Road Trip from India to Singapore, or Oman, or any other international road trip had always been a dream of mine, and when I finally embarked on my first international road trip from New Delhi, India to Singapore, it was nothing short of incredible. Covering nearly 9,000 km, this trip from India to Singapore was the ultimate adventure that tested my limits while rewarding me with unforgettable memories.
The journey had everything—off-road trails, slippery mountain passes, smooth highways, and even iron bridges that stretched over breathtaking landscapes. I rode through rain-soaked forests, tackled rugged terrains, and cruised past stunning views that left me in awe.
Every day brought something new, whether it was navigating challenging paths or simply enjoying the thrill of the open road. This trip from India to Singapore was more than just a ride—it was an exhilarating adventure that took me across borders and into a whole new world. It’s an experience I believe every passionate rider should chase at least once in their life.
Ways to visit Singapore from India
When planning a trip from India to Singapore, there are several options to choose from, including flights, trains, and road trips. While flying is the quickest and most popular method, adventurers may find the road trip option from India to Singapore particularly exciting.
| Option | Description | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|
| Flight (Fastest and Most Common) | 1. Direct Flights: Book a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) to Changi Airport (Singapore), which will take 5-6 hours. 2. Connecting Flights: Connecting flights via cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Colombo take 8-10 hours to complete, depending on layovers. | Check flight prices on Skyscanner for potential deals ((Although they haven’t sponsored this post. I wish they did :)) |
| Train + Flight Combination | 1. Train to Bangkok: Take a train from Delhi to Bangkok (via Myanmar), and then a flight from Bangkok to Singapore. This option involves multiple transfers but offers a unique cross-border experience. | Less practical due to multiple transfers |
| Road Trip (Car/Bike) | 1. Road Trip from India to Singapore: Drive or ride a bike covering approximately 9,000 km through Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia before reaching Singapore. 2. Documentation: Requires visas, permits, and vehicle clearances for each country. | It is ideal for adventurers seeking a long-distance, thrilling road trip. |
| Bus Journey | Some travelers combine buses and cars to travel overland from Delhi to Singapore, passing through Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia. Requires extensive planning. | Rare, due to logistical challenges. |
| Train (Limited) | No direct train service exists between Delhi and Singapore. You can take a train to Myanmar, Thailand, or Malaysia and then switch to flights or road travel to Singapore. This involves multiple transfers. | Requires time and complex transfers. |
Route Itinerary: From India to Singapore
The route from India to Singapore takes you through some of the most stunning and diverse parts of Southeast Asia. Here’s a breakdown of the route and key cities along the way:
India (Start Point)
1. Start Point: New Delhi or Kolkata (depending on where you live). For our Road Trip from India to Singapore guide we are choosing New Delhi as a starting point.
2. Key Destination: Moreh (Manipur) – This is the gateway to Myanmar. From here, you’ll cross into Tamu, the first town on the Myanmar side.
Myanmar
1. Tamu: Welcome to Myanmar! This small town is your first taste of this beautiful country. Here, you’ll adjust to driving on the right-hand side of the road.
2. Mandalay: One of Myanmar’s historic cities, with stunning pagodas and rich culture. Great place for a break.
3. Naypyidaw: The country’s capital is surprisingly quiet and worth exploring for its modern architecture and wide roads.
4. Yangon: Myanmar’s bustling former capital. A great stop to refuel, rest, and enjoy a bit of sightseeing. Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda, the city’s most iconic structure.
Thailand
1. Mae Sot: Cross the border from Myanmar into Thailand here. You’ll need to handle some paperwork but after that, you’re good to go!
2. Bangkok: Thailand’s vibrant capital city is perfect for a longer rest. Explore the temples, and markets, and indulge in some delicious Thai street food.
3. Chumphon: A coastal town where you can stop before heading into Malaysia.
Malaysia
1. Bukit Kayu Hitam: This is the border town between Thailand and Malaysia.
2. Penang: Known for its amazing food and colonial architecture, Penang is a great place to stretch your legs and explore.
3. Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital is where you’ll want to spend some time. Visit the iconic Petronas Towers and Batu Caves before heading on to your final destination.
Singapore
Johor-Singapore Causeway: This is the final leg of your journey. You’ll cross from Malaysia into Singapore via the causeway. Welcome to the Lion City!
Cost Breakdown: What to Expect
While the road trip from India to Singapore was a dream come true, managing the budget was definitely a challenge. As someone who had a tight budget but wanted to experience so much more along the way, I had to be extra mindful of how quickly expenses added up.
