The Delhi to Manali trip is one such journey that is on every traveller's Wishlist. This route is not just a journey but an experience in which you get to escape from modern city life and get the combo of the peaceful beauty of the mountains and adventure. In this Manali travel guide, we will tell you in detail how to travel from Delhi to Manali, which routes will be the best and which options are budget-friendly.
After reaching Manali, the scenic valleys, snow-capped mountains and riverside views give you a different kind of peace. Along with this, for the adventure lovers, activities like trekking, paragliding and river rafting are also major attractions here. If you are travelling with family, then Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley and Old Manali's cafes are must-visit spots. This guide has been created to make your Delhi to Manali journey easy and memorable, where you will find travel tips as well as the best things to do in Manali.
Why Visit Manali from Delhi?
Manali has always been a dream destination among travellers. And planning a Delhi to Manali road trip is even more convenient and easy. You can easily plan your journey from Delhi to Manali by road, by flight or by bus. But in this article, we focus on the road trip, for road trip lovers. The drive from Delhi to Manali is an adventure in itself, where you get a different enjoyment of both the highways and the mountain turns. Coming here, you get snow-capped mountains, flowing rivers and dense pine forests which mesmerize every traveller. Adventure lovers can enjoy thrilling experiences like skiing, rafting and paragliding.
Along with this, Manali's culture and spirituality are also unique, where ancient temples, peaceful monasteries and local art can be felt everywhere. If you are looking for a romantic getaway or relaxation, then cozy cottages, mountain view cafes and silent walks make the vibe here even more special. The most special thing is that Manali is not just a destination but is also a perfect basecamp for Leh Ladakh, Spiti and Tirthan Valley from where you can explore more. Hence, Manali from Delhi trip is a complete package of nature, adventure and culture.
Best Time to Visit Manali
Manali is one of the popular hill stations from Delhi during the hot northern Indian summer season. It could be the best season to visit Manali, but it is not the only time you visit Manali. The city welcomes visitors to see how the different weather enhances the natural charm of the city. Especially during winter, when the whole city is drenched with snow and shows a real-life paradise on earth.
| Season | Months | Highlights | Travel Experience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | March – June | Pleasant weather (10°C–25°C), clear skies | Perfect for trekking, paragliding, and river rafting | Adventure seekers, families, heat escape |
| Monsoon | July – September | Lush green valleys, scenic landscapes | Roads become slippery & landslide-prone; offbeat charm | Nature lovers, photographers, monsoon enthusiasts |
| Autumn | October – November | Peaceful season, crystal-clear skies | Moderate weather, fewer crowds, colourful landscapes | Photographers, leisure travellers |
| Winter | December – February | Snow-covered mountains, freezing temperatures | Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and romantic snow walks | Couples, honeymooners, snow/adventure lovers |
Distance, Routes & Time
The Delhi to Manali route is an exciting journey for every traveller, which offers scenic views along with long drives. The overall distance from Delhi to Manali is around 530 to 600 km, and the travel time can take between 12 and 16 hours. Both routes offer different experiences in their own way, which travellers choose according to their preference.
For a Manali trip, travellers can opt for private taxis, buses, or tempo travellers from Delhi. The route involves mountain roads, winding ghats, especially after Chandigarh, so drivers with hill-driving experience are recommended. Despite the twists and turns, the road is well-maintained and safe, and provides easy access for Manali to Delhi cab drivers. But the thing to always keep in mind is that, book your Delhi to Manali cab with a trusted and reliable taxi provider.
Sure! Below is a table that offers several alternate travel routes from Delhi to Manali, including distance, travel time, and route highlights—ideal for a blog or travel guide:
| Route | Distance | Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via NH-44 & NH-154 (Most Popular) | 530–550 km | 12–14 hrs | Fastest; well-maintained highways via Ambala → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali. |
| Via Shimla (Jalori Pass, Banjar Route) | 600+ km | 15–16 hrs | Scenic; passes through Shimla, Nashri, Banjar & Jalori Pass. Offbeat detours, lush mountain stretches. |
| Banur → Palampur Route (via NH-44 & NH-205) | 650–670 km | 16 hrs | Longer drive; crosses Banur, Palampur & Kangra region. Great for those wanting fewer crowds and more landscapes. |
| Shimla Detour (via NH-44 & NH-5) | 610 km | 15 hrs | Includes Shimla’s colonial charm and elevated views before heading to Mandi. Ideal for combining hill station vibes with mountain routes. |
| NH-152D Option (Rohtak → Jhajjar) | 580–600 km | 11–13 hrs | Avoids heavy traffic near Ambala/Chandigarh; alternate route via Rohtak and Pehowa, for travellers who prefer different paths. |
How to Reach Manali from Delhi
Manali is one such hill station that is easily connected to Delhi, and there are multiple options available to reach it. Different routes and modes of transport can be best for every traveller, depending on budget and comfort. The distance from Delhi to Manali is approximately 540-560 km, and this journey is an adventure for you. Let us see how you can travel from Delhi to Manali by road, by train and by flight.
