10 Outstation Routes Where Booking a Cab Is Cheaper Than Driving

Planning an outstation trip in India? One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to drive your own car or book a cab. While driving yourself offers freedom, surprisingly, there are many routes where booking a cab actually turns out to be cheaper than hitting the road solo.

From fuel prices to tolls, maintenance, and parking hassles, the expenses pile up quickly when you drive. On the other hand, cab services often offer fixed, all-inclusive fares, which can end up saving you both money and stress.

Here’s a list of 10 popular outstation routes in India where booking a cab is often more affordable than driving your own vehicle.

Why Choose a Cab Over Driving?

• Driving long distances isn’t just about fuel costs. Here’s what adds up:

• Fuel expenses that fluctuate frequently

• Multiple tolls on highways

• Wear and tear on your car, which means future maintenance bills

• Parking fees in busy towns or cities

• Driver fatigue and the stress of long hours on the road

Booking a cab removes many of these concerns. You get a hassle-free journey without worrying about tolls or parking, and sometimes the overall price is lower than what you’d spend driving yourself.

10 Outstation Routes Where Cabs Are More Cost-Effective Than Self-Driving

1. Delhi to Jaipur (Around 280 km)

One of the busiest tourist routes, Delhi to Jaipur involves toll payments and fuel costs that add up quickly. Many cab services offer fixed prices that come cheaper than the combined costs of self-driving.

2. Mumbai to Lonavala (About 83 km)

This scenic but toll-heavy route is a weekend favorite. When you factor in toll charges and the hassle of parking, booking a cab can be the more economical and relaxing option.

3. Bangalore to Mysore (Around 145 km)

With tolls on the NICE road and highways, driving your own vehicle isn’t always cheap. Cabs here offer convenient packages that often save you money.

4. Chennai to Pondicherry (Approximately 150 km)

While this coastal route is lovely, toll fees and fuel costs can make driving pricey. Booking a cab means you can enjoy the ride without worrying about these hidden expenses.

5. Pune to Mahabaleshwar (About 120 km)

Hill driving means higher fuel consumption. Cabs not only handle the tricky terrain for you but also offer prices that beat self-driving costs.

6. Kolkata to Digha (Around 185 km)

Multiple toll booths and variable traffic conditions make this route expensive if you’re driving yourself. Cabs usually include tolls in their fixed fares, making it a wallet-friendly choice.

7. Hyderabad to Nagarjuna Sagar (About 165 km)

This route includes some rough stretches. Hiring a cab ensures a smoother journey and better cost control compared to driving your own car.

8. Ahmedabad to Udaipur (Roughly 260 km)

A popular heritage trip with many tolls. Fixed cab fares that cover tolls and driver allowances are often more affordable than self-driving.

9. Lucknow to Agra (Around 330 km)

This well-traveled route includes tolls on the Yamuna Expressway. Booking a cab with an all-inclusive fare often turns out cheaper.

10. Chandigarh to Manali (About 310 km)

Mountain drives tend to consume more fuel and cause wear and tear. A cab with an experienced driver offers safety and savings compared to driving yourself.

How to Save Even More When Booking Cabs

Compare prices across apps like Ola Outstation, Uber Intercity, and local cab services.

Look out for discounts and offers, especially during holiday seasons.
Book round-trip journeys for better deals.
Travel in groups to split the fare.
Confirm what’s included in the fare to avoid surprise expenses.

Wrapping Up

While driving yourself has its perks, the total cost of fuel, tolls, parking, and vehicle wear can add up quickly on many Indian outstation routes. Booking a cab is often a smarter, more economical choice—plus, you get to relax and enjoy the ride.

Next time you plan a trip from Delhi to Jaipur or Chandigarh to Manali, check out cab fares—you might be surprised by how much you can save!

Safe travels!