Manali Trip 2026 – A Complete Travel Guide from Delhi for Everyone

Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in Northern India, situated in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh on the banks of the Beas River at an altitude of about 6,500 Ft (1,950 meters). The name literally means Manu (Manu Rishi) + Aali (Home), and I can tell you from experience that Manu Rishi’s home is truly MAGICAL in nature 🙂

I have been visiting Manali since my college days and have lost count of the number of trips I have made to this beautiful town. Whether it was my honeymoon trip to Manali and Naggar, family holidays, or pit stops before heading to Ladakh or Spiti, Manali has always felt like a second home. In this comprehensive Manali travel guide, I will share everything you need to plan your Manali trip in 2026, from how to reach, where to stay, what to see, and how much it costs.

Manali suits a wide range of travelers. It is ideal for families as well as young couples looking for romance in the hills. The town is largely visited by honeymoon couples, adventure seekers, backpackers, and in summers, people from all walks of life flock here to escape the burning heat of the Northern plains. Whether you have 3 days or a full week, Manali and its surrounding areas have enough to keep you busy and happy.

What Makes Manali So Special?

Manali is one of the oldest towns in Kullu Valley. The place has a certain aura of ROMANCE everywhere, right from the hustle-bustle of Mall Road to the calm, traditional, foreigners-dominated Old Manali, to the woods and villages around Manu Temple, to the walking path around Hadimba Temple. It can easily be called one of the most romantic destinations in India.

The Hadimba goddess runs the Manali town and is the center of worship of the people living here. The mighty goddess also governs the tall mountains along with raw nature, and it is only after her permission that one gets to enjoy this beautiful place to the core. When people think of Manali, the second keyword that comes is, of course, Rohtang Pass, which is a must-visit if you are heading to Manali.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Manali?

The best time to visit Manali depends entirely on what experience you are looking for. Manali offers something different in every season, and as of 2026, here is my recommendation based on years of visiting.

Manali Weather Through the Year

The weather in Manali offers a variety throughout the year. If you like the cold weather and snow, then you can enjoy winters from November to February. However, you can experience nice and pleasant weather in summers from March to October. I recommend that you avoid traveling to Manali during the monsoon months of late July through August, and nowadays some part of September as well. Landslides and flooding are common on the Delhi to Manali highway during monsoon. You do not want to get stuck in the middle of it.

That said, the monsoon season has its own unique beauty when it rains 🙂 The valleys turn a lush green, and the waterfalls are at their peak.

Hence, the best time to visit Manali is March to June when the heat is burning the lowlands of Northern India. The autumn season from mid-September to late October is also a nice window. However, during the Dussehra festival, the Kullu region gets extremely crowded as the famous Kullu Dussehra attracts visitors from all over India.

Best Season for Snow and Snowfall

If you are fond of snow or snowfall, then visit Manali from late December to March for enjoying snow in Manali, Rohtang Pass, or Solang Valley. You may witness snowfall in January and February, depending on the weather at the time of your visit. No doubt, Manali is one of the top places to see snowfall near Delhi in Himachal.

Best Time for Honeymoon in Manali

For a honeymoon, if you get married in winters, then late November to February is the best time to be in Manali. It is one of those places where you can find snow easily in winter months. You get an additional benefit of heavy discounts, being the off-season, topped with fewer tourists. You get to see similar love birds thronging the region of Manali and Solang Valley. Hence, without any doubt, Manali is on my list of best honeymoon places in Himachal.

When to Avoid Manali?

Do avoid Durga Puja holidays (mainly in October) when the rush is at its peak, and people flood the Kullu Manali towns. It is also the Dussehra Festival time in Kullu Valley, making the entire region very crowded. Keep in mind that in summers (April to June), people from most Northern parts of India invade this place like anything, and seeing the Mall Road in the evening can cause a serious shiver in your head. It is almost like attending the Trade Fair of Pragati Maidan, Delhi 🙂

But if you enjoy the crowd, it is an awesome time to visit Manali. Also, you can take shelter in Old Manali in such cases, which is far from the hustle-bustle. Right from accommodation to food to shopping to taxi fares, everything is costly during the peak summer season.

