How to Reach Manali - Best Routes and Travel Tips

May 20, 2024

Manali is one of the best places to visit

Manali is a resort town situated in Himachal Pradesh. It is home to the majestic Himalayan mountain range, dense forests, and several streams, which enable it to provide an incredible experience of bonding with nature. This impeccable landscape has helped it to offer various adventurous, exciting, and relaxing activities to its visitors.

The town is in a very convenient location; hence, you can reach Manali by various transportation modes like airways, roads, or railways. If you are planning a visit to Manali you need to know how to reach Manali and choose the most suitable option.

In this article, we will provide extensive detail on the various ways you can reach Manali and the best option for you. Scroll down for more information.

How To Reach Manali?

Manali is not only one of the Best Tourist Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh but also very conveniently located in Himachal Pradesh. You can reach Manali by airways, railways, and road vehicles, such as hired taxis or personal bikes. Here, we will learn how to reach Manali by flight, train, bus, or car. 

1. How To Reach Manali By Flight

The nearest airport to Manali, which is 52 kms away, is the Kullu-Manali airport in Bhuntar. This airport receives all the major domestic flights. Booking a taxi is usually the best option to reach the heart of the town from the airport. Bus services are also available, but they arrive at no fixed time. Suggested below is how to reach Manali from the different metropolitan cities by flight. 

  • how to reach Kullu Manali from Kerala by flight

There is no direct flight from Kerala to Manali. Then how to reach Manali? Do not worry! You need to take board a flight from Kerala to Chandigarh or Delhi. Once you have reached either one of these two, take a cab or take any flight from Chandigarh/Delhi to Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Chennai

If you are seeking how to reach Manali from Chennai, let us help you out. You can either take a flight to Chandigarh and then board another flight from Chandigarh to Manali. Also, you can directly opt for the Kerala to Manali one-stop flight. Both ways are convenient. 

  • how to reach Manali from Bhopal by flight

Bhopal has no direct mode of transportation to Manali. You have to fly down to Delhi and take another flight from Delhi to Manali. There are numerous Delhi to Manali Trains on a regular basis. Hence, you can opt for a train or bus service from Delhi to Manali. However, choosing the airways will reduce your travel time considerably.

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Mumbai

Travelling from Mumbai to Manali is not a single journey. You must first travel to Delhi and then take another flight, train, or bus to Delhi. However, the route is very convenient since there are frequent flights from Mumbai to Delhi. Once you have reached Delhi, there are multiple ways to reach Manali, including taking a flight from Delhi to Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali flight from Pune

In order to reach Manali from Pune, you need first to book a flight to Delhi, from where you will get regular flights to Manali. This is the fastest way to reach Manali because, in both cases, there are multiple and regular flights. The entire journey will take around three and a half hours to complete. You can also opt for a train service to Manali’s nearest railway station, Joginder Nagar railway station, to cut down on your costs. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Delhi

If you reside in Delhi, then a vacation to Manali is the most convenient option of all. There are several frequent flights from Delhi to Manali. It will only take you a maximum of one and a half hours to reach. Manali from Delhi is best for sudden and unplanned vacations. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Bangalore

If you have booked your Manali packages from Bangalore, take a flight from Bangalore to Delhi. You will reach Delhi within three hours. Board the immediate flight from Delhi to Manali to reach your destination on the same day. Additionally, you can opt for a car or train service; however, they tend to take a few extra hours to reach Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Hyderabad

You will have two halts to reach Manali from Hyderabad. Firstly, take a flight from Hyderabad to Chandigarh, which will take approximately 12 hours. Then, book a direct flight from Chandigarh to Manali. You can also take a cab to Manali from Chandigarh to enjoy the scenic view of the place. 

2. How To Reach Manali By Bus/Car

In case you have planned a long vacation, then definitely opt for a car or bus service. It might take a few hours more, but those extra hours are incredibly rewarding and will certainly add to your memorable journey. After all, the road to Manali is an amazing one that gives you a sneak peek at the spectacular views the town holds at its heart. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Delhi 

If you are booking a Manali package from Delhi, you can reach your destination by flight or roadway. As the town is well connected by major highways, opting for a bus service to reach Manali is a very common transportation mode. 209 buses traverse this route, and it takes around 12 hours to reach your destination. You can either hire private taxis or book the readily available semi-luxury buses. 

