Delhi to Manali by Road Trip– Route, Time and Useful Information

Traveling from Delhi to Manali by road trip is a popular and exciting journey, especially for people who love road trips and mountains. The distance is around 530 to 550 kilometers, and it usually takes 12 to 14 hours to reach Manali by car or bus. The trip takes you through cities like Panipat, Chandigarh, and Mandi, with a mix of highways, hills, and scenic views along the way. It’s a long drive, but the beautiful landscapes, rivers, and cool mountain air make it a memorable experience for anyone visiting the hills of Himachal Pradesh.

Table of Contents

1. Why travel from Delhi to Manali by Road Trip?
2. best time for a Delhi to Manali road trip?
3. Popular routes from Delhi to Manali by road?
4. Other means of traveling from Delhi to Manali
5. Explore Manali Like a Local – A Handy Guide
6. Attractions in Manali for Sightseeing
7. Things to keep in mind when touring Manali
8. Recommends by MY YATRA GURU: Popular places to eat in Manali
9. Hotels and Resorts – Accommodation in Manali
10. Nearby Road Trips From Manali
11. FAQs

Why Travel from Delhi to Manali by Road Trip?

The journey from Delhi to Manali is a perfect getaway that takes you away from the hectic city life. During this trip, you get to see mesmerizing scenic views, lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains and winding rivers. Manali is a paradise for nature lovers where one can get the peace of waterfalls, trekking trails and the Beas river. Along with this, the ancient temples and monasteries here give spiritual vibes. The road trip experience is also quite thrilling, especially when you enjoy the mountains of Murthal, views of Mandi and the beauty of Kullu. During the winter months, this place is best for snow activities like skiing and snowboarding, and you can also enjoy local shopping and Himachali cuisine on Mall Road. Be it a trip with friends, a family vacation or a solo escape – the Delhi to Manali journey is always memorable.

Quick Facts about Delhi to Manali

Road Distance from Delhi to Manali	550 kms
Aerial Distance from Delhi to Manali	403 kms
Travel Time for Delhi to Manali by Road	11 hours
Travel Time for Delhi to Manali by Train	8 hours
Travel Time for Delhi to Manali by Flight	1 hours and 20 minutes
Best Routes	Delhi to Manali Via NH 44
	Delhi to Manali Via NH 9
Best time to visit	April- June (Summers) and December-February (Winters)

What is the best time for a Delhi to Manali road trip?

The best time for Delhi to Manali road trip is between March to June and October to February.

• March to June (Summer Season): This time is perfect for the weather – neither too cold nor snow. The roads remain clear and you can enjoy the lush green valleys, blooming flowers and cool breeze. This season is most ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

• October to February (Winter Season): If you want to see snow or are fond of snow activities like skiing, snowboarding and sledging, then this is the best time. Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass become a paradise for snow lovers. Just keep in mind that the roads can be slippery in winters, so drive carefully

• July to September (Monsoon season): It is better to avoid as there is a risk of landslides and slippery roads at this time.

So, depending on your preference, you can enjoy a road trip from Delhi to Manali in both seasons – summer or winter!

Popular routes from Delhi to Manali by road?

If you are planning a Delhi to Manali road trip, here are some popular and tried-and-tested routes that will make your journey easy and fun:

🛣️ Route 1: Through NH 44 & NH 3 (Most Common Route)

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

This is the most popular and straight-forward route. It takes approximately 12-14 hours and the distance is around 540-560 km. The roads are quite good, there are good cafes, dhabas and scenic spots in between. If you want to save time then this is the best.

Route 2: Distance and time taken from Delhi to Manali Via NH 9

If you are looking for a little offbeat and peaceful route from Delhi to Manali, you can try the NH 9 route. In this route you travel via Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali.

This route is a little longer and less popular, so the roads will not be super smooth everywhere, but the traffic tension is less and you will enjoy a peaceful drive. You will get a fresh environment and a slightly amazing experience while passing through nature.

If you want peace and are in the mood for a little adventurous drive, then going via NH 9 is a good option. Just make sure to drive safely as some stretches can be a little narrow or tricky.

Quick Tip: It’s best to leave early in the morning – there is less traffic and you can also enjoy the view of the mountains during the day.

So brother, depending on your mood, whether you want a fast route or a scenic one, you have a lot of options. Just play music, have snacks and enjoy the road trip! 🚗🎶🌄

Other means of traveling from Delhi to Manali

How to Reach Manali By Train🚆

You can also travel from Delhi to Manali by train. There is no direct train from Delhi to Manali, but you can take an express train from Delhi to Chandigarh or Kalka. You can take a bus or cab from Chandigarh to Kalka, and from there you get a small gauge train that goes towards Manali.

To book Delhi to Manali train you can use Indian Railways website or any travel app/website (like IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, Yatra, etc.). Ticket price and journey time depend on your route and season. Train journey can take approximately 10 to 23 hours.

There are 17 weekly trains from Delhi to Kalka, of which 7 are daily. There are 70 weekly trains to Chandigarh, of which 34 are daily. The fastest train to Kalka is Kalka Shatabdi (12011) and to Chandigarh is New Delhi Chandigarh Shatabdi (12045).

