One of the most popular tourist places in Northern India is situated in Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh on the banks of Beas River and at an altitude of 1950 Meters or 6500 Feet (approximately) Manali, Valley of Gods. The term stands for Manu (Manu Rishi) + Aali (Home) and I bet you his home (Manali ;)) is just MAGICAL in nature.
The place is ideal for families as well as young couples looking for some hide and seek with the flavor of romance on top of it. Manali is largely visited by the honeymoon couples (I did so, read my story Snow at Manali and Naggar | Honeymoon Trip) and in summers people from all walks of life (children to old) come to Manali to seek pleasant weather from hot burning lands of Northern India.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Manali Travel Guide
Manali is one of the oldest towns in Kullu Valley. The place surrounds with the aura of ROMANCE everywhere, right from the hustle-bustle of mall road to the very calm, traditional, foreigners dominated old Manali to the woods/villages around/beyond Manu temple to the walking path around Hadimba temple. It can easily be called one of the ROMANTIC destinations of India.
The Hadimba goddess runs the Manali town and is the center of worship of the people living at Manali. The mighty goddess also governs the tall mountains along with raw nature, and it’s 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 no doubt is a must-visit place if you go to Manali.
Manali Weather
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 Manali weather in summers from March to October.
I recommend that you avoid traveling to Manali in the month monsoons, late July to August and nowadays some part of September as well. Landslides and flooding are common on Delhi to Manali highway in monsoon time. You do not want to get stuck in the middle of it. Although July-August experience rainfall but this place has again, it’s unique beauty when it rains 🙂
Hence, the best time to visit Manali is March to June when the heat is burning the low lands of Northern India. Then during the autumn season from the middle of September to late October is also a nice time to visit it. However, during the Dusherra festival, the Kullu region gets very crowded.
If you are fond of snow or snowfall, then visit Manali from late December to March for enjoying the snow in Manali, Rohtang Pass, or Solang Valley. You may witness snowfall also in January and February, depending on the weather at the time of the visit.
No doubt it is one of the top places to see snowfall near Delhi in Himachal.
What is the best time to visit Manali
April to June is the best time to visit Manali, but do keep in mind that in summers (April-June), people from most Northern parts of India invade this place like anything and seeing the Mall road in the evening can cause serious shiver in your head. It’s almost you are in Trade Fair of Pragati Maidan, Delhi 😆
But if you enjoy it, then it’s an awesome time to visit Manali. Also, you can take the shelter in Old Manali in such extreme cases, which is far off from the hustle-bustle of the (over) crowd. Right from accommodation to food to shopping to taxi/auto fares, everything is costly in this peak season summer holidays in the Himalayas.
If you are looking for adventure sports then, hit for skiing December to February season is the best time and for rafting May to September would do good. All of you who seeks Paragliding in Manali, it’s always dependent on the weather on the current day of the year 🙂
What about Honeymoon in Manali?
For a honeymoon, of course, 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 the heavy discounts, being off-season topped with less number of tourists. Finally, you get to see similar love birds thronging the region of Manali and Solang Valley.
Hence, without any doubt, Manali does get to my list of best honeymoon places in Himachal.
What time to avoid?
Do avoid Durga Puja holidays mainly in October when the rush is at peak again, and people flood the Kullu Manali towns like anything. It is also the Dusherra Festival time in Kullu Valley with which also valley is under heavy tourist rush.
Also, there is an official HPTDC off-season at the time of monsoon and winters (usually mid-November to February) when they provide a 30% discount on their services.
How to reach Manali from Delhi
Manali is well connected by road from Delhi vis National Highways. You will find ample of public transport as well from Delhi to Manali or Chandigarh to Manali. Let us look into the various options of traveling to Manali by road.
By Air
The nearest airport to Manali is Bhunter about 50 km away. From Bhuntar-Kullu, you can hire a taxi to reach Manali in 90 minutes approximately. The fare of a taxi could be Rs 1000 – Rs 1200, depending upon the bargaining skills as well as season time.
By Train
Chandigarh is the closest major Railway Station from where it will take around 9 hours to reach Manali by bus or car. Apart from that Joginder Nagar railway station near Mandi can be considered as the nearest one. However, the connectivity can be limited to it from far-flung places in India.
By Road
The distance of Manali from Delhi is 570 km (approximately) and it takes around 12-14 hours to reach depending upon traffic and how you drive.
Generally, the route followed for Manali from Delhi 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)
HPTDC Volvo Buses also run from Delhi at 6 PM every day from HPTDC Office, Janpath. These buses reach Manali the next morning around 8 AM. The fare is around Rs 1300-1400 for one side. The similar buses leave from Manali every evening at 5.30 PM and reaching Delhi by 7.00 AM the next morning. There are other daily buses available from HRTC as well from ordinary to Volvos that run between Delhi to Manali and Chandigarh to Manali.
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Road Conditions from Delhi to Manali
Delhi to Manali roads run on NH-21 and NH-1 highways and are pretty much in great shape being a highway. In the entire route, there are one or two rough patches so that you never lose your concentration.
Especially, the drive from Kiratpur to Sunder Nagar is horrible with trucks running madly all over the road on both sides, slowing you down terribly. A slight Chandigarh to Roopnagar stretch is also in bad shape but the rest of the road conditions are pure bliss to drive.
For updated road conditions of Delhi to Manali, please refer to the DwD Community thread: Delhi – Manali Road Conditions.
Preferred Vehicles
The best way is to take your car/bike and hit the road as there is no such specialty required in the vehicle, be it 2X2 or 4X4. You can take it as long as its engine runs and fuel exists 😉
An alternate route to Manali from Delhi
The regular route to Manali via NH-21, that is Manali – 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. The journey becomes so tiring and frustrating…
For the last few times when I went to Tirthan Valley from Delhi, we took the route as
Kiratpur Sahib > Anandpur Sahib > Nangal > Una > then turn right towards Bhota > then again right towards Jahu > at T-Point, turn left towards Ner Chowk. Don’t go towards Sunder Nagar as you will lose a couple of hours then.
This is a bit longer route, maybe 55-60 km, but the time difference is almost about 40-45 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 does save you from all the frustration and risks of accidents.
So, better avoid the NH-21 route and take this route via Una – Bhota to reach Manali or beyond Mandi to Himachal.
Bus Service from Delhi – Manali
As per HRTC FB Page, both HRTC & HPTDC operates a total of six daily Volvo buses from Manali to Delhi. While HRTC charges ₹1283- for this service, HPTDC charges ₹1300/-. Travel time is roughly 14 hours (580 km).
Bus Timings from Manali: 3:00 pm, 4:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:30 pm, 6:00 pm, and 6:30 pm.
Bus Timings from Delhi: HPTDC (from Himachal Bhawan)- 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm; HRTC (from Delhi ISBT)- 7:35 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:25 pm, and 9:03 pm.
Travel Tip: If you are interested in some treks, you may also check these easy treks in Himachal.
Common Itinerary for Manali Trip in 3 Days
From Delhi to visit Manali, you require at least 3 Nights, 4 Days 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 would also provide some add-on or pop-up day tours which you can include exclude as you like.
Day 0 / Night – Overnight from Manali to Delhi
Leave Delhi in the evening to reach Manali the next morning either by car/or Volvo bus. You can take a morning flight to Kullu as well which takes you to the first day.
Day 1 – Manali Local Sightseeing
Check-in at the hotel in Manali, rest for a few hours and go on for local sightseeing. This sightseeing may include Mall road (which of course you can’t avoid any day), Local Monastery, Hadimba Devi Temple, Manu Rishi Temple in the evening through the streets of Old Manali. You can have dinner at one of the traditional/western cuisine restaurants at Old Manali. Come back to the hotel for the rest.
Day 2 – Visit Rohtang Pass or Snow Points
Leave for Rohtang Pass early in the morning to avoid traffic jams. Mind it; it can be the worse jam of the trip, so be prepared. It is always better to avoid by leaving for Rohtang Pass from Manali early morning maybe 7 AM Come back to the hotel by the evening at around 4 PM to rest at the hotel and enjoy the mall road in the evening/night.
Day 3 – Visit Solang Valley
Visit Solang Valley if you want to do some adventure sports and enjoy the day there. Come back in the evening. Leave for the home in the night, either by taking the evening Volvo or by your own car.
Trip to Manali in 5 Days
Continuing the above 3-day itinerary of Manali trip for those who have more days in hand.
Day 4 – Visit Nagar Castle – Jagatsukh
If you are not interested in visiting a unique place, then include Naggar Castle in your trip with a night stay at Naggar Castle. Well, the views it offers are just breathtaking. So you can also opt for Naggar in place of Solang if you don’t like adventure sports, then replace this day with the trip to Naggar Castle, just 30 odd km from Manali.
For a honeymoon, it’s one of the best places to stay and must-visit for couples looking for an ideal romantic point. To get the glimpses of the views from Naggar Castle, check these links of my visit to this beautiful place.
You may take a day trip to Naggar and leave for Manali the same day if you don’t like much but better include a night stay at this lovely hotel. Next morning you can leave to Delhi from Naggar itself.
Jagatsukh comes on the way as well and it is one of the offbeat places in Himachal.
Day 5 – Visit Parvati Valley (Manali to Kasol)
Another set of places you may include on your Manali trip is that you leave for Kullu or Kasol in the evening. If it’s the penultimate day of the trip or early morning on any day if you have an ample amount of time. Just it would be great if you can do it on the way back home towards Delhi or a similar route.
Reach Kullu, shop in the market and head towards Kasol & Manikaran. Visit this holy place and leave for Kasol, where you can enjoy the evening in nice Israeli flavor. If you have time, then dedicate a day to Kasol and try to enjoy the environment to the core besides the Parvati River.
Leave for Delhi in the evening and reach by morning.
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. Well, I have been to all three kinds on my previous trips to Manali, and this is what I felt a nice list to narrow down the choices.
Of course, I would say these are just hotels known to me, or I have taken feedback from my family members who have stayed there 🙂
- HPTDC, Kunzum: Hotel Kunzum is just on the Mall road provides you with ample facilities being on the Mall road. Everything is so nearby, and I would recommend it for families with children. Kids tend to demand this, and that now and then, which makes Hotel Kunzum a good choice as everything you get in Manali is so nearby. The range is Rs 1700 – Rs 3000
- HPTDC, Hadimba Cottages / Log / Hamta Huts: These huts ideal for honeymoon lovers are located a bit isolated towards Old Manali, again which is what love birds seek. But, don’t catch it into very offseason as it may also scare a bit out of you being alone. At least we felt so when we stayed, and food is not that good quality. You can check the entire review Hadimba Cottages, Manali | Hotel Review.
- Johnson’s: Located near Circuit House is very famous for its cuisines. The rooms are comfortable and worth the money. Even if you don’t stay, do have a meal or two in its restaurant. The range is Rs 2200- Rs4000.
- Picadilly Resort: This is at the start of Mall road and not at all a budget hotel. We stayed here in the very offseason, and still, we got a room for 1500 😯 I believe. But I must say the money was worth it as the hotel has all sorts of deserving offerings one would like.
- HPTDC, Rohtang Manalsu & The Beas: This hotel is a bit away from the hustle-bustle of town but very moderate budget hotels. The range is 650-2000, and you can always stay here if you are short on budget.
So, if you are no short of the budget go for Johnson’s or Picaddily Resorts, although there are more luxury Hotels also available which you may check for sure.
If you are short on a budget either choose HPTDC, Rohtang Manalsu or HPTDC, The Beas or else you can very well walk to the streets of Old Manali where you will get excellent deals for some cheap hotels in Manali.
HPTDC is always a safe bet if you are in a dilemma for a cheap hotel, I believe.
Budget Hotels in Manali
You can find lots of budget hotels around Manali in Vashishth, Old Manali, and hotels on the Manali – Naggar road near Beas Bridge. The one at Manali – 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 of The River View hotel at the below link: The River View, Manali | Hotel Review
Where to eat
- Johnson’s, located near Circuit House is very famous for its cuisines. A meal here is a must for us whenever we go to Manali.
- Chopsticks, located at Mall road, has a great variety of Chinese dishes topped with great taste.
- Grozy, located just at the start of Mall road shops is also quite good in food quality. In fact on the trip, we just had our meal in this restaurant only.