  • how to reach Manali From Chandigarh By Bus 

Most Manali tour packages will either halt at Delhi or Chandigarh since Manali is the most conveniently connected to these two locations. If you choose the bus service, then it will take you around eight hours. The first bus commences at 12.20 AM and the last bus at 12.00 PM.  

3. How To Reach Manali By Train 

The nearest station to Manali is Joginder Nagar. Most of the Delhi and Chandigarh trains to and from Manali halt at this station. Additionally, there are direct trains from other cities to Joginder Nagar station. However, you need to reach Joginder Nagar via Pathankot. Check out the ways to get trains to Manali from all the major cities. 

  • how to go to Manali from Mumbai by train 

You cannot reach Manali directly from Mumbai. The best way is first to make your way to Chandigarh and then continue from there to Joginder Nagar. Once you reach the station, you can hire a cab or take a bus to go to Manali. 

  • how to reach Delhi to Kullu Manali by train

If you are travelling from Delhi to Manali, you first need to board a train to either Chandigarh or Kalka railway station. From there, you get numerous train options arriving at regular intervals in Manali. From the station, take a cab or bus to reach the city. 

  • how to reach Manali from Chandigarh by train

Undoubtedly, Chandigarh is the most convenient location to travel to Manali. There are multiple trains frequently arriving at regular intervals to Manali. In fact, trains from major metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, etc., need to halt at this Ambala Cantt to proceed to Manali. Even if you book your Manali packages from Kolkata, Chandigarh is the nearest station if you must arrive before continuing to Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali from Hyderabad by train

The easiest way to reach Manali is to book your train to either Delhi or Chandigarh. Once you arrive at any one of the two locations, take a direct train to Joginder Nagar railway station. From there, hire a taxi or get a bus to reach the core of Manali. If properly booked, you can reach Manali within a day.

  • how to reach Manali from Jaipur by train

If you are opting for the train services, then The best way to reach Manali from Jaipur is to take a direct train to Chandigarh and then continue the journey from the Ambala Cantt to Joginder Nagar. There are several train options from Jaipur and Chandigarh; hence, you won’t face any inconvenience. 

  • how to reach Manali from Agra by train

The Ambala Cantt will be your first stop from Agra in your journey to Manali. Once you arrive at Chandigarh, you can board a train to Manali at your convenience. This is the easiest and cheapest way. It will take around 15 hours to complete the entire journey. 

  • how to reach Kullu Manali from Chennai by train

Here, you have two options. You can board a train to Chandigarh or Delhi at your convenience. Next, take a direct train to Manali. You will get numerous options from both destinations; hence, you will reach your destination in no time. You will have to take a cab or bus to reach the centre of the city. 

  • how to go to Manali from Pune by train

Arrive at the Chandigarh station from Pune by train. Next, book your train from the Ambala Cantt to Joginder Nagar railway station. To finally reach Manali, book a cab or take a local bus from the station. It might take a day or two to reach the destination from Pune. This is the cheapest and most convenient travel option. 

  • how to reach Manali from Kanpur by train

There are no direct transportation options to reach Manali from Kanpur. But there is nothing to worry about. You can easily take a train to Delhi or Chandigarh and then avail yourself of their efficient train services in Manali. From the nearest station, you will need a taxi or a bus to reach the centre of the city.

  • how to reach Manali from Kerala by train

The travel distance between these two locations is quite a lot; hence, it might take more time. However, the cheapest and fastest way to reach Manali is to take a train to Chandigarh and then continue from Chandigarh to Manali. You can choose a suitable train from the numerous Chandigarh-Manali trains from the Ambala Cantt. 

