Manali and Shimla are among the most popular tourist destinations in the Himalayas, and I bet across all of India too. Every year, thousands of people visit Manali and this number just keeps growing. In the last few years, the crowd visiting Manali in winters is not just limited to honeymooners looking for seclusion 🙂 You will find solo backpackers, adventure enthusiasts, families with kids, and groups of friends, all heading to Manali between December and February.
I am one of those people who always prefer visiting Manali in winter over the peak summer months. There are solid reasons for it, and in this article, I will share them in detail so that it helps other fellow travelers make up their minds too. If you are sitting on the fence about a winter trip to Manali, keep reading.
Last Updated: March 2026
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Quick Overview: Manali in Winters at a Glance
Manali sits at about 6,726 Ft (2,050 m) in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Winter here typically runs from late November through February, with temperatures dropping to -2°C or lower at night and staying between 4°C to 10°C during the day. Snowfall is most likely between mid-December and late January. The Atal Tunnel (opened October 2020) now connects Manali to Sissu in Lahaul Valley year-round, making winter visits even more exciting since you can drive through to see the snow-covered Lahaul side in a day trip.
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Why Should You Travel to Manali in Winters?
There are several reasons why a winter trip to Manali makes more sense than a summer one, especially if you are coming from Delhi or Chandigarh. Below, I will break down the top reasons based on my own experience of visiting Manali multiple times during winter months. Let me know what you think about them.
1. Where Can You Play in Real Snow Near Delhi?
Manali is the most popular and probably the closest reliable destination to experience real snowfall if you are coming from Delhi or the northern plains. Winters in Manali mean snow, and more snow, especially in the areas towards Solang Valley and the old snow points at Gulaba and Marhi. This presence of snow means you can dive in, slide around, throw snowballs at each other, and of course, make those snowmen you have seen in movies 🙂
The main snow zone, Rohtang Pass, gets closed by mid-November every year and does not reopen until late April or May. However, the administration sets up designated snow points at Gulaba (about 20 km from Manali) and Marhi (about 37 km from Manali) depending on snow conditions and tourist safety. In case Rohtang Pass happens to be accessible, you can visit it in your vehicle or hire a local Manali taxi. You should also read about the Permit for Rohtang Pass and Latest Updates before planning.
Snow usually starts appearing at the higher elevations around Solang Valley and Gulaba by early December. By January, even the main town of Manali, including Mall Road, Old Manali, and areas like Aleo, Simsa, and Rangri, can get a blanket of fresh snow. The peak snowfall period is mid-December to late January, so if you want guaranteed snow, plan your trip during this window.
You can read my comprehensive travel guide of Manali at the link Delhi to Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Travel Guide
2. What Snow Activities Can You Enjoy in Manali During Winter?
When visiting Manali in winters, you can enjoy a variety of snow activities that simply are not available during any other season. The snow points near Manali at Gulaba and Marhi are lined with local vendors offering these activities for tourists. Some of the popular ones include snow tubing, snow scooter rides (Rs 500-800 per ride), snow sledding, skiing (Rs 500-1,000 per session), zorbing in snow, and even ice skating at the rink near Manali Club House that opens only during winter.
Solang Valley is the main hub for snow activities. You can take the ropeway here (Rs 500 per person as of 2025) for stunning aerial views of the snow-covered peaks and forests below. The valley transforms into a winter sports ground with skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding (Rs 2,500-4,500 during peak winter season). Though it can get a bit touristy, it is surely a lot of fun, especially if you are with family. The kids will love it.
For those looking for something beyond the usual tourist activities, you can also try short winter treks. The trail towards Sethan Village (about 13 km from Manali) offers igloo stays and peaceful snow trekking routes through pine forests. It is a beautiful experience, and not as crowded as Solang Valley. You can also read about Kothi and Solang, the crowns of Kullu Valley for more details on what to explore.
If you are interested in making an offbeat trip to Himachal Pradesh, then you can also refer to 5 Must Visit Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh
3. Is Manali Less Crowded in Winters Compared to Summer?
Absolutely yes, and this is one of the biggest reasons I prefer visiting Manali in winter. During summers, especially from May to June, the roads in Manali look no different than the streets of Old Delhi, with bumper-to-bumper traffic, honking everywhere, and parking almost impossible to find. The narrow Mall Road gets so packed that walking becomes a struggle, and the overall vibe feels more stressful than relaxing.
However, when you visit Manali in winter, the crowd thins out considerably. You will find plenty of empty spaces to walk around, easy traffic movement, available parking, and a general sense of peace that summer Manali simply cannot offer. The cafes in Old Manali have open tables instead of hour-long wait times. The temples, including the beautiful Hadimba Temple, can be explored without pushing through crowds.
