How To Reach Manali From Delhi by Bus, Train, Flight and Via Road
How To Reach Manali From Delhi is one of the most common questions among travelers planning a peaceful mountain escape. Manali stands among the most loved hill stations in India. People from all over the country visit Manali to enjoy snowfall, adventure, nature, and the calm beauty of the Himalayas. Because Delhi sits just a few hundred kilometers away, it becomes the primary starting point for thousands of travelers. Although many routes exist, choosing the best option can still confuse many people. Therefore, this detailed guide will help you understand every travel mode and make your journey smooth.
In this blog, you will learn how to reach Manali from Delhi by road, bus, train, and flight. You will also discover Delhi to Manali distance, travel time, train ticket price, bus fares, flight cost, and all route details. So, let’s begin your trip planning with confidence.
Delhi to Manali: Distance & Travel Time
Travelers often start by checking the distance before deciding the mode of transport. The route from Delhi to Manali offers scenic mountains, lush valleys, and smooth highways.
Delhi to Manali Distance
The distance between Delhi and Manali is approximately 540–560 km, depending on the route you choose. Most people prefer the NH44 and NH154 route because it remains smooth throughout the year.
Delhi to Manali Travel Time
The average travel time from Delhi to Manali ranges between 11 to 14 hours by road. However, the duration may increase during snowfall or peak tourist season. Because the route passes through mountains, drivers should remain alert, especially during nighttime.
Which Travel Mode Is Best?
Road: Best for flexibility
Bus: Best for comfort and budget
Train: Best for scenic travel
Flight: Best for quick travel
Seasonal Considerations
Winter brings snow, which sometimes slows down travel. Summer months stay pleasant and attract the largest crowd. Monsoon requires extra caution due to landslides.
How to Reach Manali From Delhi by Road
Traveling by road lets you enjoy the full beauty of Himachal Pradesh. The peaceful villages, pine forests, and tall mountains offer a refreshing journey.
1. By Car / Self-Drive
A road trip from Delhi to Manali is always exciting. You can stop wherever you want, enjoy tea at roadside dhabas, and click photos at scenic viewpoints.
Best Route:
Delhi → Sonipat → Panipat → Karnal → Ambala → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
This route provides smooth highways and wide roads. Therefore, most travelers prefer it.
Travel Time:
Around 11–13 hours, depending on traffic and breaks.
Road Conditions:
Highways remain in good shape. However, the mountain stretch after Mandi includes curves, so driving carefully becomes essential.
Tips for Self-Drive:
Start early from Delhi
Keep warm clothes for sudden weather changes
Maintain vehicle condition
Carry snacks and water
Drive slowly at night
2. By Taxi or Private Cab
Another comfortable option is traveling by taxi. Many people choose this option because they want a relaxed journey without driving themselves.
Estimated Cab Fare:
Sedan: ₹6,500 – ₹10,000
SUV: ₹9,000 – ₹15,000
Tempo Traveller: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000
The fare depends on season and the vehicle you select.
How to Reach Manali From Delhi by Bus
Because buses run daily, many travelers prefer this affordable and comfortable option. The route remains simple, and the overnight journey saves time.
Types of Buses Available
You can choose from several bus categories:
HRTC Volvo AC Bus
HPTDC Luxury Bus
Private Volvo AC Sleeper
Semi-Sleeper Buses
Non-AC Deluxe Buses
Government buses remain reliable and safe. However, private buses offer more comfort.
Delhi to Manali Bus Travel Time
The average duration for a Delhi to Manali bus journey is 12–14 hours. Most buses run during the night, so you reach Manali early in the morning.
Delhi to Manali Bus Ticket Price
The ticket price changes based on bus type:
HRTC Volvo: ₹1,000 – ₹1,400
HPTDC Luxury: ₹1,100 – ₹1,500
Private Volvo: ₹900 – ₹1,800
Non-AC buses: ₹600 – ₹900
Booking early helps you get cheaper seats.
Major Boarding Points in Delhi
Most buses start from:
ISBT Kashmere Gate
Majnu Ka Tilla
RK Ashram Metro Station
Majnu Ka Tilla and Kashmere Gate are the most common pickup points.
How to Reach Manali From Delhi by Train
Traveling by train offers comfort and a scenic journey. However, no direct train runs between Delhi and Manali. Therefore, you must break your journey.
Delhi to Manali Train Route
You can choose any of these routes:
Route 1: Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali
Delhi to Chandigarh by train
Chandigarh to Manali by bus or cab
Route 2: Delhi → Joginder Nagar → Manali
Joginder Nagar is the closest railway station to Manali.
How to Reach Manali From Delhi by Train Time
Here is the average travel time for each section:
Delhi to Chandigarh train time: 3–4 hours
Delhi to Joginder Nagar train time: 10–12 hours
Joginder Nagar to Manali by road: 3–4 hours
Although the Joginder Nagar route takes more time, the scenic beauty makes the journey enjoyable.
Delhi to Manali Train Ticket Price
The price depends on the class you select:
General: ₹120 – ₹200
Sleeper: ₹250 – ₹400
3AC: ₹700 – ₹1,000
2AC: ₹1,200 – ₹1,800
After reaching Chandigarh or Joginder Nagar, you must take a bus or taxi.
How to Reach Manali From Delhi by Flight
If you want to reach Manali quickly, choosing a flight is the best option. Although it costs more, it saves plenty of time.
Nearest Airport to Manali
Manali does not have its own airport. The nearest one is Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar), which lies around 50 km from Manali.
Delhi to Manali Flight Time
The average flight duration is 1 hour 15 minutes. After landing, you need 1.5–2 hours to reach Manali by taxi.
Delhi to Manali Flight Ticket Price
Flight prices depend on season:
Off-season: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000
Peak season (winter & summer): ₹7,000 – ₹12,000
Airlines operating on this route include:
IndiGo
SpiceJet
Air India (seasonal)
Flights sometimes get delayed due to weather, so keep this in mind while planning.
Best Way to Reach Manali from Delhi (Expert Recommendation)
Choosing the best option depends on your comfort level and budget. However, you can simplify your decision:
Budget Travelers: Take a Volvo bus
Comfort Travelers: Hire a private cab
Fastest Travelers: Choose a flight
Scenic Lovers: Choose the train + road route
Adventure Seekers: Go for a self-drive road trip
Every mode has something special to offer.
Travel Tips for Delhi to Manali (How To Reach Manali From Delhi)
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, follow these helpful tips:
Start early if traveling by road.
Carry winter clothes even in summer; temperatures drop suddenly.
Book tickets at least 10–15 days before travel.
Keep cash because some mountain areas have poor network connectivity.
Avoid heavy meals during the journey to prevent motion sickness.
Check weather conditions before starting the trip.
Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
These tips will make your trip safer and more comfortable.
Conclusion (How To Reach Manali From Delhi)
Manali remains an ideal destination for every traveler. Because the routes from Delhi are easy and well-connected, reaching Manali becomes convenient for everyone. Whether you choose a bus, car, train, or flight, your journey will stay full of beauty and excitement. So, pick the travel mode that suits your comfort, time, and budget, and get ready to explore the magical valleys of Manali.