How to Reach Manali from Delhi: A Complete Guide

Manali, a stunning and quiet hill station situated in the North Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is a favored tourism destination for travelers coming from far and wide. Whether you are looking for adventure, calmness, or a romantic getaway, every inch of Manali provides something for everyone. If you happen to plan a trip to Manali from Delhi, you will be glad to know that you have several options to reach the town with each mode of transport offering its unique advantages. In this ultimate guide, we will examine different travel options to reach Manali from Delhi and also discuss some of the best Manali tour packages from Delhi to help different categories of travelers visiting Manali. In summary, whether you are looking for a package for couples, a package for families, the cheapest package, or a package by bus—we have all the options covered here in this discussion.

Why Visit Manali?

Manali, located at the foot of the towering Himalayas, is a beautiful combination of nature, adventure, and culture. Whether you're a lover of nature, an adventure lover, or someone who just wants to take a break, there are lots of activities and things to do in Manali:

Solang Valley: For adventure sports like: skiing, paragliding, and zorbing.

Rohtang Pass: A high altitude pass with amazing views of snow capped mountains.

Old Manali: A small village with small cafes, boutiques, and a relaxed vibe.

Hidimba Devi Temple: A historical wooden temple covered by cedar forest.

Trekking/Camping: There are many trekking trails that adventure lovers can take - like the Beas Kund trek and Bhrigu Lake trek.

So, let’s look at how you can get to Manali from Delhi.


1. By Road: A Scenic Drive from Delhi to Manali

Consulting directly with Viator can help guide traveler planning choices within a region where not all tour companies offer the same level of service. Whether opting for a private driver, an organized tour or shared shuttle to Manali, or showing up in person, devote enough time to all routes. Select the duration offered by the tour operator that matches your travel style as the transport services usually require a few hours outside of Manali. Consider that any visits to villages may take longer. Viator user reviews are a great way to gauge travelers' experiences with a specific operator prior to making decisions.Utilizing your hotel front desk is beneficial for researching tours and finding reputable shuttles. Almost every hotel will utilize the same shuttle services. Often, hotels will have ridership agreements with shuttle companies or local tourism groups, providing an incentive to the hotels to recommend the transportation. Viator is also an option for planning trips locally if traveling independently.

Route Overview:

 The most popular route is Delhi to Manali via Chandigarh and Kullu. The major stops include:

Delhi → Ambala → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali

While the drive is long, it is incredibly scenic. The winding roads, lush green hills, and majestic mountains make the journey an experience in itself.

Manali Tour Packages from Delhi by Road

Many Manali tour packages from Delhi offer hotel, transportation by bus or private vehicle options, convenience for travelers. Many travel agencies, some even include sightseeing and comfortable transportation. Travel agencies that offer both, including Handora Travel. For a couple or family looking for a smooth enjoyable road trip, A Manali tour package from Delhi by bus is a viable alternative. Many packages will include:

• Comfortable buses with reclining seats

• Air-conditioned buses for a smooth ride

• Sightseeing in Manali and nearby areas

• Dedicated guides and support staff

Some of the popular Manali tour packages from Delhi for couples and Manali tour packages from Delhi for families include road travel as part of the itinerary, ensuring that the trip is both affordable and comfortable.

2. By Bus: Affordable and Convenient

Bus travel is one of the cheapest modes of transport from Delhi to Manali. Many private operators and government buses run daily services from Delhi to Manali to suit the traveling public. The buses come with basic amenities and are affordable for budget travelers.

Bus options:

Volvo buses: These are the air-conditioned comfortable bus with reclining seats that suit long-distance travel.

Deluxe bus: These are non-air-conditioned buses, generally priced lower than a deluxe bus yet still comfortable for a travel experience.

Private bus operators: There are also many private operators that will provide a budget option package and will have pick-up and drop-off points in different areas of Delhi.

Manali Tour Packages from Delhi by Bus

Many tourists opt for cheapest Manali tour packages from Delhi which include a bus ride to and from Manali. These packages often include group tours, hotel stays, and sightseeing trips around Manali, making it an affordable choice for those who want to save on travel expenses. Additionally, these packages offer flexibility with departure dates, and some operators even provide overnight buses that ensure you arrive in Manali early in the morning.

Advantages of Traveling by Bus:

Affordable: Bus travel is often cheaper than other modes of transport.

Convenient: Multiple bus operators provide services throughout the week, allowing you to choose a time that suits you.

Comfortable: Modern buses are equipped with reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and refreshments for a comfortable journey.

3. By Train: A Relaxed Journey

While there is no direct train from Delhi to Manali, you can take a train to Kullu or Joginder Nagar, which are the nearest railway stations to Manali. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Manali. The journey is long but can be a comfortable and scenic experience.

Route Overview:

Delhi → Kalka (Shatabdi Express or other trains) → Kalka to Manali via bus/taxi

Manali Tour Packages Including Train Travel

If you prefer a more relaxed journey, many travel agencies offer Manali tour packages from Delhi that include train travel to Kullu or Joginder Nagar. This option is ideal for those who wish to avoid long drives and prefer the comfort of a train ride. Once you reach the railway station, the package often includes the transfer to Manali by bus or taxi, as well as sightseeing in Manali.

Advantages of Train Travel:

Scenic Views: The train journey to Kalka is famous for its beautiful views, especially if you opt for the narrow-gauge Himalayan Railway.

Comfortable: Trains offer more space to stretch out and relax, making it a good option for those who prefer a less cramped ride.

4. By Air: Fastest Option, but Expensive

The fastest way to reach Manali from Delhi is by air. While there is no airport in Manali, you can fly to Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport), located about 50 kilometers away. The flight from Delhi to Kullu takes approximately 1.5 hours. Once at the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali.

Flight Options:

Air India and Go Air offer direct flights from Delhi to Kullu, though flights are often limited in frequency.

Manali Tour Packages from Delhi Including Flights

For travelers seeking convenience and speed, Manali tour packages from Delhi including flights are available. These packages typically include:

• Round-trip airfare from Delhi to Kullu

• Airport transfers from Kullu to Manali

• Accommodation in luxury or budget hotels

• Sightseeing and other activities in Manali

Advantages of Traveling by Air:

Quick: The fastest way to reach Manali, taking only a few hours.

Comfortable: No long road or train journeys, which is ideal for those with time constraints.

5. Best Time to Visit Manali

The best time to visit Manali largely depends on the experiences you seek:

Winter (December to February): If you're a snow lover, winter is the perfect time to visit Manali, as it turns into a winter wonderland.

Summer (March to June): For a pleasant escape from the summer heat, visit Manali in the warmer months.

Monsoon (July to September): If you enjoy a quieter, less crowded experience, monsoon can be a great time to visit, though it can be rainy.

Conclusion

Regardless of how you prefer to travel, it won't be too difficult to get to Manali from Delhi. There are many choices for all travelers. If you're looking for a hassle-free and budget-friendly trip, you can look for Manali tour packages from Delhi by bus or Manali tour packages from Delhi for families. If you think about preparing a journey for you and your partner, Manali tour packages from Delhi for couples may involve a bit more service, whether you're traveling by road, bus, or air. Handora Travel offers some cheapest Manali tour packages from Delhi to meet your requirements and to have a wonderful trip, but affordable as well! So pack your bags, choose the right package, and be ready for the beautiful experience and adventure Manali offers!