Wanna Ride a Defender? What It's Like to Drive One in Chandigarh

Most people only see a Land Rover Defender on the road or in films. Very few get to sit behind the wheel. In Chandigarh, you can now drive one yourself, for a day or for a whole road trip.

We added the Defender to our fleet for people who want something truly special. Here is what the car is like, where it is worth taking from Chandigarh, and what you need to know before you book.

What It Feels Like to Drive

The first thing you notice is how high you sit. You look down over the traffic, and the big square windows make the car feel open and easy to see out of.

On the highway it is calm and quiet. Bumps and broken patches that you would feel in a normal car barely reach the cabin. On hill roads it feels planted, and the automatic gearbox takes the effort out of steep climbs.

It is also a big car. In the first few minutes, take it slowly in tight sector lanes and parking lots until you get a feel for its size. After that, most people find it surprisingly easy to drive.

The Defender in Our Fleet

• 5 seats
• Automatic gearbox
• Petrol engine, 1997 cc
• 2025 model
• Around 8.5 km/l, depending on how and where you drive
• 972 litres of boot space
• 5-star safety rating

That boot is a big plus on road trips. Suitcases, camera bags and a cooler all fit without a fight.

The Defender is made by Land Rover, the British brand that is now part of JLR, owned by Tata Motors. It started life decades ago as a tough working vehicle for farms and rough tracks, and the new one keeps that toughness while adding a properly luxurious cabin.

Where to Take It from Chandigarh

Kasauli

About 1.5 to 2 hours away, with winding roads and pine forests. A good first drive to get used to the car on hill bends.

Shimla

A classic weekend run. The highway is good, and the Defender's comfort really shows on the long climb.

Manali

A long, beautiful drive through valleys and mountain towns. Start early and take breaks. Our Chandigarh to Manali guide covers the route.

Dharamshala

Highway first, then mountain roads with views of the Dhauladhar range. There is plenty of room for a family's luggage. See our Dharamshala road trip guide.

What about Spiti?

The Defender is built for rough roads, but routes like Spiti involve stream crossings and extreme stretches. Our rental terms allow light off-road driving on unpaved roads, not river crossings or extreme trails, so we don't recommend Spiti in a rented car.

Price, Deposit and Rules

• Rent: ₹50,000 per day
• Security deposit: ₹1,00,000, refunded instantly when you return the car, after a quick inspection
• Kilometres: 200 km per day included
• Fuel: same-to-same, so you return the car with the fuel level it had at pickup
• Driver: at least 21 years old, with a valid driving licence (learner's licences are not accepted) and ID proof
• Travel: all our cars have all-India tourist permits; just tell us before you leave the Tricity and share your route

Weddings and Special Occasions

The Defender makes an entrance like few other cars. It is popular for wedding arrivals, pre-wedding shoots and milestone birthdays.

Like every ODAC24 car, it is self drive only, so a family member or friend drives it on the day. Wedding season gets busy, so book early. We can bring the car to your home or venue anywhere in the Tricity. Delivery is free; only the driver and fuel costs apply, so please call to confirm.

Before You Drive Off

• Walk around the car with our team and take photos of its condition.
• Set your seat and mirrors properly. The Defender is wider than most cars.
• Ask us to show you the drive modes and the 4x4 controls.
• Keep your speed sensible on hill roads and leave extra space when parking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a Land Rover Defender in Chandigarh?

Yes. ODAC24 rents the Defender on a self drive basis in Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula, subject to availability.

How much does it cost?

₹50,000 per day, with a ₹1,00,000 security deposit that is refunded instantly when you return the car.

How many people can it seat?

Five people, with 972 litres of boot space for luggage.

Is it automatic?

Yes, our Defender is an automatic with a 1997 cc petrol engine.

Can I take it to Manali or Shimla?

Yes. Tell us before you leave the Tricity and share your route. Light off-road driving is fine; river crossings and extreme trails are not allowed.

Is fuel included?

No. Fuel is same-to-same: you return the car with the fuel level it had at pickup. Tolls and parking on your route are paid by you.

Do you provide a driver?

No. ODAC24 is self drive only.

Book Your Defender Drive

If you have always wanted to drive a Defender yourself, call or WhatsApp us on +91 98150 70133 to check dates. You can also see the car, its price and deposit on the Land Rover Defender page, or compare it with our other luxury cars.