  • how to reach Manali from Shimla by train

Indeed, there is no direct train to connect these two locations; however, we have a better alternative for you. You have to reach Chandigarh or Kalka from Shimla by train first and then continue from there to Manali. Well, from Kalka, you can take the toy train to Manali rather than taking the usual trains from Chandigarh. This will surely give you a much better experience than the normal trains. 

How to reach Manali from different cities?

Reaching to Manali from different cities isn’t a tough job anymore. You can avail train, bus, and even flight routes. Here are some ways to reach Manali from various places: 

1. How to reach Manali from Jaipur

If you have booked your Manali trip from Jaipur, then let us look at how to reach Manali by train, flight, and bus. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Jaipur

As there is no direct flight to Jaipur, you need to reach Chandigarh by flight and then take another flight to Manali. or you can also take a cab from Chandigarh.

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Jaipur

There is only one bus available from Manali to Jaipur. In case the direct bus timings are not convenient for you can travel to Delhi by bus. There are numerous Delhi to Manali buses which you can board at your convenience. 

  • how to reach Manali from Jaipur by train 

Trains offer the cheapest and fastest way to reach Manali from Jaipur. Though there is no direct train to Manali, you will not face any difficulty thanks to the regularity and frequency of the Jaipur to Delhi and Delhi to Manali trains. 

2. How to reach Kullu Manali from Shimla

Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Let us check out how to reach Manali from Shimla. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Shimla

Since there is no direct flight, you first have to reach Chandigarh and then book a flight to Manali from Chandigarh. The flight service, especially in this case, is quite expensive, and additionally, the flights are not frequent. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Shimla

Shimla and Manali are two locations in the same state; hence, the bus is the most cost-effective and faster transportation option. The HRTC bus service begins from Shimla at 8.00 AM, and the last bus of the route is at 9.00 PM. It takes around 8 hours to complete the journey. However, the duration may vary due to traffic or weather conditions. For details on the HRTC and HPTDC bus services, visit the bus terminal counter (ISBT).  However, if you are opting for private buses, contact them for all the details of the time. 

  • how to reach Manali from Shimla by train 

There are no direct trains. To avail yourself of the train service, firstly, you need to board a train to Kalka and then hire a cab to reach Manali. This is not a very convenient option; moreover, the trains have a limited frequency. Hence, ensure the train timings before leaving. 

3. How to reach Kullu Manali from Hyderabad

Each year, there are several visitors from Hyderabad to Manali. Let us look at how to reach Manali from Hyderabad by using the three major transportation modes. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Hyderabad

There are numerous direct flights from Hyderabad to Manali. The flights are conducted at more or less regular intervals. They might be a bit expensive but save you a lot of time. If you are vacationing for a brief period, then opting for direct flights is the best option. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Hyderabad

The bus is the most recommended transportation choice for travelling to Manali from Hyderabad if you are looking for a cheap and fast option. The bus journey takes around ten hours to reach the destination. Additionally, you will also get to enjoy the scenic beauty of the road leading to the town. 

  • how to reach Manali from Hyderabad by train

In case you have booked your Manali tour package from Hyderabad and opt to avail of the train services then you have to first halt at Delhi. There are frequent trains from Delhi to Manali, which you can book at your convenience. 

4. How to reach Kullu Manali from Chennai

The geographical distance between Chennai and Manali is quite substantial, and you have no direct transportation option. Then, how to reach Manali from Hyderabad? Let us help you out. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Chennai

As you have opted for the Manali tour package from Chennai, you have first to reach Chandigarh by flight and then take another flight from Chandigarh to Manali. There is nothing to worry about since, in both cases, there are frequent and regular buses. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Chennai

Similarly, like flights, you will have to board a bus to Chandigarh and then take another bus from Chandigarh to Manali. Since there are frequent buses on both sides, it will not take long for you to reach your destination. 

  • how to reach Manali from Chennai by train

If you want to opt for railways, then you need to reach Chandigarh first. There is a weekly train from Chennai to Chandigarh. Once you have reached Chandigarh, you will get numerous bus options for Manali. 