By Road
Delhi to Manali by Taxi or car is the most popular and scenic option. On this route, you will get a smooth expressway from Delhi to Chandigarh, which takes approximately 4-5 hours. After Chandigarh, the drive-by road shifts to slightly hilly and winding roads that reach Manali via Mandi and Kullu. The entire route takes approximately 12-14 hours, and the distance is around 540 km. Self-drive travellers like this route a lot as the road offers stunning views of beautiful valleys, the Beas River and lush green mountains. The best seasons for road trips are the summer months and early winter when the roads are clear and safe.
By Train
If you are planning to travel from Delhi to Manali by train, it is important to know that there is no train available. First of all, you have to take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh or Joginder Nagar, which is a journey of 3-4 hours. After Chandigarh, you have two options. The first option is Chandigarh to Manali by Bus, which covers approximately 10-12 hours, and buses are available in Volvo or AC coaches. The second option is Chandigarh to Manali by Taxi, which is private and comfortable and takes 6-7 hours. The combination of train and bus is best for budget travellers, and one gets a chance to enjoy the beautiful views of the Shivalik hills en-route.
By Air
If you prefer a fast and comfortable mode, then Delhi to Manali by Flight is the best option. The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar, which is also known as Kullu–Manali Airport. The flight from Delhi to Bhuntar takes approximately 1.5 hours, and from there you can get a cab or taxi to Manali, which covers the distance of 50 km in 2 hours. This option is especially ideal for people who are coming on short vacations. It would be best to avoid the Monsoon season as the weather affects flights.
Delhi to Manali Taxi Fare & Cab Options
The Delhi to Manali road trip is one of the most loved travel routes where travellers enjoy their break in every season. The distance is approximately 540 km, and the travel time takes around 12-14 hours, depending on traffic and weather. The road passes through mostly smooth highways, and as soon as you enter the mountain roads of Himachal, the greenery and scenic mountain views make the trip memorable. The best seasons are both summer and winter, because in summer one gets a cool escape, and in winter one enjoys a snow adventure.
If you are looking for Delhi to Manali cab fare, multiple options are available on the CabBazar platform, where you get hatchback, sedan, SUV and tempo traveller cabs. Cab booking is simple, and payment is done easily through UPI, cash or online mode. Another highlight is that if you plan a cab from Manali to Kedarnath, it can also be managed seamlessly from the same platform.
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | One-Way Fare | Round-Trip Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchback (WagonR, Indica) | 4 | ₹6,500–₹7,500 | ₹9,000–₹10,000 |
| Sedan (Dzire, Etios) | 4 | ₹7,000–₹8,000 | ₹10,000–₹11,000 |
| SUV (Innova, Ertiga) | 6–7 | ₹9,000–₹10,000 | ₹13,000–₹14,000 |
| Tempo Traveller | 9–12 | ₹12,000–₹13,000 | ₹19,000–₹30,000 |
Suggested Itinerary for Delhi to Manali
If you are planning a trip to Manali from Delhi, here is a well-curated Delhi to Manali itinerary for you. Delhi is far, and you need a proper Manali travel plan to make your trip a smooth and comfortable experience. To make your trip a great experience, this suggested itinerary surely gives you a starting point. Given the high-altitude terrain and long travel hours, it’s advisable to break the journey for acclimatization and better enjoyment of the scenic surroundings.
Day 1: Arrive in Manali – Local Sightseeing
The journey from Delhi to Manali is approximately 540 km, which takes around 12-14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The road is mostly smooth NH3, and one gets scenic views along the Beas River, which makes the road trip even more memorable. The best season to travel here is considered to be March to June and September to October. After arrival, you can enjoy local sightseeing by just hiring a cab in Manali, in which it is important to cover Hadimba Temple, Mall Road and Tibetan Monastery.
Day 2: Solang Valley & Adventure Activities
Solang Valley is approximately 14 km from Manali and is a drive of 30-40 minutes. The road is a little curvy, but the views are absolutely stunning. This valley is a paradise for adventure lovers where you can enjoy paragliding, zorbing and skiing in the winter season. The best time to visit here is both summer and winter, as every season has its own charm.
Day 3: Naggar + River Picnic + Optional Trek
It is a 22 km drive from Manali to Naggar village, which takes around 1 hour. The road is hilly but full of Deodar trees and apple orchards. Naggar Castle and Roerich Art Gallery are spots worth exploring. Enjoying a picnic on the banks of the Beas River gives a peaceful experience. You can also try short treks like the Jana Waterfall trek if you wish. The best season here is from May to October.