The India to Singapore trip cost can surprise you if you’re not prepared. From fuel and accommodation to food and border crossing fees, everything adds up. If you’re planning your own trip to Singapore from India, it’s important to plan ahead so you can enjoy the journey without worrying too much about the budget.
Fuel Costs: Fuel costs will vary depending on your vehicle’s mileage and fuel rates across countries. On average, expect to spend around ₹35,000 to ₹45,000 on fuel alone for the entire trip. Keep in mind that fuel is cheaper in India and Malaysia but more expensive in Singapore.
Accommodation: Budget hotels or motels will likely be your best bet for affordable accommodation. Plan for about ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per night, depending on where you stop and your level of comfort. This would put your accommodation cost around ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 for the entire trip.
Visas and Permits: This varies by country:
1. Myanmar: eVisa costs around ₹3,000.
2. Thailand: Visa on arrival for Indians is about ₹2,000.
3. Singapore: Singapore visa costs around ₹2,000.
Carnet de Passage: You’ll need this for your vehicle (more on this below), and it costs about ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on the deposit amount.
Miscellaneous Costs: Tolls, food, and other incidentals will add up. Keep an additional budget of ₹30,000 to ₹40,000 for unforeseen expenses.
In total, expect to budget between ₹1.5 to ₹2.5 lakh for the entire trip.
Essential Licenses and Permits
This is the part where planning is crucial. Driving across multiple countries means you’ll need several documents and permits to make sure your journey is smooth. Here’s what you need:
Carnet de Passage: This is a must-have for your vehicle. Think of it as a passport for your car, allowing you to temporarily import it into other countries without paying hefty customs duties. You can get the Carnet de Passage through the Automobile Association of India (AAI). Make sure you apply for this at least a month before your trip.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Required in countries like Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia. You can get your IDP from your local RTO in India. It’s essential, even if you have a valid Indian driving license.
Vehicle Registration and Insurance: Your car’s registration papers and valid insurance documents are required. You should also get third-party insurance for Myanmar and Thailand, which can be purchased at the border.
Visas: You’ll need visas for each country. Most are available as eVisas or visas on arrival, but make sure to double-check each country’s entry requirements beforehand.
What to Pack: Essentials for the Road Trip
Packing smart is crucial for such a long trip. Here’s a list of essentials to ensure you’re well-prepared:
Documents:
- Passport and multiple copies.
- Carnet de Passage.
- IDP and vehicle registration papers.
- Visas for each country.
- Health and vehicle insurance papers.
Vehicle Essentials:
- Portable tire inflator and extra tire.
- Spare fuel cans (particularly for Myanmar, where fuel stations are scarce in some parts).
- Toolkit for emergency repairs.
- First aid kits
Gadgets and Navigation:
- GPS device or maps app downloaded offline.
- Power bank and extra phone chargers.
- Local SIM cards (get them at the borders of Myanmar and Thailand).
Clothing:
- Pack light but bring comfortable clothes for driving.
- Carry clothing for both hot and cold climates, as you’ll be passing through different terrains and weather conditions.
Snacks and Water:
- Stock up on water and dry snacks for the stretches where you won’t find rest stops for hours.
Other Tips and Important Information
Tolls and Fuel Stops: Fuel up whenever you find a station, especially in Myanmar and rural parts of Thailand. Keep some local cash handy for tolls, which are common in Thailand and Malaysia.
Cash and Cards: Carry some cash in local currencies for each country, as not every place accepts cards. However, a good international credit card can be your best friend for larger expenses like fuel or hotel stays.
Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to buy travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and vehicle mishaps across international borders.
Crossing Borders: Plan for some delays at borders, particularly the Thailand-Myanmar and Malaysia-Thailand crossings. Border formalities can take a few hours, so pack your patience!
Final Thoughts: Is the Journey Worth It?
A road trip from India to Singapore is the kind of adventure that stays with you for a lifetime. From navigating through scenic mountain passes in Myanmar to enjoying the bustling city life in Bangkok, and finally driving across the Johor Causeway into Singapore, every part of the journey will offer something unique.
Yes, it requires a lot of planning and some serious paperwork, but the freedom of having your car and being able to explore at your own pace is worth every bit of effort. So buckle up, plan wisely, and enjoy the open road! If you are planning your first international road trip then you “4 best things you must know” for your smoother journey.
Safe travels, and may your adventure be as smooth as your car’s engine!
Advice
I won’t suggest this road trip or any international road trip to someone who doesn’t have enough experience of having a long road trip because that’s very tiring and demands a lot. Instead, why don’t you try Delhi to Goa, Hyderabad to Goa, or Delhi to Leh Ladakh trips first and get some idea then plan your first international road trip.
