How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune
How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune – Complete Travel Guide
Are you planning a trip from Pune to Kullu Manali? Known for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and adventure activities, Manali is one of the most loved travel destinations in India. However, reaching this beautiful hill station from Pune requires some planning since there is no direct train or flight to Manali.
In this guide, we’ll cover different travel options, including flights, trains, buses, and road trips, along with estimated costs and travel times to help you plan your journey better.
1. How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune Distance Between Pune and Manali
The total distance between Pune and Manali is approximately 1,950 – 2,050 km, depending on the route you take.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Mode of Travel | Distance | Approx Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| By Flight + Road | 1,950 km | 8 – 10 hours |
| By Train + Road | 1,950 – 2,050 km | 30 – 40 hours |
| By Car (Road Trip) | 1,980 km | 36 – 40 hours |
| By Bus (Multiple connections) | 2,000 km | 40 – 45 hours |
2. How to Reach Manali by Flight (Fastest Way)
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Manali from Pune is by flight. Manali does not have its own airport; the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu Airport), located about 50 km from Manali.
Steps to Travel:
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Book a flight from Pune (PNQ) to Delhi (DEL) or Chandigarh (IXC).
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There are multiple daily flights from Pune to these cities.
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From Delhi or Chandigarh, take a connecting flight to Bhuntar Airport (limited flights available).
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Hire a taxi or take a bus from Bhuntar to Manali, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Flight & Travel Cost Estimate:
| Route | Approx Cost (One Way) | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pune → Delhi (Direct Flight) | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 | 2.5 hours |
| Delhi → Bhuntar (Flight) | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | 1.5 hours |
| Taxi/Bus Bhuntar → Manali | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 | 2 hours |
Tip:
If direct flights to Bhuntar are unavailable, travel from Delhi or Chandigarh to Manali by road using a Volvo bus or taxi.
3. How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune Pune to Manali by Train
There is no direct train to Manali, but you can take a train to a nearby railway station like Chandigarh (CDG) or Ambala Cantt (UMB). From there, continue your journey by road.
Steps to Travel:
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Take a train from Pune Junction (PUNE) to Chandigarh or Ambala Cantt.
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From Chandigarh or Ambala, book a taxi or Himachal Pradesh state-run bus to Manali.
Popular Trains:
| Train Name | From | To | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pune-Chandigarh Superfast Express | Pune | Chandigarh | 31 – 33 hours |
| Pune-Amritsar Jhelum Express | Pune | Ambala Cantt | 29 – 31 hours |
Road Travel After Train:
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Chandigarh to Manali Distance: 310 km
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Travel Time by Bus/Taxi: 8 – 10 hours
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Cost: ₹800 – ₹1,500 (Bus) or ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 (Taxi)
4. How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune- Pune to Manali by Bus
Traveling entirely by bus is not practical because it would require multiple connections.
However, you can:
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Take a bus from Pune to Delhi or Chandigarh.
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Then board a Himachal Pradesh Tourism or private Volvo bus from Delhi/Chandigarh to Manali.
| Route | Travel Time | Approx Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Pune → Delhi Bus | 24 – 26 hours | ₹2,000 – ₹2,500 |
| Delhi → Manali Volvo Bus | 12 – 14 hours | ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 |
Total Journey Time: 40 – 42 hours
This is the least recommended option unless you’re looking for a budget trip.
5. How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune – Pune to Manali by Road Trip (Self-Drive)
If you love long drives and adventure, you can drive from Pune to Manali.
This is a scenic but very long journey, covering nearly 2,000 km across multiple states.
Suggested Route:
Pune → Mumbai → Vadodara → Udaipur → Jaipur → Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | ~1,980 km |
| Driving Time | 36 – 40 hours |
| Ideal Days to Cover | 3 – 4 days |
| Toll Charges (Approx) | ₹3,500 – ₹4,000 |
| Fuel Cost (Approx) | ₹15,000 – ₹18,000 |
Tip:
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Plan stopovers in Udaipur, Jaipur, and Delhi for rest.
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Avoid driving at night, especially in hilly areas near Manali.
Best Travel Option – Recommendation
| Option | Best For | Why Choose |
|---|---|---|
| Flight + Road | Fastest travel | Saves time, comfortable journey |
| Train + Road | Budget-friendly & scenic | Cheaper than flights |
| Road Trip | Adventure lovers | Full control over the journey |
| Bus | Budget travelers | Cheapest but time-consuming |
6. Tips for Traveling to Manali from Pune
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Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons like May-June (summer vacations) and December-January (snowfall season).
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Pack warm clothes, especially if visiting between October and March.
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Carry motion sickness medication, as roads near Manali have winding curves.
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Consider travel insurance, especially if you’re booking expensive flights or accommodation.
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If traveling by bus, choose Volvo or luxury coaches for a more comfortable journey.
7. How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune – Best Time to Visit Manali
| Season | Months | Weather | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | March – June | Pleasant (10°C – 25°C) | Sightseeing, adventure sports |
| Monsoon | July – September | Heavy rainfall, landslides possible | Budget travel, lush greenery |
| Winter | October – February | Cold, snowfall (0°C – 10°C) | Snow activities, honeymoon trips |
Tip:
For snowfall experiences, visit in December or January.
For pleasant weather, May and June are ideal.
Conclusion
How to Go to Kullu Manali from Pune – Reaching Manali from Pune may seem challenging at first, but with proper planning, it’s quite manageable. The flight + road option is the fastest, while trains are a good balance between budget and comfort. For adventure seekers, a road trip can be an unforgettable experience.
Manali is a destination worth the journey—whether you’re going for snow, adventure sports, or relaxation. So, plan ahead, choose your preferred mode of travel, and get ready to explore the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.
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