Also, there is an official HPTDC off-season during monsoon and winters (usually mid-November to February) when they provide a 30% discount on their services.

Best Time for Adventure Sports

If you are looking for adventure sports, here is a quick breakdown. For skiing, December to February is the best season. For rafting on the Beas River, May to September works well. For paragliding in Manali or Solang, it is always dependent on the weather on the day of your visit 🙂

How to Reach Manali from Delhi?

Manali is well connected by road from Delhi via National Highways. You will find ample public transport as well from Delhi to Manali or Chandigarh to Manali. Let me walk you through the various options.

By Air

The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, about 50 km away. From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi to reach Manali in about 90 minutes. As of 2026, the fare for a taxi from Bhuntar to Manali is around Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000, depending on the season and your bargaining skills. Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India operate flights from Delhi to Kullu (Bhuntar), and the flight takes about 1.5 hours.

By Train

Chandigarh is the closest major Railway Station, from where it takes around 8 to 9 hours to reach Manali by bus or car. Apart from Chandigarh, Joginder Nagar railway station near Mandi can be considered the nearest one. However, the connectivity from far-flung places in India to Joginder Nagar can be limited.

By Road (Self-Drive / Bus)

The distance from Delhi to Manali is about 570 km and it takes around 12 to 14 hours to reach, depending on traffic and how you drive. Generally, the route followed from Delhi to Manali by road is:

Delhi > Ambala (188 km) > Chandigarh > Roopnagar (282 km) > Kiratpur > Bilaspur (371 km) > Sunder Nagar > Mandi (440 km) > Pandoh > Aut (481 km) > Kullu > Manali (570 km)

I suggest leaving Delhi by 10 PM to 12 midnight if you are driving. This way, you cross the highway stretch in the night when truck traffic is lower, and reach the hills by early morning. You can then enjoy the scenic drive through Kullu Valley in daylight.

Road Conditions from Delhi to Manali

The Delhi to Manali road runs on NH-21 and NH-1 highways and is mostly in good shape being a national highway. In the entire route, there are one or two rough patches, so you should never lose your concentration. The stretch from Kiratpur to Sunder Nagar can be frustrating with trucks running madly all over the road on both sides, slowing you down terribly. A slight Chandigarh to Roopnagar stretch is also in average shape, but the rest of the road conditions are smooth to drive on.

Alternate Route to Manali (Via Una – Bhota)

The regular route to Manali via NH-21 (Manali to Chandigarh Highway) is mostly in pathetic condition from Kiratpur Sahib to Bilaspur. The beelines of slow-moving trucks, chaotic overtaking of these overloaded trucks, and deep crater-sized potholes all around on almost 70 km of stretch make the journey tiring and frustrating.

For the last few times when I went to Tirthan Valley from Delhi, we took the route:

Kiratpur Sahib > Anandpur Sahib > Nangal > Una > turn right towards Bhota > then again right towards Jahu > at T-Point, turn left towards Ner Chowk (do not go towards Sunder Nagar as you will lose a couple of hours).

This is a bit longer route, maybe 55 to 60 km extra, but the time difference is almost about 40 to 45 minutes only. However, roads are super smooth all the way to cruise upon, apart from last average roads of 25 km after Jahu to Ner Chowk. It saves you from all the frustration and risks of accidents. I suggest you take this Una to Bhota route instead.

What Vehicle Can You Take?

The best way is to take your car or bike and hit the road. There is no specialty required in the vehicle, be it 2×2 or 4×4. You can take any vehicle as long as its engine runs and fuel exists 😉 Any sedan, hatchback, SUV, or motorcycle will do for the Delhi to Manali route. However, if you plan to go beyond Manali towards Rohtang Pass or further to Lahaul, Spiti, or Ladakh, then an SUV or a sturdy vehicle is recommended.

How Much Does a Delhi to Manali Bus Ticket Cost in 2026?

