India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway: 10 must visit pit-stops on your road trip to Thailand

All set for a road trip to Thailand? It might be an easy and exciting task for all those travel freaks as the Indo-Thailand highway, Maynwaddy-Thinggan Kawkareik, of the Asian Super Highway opens this November. 

The trilateral highway is said to connect Moreh in Manipur to Thailand's Maesot through Tamu in Maynmar, Mandalay and Myawaddy.

The 25.6 km long stretch after being operational will reduce travel time between Thinggan Nyenaung and Kawkareik from 3 hours to just 45 minutes.

So, if you are planning a road trip anytime after November from New Delhi to Thailand, don't forget to visit these places:

1.Agra: The city of the inevitable monument of love, Taj Mahal, Agra would be the first pit-stop that you should take. Visit the white marble beauty which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. 

You can also visit the Agra Fort if you are in this city. Built in the 16th century by the Mughals, this monument is situated near the gardens of Taj Mahal. Also called the Red Fort of Agra, it comprises of Jahangir Palace, Khas Mahal and so on. 

2. Lucknow: The next stop after Agra that you should be taking is Lucknow. You can't miss visiting the famous Bara Imambara if you are in the city of nawabs. Also known as Bhool bhulaiya, this famous architectural building of monuments and statues will leave you spellbound.

Once you are done getting lost and found in the Bhool bhulaiya, you can rejoice yourself with the famous Lucknawy biryani. Take a little break and then move ahead.

3.Guwahati: The city best known for its famous temples, Guwahati is the largest city of Assam.

This city is the host of diverse wildlife which includes rare animals such as Asian elephants, pythons, tigers, gaurs and many endangered birds.

And once you are in this city you should not miss the setting sun and then you can ride ahead for your next stop.

4. Shillong: Known as the 'Abode of Clouds', Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. One must visit the Elephant Falls which is in the outskirts of the city where the mountain stream descends through twin successive falls set in the dells of fern covered rocks.

The beauty of this city will enthral you and after spending a good amount of time in this city you can move ahead to your destination to Thailand.

5. Bagan: if you are in this city, then you should know that you are in Myanmar. Bagan is an ancient city located in Burma's Mandalay Region. The most important tourist spot in this city is the Bagan Archaeological Zone which comprises of well constructed monasteries, pagodas and Buddhist temples. 

The city from the 9th to 13th century was called the capital of the Kingdom of Pagan and the monuments seem to overwhelm the landscape of the ancient city.

6. Mandalay: Next comes Mandalay. The road through Mandalay will take you for a joy ride as you will come across the famous golden palace monastery which is a traditional Burmese style temple and was built by King Mindon in the 19th century. This monastery depicts tales form the Buddhist mythology through its teak carvings.

You can also witness the world's longest teak bridge which is over two centuries old and covers the Taungthaman Lake in Mandalay's Amarapura township. 

You can also visit the Mahamuni Pagoda which is a well-known pilgrimage site known for its enormous gold Buddha statue.
 
7. Naypyidaw: This city which is the capital city of Myanmar will enthral you with its rich and beautiful pagodas. 

This city holds the Uppatasanti Pagoda also known as the 'Peace pagoda' which is a prominent landmark in Naypyidaw.

8.Yangon: After Naypyidaw, your next pit-stop should be Yangon which is also known as Rangoon. This was the former capital of Myanmar and if you are in this city it is hard to miss the Shwedagon Pagoda which is massive, glittering, gold-plated range of temples, stupas and statues. 

You can also visit the Sule Pagoda if you are still in the city. Yangon was the city where Bahadur Shah Zafar was kept captive by the British.

9. Starting point of Thailand: You are about to enter Bangkok when you visit the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace in Thailand. Also known as the Summer Palace, it lies beside the Chao Phraya River in Bang Pa-In district and was formerly used by the Thai Kings. 

10. You reach your destination- Bangkok: The capital city of Thailand. Known for its vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, this city has the historic Grand Palace and famous Buddhist temples which includes Wat Arun and Wat Pho. 

It is nearly 70 hours covering over 4,200 kms yes, but this may be the best road trip ever.