The Road Less Travelled: A Paradigm Shift in Modern Tourism

 

 

 

Well, more often than not, it is more about the journey than the destination.

 

Who doesn't love to travel, explore new places, try new cuisines, and make memories? Once upon a time, journeys were taken to visit family and friends. Once in a while, it was a planned trip to some state or a hill station to visit the tourist locations. Sightseeing and hotel stays used to be the main agenda. However, in recent times, and thanks to the minute-to-minute updation by overly enthusiastic social media users, this conventional trend and perspective are seeing an evolutionary transformation. Of course, any place that falls on the route, any sight that is less known, or offers a chance to get posted on social media, and makes one feel like the famed Christopher Columbus, becomes the newest destination that is a must-visit.

 

 

 

 

 

Infrastructural development especially in the road sector in the rural areas as well as the state and national highways has been on an impressive surge in the past few years. It is no more just about reaching a destination; it has become about the journey as well. With the social media handles of MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways) themselves updating information on the longest bridge on the sea, highest mountain road, fastest highway, longest tunnel, fastest constructed highway, and the like, curiosity and the adventure element in avid travelers is getting sparked. The fuel is not just enjoying and marveling at the reduced travel time and increased speed limits, but also reveling in the experience. The bonus is of course flashing their updates on social media as a testament to their unique road trip like some sort of an achievement.

Traditionally, travel has been associated with exploring landscapes, mountains, beaches, natural wonders, and cultural hotspots. People would plan trips that would lead them to beautiful destinations. However, there is an intriguing rise in the way people plan their trips now these trips include scenic routes, newly constructed highways, and bridges.

 

 

 

Recent road projects like the Samruddhi Mahamarg or the recent Nagpur-Mumbai Expressway (officially known as Hindu Hrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg) and Maharashtra Expressway-2 (ME-2), is a partially opened 6-lane wide (expandable to 8), 701-km long access-controlled expressway in Maharashtra, India. It is amongst the country's longest greenfield road projects and is gaining popularity for up to a 120 km per hour speed limit. Such highways and expressway roads are designed not just for practicality but also for aesthetics, offering panoramic views, architectural marvels, and seamless connectivity.

 

 

The Bandra-Worli Sea link was then the 5th longest bridge in India. Officially known as Rajiv Gandhi Sea-link, the road captured everybody’s attention with its 5.6 km length and 8-lane wide cable-stayed bridge in Mumbai, for several years. Today the limelight is on the Atal Setu- Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) that conveys 30,000 vehicles and collects around Rs 61.5 lakh in toll fees per day. Inaugurated recently, it is India’s longest sea bridge which connects Mumbai to Navi Mumbai. Stoppage is not permitted on this road for safety reasons; however, one can always enjoy the scenic and panoramic view of the sea.

 

 

 

 

Almost everyone using the Atal Setu route is posting videos of their drive, even speeding vehicles to pin their presence and a checkmark on traveling this route. The allure lies in the anticipation of embarking on a journey along these new roads, with travelers eager to explore the landscapes and engineering prowess they showcase. No wonder, such road projects have now become more than just travel routes—they are now ‘destinations’ in their own right!

 

 

 

One of the primary attractions of exploring new roads is the significant reduction in travel time. Modern highways and expressways are designed to facilitate faster and more efficient transportation, allowing travelers to reach their destinations quickly and comfortably. The thrill of cruising at higher speeds, and adhering to elevated speed limits, adds an adrenaline rush to the journey, making it an exciting and memorable experience.

 

 

 

 

One of the driving forces behind the rise of road tourism is the influence of social media. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter have become virtual scrapbooks for travelers, allowing them to document and share their road adventures. The thrill of exploring new roads and the fascination with cutting-edge infrastructure projects are not only personal achievements but also social milestones, garnering likes, comments, and shares.

 

 

Now that we are talking about travel and road trips here are 4 roads you can explore on your next road trip where the journey is as beautiful as the destination.

 

 

 

The Samruddhi Mahamarg, a mega infrastructure project in Maharashtra, India, has become a symbol of progress and connectivity. Connecting the capital city of Mumbai with Nagpur, this ambitious expressway spans over 700 kilometers, making it one of the longest in the country. The road boasts advanced features such as smart infrastructure, green corridors, and high-speed travel.

 

The Guinness World Record tower to commemorate the first Guinness World Record in the history of Indian infrastructure- road construction sector by Rajpath Infracon Pvt. Ltd., has recently been inaugurated at Amravati. This is about 1 hour/ 62 kilometers from the Karanja- Lad exit and is quickly becoming a new attraction and destination to visit when traveling this route. Such new landmarks add value to a monotonous long journey.

 

 

 

 

The Mumbai-Goa Highway offers a delightful coastal road trip, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Konkan region. One gets to pass through picturesque untouched villages, lush green landscapes, and scenic beaches. The journey provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

 

 

Known as the East Coast Road is a scenic route along the Bay of Bengal, offering a relaxing and picturesque drive from Chennai to the charming town of Pondicherry. The road passes through coastal villages, and sandy beaches, and offers breathtaking views of the sea.

 

 

The emergence of road tourism, propelled by projects like the Samruddhi Mahamarg and Atal Setu, signifies a paradigm shift in the way people approach travel. Beyond the destination, the journey itself has become a source of joy and accomplishment.

 

As social media continues to play a pivotal role in shaping travel narratives, these modern roadways are set to become iconic landmarks that not only connect cities but also serve as symbols of progress and adventure. So, the next time you plan a road trip, consider the route as more than just a means to an end – think of it as an experience worth sharing and cherishing.