- IL Forno is by far the best place for Pizzas in Manali. If you love Pizzas then do not forget to check this awesome place.
- Sher-e-Punjab or Shan – e -Punjab (the original one) is also a good food joint although I have never been there due to long queues 😀
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 !! 🙂 🙂
Tips to travel in winters
- Do take heavy woolens with you especially a heavy woolen jacket.
- Do take 2-3 pairs of inner thermals cots.
- Do take woolen long socks. Airtight shoes would be perfect for helping you avoid freezing feet.
- 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 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 – 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 40-50%.
- Please check out the list of things to carry for a Himalayan trip.
Manali Tourist Attractions
There are several tourist places around Manali and inside Manali town which a tourist can visit. These places can be photographed clicked for some great memories in life. I will enlist some of them below.
Manali Local Sightseeing
Let us start with local sightseeing in Manali. You can check the below destinations within Manali town or quite nearby.
Mall Road
You can enjoy food and shop on this very road. There are few Hotels as well on the road, including Hotel Kunzum, HPTDC. There is one Temple as well at the Mall road just aside Bus and Taxi Stand.
Hadimba Temple
It’s near Circuit House approximately 15-20 minutes’ walk. Autos run all-time in Manali to take you to the local tourist joints but charge a bit high. I feel walking down to these places has the fun of its own kind.
Manu Temple
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. Don’t fall into the trap of salesman of buying it, most of them are duplicate makes.
Local Monastery
The local monastery is situated just a few 200 odd meters from the bus stand at Mall road. You can surely buy some souvenirs from the shops in front of the local Manali monastery.
Vashishth Hot Water Springs
Personally I didn’t like this place at all and considered it a total waste of time.
Trekking Trails near Manali
Other trails in the woods through local villages and old Manali can be enjoyed as well.
- There is a trek from Old Manali, 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 will take about 2-3 hrs 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.
Rohtang Pass
At the altitude of 13,051 feet or 3978 Meters, this Pir Panjal Range pass is a must-visit for every tourist who goes to Manali. You can find snow throughout the year at this place and is reachable from May End – October. It connects the Kullu Valley to Lahaul-Spiti Valley and is one of the main blockage points of Manali – Leh Ladakh connectivity.
Solang Valley
Mountaineering and Allied sports Institute, Manali conducts various courses on skiing at this place, and if you love adventure sports, you may find this place very exciting. Along with this, it also offers snow-capped views of glaciers and even snow in winters. The place also helps in proper acclimatization if you wish to head Leh Ladakh. It will help you avoid AMS.
Naggar Castle
Naggar is just an amazing place that I have already explained in the itinerary section. If you are really looking for some romantic joint, Naggar Castle is surely the place to be. Do read more at Naggar Castle, Naggar.
Kullu
It’s a major district of Himachal Pradesh and lies at the banks of Beas river. The airport Bhunter is just 10 km from this place, and you will find ample place to shop.
Kasol
42 km from Kullu, Kasol situated at the banks of Parvati river is yet another place that is a must-visit and provides a unique experience with Israeli atmosphere dominating the air. It’s a hub of backpackers, and what they are after, you very well know. Do not forget to check my comprehensive travel guide of Parvati Valley.
Manikaran
It’s a Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage center located between the Beas and Parvati Rivers. Well, you may like it, or you may not like it. It’s a matter of taste but a couple of hours given to this holy place is worth enough.
Kalath
Hot water springs about 10 km before Manali on the roadside itself. Thanks to Ajay for sharing this place with us at the comment here, will check next time I visit up there.
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 mountain. You get the romance, the adventure, the rejuvenation, the offbeat and the mad rush of tourists, all nearby Manali.
Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.
If you ever have been to Manali, then please share your valuable thoughts and suggestion as well so that it can help other fellow travelers to plan their journey to Manali accordingly. I will be looking forward to your comments and suggestions.
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.
377 Comments
Hi ..we planned to visit shimla n manali by Nov… As per plan we are first visiting shimla n then manali …the last day of your ends with travel from manali to Delhi by cab…I need suggestions regarding that long travel…suggest me some alternate plan to avoid hectic travel
Naresh how many days you have in hand?
Hi Dheeraj
I m dilip We are 5ppl planing for manali trip pls guid us , 11th august 2016 morning we will reach delhi , pls help us with cab drivers delhi to manali and how to plan for 8 days till 20th august 2016
Sorry Dilip, never hired a cab for Manali. If anyone of you know to drive, it will be less costly to take a self drive car to Manali and there are many options available in NCR for self drive cars.
Hey Dheeraj
I would like to buy cheap bus from Delhi to Manali but can find anywhere where to buy it… should i buy it through internet? Are there sleeping bed? What is the best for solo travelling women?
Ola, best is to reach ISBT delhi, Kashmere gate from where you can buy HRTC bus ticket. DO NOT try private operators. HRTC works best.
The ordinary bus to Manali by HRTC has a fare of Rs 684, semi-deluxe Rs 704, Tata AC Rs 1062, Volvo 1332.
You can book the tickets from HRTC government website: http://www.hrtchp.com/hrtctickets/Availability.aspx
Thank you dheeraj 🙂
do you think should i buy this ticket through internet in advance? I want to go there 7th of august! It looks like a few places are already taken … 🙂
Whats the difference beetween standard and semi-deluxe?
I have heard that volvo dont have to be always as comfortable asthey should be 🙂
In which busses there are sleeping possibility??
Thank you for you help!!
Standard is a general bus and semi-deluxe one have a bit comfortable seats than the standard buses. I have mostly travelled with HRTC and HPTDC volvos and they were always as comfortable as they are supposed to be 🙂 … Sleeping lie down will not be possible in any, volvos do have a kind of recliner seats to an extent and most comfortable among all options.
Dheeraj!
But if I stay in Jispa and take a bus to Leh next morning i can get only “standing” places in the bus! Is in not true? The bas leaves from the village before Jispa.
If I book in advance will i have quarantee to get sitting places ??
Yes, it is true. It will be difficult to get a seat from Jispa as bus starts from Keylong and gets full from Manali itself mostly. If you book in advance, there is no guarantee of seat then as well because you book a ride in Indian on a bus which does not mean you get to travel seated, in general 🙂
SO whats the best way of doing this route to avoid high attitude sicness when starting from Manali??
Sleep in Keylong and next day drive to Leh
Sleep in Sarchu and drive to Leh next morning?
Something else?
Yes, Sleep at Keylong and next day arrive at Leh. Buses do this way only.
Hi Dheeraj,
After reading your blog I’m very much interested in visiting manali. We are a gang of 6 members and will be going in the middle of August’16. we will be planning from Delhi and we have opted for bus from Delhi to manali and hire bike or taxi in manali for the local trips.
1.we have only 4 days so main areas to visit would be rohtang pass, solang valley for some adventures sport.
2. I would prefer hiring bikes, is that required getting permit in advance for that and as you have specified bike would cost around 700 – 1300 rs and what would be the security deposit?
3. Is it better to hire taxi from delhi itself for the whole trip?
Please suggest some best options and a budget friendly one. At-least we would need bikes for a one day trip to Rohtang pass.
I would be very thankful to you.
Hi Dheeraj,
A very Informative blog. Thanks for helping co travelers.
I Will be travelling to Manali in Last week of June . Will be Self driving my Honda City with family including my mother.
Request your advice on 2 questions.
1) What is the latest update on road conditions after Kiratpur Sahib? or should I take the Una route?
2) I need to stop overnight at some place after driving for 6~7 hours. PL suggest a good decent place for family stay.
thanks a lot in advance.
Atul
nice travelogue..
planning to go to hp in nov16
our tentative itinerary is
5th Chandigarh-shimla- shimla l/s ViceRegal Lodge, Annadale, SankatMochan
The Ridge,Mall Road,Christ Church,Lakkar Bazaar,St. Michaels Cathedral
6th shimla- -narkhanda-hatu peak- mashobra-naldehra–shimla l/s ,jakau temple
7th shimla-kufri-chini bunglow-fagu -chail
8th Shimla – Sundernagar – Pandoh Dam – Hanogi Temple – – Vaishno Mata-Temple – Manali
9th manali –rohtang-solang-, Gulaba, Rahla Falls
10th manali-local sightseeing- Hadimba Temple, ,manu temple,vashisth, Hot Water,solong valley(if not done the previous day) Nehru kund,the Mountaineering Institute nagar castle
11th manali-Nagar Castle(if not done on 10th), & manikaran Sahib,kullu-babeli -rafting
12th kullu-palampur-mcleodanj- Tsechokling Gompa, Kalachakra Templ,dharamkot
13th Mcleodganj-day excursion to Kangra Valley,dharamshalla stadium.bhagsu
14th mcleo-dalhousie-chamera lake-(via jot)-panchpula
15th dlhousie-dainkund-khajjar-chamba -dalhousie
16th dalhousie-chandigarh
we r 4 ppl(2 adults n 2 kids 7yrs n 10yrs) is this doable
Can anyone plz suggest me :
going with travel agent / some tour package / going without them with is the best?
It depends upon if you are ready to plan your trip on your own and save money or you want others to plan your trip and shell out money to them.
thanks
Hi dheeraj
We are planning to visit manali on 1st week of june we have 5 to 8 days
We want to cover all best places around manali
Also want to do activities like paragliding, river rafting, sking and other sports
Want to experience 1 or 2 night stay in tents too
Please suggest the day wise schedule of the trip
Thank you
Hello…. I will be travelling by hired Innova from Delhi to Manali with my friends on 20 April . Please tell me what time will be best to leave delhi for it, where I can take stops and will it be safe while travelling at night??
Yes, usually night time is ok to travel on this road provided you understand the risks of night driving and are not feeling sleepless. Secondly Delhi to Manali is around 12-14 Hrs of journey by road, so you need to plan accordingly for leaving for it.
hi dheeraj
I am here just to give u a brief about our trip what we friends have planned for a road trip from Delhi to leh via manali..can u please help us out wit it and can you please suggest any alternative n the number of days what we have planned is it al OK??
day1:leaving at 0500hrs from delhi.. nite at manali
day2:leaving for leh from manali
day3:travelling..heard it does take tym from manali to leh
day4:reaching leh in the morning and rest
day5:leh-pangong lake
day6-pangong lake-leh
day7:leh-nubra valley
day8: kargil-drass
n leaving for Srinagar to Delhi..like kind of approx 10-11days..
no experience of mountain biking.. 6ppl n planning to hire 3bikes..
can u please help us out wit this.
It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.
Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days.
Hi Dheeraj,
I have gone through your blog and it is very informative. But, I need your help/suggestion in planning my Manali itinerary.
I will be travelling by road from Delhi on our own vehicle with my family and kids to Manali around end of March 2016 for 3 nights – 4 days (starting 25th probably). We are 4 adults and 4 kids (8y, 4y, 3y and 3y). Considering the above factors, I would like to know
1. What is the best time to start from Delhi so that we reach Manali well in time safe and sound.
2. What is the route I should be taking so that journey is not tiring. I have heard that there are potholes and truck traffic on the way which makes the journey tiring.
3. How is the weather around March end and what kind of stuff and clothing to carry?
4. What all places we can plan to visit with the kids in these 3/4 days?
Looking forward…
Hi Saurabh,
1. Are you planning to self drive or by taxi? r going by Volvo? It will take 13-14 Hrs of drive to Manali, so with kids please evaluate if you guys have done such long journey before
2. The other road which goes from Una – Bhota – Jahu is good in condition BUT adds 55-60 KMs of distance more and obviously travel time too. So, I feel it is longer and now most roads is fixed on main NH-21 too, so only few sections with bad roads are there and yes truck traffic is what you need to be patient up to Sunder Nagar from Kiratpur.
3. March is pleasant. Do carry at least one heavy woolen jacket for sure and one pair of heavy woolen, rest light woolens shall be OK. It will help in case weather becomes overcast
4. Manali local, Snow Point towards Rohtang PAss, Solang Valley, Naggar Castle.
Thanks Dheeraj for your response.
1. We are planning to self drive our own XUV500. With Kids, we have not traveled that long but we all are pretty excited. On one occassion we had traveled to Dharamshala once. That is why we actually requested what can be the best time to start from Delhi so that even if we take break in between then we reach Manali safely.
Also, after Ambala, which places can be good options to take a break considering the family.
