Manali is a popular hill station and tourist destination in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is a beautiful place to enjoy the natural beauty of the snow-capped Himalayas of the region. The hill station is also a popular destination for adventure sports such as paragliding, zorbing, skating, and skiing. Manali is a great place to visit for those who want to experience natural beauty, adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Delhi to Manali distance by road is comfortably accessible, which is why tourists frequently choose this route for their travels. The road trip to Manali via Delhi is the most suitable and cheapest way to reach it, as the two cities are relatively close. Also there are Several transportation options available, including flights, trains, and buses. I have been to Manali many times because the beauty of the hill station attracts me. Every time I visit, it feels like the first time.
Furthermore, In this blog, you can discover the best Delhi to Manali route via car, bus, train, and flight, along with the best places to visit in Manali.
What Is The Distance Between Delhi to Manali
The Delhi to Manali distance by road is approximately 570 kilometers (354 miles) Via NH 152D.
The exact distance will depend on your route and any detours or delays that may occur along the way.
The journey from Delhi to Manali can take anywhere from 9 to 15 hours by road, depending on the mode of transportation and the route you take. For transportation options, you can choose flights, trains, or buses to cover the distance between the two cities.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Manali?
The best time to visit Manali with family depends on your personal preferences and the activities you want to do there. Here is the weather by season, based on which you can decide the ideal months to visit:
Summer (April to June)
This is the best time to visit Manali if you want to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and paragliding. You can find pleasant Weather and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Monsoon (July to September)
Manali gets a lot of rain during the monsoon season, making outdoor activities difficult. However, the rain can also make the surroundings very green and picturesque. If you don’t mind the rain and want to avoid the crowds, this can be a good time to visit.
Winter (October to March)
This is the peak tourist season in Manali, as the Weather is cold and snowy. If you want to experience snow and enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, this is the best time to visit. However, be prepared for very cold temperatures, with nighttime lows dropping below freezing.
Overall, the best time to visit Manali depends on what you want to do there and your tolerance for cold Weather. Summer is the Ideal time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities and mild temperatures. If you want to experience snow and winter sports, the winter months are the best time to visit.
How to reach Manali from Delhi via bus, train, and car?
There are various possible Delhi to Manali routes, and here you can find the best one via bus, train, or car:
Delhi to Manali By bus
Several bus transportation companies operate daily from Delhi to Manali. Delhi to Manali distance by road is around 575 KM, so that the journey may take about 12-14 hours, depending on the route and the number of stops. You can book your tickets online or at the bus station. You can check the HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) portal to check bus schedules from Delhi to Manali.
Delhi to Manali By train
If you are looking for how to reach manali from delhi by train, the nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar, about 100 kilometers away. You can book a taxi or a local bus to reach Manali. Alternatively, you can take a train to Chandigarh or Ambala and then a bus or taxi to Manali. You can check all the scheduled trains from Delhi to Manali on the IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) portal.
Delhi to Manali By car
The most convenient mode of travel to Manali is by car. Delhi to Manali route by car is 570 km long, and the estimated driving time is about 13 hours. It is recommended to break up the journey into a few days, with stops along the way to rest and explore some other regional destinations. Although Delhi to Manali cab charges may vary depending on the type of cab service you choose, they usually range between Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000.
How Long Does It Take To Reach Manali via Delhi?
The time it takes to travel from Delhi to Manali depends on your transportation mode. Traveling from Delhi to Manali by car, the time it takes is around 12-14 hours. However, it may vary depending on your route and the number of stops you make.
The Delhi to Manali bus distance is around 540 km, so by bus, the journey can take anywhere from 14 to 20 hours, depending on the route and number of stops.
What Are The Popular Routes From Delhi to Manali?
There are several popular routes that you can take to get from Delhi to Manali:
Via Delhi-Amabala-Kharar-Kiratpur-Bilaspur-Mandi-Manali
This is the most direct route and is about 550 kilometers long. it may take 11-12 hours if you drive non stop to reach you Manali. However, you can plan a stay at kiratpur to make journey easy.
Via Delhi-Ambala-Zirakpur-Chandigarh-Kiratpur-Bilaspur-Mandi-Manali
This route is slightly longer. It is about 590 kilometers, but it can be a good option if you want to stop in Chandigarh to visit some of the city’s attractions. This route takes 13-14 hours to drive from Delhi to Manali.