So just catch the train, enjoy a little scenic journey, and reach Manali!

Train Name	Travel Time	Frequency
Vande Bharat (22447)	~2 h 48 m	6 days/week
Kalka Shatabdi (12011)	~3 h 19 m	Daily
Kalka Shatabdi Evening (12005)	~3 h 15 m	Daily
Delhi–Chandigarh Shatabdi (12045)	~3 h 20 m	Daily
Jan Shatabdi (12057)	~4 h 10 m	Daily
Netaji Express (12311)	~4 h 25 m	Daily
Paschim Express (12925)	~4 h 52 m	Daily
Others (Unchahar, etc.)	5 h+	Daily

How to Reach Manali by Flight

There are many daily flights available from Delhi to Manali. The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU). The average duration of the flight is around 1.5 to 5 hours, depending on the route.

If you want, you can also book a taxi from Delhi airport to Manali.

The cost of Delhi to Manali flight ranges between approximately Rs. 5000 to Rs. 10,000, depending on booking time, offers, and season. You can check any travel website/app (like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, or Goibibo) for cheap deals.

Explore Manali Like a Local – A Handy Guide

Once upon a time Manali was just a small Himalayan village, but now it has become quite popular. Now this place has become a perfect mix of nature, nightlife, art, and adventure. A small paradise in the hills, Manali offers something for every type of traveler – whether you want a peaceful vacation or party vibes!

Apart from the beautiful mountain views, green forests and gurgling rivers here, you also get an endless list of adventure activities. With our complete Manali travel guide and tips, you can make your trip super exciting and memorable.

And if you want to come back to Delhi, then you can travel easily and comfortably by booking a cab from Manali to Delhi.

Attractions in Manali for Sightseeing

If you are going on a Manali trip then do not miss some important places! First of all, do visit the beautiful Buddhist Monasteries here – Manali Gompa, Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa, and Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa have a different vibe.

Vashisht Temple and its hot springs are also quite famous – a perfect place to relax a bit. The Hadimba Temple hidden in the middle of the forest is also a must-visit spot. And if you are a nature lover, then explore Van Vihar Nature Park as well.

Mall Road is best for shopping and local food – you have to enjoy the local vibe here!

And yes, don’t forget to go to Solang Valley. Here you can enjoy paragliding, zorbing and skiing in winter. Without Solang, Manali sightseeing would seem incomplete!

Things to keep in mind when touring Manali

• Manali is super crowded during the holiday season (Christmas & New Year)! So book hotels, cabs and activities a few weeks in advance – if you go last minute you may either not get anything or it will be super expensive.

• If you are planning long treks like Bijli Mahadev, Chandratal, Deo Tibba, always go with a professional and local adventure group – for a safe and well-organised experience.

• The temperature can change drastically during February and March. So book a place to stay that has a good heating system – otherwise the trip may be spoilt due to the cold.

• If you are planning to drive or trek to Rohtang Pass, do check with the locals when it will open, as snowfall there sometimes continues till May.

Recommends by MY YATRA GURU: Popular places to eat in Manali

1. Café 1947 – Old Manali– Live music, chill vibes and riverside seating along with amazing Italian and continental food. Try their pastas and burgers!

2. The Johnson’s Café – Near Circuit House– A little fancy, a little cozy. Here trout fish is a must try! Great for date night vibes or peaceful dinner.

3. Drifters’ Café – Old Manali- Perfect for a lazy brunch or evening coffee. Free WiFi and board games are also available — work + chill combo!

4. The Lazy Dog – Old Manali- Riverside view, upbeat music and tasty food. Try their wood-fired pizzas and drinks. Super popular with backpackers.

5. IL Forno – Hadimba Road- Wood-fired oven is heaven for pizza lovers! Beautiful cottage-style setup with mountain views.

6. Mount View Restaurant – Mall Road- If you want to try local Himachali food then go here. Simple, desi, and delicious.

7. Renaissance Café – Old Manali- Artistic décor along with great coffee, crepes, and breakfast options. Instagrammable vibes!

8. Chopsticks Restaurant – Mall Road- Best place for Tibetan, Chinese and Japanese dishes. Thukpa and momos are a must!

9. Cafe Meraki – Near Mall Road- Hidden gem! Peaceful spot for good food, coffee, and reading time.

10. Kathmandu Café – Old Manali- Funky vibe, friendly staff and budget-friendly food. Good for solo travelers and groups alike.

Hotels and Resorts – Accommodation in Manali

Budget-Friendly Stays:

1. Zostel Manali (Old Manali)- Perfect for backpackers & solo travelers. Chill vibe, bunk beds, great views, and awesome people!

2. The Hosteller Manali- Cool interiors, clean rooms, and great location. If you want to stay stylish in budget then this is the best!

3. Hotel Greenfields (Near Hadimba Temple)- Decent hotel with all basic amenities, plus mountain views at a pocket-friendly price.

💰 Mid-Range Hotels:

1. Snow Valley Resorts- Spacious rooms, balconies with views, and a peaceful vibe. Ideal for families and couples.

2. Apple Country Resort (Log Huts Area)- A little secluded, but very peaceful. Spa and in-house dining also available. Great for couples.