Both HRTC and HPTDC operate daily Volvo and semi-deluxe buses from Delhi to Manali. As of 2026, here are the approximate fares:

• HRTC Ordinary Bus: Rs 700 to Rs 900 (one way)
• HRTC Volvo / Semi-Deluxe: Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,500 (one way)
• HPTDC Volvo: Rs 1,300 to Rs 1,600 (one way)
• Private Volvo Sleeper: Rs 1,400 to Rs 2,500 (one way, depending on operator and season)

Bus Timings from Delhi: HPTDC buses leave from Himachal Bhawan at around 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM. HRTC buses leave from Delhi ISBT at around 7:35 PM, 8:00 PM, 8:25 PM, and 9:03 PM.

Bus Timings from Manali: Buses leave at 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:00 PM, and 6:30 PM. Travel time is roughly 12 to 14 hours covering about 570 km.

Travel Tip: If you are interested in some treks, you may also check these easy treks in Himachal.

What Is the Ideal Itinerary for a Manali Trip?

Common Itinerary for Manali Trip in 3 Days

From Delhi, you require at least 3 Nights and 4 Days to visit Manali, and it would be great if you have more 🙂 But ideally, in 3 Nights / 4 Days, you can cover the majority of this place. I am also providing some add-on day tours which you can include or exclude as you like.

Day 0 / Night – Overnight Journey from Delhi to Manali

Leave Delhi in the evening to reach Manali the next morning, either by car or Volvo bus. You can also take a morning flight to Kullu, which takes you directly to Day 1.

Day 1 – Manali Local Sightseeing

Check in at the hotel in Manali, rest for a few hours, and go out for local sightseeing. This may include Mall Road (which of course you cannot avoid any day), the local Monastery, Hadimba Devi Temple, and Manu Rishi Temple in the evening through the streets of Old Manali. You can have dinner at one of the traditional or Western cuisine restaurants at Old Manali. Come back to the hotel for rest.

Day 2 – Visit Rohtang Pass or Atal Tunnel

Leave for Rohtang Pass early in the morning to avoid traffic jams. Mind it, it can be the worst jam of the trip, so be prepared. I always suggest leaving from Manali by 7 AM. As of 2026, you also have the option to drive through the Atal Tunnel (9.02 km long, the longest highway tunnel above 10,000 Ft in the world) and visit Sissu, Tandi, or Keylong in the Lahaul Valley. The tunnel has completely changed the accessibility of Lahaul from Manali side. You can do a day trip to Lahaul Valley sightseeing places and return to Manali by evening.

Come back to the hotel by evening at around 4 PM to rest and enjoy the Mall Road in the evening or at night.

Day 3 – Visit Solang Valley

Visit Solang Valley if you want to do some adventure sports and enjoy the day there. In winters, you can try skiing and snowboarding. In summers, paragliding, zorbing, and ropeway rides are popular here. Come back in the evening. Leave for home in the night, either by taking the evening Volvo or by your own car.

Extended Itinerary for Manali Trip in 5 Days

Continuing the above 3-day itinerary for those who have more days in hand.

Day 4 – Visit Naggar Castle and Jagatsukh

If you are looking for a unique experience away from the main tourist crowd, then include Naggar Castle in your trip with a night stay. The views it offers from the castle are just stunning. Naggar is just about 30 km from Manali, and for a honeymoon, it is one of the best places to stay. Jagatsukh comes on the way as well and it is one of the offbeat places in Himachal. You can do a day trip to Naggar and leave for Manali the same day, or better, include a night stay at this lovely heritage hotel.

Day 5 – Visit Parvati Valley (Manali to Kasol)

Another set of places you may include on your Manali trip is the Parvati Valley. Leave for Kullu or Kasol early in the morning, or better, plan this on the way back home towards Delhi. Reach Kullu, shop in the market, and head towards Kasol and Manikaran. Visit this holy place and then head to Kasol, where you can enjoy the evening in a unique Israeli atmosphere.

If you have time, dedicate a full day to Kasol and enjoy the environment besides the Parvati River. Do not forget to check my comprehensive travel guide of Parvati Valley for more details on Kasol, Tosh, Kheerganga, and Malana. Leave for Delhi in the evening and reach by morning.

How Much Does a Manali Trip Cost in 2026?

