How to Reach Manali from Delhi

Manali is one of those hill stations that everyone wants to visit at least once — snow-capped mountains, apple orchards, hot Maggi by the roadside, and the kind of fresh air you just don’t get in Delhi. But before you get there, you’ve got to figure out the best way to travel.

The good news? The options are endless, depending on your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of trip you're after! Here's a brief overview to help you from Delhi to Manali in the way that suits you best.

1. By Road 

Delhi to Manali is approximately 510 km in distance, or 10- 12 hours of travel. This may seem long, but you're travelling through changing scenery, stopping at roadside dhabas and, onto the mountains so your drive will be passed before you know it. You have a couple of options here:

• By Car: Driving affords you complete freedom. You can stop at Murthal for parathas, grab chai breaks in Himachal, or pull over whenever a mountain view demands a photo. If you don’t want to take your own vehicle, renting one is easy. For small groups or families, a Toyota Innova Crysta Car in Delhi is a great choice — comfortable, spacious, and reliable on hilly roads.
  
  

• By Bus: If you don’t want to drive, buses are a solid option. Government and private operators run daily services from Delhi to Manali, with choices like regular, deluxe, Volvo, or luxury sleepers. Most buses leave in the evening and get you to Manali by morning, which saves you a night’s stay. Just book early if you’re traveling around peak seasons like New Year’s or summer holidays.
  
  

Tip: If you’re going with a big group, consider hiring a Tempo Traveller in Delhi. It’s affordable, comfortable, and way more fun when everyone’s traveling together.

2. By Train 

There isn’t a direct train to Manali, but you can take a train to Chandigarh or Joginder Nagar and then continue by cab or bus. This option breaks up the road journey, but it’s slower compared to buses or cars. Still, for train lovers, it’s a unique way to mix things up

3. By Air

If long road trips aren’t your thing, you can fly. The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar, about 50 km away. Flights from Delhi are limited and can be pricey, but they save you a lot of time. From Bhuntar, taxis are available to take you straight to Manali in about two hours.

Keep in mind that flights in this region depend on weather conditions. Fog in Delhi or snow in Himachal can cause delays or cancellations, especially in winter.

Which Option Should You Choose? 

• Big groups/families: A Delhi to Manali Tempo Traveller is perfect choice for family journey as it is comfortable and spacious.
  
  

• Budget/solo travelers: Overnight Volvo buses are affordable and practical.
  
  

• Time-conscious travelers: Flights save time but can be costly.
  
  

• Adventure seekers: A self-drive road trip adds more freedom and fun.
  

Wrapping Up

Getting to Manali is half the fun. It doesn't matter if you're travelling with friends in a Urbania Van on rent, taking as many chai breaks as you can on a road trip, or waking up on the bus to see snow-capped mountains outside the window - the journey adds to the experience of your holiday. 

So, go with the option that compliments your style of travel, pack your winter wear, and jump in. Manali's beauty is not just in the snow-capped mountains and warm cafes - it is in the stories you'll gather along the way.