How to Reach Manali from Delhi: A Complete Travel Guide for Every Budget
Planning a trip to Manali from Delhi can be both exciting and confusing—especially if it’s your first time heading to the Himalayan hills.
Whether you’re a budget traveler from India or a backpacker from the USA, this guide will walk you through all the possible ways to reach Manali.
We’ll cover costs, distances, and insider tips (including points from a local Hindi travel video transcript) to help you make the best choice. Let’s hit the road—literally!
4. Best Ways to Reach Manali from Delhi
Manali sits about 500 km from Delhi, but there’s no single “best” route—it all depends on your preference for time, budget, and scenic beauty. Below, we break down the most popular travel methods, so you can pick the one that suits you perfectly.
By Road – The Most Popular Option
Getting to Manali by road is a favorite among both budget travelers and those who enjoy scenic journeys.
This option lets you witness stunning mountain vistas en route and often proves to be cost-effective compared to other modes of travel.
Taking a Bus from Delhi to Manali
• Direct Bus: As highlighted in the video transcript, the easiest option is to take a direct bus from Delhi to Manali. Government (HRTC) and private Volvo buses depart frequently from ISBT Kashmiri Gate or Majnu ka Tilla in Delhi.
• Fare Range: Expect to pay anywhere from INR 800–1,200 (USD 10–15) for a Volvo or semi-sleeper bus. The journey takes about 12–14 hours.
• Booking Websites: You can book bus tickets via popular travel portals like RedBus or the official HRTC website.
• Overnight Journey: Buses mostly leave in the evening and arrive in the morning, saving you a night’s hotel cost.
Self-Drive or Hiring a Taxi
• Self-Drive Adventure: If you love road trips, you can rent a car in Delhi. The driving distance is around 500 km, taking 12–14 hours, depending on traffic.
• Hiring a Taxi: For those who prefer a relaxed ride without driving, taxis can cost INR 8,000–10,000 (USD 100–120) one-way.
• Safety Tip: Hilly roads can be winding. If you’re an international traveler, ensure you have the proper driving permit and confidence on mountain roads.
By Train – The Indirect Yet Scenic Route
Traveling partly by train is an excellent choice for those who love slower, more picturesque journeys through the hills. While Manali doesn’t have its own railway station, you can reach nearby stations and then hop on a bus or taxi.
Nearest Railway Stations
No Direct Train: As per the video transcript, Manali has no direct train service due to its mountainous terrain.
Popular Stations: Key options include Chandigarh, Kalka, and Jogindernagar.
Distance Insights:
- Chandigarh to Manali: ~270 km
- Kalka to Manali: ~280 km (via Shimla)
- Jogindernagar to Manali: ~150 km
Connecting by Bus After Reaching the Station
Booking Train Tickets: To book train tickets from Delhi to these stations, you can use the IRCTC website (official Indian Railways portal) or aggregator sites like MakeMyTrip.
From Kalka/Chandigarh: You can catch a bus or shared taxi to Manali, with bus fares around INR 600–800 (USD 8–10).
From Jogindernagar: Closer to Manali (~150 km) but has fewer direct train connections from Delhi.
Time Trade-Off: Expect multiple transfers, so if you’re short on time, consider other options.
By Flight – Fastest Way (Via Kullu/ Bhuntar Airport)
For travelers who value time over cost, flying to Bhuntar Airport near Kullu is the fastest way. Though more expensive, it drastically cuts down your travel duration compared to bus or train.
Flying from Delhi to Bhuntar (Kullu)
Direct Flights: Airlines like Air India operate flights from Delhi (IGI Airport) to Bhuntar (Kullu Airport). Flight duration is around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Average Cost: Tickets range from INR 3,000–6,000 (USD 40–80), varying by season and how early you book.
Booking Websites: Use aggregators like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, or the official airline websites to book flights.
From Bhuntar to Manali
Taxi or Bus: Manali is about 50 km from Bhuntar. Taxis cost around INR 1,200–1,500 (USD 15–20); local buses are cheaper (~INR 150 or USD 2).
Weather Factors: Flights can be delayed or canceled in bad weather—important to keep in mind if you’re on a tight schedule.
Budgeting and Cost Overview
No matter which transportation mode you choose, expenses can add up. Knowing approximate costs upfront helps you plan effectively—especially if you’re traveling from abroad or on a tight budget.
Comparing Transportation Modes
- Bus: Cheapest with fares around INR 800–1,200 (USD 10–15).
- Flight: Fastest but more expensive (up to USD 80 one-way).
- Train + Bus: Scenic but involves multiple transfers.
- Car/Taxi: Flexible but can cost INR 8,000+ (USD 100+).
Accommodation & Food Costs
- Budget Stays: Dorms or budget hotels in Manali start around INR 500 (USD 6) per night.
- Mid-range: Around INR 1,500–3,000 (USD 20–40) per night.
- Local Food: Delicious Himachali meals can be found for INR 100–200 (USD 1–2) per meal at smaller eateries.
Travel Tips & Best Time to Visit
Every season in Manali offers a unique experience, from summer trekking to winter snowfall. Before finalizing your dates, it’s important to consider weather conditions and plan accordingly.
Seasonal Considerations
• Summer (March–June): Ideal climate, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery but frequent landslides can disrupt travel.
• Winter (October–February): Snowy landscapes and winter sports; road conditions can be challenging.
Safety & Insider Tips
• Motion Sickness: Curvy mountain roads can be tough—carry medication if needed.
• Book Early: Buses, flights, and hotels fill up quickly during holidays; advance booking is key.
• Local Language: Knowing Hindi helps, but many locals understand basic English.
Modes of Travel from Delhi to Manali
| Mode of Travel | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost (INR) | Key Transfer Point(s) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | 12–14 hours | 800–1,200 | Direct from Delhi | Budget-friendly, direct route | Longer journey, can be bumpy |
| Car/Taxi | 12–14 hours | 8,000–10,000 | Direct from Delhi | Flexible stops, comfortable ride | Expensive if traveling solo |
| Train + Bus | 14–18 hours (multiple transfers) | 1,000–1,500 (combined) | Kalka, Chandigarh, Jogindernagar | Scenic train rides | Longer travel time, multiple transfers |
| Flight + Taxi | 1 hr flight + 2 hrs road | 3,000–6,000 (flight) + 1,200–1,500 (taxi) | Delhi -> Bhuntar (Kullu) -> Manali | Fastest travel option | Higher cost, possible cancellations in bad weather |
Conclusion
Whether you’re a backpacker seeking a budget-friendly bus ride or someone who’d rather fly directly to save time, there’s an option for everyone to reach Manali from Delhi.
The direct bus remains the most popular and affordable route, while flight to Bhuntar Airport is best for those short on time.
If you enjoy scenic rail journeys and don’t mind multiple transfers, the train + bus combo is another great way to experience the beauty of the Himalayan region.
Plan ahead, stay safe on the winding roads, and get ready to immerse yourself in Manali’s mountainous charm.
FAQs
Taking an overnight bus from Delhi to Manali is typically the cheapest option, with fares ranging from INR 800–1,200. You can book tickets on sites like RedBus.
Yes, it’s generally safe if you’re experienced driving on hilly terrain. Check weather updates, particularly during monsoon or winter, to avoid slippery roads.
Jogindernagar is the closest (about 150 km away), but it has limited connectivity. Chandigarh and Kalka are more commonly used, despite being farther. Book your train journey via IRCTC or aggregator sites.
The journey usually takes about 12–14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
There’s no airport in Manali. The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu), around 50 km away. After landing, you can take a taxi or bus to Manali. Book flights via MakeMyTrip or the airline’s official website.