The cost of a Manali trip depends entirely on how you travel and what you indulge in. Here is a rough per-person budget breakdown for a 4-day trip (3 nights) as of 2026:

Budget Trip (Backpacker / Student)

• Transport (Delhi-Manali-Delhi by bus): Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,000
• Accommodation: Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 per night (hostels, dormitories in Old Manali, Vashishth)
• Food: Rs 400 to Rs 600 per day (dhabas, local eateries)
• Local transport and activities: Rs 500 to Rs 1,000
• Total for 4 days: Approx Rs 6,000 to Rs 8,000 per person

Mid-Range Trip (Couples / Families)

• Transport (self-drive or Volvo): Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000
• Accommodation: Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,000 per night (decent hotels near Mall Road)
• Food: Rs 600 to Rs 1,000 per day (restaurants)
• Local transport, activities, and shopping: Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000
• Total for 4 days: Approx Rs 12,000 to Rs 18,000 per person

Comfortable Trip (No Compromise)

• Transport (flight + taxi or self-drive): Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000
• Accommodation: Rs 3,000 to Rs 8,000 per night (premium hotels and resorts)
• Food and dining: Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 per day
• Activities, adventure sports, shopping: Rs 5,000+
• Total for 4 days: Approx Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000 per person

Keep in mind that if you are traveling by your own car and sharing expenses with 3 friends, the cost comes down dramatically. 4 is the magic number, my friend. Split fuel and hotel costs among 4, and you can enjoy Manali even on a tight budget.

Where to Stay in Manali?

There are a lot of hotel options available in Manali for accommodation, ranging from luxury hotels to budget range hotels. I have been to all kinds on my previous trips to Manali, and this is what I felt was a good list to narrow down the choices. Of course, these are just hotels known to me or I have taken feedback from my family members who have stayed there 🙂

• HPTDC, Kunzum: Right on the Mall Road, it provides ample facilities. I recommend it for families with children. Kids tend to demand things now and then, which makes Hotel Kunzum a good choice since everything in Manali is so nearby. The range is Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000 per night (as of 2026).
• HPTDC, Hadimba Cottages / Log Huts / Hamta Huts: These huts are ideal for honeymooners and are located a bit isolated towards Old Manali, which is exactly what love birds seek. But do not book in the very off-season as it may feel a bit isolating. You can check the entire review at Hadimba Cottages, Manali | Hotel Review.
• Johnson’s: Located near Circuit House, very famous for its cuisines. The rooms are comfortable and worth the money. Even if you do not stay, do have a meal or two in its restaurant. Range: Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,500.
• Picadilly Resort: This is at the start of Mall Road and is not a budget hotel. However, in the very off-season, we once got a room for Rs 1,500. The hotel has all sorts of deserving offerings.
• HPTDC, Rohtang Manalsu and The Beas: A bit away from the hustle-bustle of town but very moderate budget hotels. Range: Rs 800 to Rs 2,500. Stay here if you are short on budget.

So, if you are not short on budget, go for Johnson’s or Picadilly Resorts. If you are on a budget, either choose HPTDC Rohtang Manalsu, HPTDC The Beas, or walk to the streets of Old Manali where you will get excellent deals on cheap hotels. HPTDC is always a safe bet if you are in a dilemma, I believe.

Budget Hotels in Manali

You can find lots of budget hotels around Manali in Vashishth, Old Manali, and hotels on the Manali to Naggar road near Beas Bridge. The one at Manali to Naggar road named The River View and one just before that hotel are good and economic options of stay in Manali. Read the complete review at The River View, Manali | Hotel Review.

Where to Eat in Manali?

Manali has a great food scene, especially if you enjoy exploring different cuisines. Here are my personal recommendations:

• Johnson’s: Located near Circuit House, very famous for its cuisines. A meal here is a must for us whenever we go to Manali.
• Chopsticks: Located at Mall Road, it has a great variety of Chinese dishes topped with great taste.
• Grozy: Located just at the start of the Mall Road shops, quite good in food quality.
• IL Forno: By far the best place for pizzas in Manali. If you love pizzas, do not forget to check this place.
• Sher-e-Punjab or Shan-e-Punjab (the original one): Also a good food joint, although I have never been there due to long queues 😀
• Lazy Dog and Drifter’s Cafe: In Old Manali, popular with backpackers for their laid-back vibe and good food at reasonable prices.

You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂

What Are the Top Tourist Places in Manali?