3. Manali Heights- Located near Hadimba Temple, offers cozy rooms and beautiful views. Value for money!

💎 Luxury & Premium Resorts:

1. The Himalayan (Castle-style resort)- Old British-style luxury + mountain charm. Pool, garden, heritage feel — totally Insta-worthy!

2. Span Resort & Spa (On the banks of Beas River)- 5-star property, riverside views, spa, great food — full-on luxury retreat.

3. Solang Valley Resort- If you want to stay close to adventure zones like Solang Valley, this is the spot. Scenic, peaceful and classy.

4. Larisa Resort Manali- Romantic, boutique-style resort with beautiful décor and great service. Perfect for honeymooners.

📝 Pro Tips:

• Old Manali – Best for cafes, music, and backpacker hostels.
• Mall Road area – Good for shopping and central location.
• Log Huts & Prini areas – Peaceful and scenic, great for families and couples.
• Solang/nearby villages – Stay here if you want adventure and solitude.

Nearby Road Trips From During Delhi to Manali

1. Solang Valley (13 km | ~30 mins)

Full-on adventure spot! Paragliding, zorbing, skiing (in winters), ropeway rides – all packed in one place.

2. Rohtang Pass (51 km | ~2 hrs)

Snow, stunning views, and high-altitude vibes! Make sure to check accessibility before you go – open May to Oct (approx).

3. Naggar Castle (22 km | ~45 mins)

Old-world charm + beautiful architecture. Great place for photography, plus amazing views of the Kullu Valley.

4. Kullu (40 km | ~1.5 hrs)

River rafting, local market shopping, and temples. Chill and less crowded than Manali.

5. Kasol & Tosh (75–85 km | ~3–4 hrs)

Perfect for that laid-back, hippie vibe. Cafes, nature walks, and riverside camping. Don’t forget to stop by Chalal or hike to Kheerganga.

6. Bijli Mahadev Temple (65 km | ~3 hrs)

Located on a hilltop with mind-blowing views! Short trek from the base – totally worth it for the sunset and silence.

7. Jana Waterfall (32 km | ~1.5 hrs)

Hidden gem! Scenic drive + small cafes serving local Himachali food near the waterfall.

8. Tirthan Valley (95 km | ~4 hrs)

Less touristy, full of peace and nature. Trout fishing, riverside stays, and perfect for slow travel vibes.

9. Chandrakhani Pass (Drive + Trek)

Located near Naggar, ideal for trekking lovers. Requires a bit of hiking but offers amazing Himalayan views.

10. Spiti Valley (via Manali-Leh Highway)

For the hardcore road trippers! Start early and plan well – places like Keylong, Kaza, and Tabo await with moon-like landscapes.

🌟 Some More Important Pro Tips:

• Always check weather and road conditions before heading out.
• Keep your fuel tank full, and carry some snacks and water — signal may be weak in remote areas.

FAQs

1. How is the road to manali from delhi?

The roads from Delhi to Manali are mostly in good condition, especially till Mandi. After that the terrain becomes a little hilly where sharp bends occur and landslides sometimes occur during the monsoon or heavy snowfall. The distance between Delhi and Manali is approximately 530 km and this journey takes around 12-14 hours depending on the traffic and weather conditions. The drive is scenic but a little demanding too, so taking an experienced driver or a chauffeur-driven cab is recommended for comfort and safety.

2. What is the best way to reach Manali from Delhi?

The best way largely depends on your time, budget, and comfort preference.

By flight:

The fastest option is to take a flight from Delhi to Bhuntar Airport (near Kullu), then take a cab from there to Manali (approx 50 km). But, flights are limited and can also get cancelled sometimes.

By train:

There is no direct train route from Delhi to Manali. The closest railway station is Joginder Nagar, which is approx 160 km away from Manali, so the train option is not considered convenient.

By road:

Many people prefer road trip from Delhi to Manali as this route is scenic and offers flexibility too. You can drive yourself or book a cab and enjoy a hassle-free journey.

3. Is it safe to drive a car from Delhi to Manali?

Yes, generally it is safe to drive from Delhi to Manali, but it depends on the season and your driving experience.

The route from Delhi to Manali is a mix of highways and mountain roads. There is a risk of snow or landslides during winter and monsoon, so it is important to check the weather conditions before setting out.

If you do not have much experience of hill driving or you do not feel confident, it would be better to hire a professional driver or take an experienced cab service that can handle hilly terrain.

4. What is the best time to take a road trip from Delhi to Manali?

The ideal time for a Delhi to Manali road trip is from March to June and from September to early December. The roads are clear during this duration and the weather is perfect for sightseeing.

There is a risk of landslides during Monsoon (July–August), so it is better to avoid this time.

During Winter (late December to February), roads can become slippery due to snowfall, which makes driving risky.

Whether you are travelling by road, taking a flight or exploring train alternatives, a road trip is the most rewarding experience — especially for nature lovers, as you get to enjoy both scenic views and adventure along the route.

For any other query please contact us on CONTACT US