Hi Dheeraj,
Beautiful travelogue. I have a couple of questions, and hopefully you will be able to answer. Flying in with my Husband from bangalore on April 9 into delhi and then planning on taking a bus to Manali on April 10. Would like to reach Delhi on the 18th. Planning to follow your itinerary,(would it be possible to do Rohtang and Solang in one day Coz quite interested in adventure sports) but give a skip to naggar. Would like to have a look at Kasol since it sounds quite interesting. Should i make my base at Manali and go by bike to Kasol and come back at night or would it be preferable to check out and take a hotel at kasol? Also hoping to make a 2-3 day stop at McleodGunj and then return to delhi. Would this be possible?
Any tips would be greatly aprreciated. Thank you in advance!
Yes, Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley can be done in on day. Yes, make Manali the base and do trip around. And then towards the last days of trip, go over to Kasol. Then from there move to Mcleod Ganj. It will take good amount of travel but doable in 7 days you have in hand.
ThanK you so much for your respone Dheeraj.
Hi i need a favor from you sir,
We need 14 nights and 15 days planning for Himachal Tour, Something unusual,
15th march chandigarh to endpoint Pathankot 29th March for Two Couple,
Please, advise us Sir!!
Hello Nayan,
You can plan a trip like below if you have not been to places like these:
Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda
Day 2 | Nakranda – Sarahan
Day 3 | Sarahan – Sangla/Chitkul
Day 4 | Sangla/Chitkul – Kalpa
Day 5 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 6 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Lallung
Day 7 | Lallung – Pin Valley
Day 8 | Pin Valley – Kaza Local Sightseeing
— For stay check Sakya Abode or snow lion are two good options at Kaza apart from PWD Guest houses. Get in touch with Tsering bhai, the guy who runs it. He is a very good friend of mine.
Day 9 | Kaza Local Sightseeing
— Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang
Day 10 | Kaza Local Sightseeing
— Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit
Day 11 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal
Day 12 | Chandratal – Keylong
Day 13 | Keylong – Udaipur – Keylong OR Keylong – Baralacha La – Keylong
Day 14 | Keylong – Manali/Mandi
Day 15 | Manali- Delhi
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to Drive tomorrow from Chandigarh Railway station to Kasol. I am picking up a self drive car from Chandigarh Railway station at 12 pm. What are the tips to drive from Chandigarh to Kasol, would it be snowing. How much time should we take to reach Kasol, it shows 7.5 hours on google maps. Would it be very cold there?
Vaibhav, it was snowing yesterday in hills including Manali, Shimla and hills around Kasol and I am sure Kasol too. From Chandigarh it will take about 8-9 Hrs easy drive to Kasol. Yes, it will be cold up there 🙂
Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for the useful info.
Is there any safety issue while on way from Chandigrah to Kasol?
In case we have to take a night haltover which place will you recommend? Any good Dhabas on the way?
No, there isn’t any safety issue on that route. Just drive with care and caution. DO NOT over take trucks from Kiratpur to Sunder Nagar/Bilaspur as they drive much rash. In case you want to take overnight stay, halt at Mandi in that case. Just before Sunder Nagar, there are dhabhas which are very good on the left side
I am planning to go New Delhi to Manali in mid feb.
New Delhi to Manali — Bus
Manali to Delhi — Bus
Can you tell how can i visit for local site seeing as well as famous places of Manali ?
Should I hire taxi , What is approximate charges ?
Best Hotel in reasonable price ?
Please give me idea in details.s
Thanks in advance !!
Mani, there are couple of options. One you can take a bus run by HPTDC for tourists to enjoy the sightseeing within Manali or around it. Secondly you can hire private taxis which should be available for around 3000-4000 per day.
Will i be able to see snow in & around Manali around 26th of January 2016? Be it in Solang valley or Gulaba?
Yes, there will be plenty of snow up there around Manali sduring that time of the year 🙂
Thanks Dheeraj, Will there be any problems with snow and freezing temperature then? Going with wife and a 3.5 years old girl child.
Do suggest some places to visit in & around Manali?
Amitab, there should not be much of a problem visiting Manali during that time as I am sure you will take enough precautions carrying all the possible clothes / woollens. So, it is OK unless you guys are too sensitive to cold. Hotels do have heaters too.
HI,
Your site is really intersting and a damn good one. very informative..
Im planning a trip with 3 friends to Himachal in feb and i wanted to cover basically 4 araes
dharamshala/dalhousie/manali/shimla in 8days.
Delhi will be our meeting point. Can you suggest a nice itenary for us.
FYI, while going from delhi to himachal we prefer train/bus but while coming back we will take a flight.
Thank you very much
Ajay, I willfirst suggest that you remove at least on either Shimla side OR dharamshala/dalhousie side as it will be too much to cover separate ends of Himachal in just 8 days. Which one would you like to drop off?
Dear Dheeraj,
Your blog came across as an eye opener for us who are planning for a travel to north india by Mid of December. It is really informative and detailed. We have booked tickets from cochin to Delhi on Dec 18 and return from Delhi on 26th. We wish to watch the ceremony in Wagah and engage in adventure sports in rishikesh. As experiencing snow is one of our ambition, would like to cover manali too. Kindly advise if its faesible to cover all these places in so many days. Request your expertise in drawing an itinerary too.
Hi Prabhu,
Adventure sports will be closed in Rishikesh in winters and it is too off the track from Himachal/Manali/Amritsar route. Are you open for just Manali and Amritsar, I can suggest you the plan?
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the reply. We wanted to do white water rafting as I heard the one in Rishikesh is amongst the best in the world. 3 of us were really looking forward to the possibilities of exploring adventure sports like paraglyding and bungee jumping too. Any alternate that you can suggest? As sight seeing takes only back seat in our priority list. Please let me know your thoughts
Prabhu, rafting starts in March end / April types and is closed then. Also, you need to check if the rafting was resumed last year and will be resumed this year after some mishaps last year it was closed in Rishikesh.
Will i be able to see snow in & around Manali around 26th of January 2016? Be it in Solang valley or Gulaba?
Yes, there will be plenty of snow up there around Manali sduring that time of the year 🙂
Hello Dheeraj,
Thank you for your time and sharing valuable information on the suggestions provided i have prepared and itinerary please do have a look and let me know your opinion,
So the itinerary is as follows :
Day 1 | Bangalore to Chandigarh flight booked then to kalka by cab or auto from airport
Day 2| Reach Shimla from by Shivalik express booked. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel.
Day 3 | Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla
Day 4 | Shimla – Manali travel Checkin and rest.
Day 5 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs. By noon and evening shopping and walkin in mall.
Day 6 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or gulaba, Solang vally priffered
Day 7 | – Manali – Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 8 | – Naggar – Kasol – Manikaran – back to manali and towards chandighar
Day 9 | – Chandighar to bangalore booked.
So i have some more doubts it will be helpful if can guide –
>As i read your travelogue you had oped for Hptdc package for your manali trip is it advised to take a package or is it manageable all by myself?
>if yes what might be the relabel transport option for the tour?
> What might be the over all sightseeing travel budget for the itinerary?
Thank you,
Abhinandan
Hi Abhinandan,
Best is that you manage yourself, that will save you lot of hassles. You can keep around 10-12K for it and rest keep it as 1000 per day for food + stay pe rperson
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
I just came across your blog on a vivid search on Kullu- Manali trip. Me and my fiance is planning for a honeymoon trip on April 20th 2016 to Manali and Kulu. As her primary aim is to see the snow, we chose these places. Kindly advice on the following:
1. As its her ultimate wish, i would like to know whether we can see snow in Manali on April? I read about Rohtang Pass/Solang Valley & Marhi from your post. If we travel to these places is there a chance for us to see snow on April?
2. Can we rent a taxi to Manali – Rohtang Pass or is buses available to and fro? How much will be the average taxi charge?
3. How to go to Kullu from Manali? Is there any buses or taxi is the option? Where to stay in Kullu?
4. We are planning to take a flight to Delhi from Kerala. Can u guide me which is the nearest Volvo pickup point from the Delhi airport?
Our travel itienary is as follows:
Cochin-Delhi on Flight. From there to Manali in Volvo
Day 1: Reach Manali by morning. Check in to Hotel and take rest. Local sightseeing in Manali town
Day 2: Early morning to Rohtang Pass. Spend the day there and back to Manali by evening.
Day 3: Manali – Kulu. Night Stay at Kulu.
Day 4: Kulu- Manali. Evening depart to Delhi by volvo bus.
Please advice on the itienary mentioned. Also please suggest a few hotels to stay in Manali and Kulu. You have mentioned about Kasol. How far is it from Kulu? If we arrange a night stay there, will it be difficult to reach bak Manali on time. Also please advice on your stay at Naggar Castle. What is it special there? Should I avoid Kulu and add Naggar?
Your suggestions will be most appreciated.
Thank You
Hello Tijo,
1. You will find plenty of snow at the snow points of Marhi or Gulaba in April. Rohtang Pass, most likely will be closed due to heavy snow. But, at lower snow points you will get good snow.
2. Yes, you can rent taxi as well as HPTDC tourism bus is also available for sightseeing.
3. There is nothing in Kullu best stay in Manali only and explore around. Instead you can stay at Naggar Castle to which as well HPTDC tourism buses go and taxis also go and charge about 700-800 bucks for a drop to Naggar
4. HPTDC Volvo buses will be available from Himachal Bhawan which is in central Delhi. You can catch a UBER or OLA cab from Airport.
Naggar Castle is the best place to stay in Naggar
Thank You Dheeraj. Appreciate your quick reply and yes I will pay a visit to Naggar. Please check on the itinerary and advice. Also is it possible to start from Manali from morning to Kasol, roam around there and come back to Naggar by evening? Please advice on a few budget hotels at Manali of 2000 bucks range which has a neat atmosphere.
Hope to hear from u soon.
Regards
Itinerary is fine given the days you have in hand. Instead of Kullu go to Naggar. Better give Kasol a skip for now and make a trip when you have more time. Spend time in Naggar instead of traveling just on roads. Regarding budget hotels, well you will find many on the spot. Most hotels on Old Manali and Manali – Naggar road will suffice your needs.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thank you for the blog it gave a lot of info.
I’m planning to visit Shimla-Kullu-Manali my honeymoon in the mid January, but not able to make a clear cut itinerary and kindly requesting you can help me out to make a 6 day Itinerary.
So, as I’m a Banglorian my trip starts from Bangalore, I thought to reach Chandigarh by flight and then to reach Kalka by any local taxi and take a Toytrain to Shimla.
Is it a feasible idea or should i move to Delhi and reach manali then go to shimla.
Im dying with a lot of confusion please help me out….!!!!
Regards,
Abhinandan.K
Hello Abhinandan,
That is the perfect idea I will say to at least land in Chandigarh and then move from there. I will also strongly suggest to skip Shimla as there is nothing and stick to Manali and around for 5-6 days as below. It will ease out lot of journey for you and give you more time to spend together with each other. If you really want to include Shimla, let me know and I will suggest modified plan accordingly
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for the evening
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar – Kasol – Manikaran – Kasol (Enjoy Kasol with Israeli culture and cuisines)
Day 6 – Manali – Delhi
Hello Dheeraj,
Thank you for the replay and a well planned itinerary, It is very helpful.
You surely read my mind about the Shimla, the reason i chose Shimla is solely for that Toytrain which runs between the valleys tunnels and by the time of jan there will be a mist and snowy weather which will give us a white seance beauty of Himachal for that reason i thought going form Kalka to Shimla in a toytrain is a feasible idea. Kindly share your thoughts……!!!!
By the way will the Rohtang pass closed in Jan is it ??? I always wanted to have a gimps n raid through it.
Just one more question is there any possibilities to rent a cruiser bike in Manali????
Open for suggestions and guidance.
Thank you,
Warm Regards,
Abhinandan.K
Hi Abhinandan,
Yes, that is fairly possible in case you wish to enjoy the ride on Toy Train. It will become a bit hectic and you can follow plan like below:
Day 1 | Reach Shimla from by Toy train Volvo. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
Day 2 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic :))
Day 3 | Shimla – Manali
Day 4 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 5 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass or Rphtang Pass if safe to reach there. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali and on the way do paragliding at Solang Valley, if required.
Day 6 | Manali – Delhi.