Day 4: Optional Day Trips or Leisure Day (Manikaran, Sissu)
Adding a leisure day to your Manali travel plan is a great option. Manikaran is approximately 80 km away and takes about 3 hours. The road is mostly scenic, offering views of the Parvati Valley. The hot springs and Gurudwara here are famous. If you want to explore offbeat, then Sissu in the Lahaul valley, around 40 km from the Rohtang tunnel, is a breathtaking spot. The best season is from June to October.
Day 5: Return to Delhi
On the last day, you have to go back to Delhi, where the return journey is approximately 540 km, which takes approximately 12-14 hours. It would be best to start early in the morning so that you do not have to face traffic hassles and you can reach your destination safely.
Places to Visit En Route
The route from Delhi to Manali passes through several world-class cities that not only offer you a sight of India that is full of history and heritage. But exploring them offers you the opportunity to learn something new that is beyond fun and enjoyment. Among them, some of the most popular places to visit between Delhi and Manali are given below, select your favourite one to stop.
Murthal: Murthal is a perfect pit stop as you start your journey from Delhi to Manali. It falls on the GT Karnal road, which is a smooth highway stretch and is famous for its locality. Here, the highway passes between lush green fields, which makes the road trip more scenic. The best season to stay here is throughout the year, as it is the best spot to eat food and get a little refreshment.
Kurukshetra: Kurukshetra is a cultural stop between Delhi and Manali. It is located above NH44, where there are wide and smooth roads. There are mostly religious and historical spots here, like Brahma Sarovar and Jyotisar. The best time to visit is winter and spring, when the weather is pleasant and the roads feel quite safe.
Chandigarh: Chandigarh is one of the most popular places to visit between Delhi and Manali. This planned city is accessible through smooth highways. Its clean, green roads and Rock Garden are spots of scenic appeal. The heat during summer is manageable, but winter and spring are the best times to visit here.
Kiratpur Sahib: After Chandigarh, Kiratpur Sahib is a spiritual stop which is accessible from the Manali route via NH205. The road gets a little hilly and curvy from here, which makes the drive more adventurous. Scenic views start to match the beginning of the mountains from here. The best time to visit is from October to March.
Bilaspur : Bilaspur is a calm town in Himachal Pradesh, which is known for the Gobind Sagar Lake. The roads here are winding and narrow, but the mountain views are quite beautiful. This is a perfect offbeat spot for photo stops. The best time to visit is winter and early summer.
Mandi: Mandi is a historical town situated on the banks of the Beas River. Its winding mountain roads and river views are quite charming. Apart from its scenic appeal, its old temples and markets are worth exploring. Winter and spring are the best times to visit here.
Kullu: Kullu is the last major stop before reaching Manali, and it is famous for its adventure sports and river rafting. The road from here to Manali is hilly and runs parallel to the Beas River, which makes the drive magical. The best time to visit is March to June and September to October, when the valley is at the peak of its greenery and adventure activities.
Accommodation in Manali
Manali is one such hill station where stay options are available for every type of traveller. If you want comfort, you can easily find premium Manali hotels that are situated near Mall Road and Old Manali. Reaching local sightseeing spots like Hadimba Temple or Solang Valley from here is quite easy, usually within 3-10 km. Road connectivity is smooth, and the journey duration is 15-30 minutes. The scenic appeal always makes the stay memorable, with the mountains and pine forests. The best season to stay in hotels is both summer and winter, as the hotels provide basic amenities like heating and hot water.
For budget travellers, where to stay in Manali offers quite interesting options. GMVN guesthouses are perfect for a simple and reliable stay where the rooms are clean and the rates are affordable. Also, camps and dharamshalas are available, which are found on the highway and valley sides within a radius of 5–15 km. Travel time to the camps is approximately 20-40 minutes, and these are located on rough and scenic roads where the riverside view is quite popular. Dharamshalas are the best budget stays for religious travellers. A pro tip is to pre-book during peak season, like May–June and December–January, as the crowd is high and budget options get filled up quickly.
Travel Tips for Manali
Planning a trip, especially a trip to a hill station like Manali, requires lots of effort and information. There are some general Manali travel safety tips for you; following them will make your trip experience a smooth and memorable one.
- Don’t forget to carry warm clothes even if you are planning during the summer season. Manali's weather remains cold due to its high altitude.
- Pre-booking your stay during peak season is the best choice to avoid last-minute inconvenience.
- You can easily find an ATM and online payment in Manali, but it is always good to carry some cash that will be your saviour during low network and bank servers.
- You should avoid night driving, especially in the mountains, because fog and sharp turns become risky.
