How to Reach Manali from Mumbai
Travelers from Mumbai constantly search for the best ways to reach Manali, and this guide explains every possible route in detail. Manali attracts visitors throughout the year, and the journey from Mumbai can become enjoyable when you choose the right travel method. Therefore, this blog covers How to reach Manali from Mumbai by train, flight, road, bus, and car, along with ticket prices and the cheapest travel combinations.
How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Train
Although thousands of travelers prefer trains for comfort and affordability, there is no direct train from Mumbai to Manali. Even so, you can still reach Manali easily by choosing the nearest railway stations located in North India. The closest and most accessible options include Chandigarh, Ambala, and Pathankot.
Is There a Direct Train from Mumbai to Manali?
There is no direct Mumbai to Manali train, and travelers must break the journey at a nearby station. However, this route stays popular because it offers scenic views and budget-friendly pricing. Once you reach cities like Chandigarh or Ambala, you can continue the journey to Manali through Volvo buses, private taxis, or Himachal Road Transport options.
How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Train (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow this simple route if you plan to travel by train:
First, book a train from Mumbai to Chandigarh, Ambala, or Pathankot.
Next, reach the station and exit towards the bus stand.
Then, board an HRTC Volvo bus or hire a private taxi to reach Manali.
Finally, enjoy the comfortable 7–10 hour mountain drive into the Himalayas.
This combination ensures a smooth journey, and it keeps your travel cost moderate as well. Travelers also prefer this option when looking for the cheapest way to reach Manali from Mumbai.
Mumbai to Manali Train Ticket Price
Train ticket prices change according to the coach and the season. However, these are the approximate fares travelers can expect:
Sleeper Class: ₹500 – ₹750
3AC: ₹1,200 – ₹2,000
2AC: ₹1,800 – ₹2,800
During festival periods and during peak tourism seasons, the prices may increase, so booking in advance always helps.
Cheapest Way to Reach Manali from Mumbai
If you are searching for the cheapest way to reach Manali from Mumbai, then a train + bus combination is the most economical solution. Many travelers use this method because it offers affordability, comfort, and a smooth travel experience.
First, you should board a train from Mumbai to Chandigarh, Ambala, or Pathankot. Then, you can complete the remaining journey by an HRTC bus, which generally charges between ₹600 and ₹1,200. This method reduces your total cost by a large margin when compared to flights or private vehicles.
Moreover, booking early, traveling in off-season months, and choosing sleeper class tickets also help reduce the cost further.
How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Flight
Flying is the fastest way to reach Manali, and travelers who prefer speed choose this option. Although Manali has no major commercial airport inside the town, the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, located around 50 km from Manali.
Mumbai to Manali Nearest Airport
The nearest and most convenient airport for Manali is Bhuntar. However, not every traveler chooses this airport because flight availability and weather conditions may vary. Therefore, many visitors prefer reaching Delhi or Chandigarh International Airport and then continuing their journey by road.
Mumbai to Manali Flight Ticket Price
Mumbai to Bhuntar flights can be expensive because the airport is small and availability is limited. Here are approximate flight prices travelers can expect:
Mumbai → Bhuntar: ₹6,000 – ₹14,000
Mumbai → Delhi: ₹2,500 – ₹8,000
Mumbai → Chandigarh: ₹3,000 – ₹9,000
Booking early and choosing weekday flights usually reduce the fare noticeably.
Flight + Road Travel Options
After landing, you can select one of these convenient road routes:
1. Mumbai → Bhuntar → Manali
This is the quickest route because the airport lies close to Manali. After landing, you can take a taxi or a local bus.
2. Mumbai → Delhi → Manali
Travelers prefer this because Delhi offers frequent flights, many buses, and comfortable Volvo services.
3. Mumbai → Chandigarh → Manali
This option balances travel time, comfort, and road conditions.
Thus, flight journeys save time and offer comfort, while road travel adds scenic value to the trip.
How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Road
Road trips from Mumbai to Manali attract adventure lovers and long-drive travelers. The distance is around 1,950 km, and the drive passes through several states, giving you a diverse travel experience. Even though the journey is long, many people choose this route because the Himalayan views at the end make everything worthwhile.
The best routes usually go through Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Travelers must plan night halts because the drive may take 35–40 hours depending on traffic and stops.
Because this is a long journey, planning fuel stops, food breaks, and hotel stays becomes important. Road conditions are mostly good, especially on the national highways leading up to Chandigarh and further into Himachal.
How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Bus
Mumbai has no direct bus to Manali. Even so, bus travel remains a convenient option because travelers can break the journey at Delhi or Chandigarh. Once you reach either city, several comfortable Volvo buses are available.
Mumbai to Manali Direct Bus Availability
There is no direct bus from Mumbai to Manali because of the long distance and the mountain terrain. Travelers must first reach another major city through flight or train.
How to Travel Mumbai → Delhi / Chandigarh → Manali by Bus
1. Mumbai to Delhi by flight or train:
Then board a Delhi to Manali HRTC or private Volvo bus.
2. Mumbai to Chandigarh by flight or train:
Then take a Chandigarh to Manali bus.
These buses offer AC sleeper seats, blankets, and comfortable journeys. Timings are convenient, and road conditions are smooth.
Approximate bus fares:
From Delhi: ₹700 – ₹1,800
From Chandigarh: ₹600 – ₹1,300
Thus, the bus journey becomes affordable and comfortable when you plan correctly.
How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Car
Driving from Mumbai to Manali in your own car gives you complete freedom during the journey. Many travelers often choose this option during long vacations or when traveling with family.
Best Self-Drive Route
A recommended route for car travelers:
Mumbai → Surat → Vadodara → Udaipur → Jaipur → Delhi → Chandigarh → Mandi → Manali
This route offers better roads, smooth highway stretches, and many food and hotel stops. Travelers enjoy scenic Rajasthan highways and open Delhi expressways during the journey.
Expenses for Car Travel
Driving from Mumbai to Manali involves fuel, toll expenses, and night stays. Here is the approximate cost breakdown:
Fuel (Petrol/Diesel): ₹10,000 – ₹16,000
Toll charges: ₹2,000 – ₹3,500
Hotel stays: ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 per night depending on location
Although this method is not always the cheapest, it provides flexibility and comfort throughout your long road trip.
Best Time to Visit Manali
Travelers choose different months based on weather preferences. Therefore, understanding seasons helps you plan better:
Summer (March to June): Pleasant weather and perfect for adventure sports.
Winter (November to February): Ideal for snow lovers and honeymoon travelers.
Monsoon (July to September): Roads may remain slippery, so caution becomes necessary.
Booking transportation in advance during peak seasons always helps reduce travel stress.
Tips for Traveling from Mumbai to Manali
To ensure a smooth journey, follow these useful tips:
Always book flights and trains early for better prices.
Keep warm clothes ready because Manali weather changes quickly.
Check road and flight updates when traveling during monsoon or winter.
Keep power banks, medicines, and essential items handy.
Use only authorized buses or taxis during the mountain journey.
These tips help every traveler enjoy a safe and comfortable trip while keeping expenses in control.
Conclusion (How to Reach Manali from Mumbai)
Reaching Manali from Mumbai becomes easy when you choose the right travel method. Flights offer speed, trains ensure affordability, buses give comfort, and road trips provide adventure. This guide on How to reach Manali from Mumbai helps you choose the best route based on your budget and travel preference. Therefore, plan early, book smart, and enjoy your memorable journey into the mountains.