Manali is an enchanted location where life moves slowly, and you get to experience peace and beauty, unlike big metropolitans. This trip is a thrilling one as it combines travel with exploration of nature and cultures. Endowed with snow-capped mountains, beautiful valleys, unpolluted streams and riversides, and numerous jaw-dropping tourist destinations, Kullu Manali is one of the favorite hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. The journey from Delhi to Kullu Manali is a roller coaster, Switching from the fast-paced life of a capital city to the quiet mountainous region. Be it an adrenalin-filled excursion, a calming retreat, or a nature-embracing getaway, this trip offers unique experiences that will leave you in awe. If you want to know how to travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali, then this article is for you. Here we have sought out all the important information about how to travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali trip, like how to get there, where to stay, what to see, things to do, etc.
Why Plan a Trip From Delhi to Manai
Manali has everything ranging from dense cedar forests and gushing rivers to majestic peaks and sprawling meadows for nature lovers. From endless natural beauty on one hand to the diversified multi-cultural communities on the other, manali has gained popularity among all the travel freaks. A journey from Delhi to Manali is a lifetime experience wherein you explore changing cultures from metropolises to small towns and cities and finally at pine-hued hills with lush valleys in Himachal. Polluted air and overcrowded city lifestyles are major reasons to chart out a holiday in this beautiful land where the feeling of solace prevails at every point.
With a proper understanding of how to travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali and the planning of an itinerary, the trip becomes memorable. The allure of adventure, natural beauty’s charm, and mountain life’s peace attract tourists. From charming villages to adventurous activities, this guide has everything you need to make your journey memorable.
How to Travel From Delhi to Kullu Manali
Kullu Manali is an ideal tourist destination because of its nearness to the people living in Delhi. A Trip from Delhi to Kullu Manali offers a diverse range of experiences. Before you start your exploration, knowing how to travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali is crucial. The journey is part of the adventure, offering stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. You can choose to drive through the scenic NH 44 and NH 3, take a comfortable bus, reach by combination of road and train, or fly to Bhuntar Airport, followed by a short drive to Manali. Each mode of travel adds its own flavor to your trip. Plan your trip according to your preferences and budget, stay informed about the travel conditions
- By Road: The most popular way to reach Kullu Manali is by road. Covering approximately 540 kilometers, the journey takes 11-12 hours via National Highway 44 and NH 3. Travelers can choose between self-driving, hiring a taxi, or taking a bus. The National Highway 44 (NH44) is the most commonly used route, passing through key locations such as Panipat, Kurukshetra, Chandigarh, and Mandi. The scenic route offers stunning views of lush valleys, meandering rivers, and quaint mountain towns.
- By Train: While there is no direct train service to Manali, travelers can take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh or Ambala. From there, buses and taxis are available for the onward journey to Manali. This option combines the comfort of train travel with the flexibility of road transport.
- By Air: The nearest airport to Manali is the Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar also known as Bhuntar Airport, situated about 50 kilometers from Manali. Direct flights from Delhi to Bhuntar are available, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, travelers can hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Manali.
Explore Manali Like a Professional
Manali is one of those adorable towns where nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts come, seeking peace. The town can be explored like any other professional with all its iconic spots, hidden treasures, and the undying culture that makes the place unforgettable. However, before you start planning your journey to Manali, let it first focus on how to travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali, which will allow planning the perfect itinerary to this heavenly Himalayan Paradise.
How To Plan Your Trip Day-wise
Begin early in the morning from Delhi to Manali or take an overnight bus from Delhi. The road journey is quite long, but the sights are wondrous, with quaint towns and mouth-watering local delicacies across the route. While self-driving, you may halt at popular dhabas at Murthal for a hearty breakfast before proceeding through cities like Chandigarh and Mandi. You will reach Manali by evening. You can check into your hotel and take some rest after the journey.