- Always carry light snacks and a water bottle for the journey, as food options are limited at some stretches.
- Always do adventure activities under the guidance of a professional, and also choose the best and highly trusted adventure clubs for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time to visit Manali?
The best time to visit Manali largely depends on your interests. If you want greenery and pleasant weather, then March to June is perfect when the temperature is between 10°C and 25°C, and the roads are also clear. December to February is ideal for winter lovers as there is heavy snowfall during this period, and areas like Solang Valley get covered with a white carpet. Autumn, i.e. September and October, is also a good option when the crowds are less and the views are crystal clear.
2. What should I pack for Manali?
Packing is quite season-specific. If you are travelling in summer, then definitely take light woollens, jackets and comfortable shoes as the evenings get cold. For winters, heavy woollens, snow boots and gloves are mandatory. In the rainy season, i.e. July-August, a raincoat and waterproof footwear are helpful. Don't forget to add sunscreen, moisturizer and medicines to the essentials.
3. How do I reach Manali?
Manali is popular for its road connectivity. It is approximately 540 km from Delhi, which takes 12-14 hours via the NH3 highway. Buses and private taxis are easily available. The nearest railway stations are Chandigarh (310 km) and Joginder Nagar (163 km), and the nearest airport is Kullu Bhuntar Airport, which is 50 km away. The scenic appeal is maximum in the road journey where one gets views of the mountains and the Beas River.
4. Where should I stay in Manali?
Stay options are available in a wide range, like budget guesthouses, boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Staying near Mall Road is convenient for shopping and dining. Bohemian cafes and peaceful stays are available in Old Manali. You can enjoy a close nature experience by staying on the Naggar side.
5. What are the must-visit places in and around Manali?
The most popular attractions in the Manali trip queries are Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple and Vashisht hot springs. For adventure lovers, Solang Valley is a must-visit, which is 13 km away. Rohtang Pass, approx. 51 km away, is a favorite spot for snow lovers, and Kasol and Manikaran, which are within 80 km, should also be included in the plan.
6. What adventure activities can I do in Manali?
Manali is a hub for adventure. You can experience paragliding, zorbing and skiing in Solang Valley. The Beas River is popular for rafting, especially the Pirdi to Jhiri stretch, which is 14 km long. There are plenty of trekking options too, like the Hampta Pass and Bhrigu Lake trek.
7. When can I see snow in Manali?
For snow lovers, December to February are the best months when the town and surrounding valleys turn white. If you want to see snow in summer too, Rohtang Pass remains open from May to October, and the glaciers here provide snow cover for quite some time.
8. Is Manali expensive for tourists?
Manali is suitable for every budget traveller. Budget hotels start from INR 1000 per night, and luxury resorts go up to INR 6000-8000 per night. Local food cafes are pocket-friendly, and transport is also affordable. Expenses largely depend on your choice, but overall, Manali is a value-for-money destination.
9. Is Manali safe for solo travellers, couples, and families?
Yes, Manali is safe for all categories of travellers. Tourist police and local support are easily available. For solo travellers, cafes and hostels provide safe and social environments. For families, clean hotels and guided tours are recommended.
10. Do I need permits for Rohtang Pass?
Yes, a special permit is required for the Rohtang Pass, which is easily available from the Himachal Tourism website or designated centers in Manali. Permits are usually issued from May to October when the pass is open and limited vehicles are allowed daily.
11. What can I shop for in Manali?
Shopping lovers can explore Mall Road and Tibetan Market, where woollen clothes, pashmina shawls, handicrafts and souvenirs are available. Local dry fruits and Kullu caps are also quite famous. Quirky jewellery and handmade products are also easily available in the flea markets of Naggar and Old Manali.
12. How many days are enough for Manali?
A minimum of 3 to 4 days is sufficient to explore Manali. In this duration, you will be able to cover local sightseeing, Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass. If you want to add Kasol, Manikaran or trekking plans as well, then a 5-6 day plan is ideal.
Delhi to Manali travel always becomes a memorable experience as this route has its own unique charm. This is a long journey, which offers a combo of smooth highways mostly on NH3 with some hilly and winding roads. This Manali road trip is not just a journey but a soulful experience where you get to see the natural beauty of the Beas river banks along with the spiritual vibes around Haridwar and Kullu. Every season has its own fun, but April to June and September to November are considered the best for this route as the weather is pleasant then and the roads are safe.
To make this journey more beautiful, we have a small request that you travel eco-consciously, do not take plastic waste with you and keep the mountain air pure. This journey should become a life memory for you, so give priority to safe driving and responsible travelling. If you want to book a comfortable cab for your next trip, then book from CabBazar and make your Manali road trip hassle-free and magical.