You can take the bike to snow point too. Rohtang Pass will be closed but snow point at Solang Valley and Gulaba will be open where there will be plenty of snow.
Hi,
Its always nice to read through your blog. I wrote in here few weeks back and my current post is related to that trip which we are planning in Dec 22-28.
I will ask for your help and guidance but before that I want to lay down my travel plan so that you can have a better idea.
Dec22: Reach Delhi around 7AM – take a self drive car
Dec22: Reach Kufri (resort already booked) – night halt
Dec23: Local sight seeing – Shimla & Kufri
Dec 24: Leave for Manali (hotel booked)-night stay
Dec25: Local sight seeing
Dec26: Local sight seeing
Dec27: Leave for Chandigarh / or near by place – night halt
Dec 28: Return from Delhi
We are 4 ppl – would be booking desire / etios /amaze for self drive,
Now my questions are:
1)so will there be any issue with driving a yellow number plate vehicle for local sight seeing, like Ladakh, will unions pose any threat?
2) what is approx. cost of toll and other charges (barring rental and fuel) for taking a car from Delhi to Manali and back to Delhi.
3) I want to hire a driver for Manali trip ONLY, since its long route with winding roads. Is it possible to hire a driver for 2-3 days and will drop him at a mutually convenient place while returning. If you have any contacts please do share and an approx. rate.
4) will it be cheaper and convenient to hire normal taxi? In that case I have to reach HP from Delhi _ then book a cab for Kufri as I am not staying in Shimla..so on and so forth…so I find it cumbersome.
5) Lastly, my hotels are booked for Kufri & Manali, barring that – do you have anything in mind which we could accommodate, night halt in Chandigarh is to give ourselves time to relax and not too much of continuous driving.
Looking forward to your suggestions
Thanks in advance
Hi Kunal,
Thanks a lot for good words 🙂
Now my questions are:
1) There will not be any issues except that in Manali you will not be able to take the car to snow point. You might be forced to hire local taxi due to lack of permits.
2) Toll charges will be around 700-800 overall both ways, rest your fuel and car rent charges
3) You can work this out in Manali itself and get connected to taxi union
4) Since, you will not be driving much yourself especially on the way back, why not book Volvos which are much convenient way to travel
5) Looks fine to me, you will enjoy the drive in case you plan to drive too.
Regards
Dheeraj
I am planning to stay in Manali for the next one year. Yeah, I know that this post is related to tourism, would just like to know if any good budget cottage would be available in Manali away from the town limits and how about internet. Would be great to hear from you
Nanjesh, you can walk to Old Manali and get a room for yourself in the various old houses towards Manu temple or near Old Manali town. Some does have internet as well on offerings. You can bargain for a direct price of entire month and they will be able to offer you such a deal. Apart from that Vashishth also have such offerings of guest houses. Both these places have high foot falls of foreigners so it is common to rent out rooms for months there.
I am from delhi.Me and my few friends planning to visit on shimla and manali over on the bike’s in the winter , possibly on after the 20th of December , I want to know is that safe to visit there on the bike in winters.
Yes, Arun it is safe to visit Manali – Shimla in general but safety has different perspectives for different people? What exactly do you mean by safe here?
Ya I mean , we heard that in the winter is not an easy to drive on mountain road specially on the motor bike because possibly we could directly have to face subfreezing tem and cool breezes during the ride , so I want to know could we keep stick on the motor bike or we go threw the car but I personally really want to go on the bike because none of us ever enjoyed a ride on the mountain road in the winters.
Arun, you can make most of the trip in car and just to enjoy for a day or two can do a bike ride.
Hi,
I am planning for trip to Shimla & Manali during 1st – 9th of May (tentative) with my family. Could you please suggest itinerey for the same. I would be traveling from Chennai to Delhi. It would be helpful if you could suggest on how to plan it from Delhi. I would like to spend a day in Delhi. Please suggest possible accomodations in Shimla/Manali and other places to visit and where we can stay.
Thanks,
kumar
Sorry its not 1st to 9th May, its actually 1st March to 9th March 2016.
Thanks,
kumar
Hi Kumar,
You can plan your trip as below:
Day 1 | Reach Shimla from by overnight volvo from previous night. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
Day 2 | Around Shimla, a relaxing day. Jakhoo Temple, State Museum, Mall Road, Ridge etc. as you like or may be you can visit Kufri in the first half of the day and all this in the second half of the day.
Day 3 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla (a bit long day) or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic :))
Day 4 | Shimla – Manali
Day 5 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 6 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 7 | Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Musueum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top)
Day 8 | Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi. Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volvo to Delhi will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or you have the option to come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus. Or, you can also co-ordinate with bus HPTDC guys so that the bus pick you from the nearest pickup point for Naggar on the way to Delhi. Naggar Castle guys will arrange the taxi for the drop there.
** if you have time then try, Manali Sanctuary can also be covered as it is just about 2-3 KMs from Manali town and there is trail which starts from Manali Log Huts or Dhungri temple that leads you into the woods.
Thanks very much Dheeraj. Can you please suggest, where can we stay (which day would be suitable to stay where) during this trips. Also, please suggest on some better accomodation on those places (may be mid-level accomodation would be fine for me).
Thanks,
kumar
Kumar, plan I have already suggested you n previous comment. So, mostly the stay of nights are at Shimla, Naggar Castle and Manali. Both Shimla and Manali have plenty of options to choose from and suiting your budget you will get one or other hotel for sure. I mostly stay in Old Manali for economic guest house or at MAnali – Naggar road. But, both of these locations are a bit far from main mall road of Manali. I never stay in Shimla because never felt like staying there for anything 😀 … In general stay at Fagu or Narkanda only to enjoy more peace.
Regarding Naggar Castle, it can be booked from tourism department HPTDC official website.
hi dheeraj
we 4 people are planning to self drive to manali on 30th of sep, is it possible to cover both rothang pass and solang valley on same day or else suggest better place s we can cover along with solang valley on the same day.
Yes Krishna, it is quite possible to do Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley on the same day.
Hi,
I am planning to visit Kulu-Manali in Dec 5 with my wife for 6 night stay by Bus. Please suggest me the good hotel as well as good places where we visit. Snow Point at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba open at that time? How we reach Parvati River in dec? There is an option for hiring the car also? Please suggest day by day plan in dec.
Hello Neelabh,
You can plan something like below:
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for the evening
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar – Kasol – Manikaran – Kasol (Enjoy Kasol with cuisines)
Day 6 – Spend in Kasol, do some hikes around and take the evening volvo going from Manali to Delhi at Bhunter as pickup point
Day 7 Reach Delhi
There will be plenty of hotels in Manali with my favorite being Johnsons though a little expensive. Solang/Gulaba will be open and you can hire taxis too.
Hi,
I am planing a tour to manali with my wife in December last week in worry about my budget for accommodation and traveling charges for sight scene please suggest the budget ( hotels,sight scene etc.)
Rahul, there are plenty of budget hotels in old Manali as well as on Manali – Naggar road. You can stay at any of them which you find good on the spot. The tourists will be quite less in town during that time of the year and hence, off season rates and on the spot availability will not be an issue.
Hi, I am travelling to Manali with my gf on 23rd Sept and am super confused as to which bus I should book, which isn’t too expensive also. Could you please help me out with the same?
Varun, HPTDC or HRTC Volvos are the best buses to travel to Manali. Nothing beats them.
Hi Dheeraj,
Your blog is quite impressive!
I will be travelling to Manali from October 1-4th 2015. I was a bit confused about how to go about the choice of timings to leave from faridabad towards manali? I just dont want to miss the scenic beauty as and when it starts off towards manali. I have heard the from Katrain you get to see the best views till you reach manali and further.
If I leave at night will I be missing out on it? Or should I leave early morning?
Also, what is the current status of Rohtang pass? We will be taking a hired taxi towards manali.
Does rohtang offer some fallen snow beauty during this time?
Which places do you advise to capture nature at its best there?
Many thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Ritu,
Thank you. You should leave either in night in that case or at least by 4 AM to reach Katrain area with some light left in the day. Snow is not present at Rohtang Pass. The taxis to Rohtang Pass are banned for tourists now and you need to take the HPTDC tourist bus to go to Rohtang Pass
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the reply. but this link says something else:
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/rohtang-pass-ban-ngt-relaxes-ban-on-tourist-vehicles/
Is there a way to confirm the status?
Many thanks,
Ritu
Ritu, please read: Rohtang Pass Rules & Restriction of Vehicles – Demystified
The relaxation of the rule was done only upto 16th August after which all tourist vehicles including bikes going to Rohtang Pass have been banned.
Dear All,
I am planning to travel from Delhi to Manali on next 11 Sep 2015. With me, I would have my wife and my 19 months old baby son. I have no idea about the tour and travel. Can anyone help me by advising:
– Is there any problem may arise while carrying small baby with us?
– What should be Clothing preparation and others (might be too cold time!)?
– Is it good idea if I take any package tour from Delhi? I need info about such package tour organizer.
– What are other precautions and additional required preparations?
P
lease help me with giving some descriptive information.
Hello Pasha,
1. With that old baby it is fine to travel but consult your paediatrician as most children suffer from motion sickness in mountain and throw out. He will be able to recommend you.
2. Yes, propoer woolen clothes must be there and child should be covered properly. If you are looking for package tour, you can connect with info@offbeatescapes.com as most of the readers in the past couple of years have had very good feedback about them and their transparent policies.
3. Read the article: Traveling to Ladakh with Kids or Babies
I am also going manali on 5th sep. if you can shift your trip then i have 3 seats left in my car. you can go with us with sharing for trip to manali and rohtangpass
Hi Dheeraj,
Could you please suggest us any place to stay on Manali- Rohtang Road? We are 10 guys arriving in Manali on 24th July(self drive XUV) & will be leaving for Sarchu on 25th early morning. We wanted a place outside town so that we can continue to Rohtang & further the next morning without any hassles.
And one more thing, If we are reaching Manali at around 3:00 PM, Can we start for keylong?
Thank You!
Pranav, on Manali – Rohtang road you can stay at some places which comes near Kothi. There are some other hotels too. Avoid sleeping at Sarchu or Pang at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there. It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you minimize the chances for falling sick or hit by AMS while going to Leh from Manali. And, then next day carry on the rest of the journey to Leh without sleeping in between anywhere by leaving early in the morning say, by 4-5 AM types. I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa. If you are coming back via Manali – Leh, then it should be OK to stay at Sarchu as your body will be acclimatized by that time.
Thanks.. Actually I wanted to know whether we can start for Keylong from Manali at around 3:00 PM provided we are having the permit? 🙂
Pranav, you can surely start, will take about 5 Hrs to reach Keylong but I will not advice for it and driving in night.
Dear Dheeraj ,
Thanks for the article , It is very useful .We are 2 couples. Can you please verify and suggest some amendments for th following following plan to Manali :
1.) 1st July -> Leaving Delhi at Night
2.) 2nd July -> Reaching Manali around 12 or 1pm. Rest in hotel(Please suggest some good hotel to stay for 2nights ) for some hours , then some local sightseeing as suggested by you .
3.) 3rd July -> Visit to Rohtang Pass (Can you please mention what can we cover else other than Rohtang Pass ) ?
4.) 4th July -> Visit to Solang Valley (Please add some places to visit here ). and Night Stay at Nagar Castle as suggested by you(it looks awesome ).
5.) 5th July -> Local places in Naggar(Please suggest some) and Leaving From Naggar to Delhi at Night .
Thanks In Advance
Milan
Milan,
1. Goto Old Manali in case you are looking for budget places of stay
2. You can cover Solang Valley while going or coming back from Rohtang Pass
Rest your plan looks cool to me
Regards
Dheeraj
Appreciate your feedback .
Thanks
Hi Milan,
Please share your experience and photos etc when you come back. I would be travelling on the same route via Ambala-Bilaspur starting from Faridabad but in the last week of July so little worried related to rain conditions and route.
Hi
someone please tell me i want to go to manali alone with my bike from delhi as single rider on august
is it safe to drive alone and any other tips
regards
ajay
Ajay, in case you are comfortable in riding bike for long hours and are fine to ride in hills, you can go over as the roads up to Manali are in fine condition.
Dheeraj
Hi !
I’m driving with my family to Manali from Delhi between May 24th and 31st, 2015.