It’s a good idea to plan your route and allow plenty of time to make the journey, as the roads during the delhi to manali road trip can be winding and hilly. Please also check the weather and road conditions before you set out, as the Rohtang Pass can be closed due to heavy snowfall in the winter months.
What Is The Cheapest Way To Reach Delhi to Manali?
The most economical way to travel from Delhi to Manali would be by bus. Several bus companies operate on this route, and you can buy tickets directly at the bus station or online. Prices may vary depending on the type of bus and the time of year, but you can expect to pay around 500-1000 rupees for a one-way ticket. It’s also worth noting that you can get a cheaper itinerary or cost of travel if you are willing to travel overnight, as the cost of accommodation will be included in the ticket price.
Places To Visit During Delhi to Manali Roadtrip
There are several best places to visit in Manali, a hill station in Himachal Pradesh:
Solang Valley
Have you ever heard the quote that, “The journey is always more beautiful than the destination”? It perfectly describes Solang Valley. Located just 15 km away from Manali, this valley is surrounded by natural beauty, a flowing river, and a rich cultural heritage. You can enjoy a wonderful family or friend outing here while admiring the splendor of nature. The valley offers a variety of adventure activities, such as paragliding, zorbing, rolling in a big ball, camping, trekking, and skiing.
Rohtang Pass
Are you visiting Manali to experience snow? Then Rohtang Pass is a must-visit place. The pass is about 51 km from Manali, which may take around 2 hours to drive. You will never forget the breathtaking views of mountain valleys and picturesque vistas here. You can enjoy activities such as snow scootering, ski rides, mountain biking, and the attractive view of Lahaul Valley. Also, don’t forget to pack layered jackets and thermal wear, as the temperatures can drop significantly.
Beas Kund
A high-altitude lake, Beas Kund located near Manali considered sacred by Hindus. It is a destination that is very famous among trekkers. Do you know why? It’s because this trek leads you to the very source of the Beas River, the river that flows through Manali. This scenic lake is surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Pir Panjal range. Trekking and spending time here will give you a sense of calm. You can visit the place anytime between the end of May to September for the best experience. If you are planning a trek, keep snacks and lightweight food items to stay energetic throughout the journey.
Hadimba Temple
A beautiful temple dedicated to goddess Hidimba Devi is set in Manali. The temple is encircled by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar. Located just about 2 km from Mall Road, it is within walking distance. You can have a good time here by taking pictures in Himachali outfits and feeding the rabbits and yaks around the temple. If you visit between December and January, you might see snowfall, which adds to the beauty of Hidimba Devi Temple.
Vashisht Hot Springs
The holy Hot Spring has always been a mysterious and spiritual place for tourists. You can have a divine experience here as its purifying waters invite pilgrims to a sacred experience. You can expect crowds during peak seasons. But the good thing is that it has separate bathing areas (kund) for men and women. It is said that soaking your feet here can be beneficial in preventing skin diseases. So yes, it is worth visiting during your Manali road trip.
Manali Sanctuary
Don’t you enjoy wildlife sightseeing? If yes, then this tourist attraction in Manali should be on your list. Also known as Van Vihar, it is well-marked with informative signs about various trees, animals, and birds. You can sit and relax, spending an hour in the lap of nature. The tall and numerous pine trees here will make you forget the city’s noise. The entry fee is INR 10 per person. The Manali Van Vihar is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Naggar Castle
Do you remember the song “Ye Ishq Hai” from the movie Jab We Met? It was shot here! This place, located 22 km from the main manali area, offers a peaceful escape from the crowd. It was built in the 14th century and now serves as a museum. Inside the castle, you can explore various old Himalayan-style temples. If you love history and old architecture, you will have a unique experience here. The view of the Kangra Valley from up here is absolutely stunning and should not be missed. This spot is perfect for photography, with an entry fee of just 50 rupees.
