Have you ever felt that driving in your city or country is tough? Do you think you are a crafty driver? Those who have been to India may know that driving here is an art: where honking is necessary, lines on the road are optional, and going the wrong way isn’t a problem. Welcome to my 4 AM encounter with the art of driving in India…..rave music all the way on our hour long drive to the airport.
As I sit here in a car blasting rave music, with hazard lights on due to the dark and rain, I can’t help but admire the skill and expertise of our driver. The way he navigates through dangerous intersections, passes cars, and honks just to let people know we are present is an art in itself. Timing honks is critical, and our driver has mastered it to the T.
Driving on a two-lane highway feels like a video game, with no hesitation and swift momentum. Passing between large buses and honking all the way seems to be second nature to the drivers here. Lines on the road may exist, but they are optional to use. Going the wrong way is not a problem; just honk and move forward.
You might be wondering if it’s chaos on the roads. It might seem like it, but the art of driving in India goes beyond chaos. It’s an experience that makes you feel alive. With the thrill of driving amid the rugged terrain, whole families riding on one motorcycle, and no headlights on non-motorized vehicles, it’s a sight that’s hard to miss. It’s a fast and furious encounter that would leave any travel junkie wanting more.
Driving on Indian roads requires utmost attention, skills, and expertise. Not everyone can master it. The diversity in driving styles, the constant movement, and the honking sounds can be overwhelming. But once you get the hang of it, you will realize that it’s a beautiful art that everyone needs to experience.
No big deal….. just a giant Ganesha headed down the road during rush hour….
Each time I step out of a car or rickshaw or off a motorbike, I can’t help but feel grateful for my feet being on the ground. Each encounter is fast and furious. The experience has familiarized me with the culture and lifestyle of the people. Honking is not just a necessity here; it’s a way to communicate and express oneself on the road. The art of driving in India is not just skillful; it’s awe-inspiring, making it a bucket list item for any travel enthusiast.
With Love,
Michelle
Exploring Now 
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