Have read the itinerary for Manali, advised by you in the earlier posts, but need advice on the following:-
1) I will be taking a night halt in the middle, is Hotel Panchwati at Bilaspur advisable ?
2) Will the road between Manali & Rohtang be open by May 26th, as it is showing as closed in the Current Road Status 2015.
Regards
Arjun
Hi Arjun
1. Not sure about the hotel as I never stayed there, place is fine.
2. Yes, Manali to Rohtang Pass has opened now and for tourists will open on 20th May.
Regards
Dheeraj
I came back from my Manali Trip between 19th-24th May 2015. I drove from Delhi to Manali on 19th Night at 10.30 PM and reached Manali at 1.00 PM on 20th. Road Condition from Delhi to Shambhu Barrier in Top Condition. Shambhu to Kharar – road condition is just ok. Kharar to Kiratpur – road condition is top notch. Kiratpur to Swarghat – Very Bad Condition which will break the entire car if the driver is not on top of his drive, cool and calm. If the driver is not in hurry and drive coolly, he can get over this bad stretch within an hour or so, Swarghat to Bilaspur road is mostly ok, however, there are big holes in between which can break the entire car, hence, need safe and cool drive. Panchwati Hotel and its Restaurant after five kilometer from Bilaspur is a must stop for refreshment after Kiratpur to Bilaspur stretch. Between Bilaspur to Sundernagar, there is a 10 KM stretch completely broken and muddy. After Sundernagar, road condition is mostly good till Manali.
Till 23rd May, Rohtang Pass was not opened. Drive up to Marhi (called madi by locals) which is 35 KM from Manali is only allowed. All vehicles were being allowed whether taxi or private, or whether from HP or other States on payment of Rs 1000 for Petrol, Rs 2500 for Diesel and Rs 5000 for 5+ Seater Vehicles. No SDM Passes were needed for Vehicles from outside HP. There was a check-post after about 5 KM drive from Manali which checks Car Registration and Pollution Certificate. After that, the aforesaid NGT ordered money was being collected at Kothi Check-post.
People going by Taxis may note that – mostly taxi drivers from outside HP refuses to go to Marhi (madi) or Rohtang Pass on one false pretext or the other and the tourist were found harassed because even the local taxis were not available.
Further note that Road from Kullu to Manikaran is very-very bad. Except if you are Religiously Inclined go to Manikaran, or else avoid it completely, unless you do not love your BACK OR CAR.
Thank you so much Sunil for sharing the updated details with all of us here. I have posted this in DwD Community as well where more and more travelers in coming days will be benefited by this update on road conditions to Delhi – Manali road.
Few More details about Delhi to Manali Trip:
Manali to Marhi (Madi) Drive is a must for all tourist for its Beauty, BRO has done an excellent job of preparing the Best Road for Driving Pleasure between Manali to Marhi. I can say that it was the best road I drove in my entire tour of Manali.
Manali to Nagar Castle Road is also good. Nagar Castle visit is worth the effort for its own beauty and beautiful scene it present from its restaurant of the entire valley.
Solang Valley is lying deserted except for few tourist interested in Rope-Way. It was the best and most advanced rope-way i ever rode. Once you reach the top through rope-way, you will find that money you spent on the rope-way was worth for the scenic beauty it present of the mountains and valley.
Thank you so much Sunil ji, I have shared all these details here in DoW Comunity: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/road-status-conditions-f32/best-route-manali-delhi-t1074-30.html#p20784
Hie dheeraj
I’m mukesh and we 5 frnds are planning our road trip in himachal which includes mandi shimla sanga manali Dalhousie dharamshala chamba .. We’ll start from 19th may 2015 .. Will it be safe driving all over .. What about the roads there ?
As this is our first trip there !!
Please do reply ..
Thank you 🙂
Mukesh in May it shall be fine to travel Himachal and road conditions will also be fine. Just that due to school vacations you will be facing too much crowd at most of these places.
Hi , dheeraj
need one last help from you…
I have planned my trip with family on 19th February and was bit worried about the weather. .. as I was checking on some weather updates,the forecast for that period is showing rain and showers.. so need your suggestion on this .. will rain play a spoil sport in our trip
Chetan, in case you are heading up in Manali and it rains, then well there will be chance of you seeing snowfall up there in the valley. However, when rain comes in lower hills it causes some hassles but in winters they are mostly less hassles and chances of seeing snowfall get high 🙂
Thanks dheeraj
Best wishes for your Manali trip Chetan, have loads of fun 🙂
Hiii Dhiraj,
I need ur suggestion as I am planning manali visit during mid of march and just want to know that will there any chance to see snow fall in mid of march. what will the temperature over there in march.
Amit, it all depends upon the luck and weather that day. It usually do not snow during that time but in case of bad weather it can for sure snow even in April and May though not exactly in Manali but towards snow points of Rohtang Pass like MArhi, Gulaba or Rohtang Pass itself. In March, it will be quite pleasant up there in Manalu especially in day time and in night and early morning, it will be little cold though not that much. However, you will still need to carry jacket or woolens.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning for Manali in April end 2015 for 5N/6D .Could you please help with some placed to visit or some kind of itenary.
Thanks,
Pooja
Pooja, you can refer the 5-6 day common itinerary for Manali mentioned in the travel guide article above.
“This month infact next week”
Hi,
Im planning a trip to manikaran kasol manali from 22nd till 28th…wanted to check n be sure if the roads are good to travel by bus…are the routs open or they are blocked?
Thanks!!
Krishna, roads to Kasol / Manikaran are open and only gets closed temporarily if at all in case of heavy snowfall on those days.
hi dheeraj,
You’re blog has been very informative, I am planning a backpacking trip to himachal from dec 16th to 24th. I stay in hyderabad. I plan on visiting manali , kasol, tosh and hopefully Malana. My budget is around 6000-7000 rs excluding travel to delhi and back. I would like to know if my timespan is enough. Also is it safe to travel during this time? What kind of precautions I must take? I would also like to know about places for cheap accommodation and food in the respective locations ,travel costs within himachal, and how do I plan out my travel routine to all these places.
Hi Siddharth,
I am not really sure if Malana will be feasible and so do Tosh due to presence of snow. You have time though and can take it easy and try to trek up there. It is in general safe to travel but in case you seems to loose the trail, immediately turn back. If possible, try to make some local who can accompany you to these treks, especially Malana. This guy Om Negi is the one with whom we stayed in camps and couple of rooms he has on our Kasol Clean Drive trip, you can reach him at 09805716616
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi,
Me and my girl friend are planning y to visit Manali, is there any issue to stay in hotel ?
Rahul, I do not think there should be any issue as many couple travel over there. I am not sure in what sense you talking about the issue but many couple travel up that route every year.
Hi..found your post very helpful. .need little suggestions from you. ..I and my friends are planning to visit shimla kullu manali in February end.. and the thing is we are not able to decide the suitable time for visit as we are 3 couples and 6 kids ( including 2 infants).. so I need a suggestion on thid which is the best time to visit suitable for everyone , feb end or April first week. .. and also a good itinerary for ex – chandigarh to shimla kullu manali .. and best places to see in a period of 5 days
Chetan, April first will be pleasant while Feb will be cold.
Thanks for your kind reply. .. but me and my friends want to be there for a chance of snowfall and enjoy the manali full of snow.. so what do you suggest it shouldn’t be a problem if we plan it for feb end and especially we have kids with us. And also it would be helpful if you can help us with a itinerary of selected places as we want to have a relaxed trip
Chetan, in that case you will have to travel in Feb only. Just carry enough woolens and it shall be all fine. How many days you planning? One itinerary is suggested in the article, will that suffice?
Thanks for your help dheeraj.. if you could suggest a itinerary for 5 night 6 days for shimla kullu manali amritsar from chandigarh. . And a good budget hotels in the range of 1500 to 2000 inr.. and also we want to have a relaxed trip , so if you could suggest very selected places as we have kids with us
Chetan, this is what you can follow for 5 night and 6 days in Manali and around:
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for half of the day and enjoy the walks on Mall road. (I assume that you will be reaching in the morning by Volvo)
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting), Hike the woods around Old Manali, Jogni Falls, Bijli Mahadev near Kullu etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali. On the way back you can visit Solang Valley and do paragliding there.
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Amritsar
Day 6 – Amritsar and return
You can skip stay at Naggar Castle if you want to spend couple of days in Amritsar
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for such great informative blog post.
I am planning to visit Manali between 20th to 31st Dec’14 with family (including kids). Priority is to witness snowfall, not fallen snow 🙂
As i have pretty much days to spend in and around Manali, please help me to figure out ideal place to stay with high probability of snow-fall. Also please suggest places to visit around manali during our 8 days stay.
thanks in anticipation …
Rgds,
Karun Madaan
Just to add – I am looking for budget/mid-range accomodation
Karun, in that case better you stay at Solang Valley. 8 days is too much for a Manali trip.
Day 1 – Leave from Delhi by overnight Volvo for Manali. Get down at Aut/Bhunter near Kullu next morning (Day 2) where you can get to reach Tirthan Valley (about 40-45 KMs from there)
Day 2 – Tirthan Valley – Relaxing day besides Tirthan River
— Stay at Raju Bharti Guest House (you will need booking well in advance, so finalize it ASAP) other you need to stay at some other property. Raju is a pioneer in that region, so will say do not miss the stay there as it is quite an experience in itself.
Day 3 – Tirthan Valley
— Enjoy the walks in the GHNP. There are two Waterfalls nearby Raju GH in the woods.
Day 4 – Tirthan Valley – Naggar Castle (about 50 KMs)
— Stay at Naggar Castle and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Musueum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top
— It is one of the most romantic places in Himachal
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Manali / Solang Valley (about 30 KMs)
— Rest for the Day
Day 6 – Local Sightseeing in Manali
— Manali Local sightseeing including Manu Temple, Hadimba Temple, Local Monastery, Shopping at Mall road etc etc
Day 7 – Manali / Solang Valley – Marhi/Gulaba Snow Points towards Rohtang Pass – Solang Valley / Manali
– You can enjoy the first half of the day at snow point MArhi/Gulaba (whichever is accessible) and if interested may also visit Solang Valley snow point for other adventure activities
Day 8 | Manali – Delhi by overnight Volvo
— Relax in Manali by evening and leave from Manali by overnight Volvo.
Thanks Dheeraj … much appreciate your suggestions.
Any recommendation for stay at Solang valley ??
Rgds,
Karun Madaan
Hotel Iceland is a nice place to stay up there at solang Valley.
hi dheeraj. Hope u r doing well, thanks for the amazing post i am planning for a trip to manali from delhi with my collage-mates on 26th Dec-2 Jan. Booked a tour package from make my trip, they provided one day Rothang pass also in Itinerary (upto snow point). My intention of travel is Snow skiing. So please proide valuable comments from your end regarding Rothang Pass and clothes need in winter
Umar, Rohtang Pass will not be open but the nearest snowpoint to which traffic will be allowed can be visited. You can ski in Solang Valley.
Hey Dheeraj,
Thanks for the lovely info. I have been following your blogs and tips since long and have executed quite a few trips in the past. This time I’m planning a trip to Manali at the end this month ie. November with my wife and parents. I have planned to self drive all the way from Delhi in a dzire. So here comes the first question, Is the car selection fine for the drive?
Secondly I have planned to start from Delhi in the evening around 7ish and take night halt in Chandigarh. The reason being driving in hills at night is considered dangerous by the rest of the family and moreover will be missing the view of landscapes if driven at night. So Is the reason justified ?? Which place would you suggest for a night halt??
Thirdly could you suggest a good route to take from Chandigarh in the morning which can be safe as well as less congested??
Also looking for some advise on a good hotel with a good parking space as will park the car there and do the sightseeing by hiring a taxi.
At last, will rohtang pass be open at this time of the year and would you suggest spending the entire day for it and skipping every other sightseeing place or otherwise. And if otherwise then which places you recommend (preferably less crowded more scenic).
