JLR India has opened bookings for the 2026 edition of Defender Journeys, the brand’s luxury self-drive adventure programme. Returning for its fourth edition, the curated expedition kicks off in January 2026, offering enthusiasts the chance to explore India’s most scenic and demanding landscapes behind the wheel of a Land Rover Defender.
Importantly, the programme is open to all, with no requirement to own a Defender. All vehicles are provided by the organisers as part of a full-service package.
Route Options and Pricing
The 2026 Defender Journeys edition features 23 curated routes spanning major adventure regions across India. Destinations include:
- Kutch
- Zanskar Valley
- UmLing La Pass
- Ladakh
- Spiti Valley
- Siliguri corridor
Each itinerary combines structured driving with cultural halts, local exploration, and guided activities.
Packages are priced at ₹5.5 lakh per couple, inclusive of:
- Flights
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Guided itinerary and support staff
Vehicles and Format
Participants will drive organiser-provided Defender 110 SUVs, specially equipped for varied terrain. Although Land Rover sells the Defender in 90, 110, and 130 body styles in India, the Journeys programme exclusively uses the Defender 110.
Every batch is accompanied by trained staff responsible for:
- Route planning
- Vehicle assistance
- Safety and daily operations
This makes the programme accessible even to those with limited off-road experience.
Driving Capabilities on Display
The Defender Journeys programme is designed to highlight the SUV’s real-world durability across different terrains. The Defender 110s used in the event come equipped with:
- All-wheel drive (AWD)
- Hill Descent Control
- Terrain Response off-road modes
Participants will drive through:
- High-altitude mountain passes
- Desert trails
- Broken rural roads
- Soft sand and loose gravel
These routes are carefully selected to demonstrate the Defender’s blend of rugged capability and long-distance comfort.
Defender Brand Vision
Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender, commented:
“Defender Journeys is the ultimate expression of the Defender brand’s DNA. The Defender is known for going anywhere and doing anything, and this programme gives adventure-seekers the chance to experience its full potential while exploring India’s most formidable terrains.”
Defender Pricing in India
While the Journeys programme uses the Defender 110, the broader Defender lineup in India includes the 90, 110, and 130 variants, with prices currently ranging from ₹98 lakh to ₹2.60 crore (ex-showroom).