Now, keep in mind that there are exceptions. Around Christmas and New Year Eve, Manali does get packed again with tourists rushing in for the holiday season. If you want to avoid even that mini-rush, plan your trip for the first or second week of January, or any time in February. That is when you get the best combination of snow, fewer crowds, and discounted hotel rates.
Pro Tip: If you are doing a self-drive to Manali in winters, then make sure to read the article 40 Must-Have Things to Carry on a Self Drive Trip to the Himalayas
4. How Cheap Are Hotels in Manali During Winter?
This is where a winter trip to Manali really wins over summer. Almost all hotels and stay options in Manali offer significant discounts during the winter season. Most discounts fall in the range of 30% to 45% off regular prices. The winter discount season on hotels in Manali typically starts around mid-November and continues until end of March.
To give you a rough idea of what accommodation costs look like in winter 2025-2026, here is a quick breakdown. Budget guesthouses and homestays start from as low as Rs 800 per night. Comfortable mid-range hotels with heating and hot water go for Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,500 per night. And even the nicer properties that would charge Rs 5,000-10,000 in summer come down to Rs 3,000-6,000 during winter months.
These discounts are not limited to private hotels. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) also offers around 40% discount on their properties, including the popular Log Huts, Orchard Huts, and Hadimba Cottages in Manali. So, another solid reason to make a trip to Manali in winter that is easy on your pocket too 🙂
One thing to keep in mind though. Some budget hotels charge extra for room heaters during winter, typically Rs 300 to Rs 500 per night. Always confirm this before booking. Also, do carry warm sleeping bags or extra blankets if you are staying at the very budget end, because heating can be inconsistent in cheaper properties.
5. Are Taxis and Local Transport Cheaper in Winter?
Just like hotels and stay options, you can expect good discounted rates on local taxis and commute options in Manali during winter. In the off-season, local taxis are in less demand, and hence, drivers are more flexible with pricing and ready to offer good discounts. I will suggest getting in touch with a local taxi driver directly to benefit the most from this.
You can call the local drivers directly. Check the comprehensive List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh, Srinagar, Leh, and Manali with recommendations from DwD community members. These drivers know the winter roads well and can take you safely to snow points, Solang Valley, or even through the Atal Tunnel to Sissu.
For those traveling by bus, HRTC runs regular services from Delhi to Manali even during winter. The ordinary HRTC bus fare from Delhi to Manali is around Rs 700-900 per person, while Volvo AC buses cost Rs 1,000-1,800 depending on the type (semi-sleeper vs sleeper). Private Volvo operators also run overnight buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Ambala to Manali at similar or slightly higher rates. The bus journey from Delhi takes about 12-14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
What New Things Can You Do in Winter Manali in 2026?
A lot has changed in Manali over the past few years, and if your last winter visit was before 2020, you will find some exciting new additions.
Atal Tunnel to Sissu and Lahaul: The 9.2 km long Atal Tunnel, opened in October 2020, sits at about 10,171 Ft and connects Manali directly to Lahaul Valley. This means even in the dead of winter when Rohtang Pass is closed, you can drive through the tunnel and reach Sissu in about 30-40 minutes from the South Portal (25 km from Manali). On the Lahaul side, you will find pristine snow, frozen waterfalls, and far fewer tourists than the Manali side. No permit is needed for the Atal Tunnel. This is genuinely one of the best additions to a winter trip to Manali in recent years.
Himachal Winter Carnival: Held annually in Manali, usually in January, the Himachal Winter Carnival showcases local culture, traditional dances, music performances, and a variety of cultural programs. If your visit coincides with this carnival, it adds a completely different flavor to your Manali trip.
Sethan Igloo Stays: Sethan Village, about 13 km from Manali at around 8,500 Ft, has become popular for igloo camping during winter. Several operators now offer igloo stays starting from Rs 2,000-4,000 per person per night, which includes dinner and breakfast. It is a unique experience, though I would suggest doing it only if you are comfortable with extremely cold temperatures at night.
How to Plan a Budget Winter Trip to Manali?
Here is a rough budget breakdown for a 3-day winter trip to Manali per person (assuming 2 people sharing). These are approximate 2025-2026 winter season rates.
| Expense | Budget (per person) | Mid-Range (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Manali Bus (Return) | Rs 1,400-1,800 | Rs 2,000-3,600 |
| Hotel (3 nights, shared) | Rs 1,200-2,250 | Rs 1,500-3,750 |
| Food (3 days) | Rs 600-900 | Rs 1,200-1,800 |
| Local Transport/Taxi | Rs 300-500 | Rs 800-1,500 |
| Snow Activities | Rs 500-1,000 | Rs 1,500-3,000 |
| Snow Gear Rental | Rs 250-500 | Rs 500-750 |
| Total (3 days) | Rs 4,250-6,950 | Rs 7,500-14,400 |
As you can see, a budget winter trip to Manali for 3 days can be done for as low as Rs 4,250 to Rs 7,000 per person, which is quite reasonable. The key savings come from discounted hotel rates and cheaper local transport during the off-season. If you are traveling in a group of 4, the per-person cost drops even further since hotel rooms and taxis get divided more efficiently.