5. How to reach Kullu Manali from Chandigarh

Chandigarh is the most well-connected city with Manali. You can reach Manali by any transportation mode within the blink of an eye thanks to its incredible bus, train and flight services. Additionally, major travellers arriving in Manali from cities like Hyderabad, Kerala, etc., halt at Chandigarh and then move on to Manali. Let us check out how to reach Manali from Chandigarh. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Chandigarh

There are numerous regular flights from Chandigarh that are reasonably priced. The flight duration is around two to four hours, depending on the chosen air route. Hence, even if you plan your vacation suddenly on a holiday morning, you could enjoy a ride in the evening. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Chandigarh

The bus is the most convenient option for this journey. Firstly, there are numerous bus options, and they commence at regular intervals. Additionally, they are pretty cheap and definitely a faster option. Furthermore, a bus ride to Manali will provide you with a memorable experience. If all the road conditions are favourable, it will take only five hours to reach Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali from Chandigarh by train

The nearest railway station in Manali is Joginder Nagar. There are several trains from Chandigarh’s Ambala Cantt railway station to Joginder Nagar. However, you will have to hire a taxi to reach Manali. The train services are quite good, so it should not be a problem to get a suitable train. 

6. How to reach Manali from Mumbai

If you have opted for a Manali package from Mumbai, then you have to halt at Delhi and then continue your trip to Manali from there. Let us look at the route in detail. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Mumbai 

Delhi is the nearest airport to Mumbai from which to reach Manali. Hence, first, make the commute to Delhi and then opt for the various flights from Delhi to Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Mumbai

In order to avail of the bus service, you must first reach Delhi by bus and then take the common Delhi to Manali buses. This is the cheapest way to reach Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali from Mumbai by train 

There is no direct train from Mumbai to Manali; hence, you have to halt in Delhi. From Delhi, you will get numerous trains at regular intervals to reach Manali. 

7. How to reach Manali from Pune

Commuting from Pune directly to Manali is not possible. Let us look at how to reach Manali by train, bus, and flight. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Pune

First, take the first flight to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, board the earliest flight to Manali. The entire trip from Pune to Manali via Chandigarh will take around seven to three to four hours. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Pune

Similarly to the airways, first board a bus from Pune to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, there are many bus options to reach Manali. The entire journey will take eight hours; hence, you can reach Manali on the same day. 

  • how to reach Manali from Pune by train

The nearest railway station to Pune from Manali is Chandigarh. Hence, book your train to Chandigarh and then continue your journey to Manali from there. In case there are no trains available for Chandigarh you can also board a train to Delhi and then opt for the Delhi to Manali trains.

8. How to reach Manali from Kalka

Indeed, there is no direct transportation from Kalka to Manali. However, you will not face any difficulties in reaching your destination. Let us check out how to reach Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Kalka

You need to book your flight to Chandigarh or Delhi. From any of these two destinations, you can avail the numerous flights they offer to reach Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Kalka

There are quite a number of buses from Kalka to Manali. They are quite regular and reasonably priced (starting from 800). This is the cheapest and easiest way to reach Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali from Kalka by train 

You can go directly to Manali from Kalka by train. However, to reach the centre of the town, you will need a taxi from the Manali airport. The entire journey takes around four to six hours. 

9. How to reach Manali from Delhi

Travelling to Manali from Delhi is the most convenient. There are several flights, trains, and buses from Delhi to Manali. Moreover, they are regular and quite cheap and hence the journey duration is also reduced considerably.

  • how to reach Manali by flight from Delhi

Indeed, the best way to reach Manali from Delhi is by flight. There are numerous flights available that are conducted regularly. Hence, this is easy and saves a lot of time. 

  • how to reach Manali by Bus from Delhi

If you have a longer vacation, then this is a considerable option for you, as this is cheaper. However, by bus, it will take you around twelve hours to reach Manali. 

  • how to reach Manali from Delhi by train 

You need to reach Kalka or Chandigarh railway station and then board your train to Manali. It will take around nine to ten hours. 

