like.Diverse Car Options – Choose from hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, or luxury cars.
Tip: Many rental companies offer unlimited kilometer plans, making it easy to travel without worrying about mileage restrictions.
Top 10 Cities in India for Self-Drive Car Rentals 
1. Mumbai – The City of Dreams 
Best Routes: Mumbai → Lonavala → Pune / Mumbai → Alibaug Recommended Car: Sedan for city, SUV for road trips
Mumbai is India’s busiest city, and while public transport is an option, a self-drive rental car gives you the freedom to travel comfortably, especially for weekend getaways to Lonavala, Alibaug, or Mahabaleshwar.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:Marine Drive – A scenic coastal driveGateway of India – Iconic Mumbai landmarkBandra-Worli Sea Link – Enjoy a smooth drive over the Arabian Sea
Tip: Avoid peak traffic hours (9 AM – 11 AM & 6 PM – 8 PM) for a smoother drive.
2. Delhi – The Capital City 
Best Routes: Delhi → Agra → Jaipur (Golden Triangle) Recommended Car: Sedan for city, SUV for long drives
Delhi is well-connected with excellent highways leading to historical and cultural landmarks. A self-drive rental is perfect for exploring the Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) or heading to Himachal and Uttarakhand.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:India Gate & Rashtrapati Bhavan – Historic city landmarksLotus Temple – A peaceful retreat in South DelhiDilli Haat – A great place to shop and explore regional cuisine
Tip: Parking can be tough in Old Delhi, so opt for public parking areas.
3. Bangalore – The Silicon Valley of India 
Best Routes: Bangalore → Mysore → Coorg / Bangalore → Ooty Recommended Car: Hatchback for city, SUV for hill stations
Bangalore’s traffic can be challenging, but self-drive rentals are ideal for weekend trips to nearby hill stations like Coorg, Ooty, and Chikmagalur.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:Nandi Hills – A scenic early-morning driveLalbagh Botanical Garden – A lush green escapeCubbon Park – Perfect for a relaxed drive through greenery
Tip: Start early to avoid Bangalore’s heavy morning traffic.
4. Pune – The Cultural Hub of Maharashtra 
Best Routes: Pune → Lavasa / Pune → Lonavala / Pune → Goa Recommended Car: Hatchback for city, SUV for long drives
Pune is a vibrant city with easy access to hill stations and coastal towns. Renting a car is the best way to explore forts, lakes, and trekking spots nearby.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:Sinhagad Fort – A scenic drive with a historic touchMulshi Dam – A peaceful retreat from the cityLavasa – India’s first planned hill city
Tip: Weekend rentals are in high demand, so book early!
5. Hyderabad – The City of Pearls 
Best Routes: Hyderabad → Srisailam / Hyderabad → Hampi Recommended Car: Sedan or SUV
Hyderabad’s well-maintained roads make it perfect for self-drive rentals. A car rental lets you explore heritage sites, palaces, and weekend getaways.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:Charminar – The city’s iconic landmarkHussain Sagar Lake – A scenic night drive destinationRamoji Film City – A must-visit for film lovers
Tip: The Outer Ring Road (ORR) makes commuting across Hyderabad easier.
6. Chennai – The Gateway to South India 
Best Routes: Chennai → Mahabalipuram / Chennai → Pondicherry Recommended Car: Hatchback or Sedan
Chennai’s coastal highways are perfect for a road trip along the Bay of Bengal. Renting a self-drive car is the best way to explore Tamil Nadu’s historical temples and serene beaches.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:Marina Beach – A long, relaxing drive along the coastMahabalipuram – UNESCO heritage site with rock-cut templesPondicherry – A perfect weekend escape
Tip: The ECR (East Coast Road) is one of the most scenic drives in India.
7. Goa – The Beach Paradise 
Best Routes: North Goa → South Goa / Goa → Gokarna Recommended Car: Hatchback or Convertible
A self-drive rental is the best way to explore Goa’s beaches, flea markets, and scenic coastal routes.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:Baga & Anjuna Beach – Best for nightlifePalolem Beach – A serene escape in South GoaFort Aguada – A historic fort with ocean views
Tip: Goa has bike & car rentals, but always check for valid permits.
8. Jaipur – The Pink City
Best Routes: Jaipur → Ajmer → Pushkar Recommended Car: SUV for desert roads
Jaipur’s historic forts and palaces make self-drive rentals ideal for sightseeing.
Must-Visit with a Self-Drive Car:Amer Fort – A grand Rajput fortHawa Mahal – The iconic palace of windsNahargarh Fort – Offers breathtaking city views
Tip: Drive early morning or late evening for pleasant weather.
Final Thoughts: Which City Will You Explore First?
Self-drive car rentals give you total freedom to explore India’s top cities at your own pace. Whether it’s a business trip, family vacation, or road trip, renting a car lets you experience the best of each city without hassle.
Looking for affordable self-drive rentals in India? Yatracar offers the best deals on hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and luxury cars. Book now and start your journey! 
