How to Reach Kullu Manali from Delhi

How to Reach Kullu Manali from Delhi – Complete Travel Guide
Planning a trip to the scenic mountains of Kullu Manali from Delhi? You’re in for a breathtaking journey! Whether you’re traveling for a honeymoon, family vacation, adventure sports, or just to escape city life, knowing the best routes and travel options will make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Kullu Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in India, offering snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, rivers, and thrilling activities like paragliding, skiing, and river rafting. The good news is that there are multiple ways to reach & How to Reach Kullu Manali from Delhi , depending on your budget and travel style.
In this guide, we’ll cover all possible routes and transport options to help you plan the perfect journey.
How to Reach Kullu Manali from Delhi Distance Between Delhi and Manali
The distance between Delhi and Manali is around 540 km by road. The journey usually takes 11 to 14 hours by car or bus, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the route you choose.
Here’s a quick overview of travel options:
Mode of Travel | Distance | Travel Time | Approx. Cost (INR) |
---|---|---|---|
By Road (Car/Taxi) | 540 km | 11-13 hours | ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 (one way) |
By Bus | 540 km | 12-14 hours | ₹900 – ₹2,000 per person |
By Train + Taxi/Bus | 330 km by train + 200 km by road | 12-15 hours | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per person |
By Flight + Taxi | 500 km flight + 50 km by road | 3-4 hours total | ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 one way |
1. Traveling to Manali by Road
How to Reach Kullu Manali from Delhi Traveling to Manali by road is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach the destination. The journey takes you through beautiful valleys, riversides, and winding mountain roads.
Route from Delhi to Manali:
The most common route is:
Delhi → Sonipat → Panipat → Kurukshetra → Ambala → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
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Total Distance: 540 km
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Travel Time: 11-13 hours (non-stop)
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Best for: Family trips, friends, and flexible travel plans
If you’re driving yourself, make sure your vehicle is in good condition as you’ll encounter hilly terrain after Mandi.
Tips To How to Reach Kullu Manali from Delhi:-
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Start your journey early morning to avoid Delhi traffic.
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Take short breaks in Murthal or Chandigarh for food and rest.
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Fuel up before entering the hilly regions.
2. By Bus – Budget-Friendly Option
If you prefer not to drive, buses are a safe and budget-friendly option. Several government (HRTC, HPTDC) and private operators run buses daily between Delhi and Manali.
Types of Buses Available:
Bus Type | Travel Time | Approx. Fare (INR) |
---|---|---|
Ordinary/Non-AC | 13-14 hours | ₹900 – ₹1,100 |
Semi-Sleeper AC | 12-13 hours | ₹1,200 – ₹1,600 |
Volvo/Deluxe AC | 12 hours | ₹1,400 – ₹2,000 |
Boarding Points in Delhi:
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ISBT Kashmere Gate
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Majnu Ka Tila
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RK Ashram Metro Station
Advantages:
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Overnight buses save hotel costs for one night.
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Comfortable Volvo buses are perfect for families and couples.
3. By Train – Via Chandigarh or Joginder Nagar
There is no direct train to Manali, but you can take a train part of the way and then travel by taxi or bus.
The nearest major railway stations are:
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Chandigarh (310 km from Manali)
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Joginder Nagar (160 km from Manali) – for narrow-gauge trains
Recommended Route:
Delhi → Chandigarh by train → Taxi/Bus to Manali
Segment | Distance | Travel Time |
---|---|---|
Delhi to Chandigarh (by train) | 310 km | 3-4 hours |
Chandigarh to Manali (by taxi/bus) | 310 km | 8-9 hours |
Why choose this route:
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Great for travelers who don’t want to travel by road for the entire journey.
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Comfortable and ideal for families with kids or elderly members.
4. By Flight – Fastest Way
If you’re short on time, flying is the quickest way to reach Manali. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), located 50 km from Manali town.
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Flight Duration: 1.5 hours (Delhi to Bhuntar)
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Road Travel: 2 hours from Bhuntar to Manali via taxi or bus
Airlines Operating:
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Air India
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IndiGo
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Alliance Air
Approximate Fare: ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 (one way, per person)
Tip: Flights to Bhuntar are often limited and subject to weather conditions. Book early, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and winter.
Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Manali
Your mode of travel can depend on the season:
Season | Weather | Travel Tips |
---|---|---|
Summer (March – June) | Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing | Peak tourist season, book transport early |
Monsoon (July – September) | Heavy rainfall, landslide risks | Avoid driving yourself, opt for Volvo buses |
Winter (October – February) | Snowfall and cold weather | Check road conditions, carry warm clothes |
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
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Book Tickets Early: Especially during summer vacations and festive seasons.
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Check Weather Updates: Snowfall or heavy rains can affect road travel.
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Pack Smartly: Carry warm clothes, medicines, and travel essentials.
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Carry Cash: Some hilly areas have limited digital payment options.
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Travel Overnight: If going by bus, overnight journeys save time and a day’s hotel cost.
Quick Comparison – Which Travel Mode to Choose?
Mode | Best For | Advantages |
---|---|---|
Car/Taxi | Families, friends | Flexible, scenic drive |
Bus | Budget travelers | Affordable, frequent options |
Train + Road | Comfort seekers | Avoids long road journey |
Flight | Time-saving | Fastest, scenic aerial view |
Final Thoughts
Reaching Kullu Manali from Delhi is easy and offers multiple options to suit every traveler’s budget and comfort.
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If you love road trips and flexibility, drive your own car or hire a taxi.
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For budget-friendly travel, Volvo buses are reliable and comfortable.
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If time is a concern, fly to Bhuntar Airport and cover the last 50 km by road.
Whichever way you choose, the journey to Manali is as beautiful as the destination itself. Prepare well, check the weather in advance, and get ready to experience the mesmerizing landscapes of Himachal Pradesh!
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