Kullu
Kullu is the closest destination before you reach Manali. The distance between Kullu and Manali is 40 km, which typically takes about an hour to drive. Kullu is purely scenic, making it a great spot to plan a day stay and explore its gorgeous surroundings. Located on the banks of the Beas River, it’s perfect for rafting activities. Some famous tourist attractions in Kullu include Parashar Lake, Tirthan Valley, the Great Himalayan National Park, and Bijli Mahadev Temple. You can also try activities like camping, paragliding, cycling, trekking, skiing, and zorbing.
Jalori Pass
A mountain pass located near Manali that offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Rahala Waterfalls
A beautiful waterfall near Manali is a popular spot for picnics and photography.
What Places Should I Cover During The Delhi to Manali Route?
There are several places you could visit while traveling from Delhi to Manali. These stopovers inclues:
Chandigarh
Chandigarh is the capital of the states of Punjab and Haryana, and it is known for its modern architecture and well-planned city layout.
Ambala
Ambala is a city in Haryana known for its historical sites and temples.
Kurukshetra
Kurukshetra is a city in Haryana, an important Hindu pilgrimage site, as mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharata.
Pinjore
Pinjore is a town in Haryana, and it is home to the Pinjore Gardens, a Mughal-style garden complex.
Mandi
Mandi is a town in Himachal Pradesh known for its ancient temples and natural beauty.
Kullu
Kullu is a town in Himachal Pradesh known for its natural beauty and adventure sports.
Best hotels to stay in Manali
You can choose any budget hotel depending on your preferences. You can also book these hotels or homestays in Manali directly after reaching the destination. Here are a few recommendations for hotels and the best places to stay in Manali:
The Orchard Greens
This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Manali, with a spa and fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, and various dining options.
The Manali Inn
This is a mid-range hotel located in the Old Manali area, with a restaurant, a garden, and a terrace.
Hotel Manali Continental
This is a budget hotel located in the center of Manali, with a restaurant and a garden.
The Himalayan resort
This is a luxury hotel in the Old Manali area, with a spa, a fitness center, and dining options. One of the best places to stay in Manali is made on castle theme-based resort.
Hotel Snowcrest Manor
This is a mid-range hotel located in the Old Manali area, with a restaurant, a garden, and a terrace.
It’s a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before booking a hotel in Manali, as prices and amenities can vary. Consider booking a hotel in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as hotels in Manali can fill up quickly.
It is always great to book a stay in advance to avoid any discomfort during the trip. There are a lot of good stay options in Manali to relax during the trip. If you are seeking places to eat, you can hit up the cafes in Manali where you can have great food and a good time.
Is there any Zostel In Manali?
Yes, there is a Zostel in Manali. Zostel is a chain of hostels that provides budget accommodations for travelers. The Manali Zostel is located in the Old Manali area, about 2 kilometers from the main market and Mall Road. It offers shared dormitory rooms as well as private rooms with shared bathrooms. Amenities at the Zostel stay in Manali include a common area with a TV and a fireplace, a shared kitchen, and a garden. There are also activities such as movie nights and bonfires organized by the hostel.
Prices at the Zostel in Manali start at around INR 700 per night for a bed in a shared dormitory. So, while exploring the best places to visit in Manali, you can also save a lot more by staying in a hostel in Manali.
Faqs-
How far is it from Delhi to Manali?
The distance from Delhi to Manali is about 557 kilometers.
How long does it take to reach Delhi to Manali?
Depending on your route and traffic conditions, driving from Delhi to Manali takes about 12-13 hours.
How do I get from Delhi to Manali?
You can drive from Delhi to Manali by car. The journey takes about 12-13 hours by car.
You can take a bus from Delhi to Manali. Several private and state-run bus operators offer regular services between these two cities. The journey takes about 12-13 hours by bus.
You can take a train from Delhi to Jogindernagar, the nearest railway station to Manali. From Jogindernagar, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Manali. The journey takes about 13-14 hours by train and bus/taxi.
What should I pack for a trip from Delhi to Manali?
Consider packing for a trip from Delhi to Manali, including warm clothing (such as jackets, sweaters, and thermal wear), comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It’s also a good idea to pack some snacks and drinks for your trip, as well as any medications you may need.
Is it safe to travel solo from Delhi to Manali?
Overall, it is generally safe to travel from Delhi to Manali. However, taking basic precautions to ensure your safety while traveling is a good idea.