Day 1: Explore Manali Town
Start your day by visiting one of the major attractions, that is Hadimba Devi Temple, amid dense cedar wood. Later head to Old Manali, to explore the remnants of the ‘hippie feeling’, quaint café culture, artistic shops, spiritual retreat in a Manu temple in Old Manali. Relish the peaceful soak at therapeutic Vashisht Hot Spring, located with a short road trip. End your day on Mall Road at the heart of this bustling town with some shopping for local souvenirs and a sample of local Himachali food.
Day 2: Adventures in Solang Valley
On your second day, visit Solang Valley. It is situated 13 km from Manali and is considered a paradise for adventure lovers. You can enjoy extreme sports such as paragliding, zorbing, and ATV rides, as well as skiing here. This valley becomes a skiing paradise in the winter months. The beautiful view of the snow-covered Himalayas makes this location perfect for both nature lovers and photographers. Even if adventure sports do not excite you, the sight of the sprawling mountains of snow here is worth visiting. Come back to Manali in the evening and relax or experience the nightlife.
Day 3: Rohtang Pass or Atal Tunnel
Explore Rohtang Pass as a third-day activity located about 50 kilometers from Manali. This pass is specifically famous for its snow-capped landscapes. A huge favorite among tourists, at times, because of the bad weather conditions, the Rohtang Pass is closed, so the Atal Tunnel will provide a magical drive with the heart through the mountains. Do not forget to obtain a permit for Rohtang Pass in advance and be warmly prepared since temperatures could drop drastically.
Day 4: Visit Kullu and Naggar
Spend this day in the picturesque town of Kullu, about 40 km from Manali. First off, head to the Bijli Mahadev Temple atop a hill. This temple is renowned for its spiritual environment and scenic beauty. For those who want adventure, there’s white-water rafting on the Beas River, a real treat for beginners and seasoned rafters. There is also a visit to the nearby Naggar Castle, an architectural gem that showcases Himachali culture and offers valley views.
Day 5: Return to Delhi
Bid farewell to the trip with a bountiful breakfast in Manali, and begin the journey back to Delhi. For road travelers, it’s back the same way you came, looking out for lesser-known landmarks. For those flying back, the drive to Bhuntar airport takes around two hours, ensuring a quick return to Delhi.
Don’t Miss the Local Cuisine of Kullu Manali
No trip to Himachal Pradesh is complete without indulging in its local flavors. Dishes such as siddu, steamed bread baked traditionally, and trout fish freshly fished from the mountain streams must be tried on your visit. Enjoy dham- a festive meal served during any celebration- and never miss the Tibetan delights like momos and thukpa in Manali.
Must-visit Attractions in Manali
It has emerged as a destination to attract every kind of tourist in sight: nature lovers, adventure-seekers, or anyone in pursuit of spiritual refuge. From the majestic Rohtang Pass to the quaint little streets of Old Manali, one finds something special at each nook and corner of the hill station.
- Hadimba Devi Temple: This is a beautiful wooden temple constructed in the name of the goddess Hadimba, surrounded by dense tall cedar forests. It carries a lot of architectural beauty combined with spiritualness. One tourist attraction.
- Solang Valley: Solang Valley is 14 km from Manali. It is one of the most favorite ones for adventure sports lovers. Summer passes its time in paragliding and zorbing, but in winter, one can experience it with the thrill of skiing.
- Old Manali: This locality has a narrow lane, cozy cafes, and local shops that offer a calm place with the distance from town chaos. The village has a rustic charm and laid-back feel that makes it extremely worthwhile to visit.
- Vashisht Hot Springs: The natural hot springs present in the peaceful village of Vashisht are said to carry healing properties available there. Spiritual significance gathers more momentum because of the nearby Vashisht Temple.
- Rohtang Pass: It is about 51 km from Manali. Rohtang Pass is also known for having a great view of mountains covered with snow. Rohtang Pass operates only for some months in a year. Rohtang Pass is a place of great experience for snow games and photography.
- Jogini Waterfalls: Jogini Falls is a serene place with much greenery. It lies within a short trek from Vashisht Village. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.
- Manali Sanctuary: The sanctuary is covered by a vast area rich in dense forests and comprises several flora and fauna species. It is a good destination for nature walks and bird-watching.
