How To Reach Manali
Dreaming of snow-capped peaks, adventure sports, and steaming cups of chai in the lap of the Himalayas? Manali is just a breeze away! But first, you need to figure out how to reach Manali – this mesmerising hill station. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Throughout this blog, we’ll explore all the ways to get to Manali, including popular options like a Manali trip from Delhi, Manali by bus, and even Manali by flight. We’ll also answer questions you might have about reaching Manali in specific seasons, like Manali in September. Let’s dive in!
In this Blog
How To Reach Manali By Flight
For those seeking a swift escape to the mountains, reaching Manali by flight is a fantastic option. While Manali itself doesn’t boast an airport, the nearest domestic airport is Kullu Manali Airport (Bhuntar).
Here’s how to reach Manali by flight:
– Catch a connecting flight: Major airlines offer frequent flights to Delhi or Chandigarh from most major cities in India. From there, you can hop on a connecting flight to Kullu Manali Airport. Popular routes include the Mumbai to Manali flight and the Delhi to Manali flight.
– Flight Time: Flights from Delhi or Chandigarh to Kullu Manali Airport are relatively short, clocking in at around 1-1.5 hours. This makes it a perfect choice for travelers short on time.
Things to Consider:
– Seasonal Availability: Keep in mind that flight frequencies to Kullu Manali Airport can vary depending on the season. During peak seasons like summer (April-June) and winter (December-February), you’ll find more options. If you’re planning a Manali trip in September, it’s wise to book your flights well in advance.Â
Read More on which season offers the best time to visit Manali!
– Onward Journey: Once you land at Kullu Manali Airport, you’ll need to book a taxi or hop on a local bus to reach Manali itself. The distance is approximately 50 km, and the journey takes about 2 hours.
Overall, reaching Manali by flight offers a comfortable and time-saving way to kickstart your mountain adventure. Stay tuned as we explore other exciting ways to reach Manali in the next section!
How To Reach Manali By Bus
For the budget-conscious adventurer or those seeking a scenic journey, reaching Manali by bus is an excellent option. Here, you’ll trade speed for an immersive experience, witnessing the beauty of the Himalayas unfold as you travel.
Exploring Manali by bus offers several advantages:
– Affordability: Bus travel is significantly cheaper compared to flights. This allows you to splurge on experiences and stay at some of the incredible Manali tourist places offered by StayVista.
– Comfort and Convenience: Modern Volvo and HRTC operate on routes like the Delhi to Manali bus route and Chandigarh to Manali bus route offering comfortable seating and ample legroom for a relaxing journey. Many even come equipped with entertainment systems, making the time fly.
– Most buses from Delhi to Manali leave from Majnu Ka Tilla in the evening.
– Online Booking: Numerous online platforms allow you to book your Delhi to Manali bus booking or Chandigarh to Manali bus tickets conveniently. This ensures you have your seat secured, especially during peak seasons.
– HRTC Booking: Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates reliable and affordable buses to Manali. You can book your tickets directly through their website or at their bus terminals.
Planning Your Bus Journey:
Be prepared for a longer journey compared to flights. The distance from Delhi to Manali by bus is approximately 570 km, with a travel time of roughly 14 hours. Factor this in while planning your itinerary. Once you reach Manali bus station, you can easily hire a taxi or hop on a local bus to reach your final destination within Manali.
So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and scenic way to reach Manali, consider the exciting option of traveling by bus. Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll explore alternative ways to get to this captivating mountain paradise!
Trainspotting in the Himalayas: How to Reach Manali by Train (Almost)
While Manali doesn’t boast its own railway station, reaching Manali by train is still a possibility for the adventurous traveler seeking a unique experience. However, it’s important to set expectations – this route involves a scenic train ride followed by a connecting journey by road.
Here’s how to reach Manali partially by train:
– Catch a Train to Nearest Station: There are two main railway stations to consider: Chandigarh and Pathankot. Both offer good connectivity to major cities in India. Keep in mind that reaching Manali by train from Mumbai or Delhi would still involve a flight to one of these cities first.
– Connecting to Manali: Once you reach Chandigarh or Pathankot, you’ll need to book a taxi or hop on a local bus to complete your journey to Manali. The distance from Chandigarh is approximately 315 km, while Pathankot is slightly closer at 290 km. Expect a road journey of 7-9 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Things to Consider:
– Indirect Route: While not the most direct way to Manali, this option offers a chance to experience the charm of Indian train travel.
– Planning and Patience: This route requires more planning and patience compared to flights or buses. Factor in travel time between your origin city, the train journey, and the final leg to Manali.
Cottages in Manali for Accommodation
Now that you’ve figured out a way to reach Manali, we offer a range of accommodations in Manali including some stunning riverside cottages in Manali too!
Read this blog to get an idea of our best stays in Manali.
FAQs
1. What are the must-visit places in Manali?
Manali offers a variety of attractions! Explore the serene Hidimba Devi Temple, wander through the lively Mall Road, or experience mountain views at Rohtang Pass. Nature lovers can visit Vashisht Temple and enjoy the hot springs. Read this blog to know more about places to visit in Manali.
2. Can I reach Manali by train?
While Manali lacks a train station, you can reach Chandigarh or Ambala Cantt by train and then connect to Manali via bus or taxi.
3. Is September a good time to visit Manali?
September offers pleasant weather in Manali, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, Rohtang Pass might experience occasional snowfall, so check road conditions before your trip.
4. How can I travel from Manali to Delhi by Volvo bus?
Several private and government Volvo buses operate between Manali and Delhi. You can book tickets online or at the bus stand.
5. How much does a train ticket to Manali cost?
Since Manali doesn’t have a station, there are no direct train tickets. The train fare to nearby stations like Chandigarh or Ambala Cantt varies depending on the route, class, and date of travel.