What Should You Pack for a Winter Trip to Manali?
Packing right for a Manali winter trip is very important. The temperatures can drop well below zero, especially at night and at higher elevations like Solang Valley or Gulaba. Here is what I suggest you carry.
Clothing: Heavy thermals (top and bottom), a good quality down jacket or puffer jacket, waterproof outer shell, woolen sweaters, warm socks (at least 3-4 pairs), gloves (waterproof recommended), a woolen cap or balaclava, and a muffler or neck gaiter. Layering is the key. Do not just rely on one thick jacket.
Footwear: Waterproof snow boots are a must if you plan to play in the snow. Regular shoes will get soaked and your feet will freeze. You can also rent snow boots locally for Rs 100-200 per day, but they might not be the best fit or quality.
Accessories: Sunglasses (snow glare can be very harsh), sunscreen (SPF 50+, the UV reflection off snow is strong), lip balm, moisturizer, and a basic first aid kit. If you are self-driving, carry chains for your tires as roads can get icy, especially on the Manali to Rohtang stretch and beyond.
You can also check our detailed guide on Winter Jackets Under Rs 5,000 for Budget Travelers if you are looking for affordable winter wear options before your trip.
![How to prepare for long-distance motorcycle ride to Ladakh or Spiti? [6 Things to Know]](https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/yt_vid_thumbs/ladakh/85.png)
How to Reach Manali in Winters?
Manali is about 530 km from Delhi and 280 km from Chandigarh. The road remains open throughout winter. Here are your options.
By Bus from Delhi: HRTC and HPTDC run regular overnight buses from Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate) to Manali. HRTC ordinary buses cost Rs 700-900, while Volvo semi-sleeper buses cost Rs 1,000-1,400 and Volvo AC sleeper buses cost Rs 1,400-1,800 per person one-way (as of 2025-2026). Several private operators like Zing Bus and HPTDC also run Volvo services. The journey takes about 12-14 hours. From Chandigarh, the bus fare is about Rs 400-700 depending on the type, and the journey takes 8-10 hours.
By Self-Drive: If you are driving your own car, the route is Delhi to Chandigarh to Mandi to Manali via NH-3 and NH-21. In winter, carry tire chains as the road between Kullu and Manali can have black ice patches, especially early morning and late evening. Fuel up fully at Mandi as the next reliable pump after that is in Bhuntar (about 10 km before Kullu).
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), about 50 km from Manali. However, winter flights are frequently cancelled or delayed due to weather. I would not rely entirely on flights during December-February. Keep bus tickets as a backup. From Bhuntar airport, taxis to Manali cost about Rs 1,500-2,000.
If you are planning a Shimla-Manali combined trip, you can also check How to Plan a Trip to Shimla and Manali for a detailed itinerary and tips.
Important Tips for Visiting Manali in Winters
Based on my experience of multiple winter visits to Manali, here are some practical tips that will help you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
1. Start early if driving: If you are self-driving from Delhi, start by 4-5 AM so you reach Manali before dark. Roads can get icy after sunset and driving in the dark on hill roads in winter is risky.
2. Keep cash handy: ATMs in Manali can sometimes run out of cash during peak winter rush (Christmas/New Year). Carry enough cash, especially if you are heading to Solang Valley or Gulaba where card payments may not work reliably.
3. Confirm hotel heating: Before booking, always confirm whether the hotel has central heating or room heaters. Some budget hotels charge extra for heaters (Rs 300-500 per night). A cold room at -2°C without heating is not fun, trust me.
4. Do not trust weather forecasts blindly: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Even if the forecast says clear skies, carry rain/snow gear at all times when stepping out. A sudden snowfall can make roads slippery within minutes.
5. Mobile network works fine: Unlike remote Himalayan destinations, Manali has good mobile coverage. Jio, Airtel, and BSNL all work in the main town. Coverage gets patchy only beyond Solang Valley and towards the Atal Tunnel area, but for the main Manali town, you will be fine.
6. Visit on weekdays: If possible, plan your Manali winter trip on weekdays instead of weekends. Even in winter, weekends see a noticeable bump in tourist footfall, especially in Solang Valley. Weekday visits mean better deals and fewer crowds.
For those doing a winter self-drive, I also suggest reading 7 Places to See Snowfall Near Delhi in Himachal for more winter destination ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does It Snow in Manali Every Winter?
