Best Way to Reach Manali: Complete Travel Guide for 2025

Best Way to Reach Manali: Complete Travel Guide for 2025

Travellers seeking to experience serenity amidst nature’s hold or a thrilling adventure sport are in paradise at Manali. It’s a destination for travellers throughout the year due to its picturesque landscape, peaceful environment, and plenty of options for activities. An easy and enjoyable journey through this alpine haven is facilitated by this tour guide, who discusses the optimum means of reaching Manali. So, let’s get into this:

Traveling to Manali by Air –

Even though Manali does not have an airport, the nearest one is Bhuntar Airport, also known as Kullu Manali Airport. Take flights to Bhuntar with an unpredictable and more often expensive, even though they are the quickest means of accessing the region. Himalayan Bulls provides frequent flights from Chandigarh to Kullu, but Air India provides flights between Delhi and Kullu thrice daily. To balance convenience and cost, most travellers find flying to larger, better-served cities like Delhi or Chandigarh.

Traveling to Manali by Train –

Since Manali does not have a railway station of its own, travelling by train requires a follow-up road segment. Joginder National Railway Station is around 145 kms from Manali, is the closest train station. Although it is the nearest railhead, it’s poorly connected.

Well-connected alternatives are more popular train stations like Chandigarh, Ambala Cantt, or Pathankot for travellers getting around from major Indian cities. The remaining distance from Manali can be covered by any of these means, including private taxis. For those who enjoy the charm of a train journey through varied landscapes before immersing themselves in the Himalayan setting.

Traveling to Manali by car –

Car travel to Manali is maybe the most popular and rewarding option for those who love the liberation of driving on the open highway and the beauty of an idyllic trip. The tour itself is a highlight of the vacation because it offers scenic views of mountains, valleys, and riverbank highways. The tour from Delhi to Manali is approximately 497 kms away, typically takes 10 to 12 hours, although this could significantly depend on the weather, traffic, and various en-route stops made.

On the way to Manali, the road from Delhi commonly goes through Chandigarh, Mandi and Kullu. The road trip experience can be enhanced by taking essential stops during the journey, like Chandigarh or Murthal, for tasty food. Care must be taken to ensure that the driver has rich experience navigating hilly terrain while considering self-driving or taking a personal cab. From budget-friendly hatchbacks to luxurious sedans, car rental companies offer a range of cars that are comfortable and versatile for families, couples, or solo traveller.

Traveling to Manali by bus –

Travel by bus in Manali is a wonderful option, especially for budget-conscious travellers and for those who wish for a warm overnight stay. HRTC Volvo buses are reliable and comfortable, with reclining seats and sometimes even entertainment systems to ensure a comfortable ride. The buses are also an excellent means of saving money on accommodation and taking advantage of Manali’s daylight hours.

The Himachal tourism office and the Inter-State Bus Terminus, Kashmiri Gate in Delhi, facilitate convenient ticket booking. The bus ride is comfortable and affordable, although it’s a good idea to be prepared for the curvy mountain roads. Local buses as well as taxis can be readily used to take the passengers to their destination within the town once they reach the Manali bus stand.

Conclusion –

Manali has an alluring beauty and a spirit of adventure that draws in people from all walks of life. While flying is the fastest way to get there, it’s often more costly and includes an additional leg of travel. If driving in the mountains is no problem for a person, a road trip by car is the ideal choice for individuals who wish to be independent and enjoy scenic views.