How to Reach Kullu Manali from Kerala
How to Reach Kullu Manali from Kerala – Complete Travel Guide
Kullu Manali, located in the scenic state of Himachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most popular hill stations. Known for its snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and adventure activities, it attracts travelers from across the country. If you’re planning a trip from Kerala to Kullu Manali, this guide will help you choose the best mode of transport, routes, and travel tips to make your journey smooth and memorable.
1.How to Reach Kullu Manali from Kerala By Air
The fastest way to reach Kullu Manali from Kerala is by air. The nearest airport to Manali is Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport), located around 50 km from Manali. Since there are no direct flights from Kerala to Bhuntar, you will need to take connecting flights via Delhi or Chandigarh.
Air Route Options from Kerala to Kullu Manali:
| Departure City (Kerala) | Connecting City | Arrival Airport | Approx. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi (Cochin) | Delhi | Bhuntar (Kullu) | 7–8 hours |
| Trivandrum | Delhi/Chandigarh | Bhuntar (Kullu) | 8–9 hours |
| Kozhikode (Calicut) | Delhi | Bhuntar (Kullu) | 7–8 hours |
Tips for Air Travel:
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Book flights in advance during peak seasons (May-June and December-January) to get the best rates.
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From Bhuntar Airport, you can hire taxis or take buses to reach Manali town in approximately 1.5 hours.
2. How to Reach Kullu Manali from Kerala – By Train
Manali does not have a railway station. The nearest major railway stations are:
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Joginder Nagar Railway Station – 150 km from Manali
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Chandigarh Railway Station – 310 km from Manali
Trains from Kerala to Chandigarh or Joginder Nagar are a popular option for travelers who enjoy scenic train journeys. Once you reach the station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Manali.
Trains from Kerala to Chandigarh:
| Train Name | Departure City | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerala Express | Trivandrum | ~44 hrs | Daily |
| Venad Express | Kochi | ~48 hrs | Daily |
| Mangala Lakshadweep Express | Trivandrum | ~46 hrs | 3 Days/Week |
Tips for Train Travel:
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Booking in advance is recommended, especially for AC coaches.
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Night trains are preferable for long journeys as you can save on accommodation.
3. How to Reach Kullu Manali from Kerala – By Road
Traveling by road from Kerala to Kullu Manali is ideal for adventure seekers or those who enjoy road trips. The distance from Kerala to Manali is approximately 3,000 km, and it can take 2–3 days depending on stops and route conditions.
Popular Road Routes from Kerala to Kullu Manali:
| Route | Approx. Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kochi → Bangalore → Delhi → Manali | 3,000 km | Scenic drive through Karnataka & Punjab |
| Trivandrum → Mumbai → Delhi → Manali | 3,100 km | Coastal and highway combination |
| Kozhikode → Hyderabad → Delhi → Manali | 3,050 km | Smooth NH routes, good for private vehicles |
Tips for Road Travel:
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Use NH44 and NH3 for smooth driving experience.
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Take regular breaks at major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, or Delhi.
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Ensure your vehicle is serviced before such a long journey.
4. How to Reach Kullu Manali from Kerala – By Bus
While there are no direct Kerala to Manali buses, you can take buses to Delhi or Chandigarh and then board Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses to Manali.
Bus Options:
| From | To | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerala (Kochi/Trivandrum) | Delhi | 40–45 hrs | Private / Government |
| Delhi | Manali | 12–14 hrs | Volvo / HRTC |
Tips for Bus Travel:
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Volvo AC buses are comfortable for long journeys.
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Night buses help save a day’s accommodation.
5. How to Reach Kullu Manali from Kerala – Best Time to Travel
Kullu Manali is a year-round destination, but the ideal time depends on your preference:
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Summer (March – June): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities.
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Monsoon (July – September): Lush green valleys but heavy rainfall may disrupt travel.
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Winter (December – February): Perfect for snow lovers and skiing enthusiasts.
6. Travel Tips for Kerala to Kullu Manali Journey
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Book in advance: Peak tourist seasons have high demand for flights, trains, and hotels.
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Layered clothing: The temperature difference between Kerala and Manali can be significant.
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Check road conditions: If traveling by road, check for landslides during monsoon.
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Local transport: Taxis, buses, and bike rentals are widely available in Manali.
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Health precautions: Carry medications for altitude sickness if you are sensitive to high altitudes.
7. Suggested Itinerary
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival at Bhuntar/Kullu, check-in at Manali hotel |
| Day 2 | Explore Old Manali, Hadimba Temple, and Mall Road |
| Day 3 | Solang Valley adventure (paragliding, skiing) |
| Day 4 | Rohtang Pass day trip (if open) |
| Day 5 | Local sightseeing, depart to Delhi or Chandigarh |
Conclusion
Reaching Kullu Manali from Kerala may seem like a long journey, but with proper planning, it can be smooth and enjoyable. Whether you choose air, train, or road, each mode of travel offers unique experiences and scenic views. Plan your trip according to the season and your comfort level, and get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Manali.
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