Yes, Manali receives snowfall almost every winter, typically between mid-December and late January. The higher areas like Solang Valley and Gulaba get snow earlier and more consistently. The main town of Manali may get snow 3-5 times during the season. January is the most reliable month for snowfall.
Is Manali Safe to Visit in January?
Yes, Manali is perfectly safe to visit in January. The roads from Delhi and Chandigarh remain open throughout winter. However, you should drive carefully due to possible black ice on the road, especially between Kullu and Manali early in the morning. Carry warm clothes and waterproof gear.
Can I Visit Rohtang Pass in Winter?
No, Rohtang Pass typically closes by mid-November and does not reopen until late April or May. However, you can visit snow points at Gulaba and Marhi, which are managed by the administration depending on snow and safety conditions. You can also drive through the Atal Tunnel (open year-round, no permit required) to reach Sissu in Lahaul Valley for snow experiences.
How Cold Does It Get in Manali in December?
In December, daytime temperatures in Manali range from 4°C to 10°C while night temperatures can drop to -2°C or even lower. In January, it gets even colder, with night temperatures sometimes reaching -5°C to -8°C. Heavy thermals, a down jacket, and proper layering are essential.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Manali for Snowfall?
The best time to visit Manali for snowfall is from mid-December to late January. This window gives you the highest probability of experiencing fresh snowfall. The first or second week of January is often considered the sweet spot, with consistent snow, fewer crowds (compared to Christmas/New Year), and good hotel discounts.
How Much Does a 3-Day Winter Trip to Manali Cost?
A budget 3-day winter trip to Manali costs approximately Rs 4,250 to Rs 7,000 per person (including bus travel from Delhi, budget hotel, food, local transport, and snow activities). A mid-range trip with better accommodation and more activities costs Rs 7,500 to Rs 14,400 per person. Traveling in a group of 4 reduces per-person costs significantly.
Conclusion
When making a trip to Manali in winter, do not forget to carry proper woolen clothes including thermals and jackets. Layer up properly, waterproof your footwear, and plan your dates around mid-December to January for the best snow experience.
I am sure now you know how fun and wonderful it could be when visiting Manali in winters. The combination of snow, fewer crowds, discounted hotels, cheaper taxis, and the new Atal Tunnel access to Lahaul makes winter the best time to visit Manali, in my opinion. I will look forward to hearing updates about your trip to Manali in winters 🙂
For other details about traveling over this adventure trip, discussions, queries, and finding travel partners, please go through the DwD Community. Feel free to check the DoW Travel Calendar from the link in the Main Menu of the website for upcoming group trips.
In the end, if you know a friend or family member who is making a trip to Manali in winters, please feel free to share this article with them as well 🙂
13 Comments
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Lovely post. What are the chances of Rohtang Pass be openend in Febuary time?
There is no chance Rohtang Pass being open Lalit. You will only be allowed up to Gulaba snow point at the max which is about 20 KMs from Manali.
Nice article. I had a question. I am planning to travel now in Jan. How is the place for solo women travellers?
Manali is fine to travel in January as the tourist rush of new years eve fade away.
Dear
Infact we couple are planning to visit Manali on Jan 2nd. Would like to know how safe is Delhi Manali highway for both of us. We will be taking zoom car from Delhi or Chandigarh. Is it safe to drive or should we go by VOLVO from Delhi to Manali????. What you suggest by your expertise views.
In general, it is safe to drive but if you are just a couple, going by Volvo will be much cheaper and comfortable as well. So, I will suggest going by Volvo for a more comfortable trip and then hire a local taxi.
Yeah sure thanks for the valuable advice.
Dear
Am more worried like if we take up a zoom car will we get affected by snow road blocks or something like that??? Any such incidents as per your knowledge on previous years??? Bcze for more privacy I would like to go with zoom car than Volvo. But if there is any problem I can change to Volvo itself as per your suggestion
It may be possible as around that time snowfall happens and in case the road is closed due to snow then yes, you will not be able to drive.
However, if privacy is preference then you can go with Zoomcar. Also, if the road closes because of heavy snowfall then well, Volvo will be blocked too 🙂
Dear
Is any sort of danger if we stay there while road us blocked??? As it’s a off season weather we will be almost alone or can we expect the somewhat crowd on dis days??? Sorry to bother you with lot of quires
Yes, there will be other folks as well. Also, the road closes very near to Manali, so in the worst case, you can drive back towards Kullu to stay at some hotel. As you will be traveling post new year eve, their won’t be too much tourist rush so hotel availability should not be an issue at all.
No problems, you can ask as many questions as you feel comfortable. I am here to help only !!
Good post,loved it.
Thank you.