Planning a trip to the mountains and wondering how to reach Kullu Manali from Delhi? Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly bus ride, a scenic road trip, or the quickest flight, there are several ways to travel between these two popular destinations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the travel options, estimated costs, and tips to help you plan your journey smoothly. From stunning landscapes to thrilling adventure activities, Kullu Manali awaits you with open arms!
How to reach Kullu Manali from Delhi
1. By Road (Bus, Car, Taxi)
a) Bus from Delhi to Kullu Manali
Taking a bus is one of the most economical and popular ways to reach Kullu Manali from Delhi. Here are the options:
- Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) Buses: HRTC operates several buses, including Volvo and luxury options, from ISBT Kashmere Gate. The journey takes around 12-14 hours, covering a distance of about 540 km. You can book bus tickets from HRTC’s website.
- Private Buses: There are also private operators offering Volvo and deluxe buses, usually departing from areas like Majnu ka Tilla or RK Ashram Marg.
- Tip: Overnight buses are convenient, allowing you to reach Manali early in the morning.
b) By Car or Taxi
If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can cover the distance in about 10-12 hours by car, depending on the traffic and weather conditions. The NH3 route offers beautiful views, with several scenic stops along the way.
- Route: Delhi – Karnal – Ambala – Chandigarh – Bilaspur – Mandi – Kullu – Manali
- Road Condition: The roads are generally good, but during winter, parts of the route may experience snow, especially near Manali.
Car Rentals & Taxis: You can hire a taxi or self-drive car from Delhi. Options like Zoomcar and Ola Outstation provide reliable services.
2. By Train (Nearest Station)
While Kullu Manali doesn’t have a direct train station, you can take a train to Chandigarh or Ambala and then travel by road.
- Trains to Chandigarh/Ambala: Several trains connect Delhi to Chandigarh or Ambala. The journey by train takes about 4-5 hours.
- From Chandigarh or Ambala, you can take a bus or taxi to Kullu Manali, which takes an additional 8-10 hours.
Popular Trains:
- Shatabdi Express (Fastest option to Chandigarh)
- Himachal Express
3. By Air (Flight to Bhuntar Airport)
For a faster and more comfortable journey, flying is an excellent option. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, located about 50 km from Manali.
- Flights from Delhi: Direct flights from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to Bhuntar are operated by airlines like Air India and SpiceJet.
- Flight Time: The flight duration is around 1 hour 30 minutes.
- From Bhuntar to Manali: You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Bhuntar to Manali, which takes approximately 1-2 hours.
Tip: Flights to Bhuntar are limited and often affected by weather, especially during winter months.
4. Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali
- Summer (March to June): Ideal for sightseeing, adventure sports, and enjoying the pleasant weather.
- Monsoon (July to September): The region experiences heavy rainfall, and landslides can affect road travel.
- Winter (October to February): Perfect for snow lovers. However, be cautious of snow-covered roads and flight delays due to fog.
5. Estimated Costs
- Bus Tickets: INR 800 – 1,500 for HRTC/Private Volvo buses.
- Car/Taxi Rentals: INR 4,000 – 7,000 for one-way.
- Flights: INR 5,000 – 8,000, depending on the season and availability.
6. Travel Tips for Kullu Manali from Delhi
- Book in Advance: Whether it’s buses, flights, or hotels, booking in advance can save you from last-minute hassles.
- Stay Hydrated: The journey is long, so keep water and snacks handy, especially if traveling by bus.
- Prepare for Cold Weather: Even in summer, Manali can get chilly, especially at night, so pack accordingly.
- Check Road Conditions: If traveling by road, keep an eye on the weather reports, especially during monsoon and winter, when landslides or snow may cause delays.
Also read- How to reach Gangotri from Delhi.