Thanks again and sorry for bombardment of questions. Just that I would really appreciate an expert advise on this as am new to that area
Thanks
Sumanto
Hey Dheeraj,
Car is good enough to make this trip, you will not have issues. The reason is very much justified and good enough, if possible you can carry on the drive up to Swarghat top too and leave Swarghat in the morning. HPTDC has a hotel up there at Swarghat too. After Kiratpur the hills starts and up to Swarghat it is just 20 odd KMs, which can be done else stay up there in Chandigarh only. If you enter Chandigarh then you will have to take the main route to Ropar – Kiratpur only as from Ambala the diversion to Kharar goes skipping Chandigarh by pass. Check Johnson’s lodge if it suits your budget, amazing place to stay in Manali. Rohtang Pass is already closed and is not advisable too as the vehicles skidd, so even if local drivers promise to take you up, then DO evaluate the risk as it is risky going up there. Do check out Naggar Castle for a day’s stay or two.
Solang Valley is also a nice place to stay in case you do not want to stay at Manali in crowd.
Regards
Dheeraj
Appreciate the info brother. One more question, Do you think snowfall can be expected now around Manali (Judging by the sudden dip in temp).
Rgds
Sumanto 🙂
Sumanto, snowfall all depends upon luck 🙂 … It is always hard to predict snowfall as it depends on the luck and the weather on the day you plan to visit :)… For snowfall best bet is that, you keep the plan flexible and keep a check on weather updates on the day you plan to visit.
But, yes of course there will be plenty of snow stock around Manali. So, if snow is the priority then there are no issues but for snowfall best bet is that, you keep the plan flexible and keep a check on weather updates on the day you plan to visit. The links here: Rohtang Pass, Kothi and Manali regions respectively can be helpful for you in tracking the weather updates of Manali and around. If it says raining in Manali, or rains/snow at Kothi or snows at Rohtang Pass then expect snowfall at nearby snow points of Solang and Marhi/Gulaba etc. As far as snow is concerned, you will find plenty of snow out there.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi
we are planning to visit manali in starting of december and we are thinking to hire a taxi from delhi i just want to know about the driving conditions there on the manali highway and is it safe to travel at night please tell me in detail about the conditions and precautions that we should take there
thank you ….. your suggestions are really guiding
Ritwik, yeah, it is fine to drive at night as long as you are patient and careful driving. The stretch from Swarghat to Bilaspur see a lot of truck traffic, be careful while overtaking as they madly overtake each other. Unless you guys have a clear sight DO NOT overtake, it is just a matter of 2.5 Hrs on slow pace, so don’t hurry through it.
Hi its ritwik again and thank you sir for your guidence
I want to ask one more thing – would there be fog on manali highway , what will be whether there. …… thanks 🙂
Ritwik, fog would most likely be on the main highway. In hills usually it is not that foggy, may be around Sundernagar and Mandi you may get some but by the time you will be there I guess you might cross that part.
planning to travel on bike from delhi to manali on fed 11 to 16 is it safe
Sam, yes, it is mostly safe in winters to ride as long as you are careful and cautiously riding. Don’t rush and over take only when you have a clear sight.
Hi Dheeraj,
I need a favour from you.
We are 3 friends planning to visit Chandigarh-manali-Dharmashala. will be reach at delhi in Nov 2014 Mid at 8 P.m. We have 4-6 days time limits. We are just going to chill our mood.
We want a complete fun trip along with good food and drinks.
Please let me know if this plan is executable? Also, I have the below queries…pls help.
1.Suggest me that I should travel by bus or train(via kalka) from delhi ?
2.Want to one day stay at Naggar Castle Please guide us about low cost hotel with good food.
3. Give us idea about skiing..bike riding.
4. Plese give us idea abut budget hotel in Shimla and Manali.
5.Along with all this things tell me that how much amount would cost per person on twin sharing basis.
6.The places I want to visit chandigarh..manali..rohtang pass-solang valley-kasol-manikaran-nagar castle and dharmashala. Is it possibal to 6000-7000rs per person?
As I have told you my full plan do give me exact information about my budget.
Please make the best plan for us day to day wise along with name of hotels to stay.
I would be very much thankful to you.
Regards,
Girish
Hi Girish,
1. Best if to travel by overnight volvo to Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh.
2. Bhai try some homestay or guest house on the spot at Naggar. I only stayed at Naggar Castle.
3. There will be bikes available for rent in Manali, get any. Skiing may be possible in Solang Valley or Snow Point at Marhi/Gulaba.
4. Manali – Naggar road has many cheap hotels, Hotel Triveni is also there near Main Market which is also economic.
5. Depends upon things you do, places you stay and food you eat. I take 800-1200 per day per person for food and stay.
6. Too many places, you can just cover Manali, Solang, may be Kasol and Naggar with it.
Regards
Dheeraj
HI… I am planning to visit manali or shimla in the starting of Nov. Can u please help me to know about hire a bike & rent also.
Puneet, bikes can be hired from Manali and need to be returned at Manali. Including Shimla will be a long return back to Manali.
I am travelling to manali on 1st october from delhi.. And all the hrtc & hptdc buses are full.. What other reliable choices do i have ?
Varun sorry I am not aware of other reliable options. Though private operators do run Volvo from Majnu ka tilla.
Dear Dheeraj
I am from Kerala.Planning a trip to manali on 16th september,2014 for 5 days.is it a best time to visit manali?Can we Enjoy our manali days during this period?
Safwan, yes it is good time to travel Manali as rains would have settled and water would have been cleared of the river form dusty color. So, it will be nice experience. Though please keep in mind that there will be no snow present during this time of the year.
Thank you Dheeraj,we are extremely grateful to your response.There one more thing we wanted to know
1.what are the best attractive things in Manali during these days(Sep mid)?
2.will greenery be at it’s peek?
3.what should be the Ideal planning during this period?
1) Refer the Travel Guide Article above.
2) Not exactly at peak because Autumn begins in September but will be majority of it greener
3) Refer the travel guide above and there is an ideal itinerary suggested too. You can check it and curtail it to your needs.
Dear,your blog is so informative and very helpful.as you suggested,Finally we have decided to travel to Spiti valley from Manali side on 16 September.There are some queries regarding our Spiti Trip and this would be my last doubt and there won’t be many more to irritate you.
Our final query concerned about transportation.we are aiming to start our journey by Taxi.
1.how much does a taxi cost to get from Manali to Spiti?
2.are Taxis easily accessible in Manali or better should we concentrate on public transportation?
could you please suggest A good and economical transportation plan for our passionate trip?
You can get connected directly to some drivers in Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley. These drivers can come and pick you up from Manali & Shimla too.
The rates of the taxis are about Rs 3000-3500 per day depending upon the number of days you plan to travel, more the days, less the price.
Otherwise, taxis in general are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands
hey dheeraj thanks for the amazing post: i am planning for a drive to manali from delhi. I plan to leave august 6 at around 4-5am cos her flight is landing that time and head straight for manali. will start there on 10th.
Now please tell me what all i can do that time. have driven to manali before so am comfortable with hill driving but is it safe to drive in august? and will manali e any fun in august or i will remain confined to my hotel room? also i am not very keen on solang as have been there and its just filth. Planning to stay a night at kasol and then move on from there. Please advise sir. I am mostly concerned about the road safety in august.
Sahil, there will certainly be rains and in case of heavy rains, even the NH-21 is disrupted at time as the Beas overflows. IMHO, not a wise decision to travel that far into lower hills where river is there around and is known for disruptions for last few years.
I will better advice Kangra region, may be Khajjiar – Kalatop – Dalhousie. The approach is easy plains till Pathankot and then few hours of drive to hills. And you can easily relax overlooking the green meadow in front even if you are confined to the room.
thanks for the reply.
What about Dharamsala-Mcleodganj. is that place safe to drive to? My girl likes monastries etc so she will have a good time there while i sit back and admire the ‘grass’.
Yeah Sahil, you can go over to that place as well. It is near to Khajjiar as well and hence can be approached. But, you can travel directly to Mcleod Ganj too. In monsoons, traveling to mountains will have certain degree of risk always.
hi, i have 4 days. will be leaving from delhi on saturday morning (will be late around 12 due to work schedule) would stay somewhere in the night mayb swarghat or bilaspur or mandi.. then sunday will reach and booked johnsons lodge. monday is planned for rohtang and solang valley. tueday we leave and will reach delhi back at night..
is this schedule too much to ask for?? i have driving experience in plains for long hours however not hills. can you suggest me the routes (the regular one, or the dharampur one or the long scenic una.bhakra-nangal route??)
kindly suggest me
Hello Dr. Siddharth,
If you OK with long drives this should be fine. You can reach Mandi by Saturday only and then next day it is easy 3.5-4 Hr drive to Manali. You can come back by Una – Bhota route but better save time by going from normal route of Kiratpur – Bilaspur – Mandi. Only 20 KMs between Swarghat – Kiratpur is in really bad shape BUT rest of the route has been majorly repaired. So, you can take that route and save time. The Una – Bhota route will take about 2 Hrs extra easily as it is about 50-55 KM long.
Regards
dheeraj
Hi i am planning to visit manali on 9th of june nd i am traveeling by my own car fron New delhi. Just confused wether to travel in night or i shud start early morning around 5 am
Karan, if you are OK in traveling at night then only start at night else better start 4 AM in morning to reach Manali by evening.
is it possible 2 person ahmedabad to ladakh in 25000?
Very tough, unless you stay in dorm tents always and do hitch hiking or take lifts for various destinations.
Hi!!
Your blog is very much helpful to travellers!!
Actually I along with my 2 more friends are travelling to manali from delhi this june for 3 nights. We are not interested in staying in the city as there is lot of jams and all. Instead we are planning to stay in camp exotica which is located in Naggar, near manali and the next day an early morning start and hit jispa, stay there for one night and return to manali again on the third day. Stay in manali the third night and leave for delhi on fourth day.
I just want to know would that be a feasible option?
Thanks
Regards
Rahul
Rahul, this is very much a feasible plan. But, please start from Naggar well before 3 AM to avoid traffic jam at rohtang Pass for crossing it to go to Jispa.
I need a favour from you.
Me and my friends are planning to visit himachal from delhi this month from 24 june 2014 . We have no time limits. We are just going to chill our mood. The places I want to visit through my route are chandigarh..shimla..manali..rohtang pass..solang valley..kasol..
We want to do all the activities there like rafting..skiing..bike rides..much more
Suggest me that I should travel by bus or by a taxi from delhi only.
We want a complete fun trip along with good food and drinks.
With a budget hotel. But clean.
Along with all this things tell me that how much amount would cost per person on twin sharing basis. As I have told you my full plan do give me exact information about my budget.
Please make the best plan for us day to day wise along with name of hotels to stay.
I would be very thankful to you.
Hi Gaurav,
Better travel from Bus from Delhi and hire bikes in Manali.
I cannot give you rhe budgeting as you need to do anything and everything which can cost anything 🙂 … also, on a general note my travel does not go beyond Rs 700-1000 per day per person for food and stay. Rest is commute, whatever it costs. But, you have many things additional.
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for the evening
Day 2 – Hire bikes and Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar – Kasol – Manikaran – Kasol (Enjoy Kasol with Israeli culture and cuisines)
Day 6 – Kasol – Tosh/Pulga/Malana
Day 7 – Tosh/Pulga/Malana
Day 8 – Tosh/Pulga/Malana – Kasol – Manali, return bikes and take overnight volvo back to Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj
Thank you so much for your reply…but I think you didn’t focused on my words . I said I want to go shimla and chandigarh too. But you changed my plan for day 6,7,8 please change these places for shimla and chandigarh. As I dont heard anything special about tosh ..pulga…malana.
I dont wanna go there..
2. Will one day be sufficient for solang and rohtang?
3.renting cost of bikes per day? How much security?
4. Will bikes be able to go to the rohtang pass. Or we have to take a taxi there. What will that taxi charge.
5 . names of hotel which are clean and hygenic in all 5 places.
6. Cost of volvo bus from delhi to manali and companys name providing bus?
Please reply for these 6 questions too…I would be very helpful for me and my friends. Thank you once again.
Oops did I change your plan? From Kasol you can go to Shimla and then to Chandigarh on 6,7,8 day.
2. Should be sufficient in general as there is nothing much there unless you plan to stay in Solang and rest.
3. Ranges from 700-1500 depending upon model and make of bike. Security is different for different vendors.
4. I do not think there should be a problem for hired bikes. But, confirm from the vendor.
5. Johnson’s Lodge in Manali, Naggar Castle, Sandhya Kasol, Shimla has many options and I never stay there no don’t know. Chandigarh again I never stayed.