How To Commute Within Manali

The different tourist spots in Manali are pretty well connected. Hence, travelling within the town is not a worry, even if you do not have your vehicle or a pre-booked one. Most of the popularly visited sites have taxis that you can hire at reasonable rates. The price ranges from INR 1000 - 2000 for a single day. However, if you are looking for more than one day, you can negotiate the price accordingly. 

Do you happen to have a sports bike or bullet? If yes, then this is the time to use it to its maximum ability. Biking through the varying landscapes of Manali is a dreamy and memorable experience. Hence, if you are a pro at biking, then opting for car or taxi services is futile. However, make sure the vehicle is in appropriate condition to avoid any accidents. 

Public transport is not very frequently available in this region. There are public buses, but they do not arrive at regular intervals. Rickshaws are another option but are extremely expensive - they charge around INR 150 - 200. However, there are few regular buses, such as Kullu to Manali (every fifteen minutes), Manali to Solang (every hour), and Manali to Naggar (every hour). 

Places to visit in Manali

Manali, along with offering you a gorgeous overview of the different landscapes, is also loaded with various sightseeing spots worth visiting. Here, we are providing you with the top ten sites you must visit before completing your Manali tour. They are as follows,

  • Hidimba Devi Temple
  • Solang Nullah 
  • Jogini Waterfall
  • Vashisht Baths
  • Gulaba
  • International Roerich Memorial Trust
  • Bhrigu Lake
  • Beas Kund
  • Friendship Peak
  • Manu Market

Where to Stay in Manali?

Manali is one of the best places to visit in North India; hence, there is no dearth of accommodation options. However, not all locations offer considerable quality and facilities. Hence, check out this list before you finalise your booking reservations. 

  • Larisa Resort - Starting from INR 10000 
  • Sylvan Hues - Starting from INR 7000
  • Shivadya - A Boutique Hotel - Starting from INR 12000 
  • A Cozy Homestay - Starting from INR 1500
  • Montana Blues Resort - Starting from INR 4000 
  • Snow Valley Resort - Starting from INR 2500
  • Hotel Smuggler - Starting from INR 4000 
  • Anantmaya Resort - Starting from INR 10000
  • The Destination Manali - Starting from INR 2500
  • Mastiff Grand Manali Resort - Starting from INR 2500

Important Tips and Guidelines

Manali offers visitors a plethora of activities and sightseeing options; hence, it is often considered one of the best hill stations in India. However, due to the variation in altitude and temperature, there are some tips you must follow to enjoy a safe trip. 

  • Manali is counted among the Best Places For River Rafting in India due to the numerous streams, especially River Beas. Hence, avoid visiting this place during monsoon as adventure sports like these are unavailable. Moreover, there are tendencies of landslides during this season of the year. 

  • Make sure to take all your medications, especially for motion and vertigo. Additionally, carry your prescription with you. In case of any medical emergency, the case history will help the doctor. 

  • Make sure you are carrying mosquito repellants, tissues, sunglasses, wipes, powerbanks, mints, and trash bags, especially on your way to Manali. The toffees and chocolates will help you with combating motion sickness. 

  • Do not go on a trek or hike all alone. Even if you have not booked any package, make sure to join some group.

  • Avoid packing unnecessary things and make your luggage heavy. It would become tiresome after a while.

  • Never consume alcohol before indulging in any adventure sports in manali. Additionally, most of the activities have their set of instructions. Please do abide by them. 

  • Eat light meals before commencing the journey, or you might feel nauseating. 

  • Never leave your first aid kit behind, even when you are going out for sightseeing.

  • Always opt for comfortable and convenient clothes. Furthermore, pack enough warm clothes. 

Things to do in Manali

Manali will never bore you when it comes to indulging in various heart-pumping and exciting activities. The landscape provides the perfect platform for hosting numerous sports like paragliding, skiing, river rafting, etc. However, Manali is not only about the adrenaline rush, as you can also opt to spend some peaceful days nestled in the heart of the town. Let us look at some of the popular Things To Do In Manali for a memorable experience. 