- Mall Road: Shopping hub of the town, all woolens and handicraft shops and stalls selling souvenirs. Here, several restaurants offering food from Himachal are found.
- Naggar Castle: One of the beautiful heritage castles, 20 km from the town. Scenic Valley and Himachal architecture and their history can be seen from there.
- Beas River: The Beas River flows in Manali. It allows rafting in rivers and riverside picnics. Its sound waters along with the scenic surroundings give it a cooling experience.
Best Time to Travel
Knowing the right time for a visit to Kullu Manali can boost your travel experience. The region provides unique charms throughout the seasons:
- Summer is from March to June: Great time of the year to escape the Delhi heat and enjoy pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Monsoon is from July to September: The hills turn a rich green, though landslides may occur occasionally and affect road travel.
- Winter (October-February): Perfect time for snow lovers, when winter sports can be enjoyed, like skiing.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
To make your trip from Delhi to Kullu Manali go off trouble-free, use these tips:
- Advance Bookings: Accommodations and transportation get filled quickly in peak seasons. So, it’s always good to book in advance.
- Packing Essentials: Carry warm clothing, especially in winter, as they drop down substantially. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a basic medical kit can also be carried.
- Stay Updated: Keep an eye on the weather and roads, especially in the monsoon and winter months.
- Responsible tourism: Respect the local environment and culture. Avoid littering and support local businesses.
Final Words
The journey from Delhi to Kullu-Manali is not just a trip but a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s breathtaking views, adventures, and a cultural experience altogether. Professional travelers always plan ahead. So if you have doubts about how to travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali, read this article carefully. In this article, we have tried to cover almost all the key points, such as modes of transport, how to plan your tour in manali, where to visit, etc. The memories that can be cherished are created while working out the fine details of each and every component of the tour and visiting unexplored and hidden destinations. So now, take out your friends, pack up the bags, and let the mountains call for you.
FAQ’s on How to travel From Delhi to Kullu Manali
Ans. Yes, driving is safe, but ensure your vehicle is well-maintained. The roads can be steep and winding, especially as you approach the hills, so drive cautiously.
Ans. Yes, a permit is required to visit Rohtang Pass, which can be obtained online. Applying for the permit in advance is advisable if you don’t want to get stuck.
Ans. Pack warm clothing, comfortable footwear, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a power bank. Depending on the season, you may also need heavy winter gear for snow activities.
Ans. The journey by road takes around 12-14 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions, but the journey is more exciting and thrilling. You will witness so many scenic views on throughout your journey.
Ans. The best time to visit Kullu-Manali is from April to June for pleasant weather and outdoor activities or for snow and winter sports from December to February. this is the perfect time if you want to experience snow fall.
Ans. Buses run frequently, with several daily options, including state-run and private services. Many online apps provide bus booking services to book in advance, like RedBus, HRTC, Make My Trip, zingbus, Luxmi Holidays, etc., where you can choose the bus according to your budget.
Ans. Bus fares range from INR 700 to INR 1,500, depending on the type of bus (ordinary, semi-sleeper, Volvo).
Ans. There are many amazing Key stops on the way to Kullu Manali, including Murthal for food, Chandigarh for sightseeing, and Bilaspur for its serene lakes.
Ans. No direct train is available from Delhi to Kullu Manali, but you can take a train to Chandigarh or Kalka and then proceed by road to Manali.
Ans. Flights are generally reliable but can be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter. So plan your trip accordingly.
Ans. No, there are no direct flights to Manali. The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport), which is about 50 kilometers from Manali.
Ans. Kullu Manali has many tourist attractions, such as Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Vashisht Hot Springs, and Mall Road.
Ans. Yes, bike rentals are available in Manali, and it’s the best way to explore the surrounding areas.
Ans. To rent a bike or car in Kullu Manali you need a valid driving license, ID proof, and sometimes a security deposit.
Ans. Manali offers a range of food options, from traditional Himachali cuisine to international dishes, with numerous cafes and restaurants to choose from.