Reaching Manali from Delhi: A Detailed Guide to the Journey An Overview

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Manali is a gem in Himachal. The stunning views, serene nature and surroundings, heritage temples and monasteries, valleys, rivers and hot springs make the place a slice of heaven for all kinds of travellers. Be it a honeymooner’s paradise or a backpacker’s heaven; Manali is an all-year destination for all.

If you are in Delhi, and planning a vacation to Manali; here is an elaborate guide on how to reach this heavenly yet touristy place in the Himachal.

How to Reach Manali from Delhi

Travelling to Manali from Delhi is quite seamless and convenient. There are quite a ways to reach Manali from Delhi. Choose the one that fits your requirements and time in hand. 

4 Ways to Reach Manali from Delhi

By Flight

If time is a constraint, reaching Manali by flight is one of the most value-for-money options. The nearest airport to Manali is Kullu Airport, situated 50 km from Manali. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to get there. There is one direct flight from Delhi to Kullu run by Alliance Air. The flight reaches Kullu from Delhi in 1 hour and 25 minutes. 

You can also take a flight to Chandigarh from Delhi and then reach Manali by car. There are quite a few flights operated by Indigo, Air India, Vistara and Alliance Air between Delhi and Chandigarh, and takes about 1 hour and 5 mins to reach. From Chandigarh, you can book a cab and drive for 7 hours approximately to reach Manali. The drive is through the captivating hills and passes and is worth every bit.

Average Flight Price to Kullu	INR 10,000-12,000
Average Flight Price to Chandigarh	INR 2100-3500
Departure	Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi
Arrival	Bhuntar Airport, Kullu Manali or Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh
Duration to Reach Kullu	1 hour 20 mins
Average Flight Price to Chandigarh	1 hour 5 mins
Taxi Fare from Chandigarh to Manali	INR 3500-5000

By Train

Delhi to Manali has no direct connection by train as there is no railhead in Manali. If you wish to travel by train, take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh or Joginder nagar which is 147 km from manali and then drive to Manali or take a bus to manali. But there is no railway station in manali The duration of the train journey from Delhi to Chandigarh is roughly 4.5-6 hours. Drive from Chandigarh to Manali is 7-8 hours approximately. 

Various trains ply between Delhi and Chandigarh such as Vande Bharat, Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Netaji Express, Kalka Express and other fast overnight trains.

Average Train Fare to Chandigarh	INR 500-5000
Average Time to Reach Chandigarh	4.5-6 hours
Departure	New Delhi Railway Station
Arrival	Chandigarh Station
Duration to Reach Manali  from Chandigarh	7-8 hours
Taxi Fare from Chandigarh to Manali	INR 3500-5000

By Car

Driving from Delhi to Manali is fun and exciting. If you love road trips and have time in hand, this must be experienced. It takes about 10-11 hours to reach Manali from Delhi, covering a distance of 503 km. The drive through the hilly terrains, valleys and mountain passes Including Pandoh Dam, Sundernagar Lake Rafting and Paragliding makes the road journey supremely exhilarating. Ideally, you should start post sunset and drive overnight to reach Manali early morning. 

Average Time to Reach Manali	10-11 hours
Average Taxi fare	INR 7500-10,000
Departure	New Delhi
Arrival	Manali

By Bus

If you do not want to take the hassle of driving, book bus tickets to reach Manali from Delhi. There are quite a few Zingbus Volvo AC Semi sleeper Bus and (HRTC) and private bus operators that offer bus services between Delhi and Manali. Most of the buses start post sunset between 7-8 and travel overnight to reach Manali at sunrise. Bus quality is good and many operators even offer sleeper and semi-sleeper Volvo buses. The seats are in good condition hence you can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing journey.

The bus offers luxury amenities like blankets, drinking water, reading lights, USB port for chargers and movie and CCTV facilities. 

Average Time to Reach Manali	10-14 hours
Average Taxi fare	INR 500-2000
Departure	ISBT Kashmiri Gate
Arrival	Manali Bus Stop

Delhi to Manali Distance and Average Cost

Mode of Transport	Distance	Duration	Average Cost
Delhi to Kullu by Flight	367 km	1 hour 20 mins	Rs 10,000 ( average)
Delhi to Manali by Car	503 km	10-11 hours	Rs 9500 ( average)
Delhi to Manali by Bus	518 km	10-14 hours	Rs 300 ( average)
Delhi to Chandigarh Train	252 km	5 hours	Rs 400 ( average)

Conclusion

Manali is a scenic gem, nestled in the Himalayas. Known for stunning scenery, tranquil nature, mesmerising temples, monasteries, local markets and hot springs; Manali attracts backpackers, honeymoon couples, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is one of the most popular vacation hotspots near Delhi and can be reached via train, flight, bus or car.