There are several tourist places around Manali and inside Manali town which you can visit. Let me walk you through the most popular ones.

Manali Local Sightseeing

Let us start with local sightseeing in Manali. You can cover the below destinations within Manali town or quite nearby.

Mall Road

You can enjoy food and shop on this very road. There are a few hotels as well on the road, including Hotel Kunzum (HPTDC). There is a temple at the Mall Road just beside the Bus and Taxi Stand. The Mall Road is the heart of Manali, and you will end up walking here every evening regardless of your itinerary.

Hadimba Temple

It is near Circuit House, approximately 15 to 20 minutes walk from the Mall Road. Autos run all-time in Manali to take you to local tourist joints, but they charge a bit high. I feel walking down to these places has the fun of its own kind. The temple is set amidst tall deodar trees, and the architecture is unique.

Manu Temple and Old Manali

As you cross through the streets of lovely Old Manali, you will reach this temple. Chingu is what you will hear all over as you start entering the road. Do not fall into the trap of buying it, as most of them are duplicate makes. Old Manali itself is worth spending an evening exploring. The cafes, the narrow lanes, and the views of the valley from the upper parts make it a favorite among backpackers.

Local Monastery

The local monastery is situated just a few 200 odd meters from the bus stand at Mall Road. You can buy some souvenirs from the shops in front of the local Manali monastery. It is a peaceful place worth a short visit.

Vashishth Hot Water Springs

Personally, I did not like this place at all and considered it a total waste of time. If you have time to spare, you can check it out, but I would not prioritize it on a tight schedule.

Trekking Trails near Manali

Manali is surrounded by some excellent trekking trails. Here are a few worth trying:

• There is a trek from Old Manali and Manu Temple that goes to Goshal village, about a couple of km. You can extend this trek further to Solang Valley, which is about 10 km from there.
• Then there is a trek to Lamadugh Meadows, which starts from Hadimba Temple. It takes about 2 to 3 hours for this trek, and you will get to see snow-clad peaks and Manali town down below.
• You may also travel to Bijli Mahadev from Kullu for a moderate-level trek with panoramic views of the Kullu and Parvati Valleys.
• The Hampta Pass trek (starting point near Manali) is one of the most popular multi-day treks in Himachal, connecting the Kullu Valley to Lahaul.

Rohtang Pass and Atal Tunnel

At an altitude of 13,051 Ft (3,978 meters), Rohtang Pass on the Pir Panjal Range is a must-visit for every tourist who goes to Manali. You can find snow throughout the year at this place, and it is reachable from about May end to October. It connects the Kullu Valley to the Lahaul-Spiti Valley and is one of the main blockage points on the Manali to Leh Highway.

Important update for 2026: The Atal Tunnel (opened in October 2020) has been a game-changer. This 9.02 km tunnel bypasses Rohtang Pass entirely, reducing the distance between Manali and Keylong by about 46 km and cutting travel time by 4 to 5 hours. Even in winters when Rohtang Pass is closed due to snow, you can now drive through the Atal Tunnel and reach Sissu and Lahaul Valley. Keep in mind that you still need a permit to travel beyond the South Portal of the tunnel during peak season.

Solang Valley

The Mountaineering and Allied Sports Institute (MASI), Manali conducts various courses on skiing at this place, and if you love adventure sports, you will find this place very exciting. Along with skiing in winters, it offers snow-capped views of glaciers. The place also helps in proper acclimatization if you wish to head to Leh Ladakh. It will help you avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). As of 2026, you can enjoy the Solang ropeway (gondola) which takes you up to about 12,000 Ft for stunning views.

Naggar Castle

Naggar is just an amazing place, as I have already explained in the itinerary section. If you are really looking for a romantic spot, Naggar Castle is surely the place to be. It is a heritage property managed by HPTDC, about 30 km from Manali, and the views of the Kullu Valley from here are simply beautiful.

Kullu

Kullu is a major district of Himachal Pradesh and lies at the banks of the Beas River. The Bhuntar airport is just 10 km from this place, and you will find ample places to shop. Kullu is also the base for heading to Parvati Valley, which is one of the most popular backpacking destinations in Himachal.