6. Around 1250 types. Check websites of HRTC and HPTDC.
Hi Dheeraj,
Your blog is very helpful. Thank you very much.
Can you tell me places for sight seeing around Shimla, Manali and Dalhousie as per the time I have in my hand. Following is my Itnry.
I know there are many places and I will have to skip some places as I do not have time to visit all. I want to know which places I should not miss as per below schedule.
Tour start date 18-May-2014.
1. Delhi to Shimla by Car. Night halt at Shimla
2. Shimla sight seeing. Night halt at Shimla
3. Shimla to Manali. Night halt at Manali.
4. Manali sightseeing Night halt at Manali.
5. Manali Sightseeing. Night halt at Manali.
6. Manali to Dalhousie. Night halt at Dalhousie.
7. Dalhousie sightseeing. Night halt at Dalhousie.
8. Dalhousie to Amritsar. Night halt at Amritsar.
9. Amritsar sightseeing. Night halt at Amritsar.
10 Amritsar to Chandigarh. Night halt at Chandigarh.
11. Chandigarh to Delhi.
Please note: I am planning to do a river rafting also.
Thanks in Advance,
~Nirav
Hi Nirav,
Around Shimla, you have Famous Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Jakhu Temple, Lunch at Mall Road, Chini Bunglow, State Museum, Kufri – Narkanda – Hatu Peak, Chail, etc..
Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc, Snow Points are at either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass and do check out Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place if possible).
Around Dalhousie, check out Khajjiar, Kalatop, Jot, Chamba, Chamera Lake, Panchpulla, a hike to Chanmari from there.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj.
Best wishes for your Himachal Trip 🙂
Hi,
We are planning a trip from mumbai to kullu manali in the second week of june alongwith family friends.
My main question is my father had a bypass surgery last year, he is 78 now and mother is 70.They are keen on seeing snow. Is it safe for them to travel to kullu manali? What precautions should we take regarding travel?
Yes, Lalita I do not see any issues with respect to altitude wise. DO CONSULT with the doctor for sure as I am not a doctor regarding it. Manali does not have that much of an altitude to worry about our bodies. However, going to Rohtang Pass should be considered as short trip and you should consult the doctor for sure for an altitude of about 4000 Mtrs, if that can cause problems for a person with bypass surgery or not. Rest age wise there are no implications at all.
Hello Dheeraj,
First of all thank you for the information you have shared, it’s very useful for all.
I need your suggestion for my trip:
I will be there at Chandigrah on 17th May (afternoon)
And have to reach on 25th morning max 7:30AM to Domestic airport at Delhi.
I want to stay at Chandigrah on 17th May (sightseeing) then Shimla (sightseeing) and then Manali (3N /4D) then back to Delhi.
We are total 4, Me and my wife and our 2 children’s (11 Y and 7 Y)
Can you please suggest best budget plan for us? Where to stay and where to go and what time we need to leave etc.
Q:
1. Do you suggest to stay at Shimla (does it worth to stay there and do sightseeing)?
2. How is Kunzum hotel to stay at Manali? Suggest any other around 2500/- including 2 beds + 2 mattresses
3. What will be total cost from Chandigrah – Shimla – Manali – Delhi airport?
4. What will be total cost only at Manali (including stay + Adv sports, ice skiing )
5. Any other suggestion will be very good
Hi Shirish,
1. You have 6 days in hand. I suggest to skip Shimla to avoid too much travel.
2. You will find many options in 2500 range. Check out Manali – Naggar road for it once you reach there.
3. All depends how you eat and where you stay. I generally take a budget of Rs 700-800 per day per person for food and lodging. Ticket of Volvo to Manali from Delhi cost you about 1240 per person.
Regards
Dheeraj
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thank you for taking time to put out an extensive itinerary. Also for diligently answering all the queries. I must apologize for further crowding your comments section. But I’m planning my first trip to the hills with a friend from New Delhi around the second week of April, and have some queries:
1) Assuming that most people flocking Manali are domestic tourists, do you think the crowd gets thinner on weekdays compared to weekends?
2) Since it’s the tourist season, would it be wiser on our part to book hotels in advance? (regardless of taking the trip on weekday/weekend)
3) I’ve heard a lot about Kasol and would love to visit the place (yes, I like to indulge). When do you recommend we head there AND should we stay there overnight? If so, where? And which mode of transportation would you recommend?
4) We’re on a budget trip. Don’t intend to shop around, except maybe buy a couple of souvenirs. We like to drink and love music and food. Which places would you recommend for 2 28 year olds?
5) Finally, off the top of your head, how much do you think the entire trip will cost us?
Thanks so much.
Regards,
Archie.
Hi Archie,
1) Yes, that holds true. Weekdays see less crowd then weekend.
2) Manali has loads of options of stay, better reach there and look out or bargain. Some have been mentioned in the comments above, you can try them. No booking required.
3) Kasol is one place you should not miss in case you are into fine dine-ins and eateries. Try out Bhoj, Evergreen, German Bakery, Moon Dance Cafe, Little Italy, are some fine places to eat. You can check in to stay at Hotel Sandhya OR Hotel Green Valley both of which are decent + clean stays. You will get the buses to bhunter and from there again bus to Manikaran which will drop you at Kasol. Else you can take shared taxi.
4) In this you better go to Kasol and enjoy over there for couple of days. Head to Manali, stay at Old Manali to enjoy good food and drinks plus a bit away from Hustle bustle, a day go towards Snow Points and that’s it, get back to Delhi on Volvo.
5) 5 Day trip might cost you about 5-6K per person types considering you are going by Volvo from Delhi which cost about 2500 for return.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj .
we are planning to visit manali for 6 days at the start of the march from delhi. so pls can u suggest me. what should be the planning….. i am waiting for ur reply
Hi Raunak,
You can plan something like below for your Manali Trip.
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for half of the day and enjoy the walks on Mall road. (I assume that you will be reaching in the morning by Volvo)
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting), Hike the woods around Old Manali, Jogni Falls, Bijli Mahadev near Kullu etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali. On the way back you can visit Solang Valley and do paragliding there.
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Kasol – Manikaran – Kasol
Day 6 – Kasol – Bhunter – Delhi (Checkout from Kasol after lunch and start for Bhunter. Since, the Volvo from Manali will start around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Bhunter or come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus)
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
we r planing to visit agra to madhura to delhi to shimla to manali to delhi on april 14 starting.we are 4 2 adult and 5yr & 11 yr children .give me best budget hotel 1000 to 1500 and trip advice also.we r planining delhi to kalka to simla by train.
Pardosh, I can help you up with planning related to Himalayas but not for Agra/Mathura. How many days you have in hand after you start from Delhi to Shimla?
in manaly april 16 to 18 nights stay and leave 19 morning manali to simla (19 & 20 nights stay ) 21 morning leave from simla
Hi Dheeraj, hope you are doing good. Thanks to your expert advise last year, we took a fantastic tour to Himachal. Himalayas is calling again this year and we are planning to visit Sikkim this time. Do you have an idea about this area or know anyone to guide like you. Thanks in advance for your help. Regards, Sekhar.
Sekhar, you can check one of the links in DwD Community related to sikkim else, you can post your own queries up there and experts/travelers who have been to sikkim will surely help you out in DwD Community. Here is the link: Itinerary help for Sikkim Darjeeling trip
Dear Dheeraj,
We 10 people were planning to visit manali for this weekend, we have got only 2 days (sat & sun) as we need to drop into work on monday. So please suggest us the best plan, that we can make it out.
Please suggest any mode of transport(car/volvo bus) from delhi.
Also we all where from south, mostly we will not get chance to come over here once we get back over there.
Gowthaman, take the overnight volvo on Friday from Delhi to Manali. Reach Manali on Saturday and relax there. Sunday in day time visit the snow points and then take the overnight volvo to Delhi from Manali. This is best possible plan you can follow given the amount of time you have in your hand 🙂
Thank you so much for your quick reply Dheeraj. snow points in th sense rotang pass and solang valley..?
Yes, by snow points I mean by snow points towards Rohtang Pass ie Marhi, Gulaba, Kothi which ever is feasible and Solang Valley.
Hello,
We are reaching Chandigarh on 29th march afternoon and flying back to Bangalore from Amritsar on 6th April morning. We plan to visit manali, kullu, dharmashala and Amritsar. Can you help me in fixing a travel itenary with probable places to visit and period of stay in each place?
Thanx
P choudhury
Hi,
As I see you have 7 days for you and can follow something like below:
Day 1 (30th) | By taking overnight Volvo on 29th from Chandigarh, you will reach Manali on 30th. Rest day at Manali, do local sightseeing around.
Day 2 | Again relaxing day around Manali town, can go over and visit Naggar Castle.
Day 3 | Visit Snow Points towards Rohtang Pass, Marhi and while coming back visit Solang Valley
Day 4 | Manali – Dharamshala, Mcleod Ganj
Day 5 | Relaxing day at Mcleod Ganj
Day 6 | Mcleod Ganj – Amritsar
Day 7 | Amritsar
Day 8 | Fly back
Hope this helps
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We have decided to extent our stay by 2 days. So we will be leaving delhi on 23rd Feb night and we plan to return by night bus on 28th Feb. So is it possible to add khajjiar to our plan now? Or do you have any better itinerary for 6 days? And which are the best budget hotels to stay in between?
Sorry to pester you with questions. I’m excited as well as a little nervous about the whole trip..hope you understand 🙂
Hello Dr Rishi,
Yeah I can imagine your nervousness 🙂 … Even if you add 2 days, what will happen is that you will take 1 day from Manali to reach Khajjiar. Then just one day to relax and finally go to Pathankot and come back from there. So, one tiring day of journey and then one relaxing day at Khajjiar will be the way to go 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
This is brilliant work. Extremely useful for newbie travelers like me. I’m planning to experience himachal in late February with two of my friends. This would be our maiden tryst with the Himalayas. We are planning for a 4 day (or 5) trip from delhi. After going through your posts i have decided to skip shimla. Is it possible to somehow cover manali, kullu, solang, najjar and khajjiar(in love with this place after seeing some pics:)). I would love to go paragliding and rafting. I know its a lot to ask for in 4 days. Please give your valuable suggestions and itinerary advice :). And can u figure out approx budget (we are traveling by volvo from delhi and plans to find local transport for each destinations and We’l be fine with budget hotels) And yea, after reading your review about najjar castle we have decided to experience it too.
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hello DrRishi,
Thank you. Well, you have 4 days with you and I will suggest following for you:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali
Day 2 | Manali Local sightseeing
Day 3 | Manali – Snow Point (Rohang Pass or Marhi) – Manali
Day 4 | Manali – Naggar (in the first half), have lunch at Naggar Castle and then come back to Manali to board overnight Volvo to Delhi
You can do paragliding in Rohtang if you can in this cold weather. I doubt if rafting would be ON though I saw people doing rafting near Bhunter. So, you can do it on Day 2.
Please drop Khajjiar as it is long way from Manali and will take one day to reach and then of course you will need couple of days to explore and relax there too.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj. Any comments on approx budget?
Hmm, take it like about 2500 for commute by Volvo and about 600-800 per day for food + accommodation considering you stay at moderate guest houses and eat normal food 🙂
Thats fine. Plus taxi charges for local sight seeing trips and paragliding!..So could be anywhere between 10 to 15k right. And read about the DOW responsible travel. Its a great initiative. I would love to be a part of it. I’m planing to get some woolen clothes and sample medicines this time. Let me know about the local contacts i can entrust these things with..:)
No no, within 8K it shall be easily manageable or even less I feel, just don’t spend too lavishly :D… You will get discounts at almost all places. There are HPTDC Buses that run as well which you can take tickets too which are very nominal. Taxi will be fine too in case you want personal dedicated one.
And THANK YOU so much for considering the DoW Causes. Regarding woolens, I will suggest that you keep a watch on people working road side for repair works as they will be the ones who will need them most. Then you can also go towards Old Manali where less tourists reach and ask whereabouts of local dispensary. There you can hand over the medicines to head nurse or doctor in charge. Then, same can be done in Naggar Village too when you visit Naggar Castle. So, you can pick any of the villages and execute these DoW Causes.
