Traveling from Delhi to Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, offers various options due to its popularity among tourists. Here are the common travel options:
By Road:
Manali is around 540 kilometers from Delhi and can be reached by road via NH44 or NH3. The journey by car or bus usually takes around 12-14 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Several private and government-operated buses ply on this route, offering both deluxe and regular services.
By Train:
There’s no direct train to Manali. However, you can take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh or Pathankot, which are the nearest major railway stations to Manali. From Chandigarh or Pathankot, you can then travel to Manali by road. The road journey from Chandigarh takes about 8-9 hours, while from Pathankot, it takes around 7-8 hours.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport (KUU), also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, located around 50 kilometers away. You can book a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Bhuntar. From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali. The road journey takes about 1.5-2 hours.
By Car:
You can drive your car from Delhi to Manali. The route is scenic, especially after crossing Mandi and entering the Kullu Valley. However, make sure your vehicle is well-maintained for hill driving, and you’re aware of the road conditions, especially during the winter months when there might be snowfall.
Before planning your trip, especially during the winter months, check the weather conditions and road status, as Manali experiences heavy snowfall, which can sometimes lead to road closures. Additionally, make sure to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.