Kasol and Parvati Valley

42 km from Kullu, Kasol is situated at the banks of Parvati River and is a must-visit. It provides a unique experience with an Israeli atmosphere dominating the air. It is a hub of backpackers. Do not forget to check my comprehensive travel guide of Parvati Valley and also the dedicated Kasol travel guide.

Manikaran

It is a Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage center located between the Beas and Parvati Rivers. You may like it or you may not. It is a matter of taste, but a couple of hours given to this holy place is worth enough.

Kalath Hot Water Springs

Kalath has hot water springs about 10 km before Manali on the roadside itself. Unlike Vashishth, the Kalath springs are less crowded and more natural. Thanks to a reader Ajay for sharing this gem with us.

What Should You Carry for a Manali Trip?

Here is a quick checklist of things to carry, especially if you are visiting Manali in winters or planning to go to higher altitudes like Rohtang or Solang:

• Heavy woolen jacket and warm layers
• 2 to 3 pairs of inner thermals
• Woolen long socks and airtight waterproof shoes
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm (the sun at altitude can be harsh)
• Basic medicines including Diamox (if heading to high altitudes), Disprin, and ORS
• Power bank and charger (mobile signal can be patchy at Rohtang and Solang)
• Rain jacket or poncho (especially during monsoon months)

Do not exert yourself too much and try to keep your body hydrated on the day when visiting snow points. Take at least one full day rest in Manali before venturing to further heights, i.e., snow points in Solang or Gulaba. DO NOT go to snow points on the very first day you reach Manali region.

In winters (except Christmas to New Year week), HPTDC runs about 30% off-season discounts (also valid for Naggar Castle) if you like to stay in their hotels. All other private hotels can offer as much as 40 to 50% off. Please also check out the complete list of things to carry for a Himalayan trip.

Practical Information for Manali Trip in 2026

Mobile Network and Connectivity

In Manali town, Jio, Airtel, and BSNL all work reasonably well. You will get 4G connectivity in most parts of the main town and Mall Road. However, as you move towards Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, or into Old Manali’s upper reaches, the signal can get patchy. In Lahaul Valley beyond the Atal Tunnel, only BSNL works reliably at many places. I suggest downloading offline maps before heading out of Manali town.

ATMs and Cash

Manali has several ATMs along Mall Road and near the bus stand (SBI, PNB, HDFC, ICICI). UPI payments are accepted at most restaurants and shops in the main market. However, keep in mind that ATMs can run out of cash during peak season, and UPI may not work everywhere in Old Manali or beyond. I always suggest carrying enough cash, especially if you plan to visit Rohtang, Solang, or day-trip to Lahaul.

Local Taxi Rates in Manali (2026)

Here are the approximate Manali taxi union rates as of 2026. Keep in mind these are fixed rates set by the Manali Taxi Union and are non-negotiable:

• Manali local sightseeing: Rs 800 to Rs 1,200
• Manali to Solang Valley: Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500 (return)
• Manali to Rohtang Pass: Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500 (return, subject to permit)
• Manali to Naggar: Rs 800 to Rs 1,200 (one way)
• Manali to Kullu: Rs 800 to Rs 1,000 (one way)
• Manali to Atal Tunnel / Sissu: Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000 (return)

You can also rent a bike or scooter in Manali for about Rs 800 to Rs 1,500 per day depending on the type. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Fuel / Petrol Pumps

There are petrol pumps at Kullu and one at Manali (near the bus stand). If you are heading beyond Manali towards Rohtang or Lahaul, make sure to fill your tank in Manali as there is no fuel pump until Tandi in Lahaul (about 115 km from Manali). This is especially important for riders heading to Ladakh or Spiti.

Beyond Manali: Gateway to Ladakh, Spiti, and Lahaul

One of the best things about Manali is that it serves as the gateway to some of the most stunning destinations in India. If you have more days in hand, consider extending your trip:

• Manali to Leh Ladakh: The famous Manali to Leh Highway starts from here. It is one of the most epic road trips in the world, open from about June to September.
• Manali to Spiti Valley: You can reach Spiti Valley via Manali through the Rohtang Pass or Atal Tunnel route. The road goes through Kunzum Pass to Kaza.
• Lahaul Valley day trip: With the Atal Tunnel, a day trip to Lahaul Valley sightseeing places is now very doable from Manali.
• Shimla and Manali combined: Many travelers combine both. Check the Shimla and Manali trip plan for a detailed itinerary.
• Malana Village: If you are into offbeat places, the Malana Village travel guide covers everything you need to know about visiting this unique village in the Parvati Valley.
• Kheerganga Trek: A popular overnight trek starting from Barshaini in Parvati Valley. Check the Kheerganga trek guide for beginners.

