How to Reach Manali by Train
How to Reach Manali by Train – Complete Guide for Travelers
Manali, a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is a dream destination for travelers seeking snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and adventure activities. While many travelers prefer buses or flights, reaching Manali by train is also a popular and budget-friendly option.
However, there is no direct train to Manali, as the town is nestled deep in the Himalayan mountains. Don’t worry! With a proper route plan, you can easily reach Manali by combining train travel with road transport.
In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to reach Manali by train, including the nearest railway stations, popular train routes, and travel tips.
How to Reach Manali by Train Why Travel to Manali by Train?
Many tourists choose trains over other travel options because:
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🚆 Budget-friendly travel – Train tickets are often cheaper than flights or luxury buses.
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🌄 Scenic journey – Enjoy beautiful landscapes while traveling through North India.
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🧳 Convenient for families – Easy to carry luggage compared to buses.
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🛤 Connectivity from major cities – Trains from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other cities make the journey accessible.
Nearest Railway Stations to Manali
Since Manali does not have a railway station, you must travel to the nearest railway stations and continue by road. Here are the top options:
| Railway Station | Distance from Manali | Approx. Travel Time by Road |
|---|---|---|
| Joginder Nagar Railway Station | 163 km | 5-6 hours |
| Chandigarh Railway Station | 315 km | 8-9 hours |
| Pathankot Railway Station | 290 km | 8 hours |
| Kalka Railway Station | 275 km | 8-9 hours |
| Ambala Cantt Railway Station | 340 km | 9-10 hours |
Tip: Joginder Nagar is the closest station, but Chandigarh offers better train connectivity.
How to Reach Manali by Train Popular Routes to Reach Manali by Train
Here are some recommended train routes depending on where you are traveling from:
1. Delhi to Manali by Train
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Take a train from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Chandigarh or Ambala Cantt.
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From Chandigarh, book a Volvo bus, taxi, or cab to Manali (8-9 hours drive).
Suggested Trains:
Kalka Shatabdi Express
Paschim Express
Shatabdi Express (Delhi–Chandigarh)
2. Chandigarh to Manali by Train + Road
Chandigarh is one of the best-connected railway stations with direct trains from major Indian cities.
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After reaching Chandigarh, take a private taxi or Himachal Roadways bus to Manali.
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Buses run frequently, especially overnight Volvo services.
3. Pathankot to Manali Route
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Take a train to Pathankot Railway Station.
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From Pathankot, hire a cab or take a bus to Manali (approx. 8 hours).
Why choose Pathankot?
Great option for travelers from Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, or Delhi NCR.
It is well-connected and often less crowded than Chandigarh.
4. Joginder Nagar – The Closest Station to Manali
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Joginder Nagar is just 163 km from Manali.
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However, it is a narrow-gauge station, meaning train connectivity is limited.
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Most travelers use this option when traveling from Kangra Valley.
Step-by-Step Journey Plan
Here’s a sample travel plan for reaching Manali by train from Delhi:
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Step 1: Book a train ticket from New Delhi to Chandigarh (Shatabdi Express).
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Step 2: Reach Chandigarh and hire a taxi or board a Volvo bus to Manali.
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Step 3: Enjoy the scenic 8-9 hour road journey through mountains and valleys.
Best Time to Book Train Tickets
Manali is a year-round destination, but ticket availability depends on the season:
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Summer (March – June): Heavy rush due to vacations and honeymooners.
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Monsoon (July – September): Fewer tourists, easier to get tickets.
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Winter (October – February): Snowfall season, book tickets at least 30-45 days in advance.
Pro Tip: Use IRCTC or other official railway booking platforms to avoid last-minute hassles.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
Here are some important tips to make your trip comfortable:
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Book tickets early – Popular routes like Delhi to Chandigarh sell out fast.
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Check road conditions – Especially during monsoon and winter seasons.
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Opt for overnight Volvo buses from Chandigarh for a more relaxing journey.
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Carry essential medicines if you are prone to motion sickness on hilly roads.
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Travel light, as you’ll need to switch between train and bus/taxi.
Estimated Cost of Travel
| Expense | Approx. Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Train Ticket (Delhi–Chandigarh) | ₹300 – ₹1,200 |
| Volvo Bus/Taxi (Chandigarh–Manali) | ₹800 – ₹2,500 |
| Total Cost (One-Way) | ₹1,100 – ₹3,700 |
This makes train + road travel a budget-friendly option, especially for families and groups.
Conclusion
Though there is no direct train to Manali, reaching this beautiful hill station is simple and affordable with a well-planned route. The most convenient way is to take a train to Chandigarh or Ambala, followed by a comfortable road journey to Manali.
Whether you’re visiting to enjoy snowfall, adventure sports, or simply to relax amidst nature, this route ensures a memorable travel experience.
Start planning early, book your tickets, and get ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Manali!
Quick FAQ
Q1. Is there a direct train to Manali?
No, Manali does not have a railway station. The nearest station is Joginder Nagar (163 km away).
Q2. Which is the best railway station to reach Manali?
Chandigarh Railway Station is the most convenient, with excellent train and bus connectivity.
Q3. How far is Manali from Delhi by train + road?
The total journey takes 13-15 hours, depending on train and road travel.
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