  • Paragliding

Manali is definitely one of the best places to visit in summer in India if you are looking forward to a breathtaking paragliding experience. As you need a clear, sunny sky, March to June is the ideal time. Paragliding is definitely one of the most popular attractions here; hence, even the domestic tour packages in India ensure this inclusion. 

  • River Rafting

The numerous streams along with River Beas together make Manali the favourite spot for visitors to opt for river rafting. If you are searching for a vacation in the middle of the year, then Manali is the Best Places To Visit in June in India, especially for river rafting. By this time of the year, there is the early onset of monsoon, and the streams are more powerful and strongly gushes down. Hence, rowing your boat past the flow offers a nail-biting experience to the rafters. 

  • Trekking

You cannot visit Manali and not gain a memorable trekking experience. The places offer an array of incredible trekking options like Hampta, Chandratal Lake, Bhrigu Lake, Chandrakhani, etc. Jogini Waterfall, Patalsu Peak, etc. In fact, if your partner is an adventure enthusiast, then you can spend your Honeymoon In Manali taking part in one of these treks. 

  • Hiking

Another very sought-after activity is hiking, especially for those who cannot walk for hours together to traverse longer paths and opt for hiking. You can choose shorter and easier routes for hiking. However, make sure you are properly informed about the hiking route included in your Himachal Pradesh tour packages

  • Skiing and Snowboarding

Manali is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Winter In India as it offers impeccable skiing and snowboarding experience. December is the peak time as the snow is the most favourable and smooth, enabling skiers to glide easily through the snow. Hence, Manali is definitely considered one of the Best Places To Visit In Manali In December. However, Winter ranges from October to February, and you can visit at any time during these months. 

  • Camping

Over the years, Manali has become a preferable Honeymoon destinations in India In Low Budget because of the various romantic activities it offers fit for newlyweds, among which camping is certainly one of them. Hence, camping is very assuringly included in honeymoon packages in India. Lying on the smooth grass and looking up at the celestial splendour for a night is definitely romantic, and hence, camping is included in almost all of them. This, along with a few other activities, qualifies Manali as one of the Most Romantic Places In The World.

  • Sightseeing

Apart from adventure sports, Manali also offers various sightseeing spots like Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Village, Manikaran Gurdwara, Naggar Castle Gulaba Village, etc. Among the famous temples in Himachal Pradesh, several are situated in Manali, such as Hidimba Temple, Bijli Mahadev, Rishi Prashar, Vashisht Temple, etc. Hence, besides being a favourite among newly married couples, it is also one of the best places to visit in India with family

  • Historical Places

Several of you might not be aware, but Manali has quite a rich historical importance. Some of the Historical Places In India are located here, like the Manikaran Sahib, Naggar Castle, Nehru Kund, Old Manali, etc. Malana is another such place; however, it is an Offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh; hence, if you plan to visit, make sure you are choosing your package accordingly or informing your guide beforehand. 

The best time to visit Manali

Manali is a happening hill station all year round except for during monsoon season. Hence, for the rest of the year, you can easily visit Manali at your convenience. However, as it qualifies as one of the Best Snowfall Places In India, adventure sports like snowboarding, skiing, etc., are the most common tourist attractions. Hence, if you intend to indulge in these sports, you must visit Manali during the Winter. The Best Time To Visit Manali For Snowfall is from October to February. 

However, for other activities like rock climbing, camping, biking, downhill cycling, etc., it is available throughout the year. Avoid visiting Manali from July to September since these are the rainy months. During this time, most of the activities are unavailable; hence, it is futile to visit Manali during the monsoon. Moreover, you can get caught in landslides and face various inconveniences. However, for discounts on hotel reservations and airline tickets, you can opt for off-season months. 

Conclusion

Manali is a very common tourist spot hence, the city counters thousands of footfalls every year. Moreover, it is so conveniently located that you can plan a trip to Manali even at the shortest notice. If you are planning a trip, it is better to know how to reach Manali by the various means of transportation. However, if you are booking a travel package with the best trip planner in India, ensure that the mode of commute is suitable for you.

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