Conclusion

In the end, Manali and its nearby locations are a complete package for any vacation. The place suits a wide range of tourists with an even wider taste of spending time in the mountains. You get the romance, the adventure, the rejuvenation, the offbeat, and the mad rush of tourists, all around Manali. Whether you are a honeymooner looking for snow, a backpacker chasing the Parvati Valley vibe, or a family wanting a pleasant summer escape, Manali has something for everyone.

I hope this Manali travel guide helps you plan your trip in 2026. If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to post them in the comments section below. I will be happy to help you plan your journey. If you know your friends or family are planning a trip to Manali, do share this article with them to help them make a memorable Manali trip 🙂 …

For more travel queries, discussions, and finding travel partners, please check out the DwD Community and the DoW Travel Calendar from the main menu of the website. I look forward to hearing about your Manali experience!

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Last Updated: February 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are enough for a Manali trip from Delhi?

A minimum of 3 nights and 4 days is recommended for a Manali trip from Delhi. This gives you one day each for local sightseeing, Rohtang Pass or Atal Tunnel, and Solang Valley. If you have 5 to 7 days, you can also cover Naggar Castle, Parvati Valley (Kasol, Tosh), and enjoy a relaxed pace without rushing.

What is the best month to visit Manali for snowfall?

January and February are the best months for snowfall in Manali. You can witness fresh snowfall in Manali town, Solang Valley, and the areas around Rohtang Pass. Late December also occasionally gets snow. Keep in mind that during heavy snowfall, roads to Rohtang may be closed, but the Atal Tunnel remains open throughout the year.

Is Manali safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Manali is generally safe for solo female travelers. The main town areas like Mall Road, Old Manali, and popular tourist spots are well-frequented. However, I suggest avoiding isolated areas after dark, keeping your hotel informed about your plans, and using only authorized taxi services. Many solo female travelers visit Manali and Kasol every year without issues.

Can I drive a sedan from Delhi to Manali?

Absolutely. The Delhi to Manali road is a national highway and any sedan or hatchback can handle it easily. You do not need a 4×4 or SUV for this route. However, if you plan to go beyond Manali to Rohtang Pass (the old road, not Atal Tunnel) or further to Ladakh, an SUV is recommended.

How much does a Manali trip cost per person?

A budget Manali trip costs approximately Rs 6,000 to Rs 8,000 per person for 4 days. A mid-range trip runs about Rs 12,000 to Rs 18,000 per person. A comfortable trip with good hotels and flights can cost Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000. These are per-person costs for a 4-day trip, including transport, accommodation, food, and activities.

Is the Atal Tunnel open in winter?

Yes, the Atal Tunnel is open throughout the year, including winters. This is the biggest advantage it brings. Even when Rohtang Pass is closed due to snow (November to April), you can drive through the Atal Tunnel and reach Lahaul Valley. The tunnel is 9.02 km long and takes about 15 minutes to cross.

Do I need a permit for Rohtang Pass?

Yes, a permit is required for visiting Rohtang Pass. As of 2026, you can apply for the permit online through the Manali district administration portal. The fee is around Rs 100 per person, and only a limited number of vehicles are allowed per day. During peak season (May to June), permits get booked fast, so apply 2 to 3 days in advance. For the Atal Tunnel route, separate permits may be required during peak season.

What is the best way to reach Manali from Delhi on a budget?

The cheapest way to reach Manali from Delhi is by HRTC ordinary bus, which costs about Rs 700 to Rs 900 one way. HRTC semi-deluxe and Volvo buses cost Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,500. If you are a group of 4, self-driving in a car and splitting fuel costs can also be very economical, working out to about Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500 per person for the round trip in fuel.