Planning a trip from Delhi to Manali? Whether you're chasing snow-capped peaks, charming cafes, or serene mountain air, Manali is a favorite all-season destination. With its scenic beauty and adventure opportunities, getting there is part of the experience!
This Delhi to Manali travel guide covers all the transport options, best routes, travel time, costs, and helpful tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
🚗 1. Traveling from Delhi to Manali by Road
Distance: approx. 530 km
Travel Time: 12–14 hours (depending on traffic and road conditions)
Route: Delhi → Panipat → Ambala → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
🚘 Self-Drive or Cab:
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Ideal for road trip lovers!
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Enjoy stops at Murthal, Swarghat, and Pandoh Dam.
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Toll charges: ₹500–₹800 approx.
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Rental car (with fuel): ₹4,000–₹6,000
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Private cab from Delhi: ₹6,000–₹9,000 (one way)
🚍 Bus Travel:
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Volvo/Deluxe Buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate & Majnu Ka Tila.
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Operated by HRTC, HPTDC, and private agencies.
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Duration: 12–14 hours
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Fare: ₹600–₹1,600 (depending on the bus type)
Tip: Overnight buses are convenient—arrive in Manali by morning.
✈️ 2. Traveling by Flight (via Kullu Airport)
Though Manali doesn’t have its own airport, Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar) is just 50 km away.
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Flights from Delhi to Kullu (Bhuntar): 1.5 hours
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Airlines: Alliance Air, IndiGo (limited service)
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Fare: ₹2,500–₹7,000 (can vary by season)
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From Bhuntar, take a taxi/bus to Manali (1.5–2 hours)
Note: Flights are subject to weather and often get delayed or canceled in winter.
🚆 3. Traveling by Train (Partial Journey)
Manali is not directly connected by train, but you can combine train + road for a budget-friendly trip.
Option 1:
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Train to Chandigarh or Kalka
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Then, bus or taxi to Manali (8–10 hours)
Option 2:
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Train to Joginder Nagar (narrow gauge)
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Then take a local bus or cab to Manali (~4–5 hours)
This route takes more time but is scenic and great for slow travelers.
🏞️ Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Manali
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Summer (April–June): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and adventure.
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Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowfall and skiing, but be prepared for roadblocks.
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Autumn (Sept–Nov): Crisp air and fewer crowds.
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Monsoon (July–Aug): Risk of landslides—travel only if necessary.
🧳 Travel Tips
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Book buses and flights in advance during peak seasons.
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Keep motion sickness tablets if you're prone to hilly road nausea.
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Carry cash for small expenses in remote areas.
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Start early if you're driving to avoid late-night travel on hill roads.
✨ Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to cruise through mountain roads, enjoy a scenic flight, or hop on a bus, traveling from Delhi to Manali is the first step to an unforgettable Himachal getaway. With the right planning, your journey will be just as amazing as the destination.