Also, check this lovely cause carried out by one of the DwD Community members recently near Dharamshala, Mcleoad Ganj: Dow Cause – Gyaan 500 in Dharamkot, Himachal
I will request that you please do share back the details of these Causes back in the DwD Community like the one below and we will be more than happy to share back some DoW Goodies too as a token of appreciation back with you. Once again Thank You for considering them 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj
we are group of 4 planning to drive to Manali from Delhi, on 20th friday night to 25 night. Need your advice on:-
1. Which route should I take – Delhi – shimla – manali or delhi -kirathpur- mandi-manali- this route seems to have a bad patch of 60km to 70km. from kirathpur to Bilaspur.
2. when should we start from Delhi to avoid traffic, early morning Fog and avoid night drive in hills.
3. How should we plan to break our journey as 2 of my friends have never been in mountain, infact never seen mountains in real life, for them it will be tiring for sure.
4.which places should we visit other than Manali.
5. Place that you would recommend us to stay.
Thanks
Anirudh
Hello Anirudh,
1. Anirudh yes, you should go with Kiratpur to Manali because via Shimla it will be very long. So, doesn’t really compensate for that bad patch between Ropar – Bilaspur. Then it is fine mostly. I am just back couple of weeks back from there.
2. It usually takes more than 12 Hours now a days to reach Manali from Delhi. So, you will have to take a chance with fog and start by 4 AM to reach in Daylight else you will have to drive at night in hills. No alternative for it. Starting at 4 AM will also help avoid rush hours in Chandigarh too.
3. Then best place it to break it at Mandi. Day 1, drive till Mandi and then ahead of Mandi it will take another 3.5 Hrs to reach Manali which can be done next day. Stay in Manali for couple of days and leave from there then. Just drive below 30 KMPH on curves and they shall feel good the moment you step up the speed on curves nausea starts coming out in general 🙂
4. Check out Naggar Castle, Solang Valley, Snow Points towards Rohtang Pass. On 24th you can start back to Kasol from Manali via Naggar Castle and then last day drive back home on 25th from Kasol. This way you will be able to see Kasol and Manikaran too.
5. There are loads of places in Manali depending upon your budget. Check the accommodation / stay option section in the article above.
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Your post is so informative…A-z everything a traveler will need to know…well i wana ask one thing i was planing my trip end of this month..what you suggest if its a good idea to go to Manali this time with a kid and also if road travel is a good option..?? Well m lil confused…pls need ur advise…
Sheetal
Sheetal, well, this in monsoon times and yes, you will surely face some hassles in case it will be raining at that time of the month. In case it will be clear weather with light rains, it will appear as almost heaven 🙂 … So, keep an eye on weather updates and in case it say extreme weather then please drop the plan or postpone it. Otherwise, if it says clear weather you can very much take the chance to enjoy the monsoon beauty 🙂
hi dheeraj,
we have planned for shimla,manali trip in august-september.is it better to go at this period??and as i gt to know dat rohtang pass is closed on Tuesdays.we are travelling from mumbai.
please suggest me some good plans.we are newly married couple.
Raj, how many days you have in hand? September is good time. In august there may be rains that can spoil the party. Also, there will be no snow in August or September even at Rohtang Pass.
what a wonderfull post . ! . u rock .
will u please make iternnary for me . .i m visiting shimla in the moth of june . for 7-8 days . i would also like to see kullu manal and rohtang . . will u please make an suitable iternery for me. .
Thanks alot ayaz!! You can try with following itinerary:
Day 1 | Reach Shimla from by overnight volvo from previous night. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
Day 2 | Around Shimla, a relaxing day. Jakhoo Temple, State Museum, Mall Road, Ridge etc. as you like or may be you can visit Kufri in the first half of the day and all this in the second half of the day.
Day 3 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla (a bit long day) or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic :))
Day 4 | Shimla – Manali
Day 5 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 6 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 7 | Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Musueum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top)
Day 8 | Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi. Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volvo to Delhi will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or you have the option to come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus. Or, you can also co-ordinate with bus HPTDC guys so that the bus pick you from the nearest pickup point for Naggar on the way to Delhi. Naggar Castle guys will arrange the taxi for the drop there.
** if you have time then try, Manali Sanctuary can also be covered as it is just about 2-3 KMs from Manali town and there is trail which starts from Manali Log Huts or Dhungri temple that leads you into the woods.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Could someone let me know the time it takes to drive from chandigarh to Bilaspur? I plan to go end of april. I will be leaving at abt 12 noon.
Ishwar, it will take about 4 Hrs to reach Bilaspur from Chandigarh
Hi Dheeraj,
I’m planning to travel with family (2 kids 9&4) to Manali via road from Delhi on 09/03. As you suggested, thinking of taking a break at Bilaspur. Just wanted to have your advice on the route that I should be taking, and on road review.
In my travel experience, I found staying in Govt rest house is better deal and safe in off-seasons. Pvt. Resorts in off-seasons does not provide good service as they let their staff go in off-seasons. In your opinion, does Johnson’s provide good service in terms of food?
Thanks, Ajay
Hi Ajay – I just completed my trip to Manali from Delhi. The roads are excellent from Delhi to Kiratpur. But from Kiratpur till Bilaspur about 60kms of road is Bad to Worst. If you are driving by small car I’m very sure the bottom will scrape and if it rains it will be more worst. Except this stretch, remaining everything is fine. My advise would be stay overnight before Kiratpur and avoid driving on the mountains during night because of these bad roads and lot of sharp to hairpin bend curves. You can also avoid volvo’s and trucks if you take a break during night before Kiratpur and resume your drive by morning 6am.
Totally agree with what Chaitanya suggested 🙂
Hello Ajay,
You will be taking the route like: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). Yups, Johnson’s, is one of the best at Manali 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj – I’m planning to fly from Bangalore to Delhi on Feb 27th and I booked a self drive car from carzonrent.com because my wife has bus sickness and I’m Planning to drive Manali with wifey and 3yrs old kid. As we never know, kids will complain about nature calls, I thought better to self drive a car rather than coming by Volvo. We have been to Manali in Jan 2009 and I did face lot of trouble while coming back with my wife bus sickness. Driver was never willing to stop on the ghat road. So, Please let me know if I can start at Delhi airport by around 11am, depending on the road and driving conditions, if possible, planning to reach Manali by 10-11pm? or if i’m too tired, planning to stay overnight at Chandigarh and start again in the morning and reach Manali on Feb 28th by noon.
Please let me know if this plan is executable? Also, I have the below queries…pls help.
1) Can I self drive car in and around Manali to Solang, Gulaba etc?
2) Will we be able to find fresh snow around Feb 28th-March 2nd?
3) Do you have any feedback on renting self drive cars? especially from carzonrent?
4) I’m planning to stay in Club Mahindra. Any review/feedback on that?
5) We will be staying in Manali on Feb28th, March 1st & March 2nd. I have to catch return flight to Bangalore at Delhi on March 3rd noon 1pm. How better we can plan the return drive? I’m a driving freak, and love to cover all the scenaries mostly avoiding the night drive, also we can escape from those high speeding volvo’s.
Thanks for patiently going through my questions. Appreciate your valuable suggestions.
Thanks
Chaitanya.
Hello Chaitanya,
Firstly, I will suggest that you either break the journey at Chandigarh or Swarghat/Bilaspur for sure. It is winters time, you are with family better avoid any night or late evening drive.
1. Yes, you can. Upto Manali if there is no heavy snowfall in recent days of your trip, then you will not find any snow on roads upto Manali. So, no issues till there but ahead will suggest to hire some local taxi if you are not exprienced with hill driving. Also, it will help you stay away dodging the chaotic traffic at these snow points
2. Yes, there will be plenty of snow up there at that time of the year, both near Manali and Solang Valley as well as snow points of Gulaba and Marhi.
3. Nopes, sorry on that front.
4. They are usually good. If you haven’t booked you might also try Johnson’s either of them as there are two just adjacent to each other.
5. You have to start in the noon on 2nd march and try to reach Chandigarh that evening and then start early morning from Chandigarh and reach Delhi on 3rd well before flight time. This way you cover the journey enroute as well as avoid any night drive.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you so much for your prompt response Dheeraj. Do you have any suggestion for a good budget hotel just to stay overnight at Chandigarh / Swarghat / Bilaspur?
Chaitanya, not sure about Chandigarh but yeah in Swarghat/Bilaspur try the HPTDC property.
Sure Dheeraj, do we need to book it online or through phone? or is it just we can directly go and try the room in HPTDC Swarghat/Bilaspur?
Well, at this time of the year usually you will get the room without any advance bookings. A day or two before you can check the availability online and then decide too.
hi dheeaj,
first of all,a nice n organisd blog…cngrtz.i m from bangladesh.6 of us(4frm india) wit my 2yr old kid r planning to visit shimla,narkanda,manali,naggar n kothi during 1st week of dcmbr’13.we wil b starting from kolkata.wil u help me in planning my journy n wit some info..
1.wil it b ok wit my 2yr old kid?
2.wil rhotang be closd?
3.how many days r needed fr d trip?
4.good budget hotels in both d places,should i book them earlier or by getting thre?(concrnd abut fooding n othr stuffs for d kid)
5.should i contct a travel agent for transportation i.e sightseein n shimla to manali driv(we want taxi so that we can stop in mid-jrny)
Hi Nivedita,
Well, planning so early 🙂
1. Yes, it should be OK to travel with 2 yr old kid, just make sure you carry proper heavy woolens for the same and get him wrapped in clothes.
2. Rohtang will be closed and even if it is open not advisable to go there and risk the lives/injuries as it happens due to slippery roads.
3. If you want to include both Shimla as well as Manali side, then go with at least 8-9 days for a relaxing trip.
4. Since, it will be off season better go and check with them. what is your budget?
5. I do not think you shoudl contact any travel agent. Let me know the number of days, I will suggest the plan for you and you can manage the plan with either hotel guys or any taxi guy which you can get hold while you are there. It will provide you flexibility as well as save some good money too 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any inputs or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey ,
thnx for d quick rply.actualy as atravel freak i cant resist myslf from planning.
1.we r planning for 7 nights.do i need 1 day xtra?
2.we r on low budget n coz that wuld b off season we shuld get good discount.so its better to r 1000-1500.will u suggest some pls?
3.i m confusd abut transportation.should we book a car for d whole trip or just day by day progrm?what should b the procedure?
4.so we r excluding rhotang but will we b able to go solang valley?
pls plan the trip for me.
thnx for ur gr8 suuprt
bye
nivedita
Hi Nivedita,
1. Better have a day extra to make it easy trip.
2. In the off season you will be able to find hotels within that budget if not go with HPTDC Kunzum.
3. Better do for day by day program and also check the HPTDC website as they offer package local tours on reasonable prices in semi deluxe type buses.
4. yes, you will be able to go to Solang Valley
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, Iam planning to visit manali around april 20 with my family and other couple.Pls suggest the following.
1. Is it better to start from chandigarh rather than delhi.if so, better to take bus or private taxi and which time to start(day or night)?
2. I want to do the trip individually without any package.i have 4 – 5 days and would like to cover local sightseeing apart from rohtang pass, snow point,solang valley, manikaran and naggar.what wud be the ideal itenary.
3. Is it possible to club dharmashala if I have an extra day and what options to return back to chandigarh/delhi from manali/dharmashala? Thanks in advance.
Hi Sekhar,
1. Chandigarh start will save you about 4-5 Hrs and you can opt for either private taxi or overnight volvo to Manali from Chandigarh
2. For ideal itinerary for 4-5 days to Manali see below.
3. You can but better keep it simple and relaxing I will suggest.
Below is the itinerary:
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for the evening
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Kasol – Manikaran – Manali
Day 6 – Reach Chandigarh in the morning by overnight volvo. If you do not have this day then club Day 4 and Day 5 to reach Chandigarh on Day 5 itself.
I hope this helps. Let me know in case you have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, many thanks for your suggestions. Few more queries for you.
1. I heard that chandigarh – manali drive is very scenic.will i miss out something good if i do an overnight drive.
2. heard that rohtang pass was opened mid april last year. any chances of it opening around april 20 this year.
3. I have never visited any passes. Any other pass around manali open at that time if rohtang pass is still closed.
4. any idea on the taxi rate(indigo) from chandigarh to manali.
Thanks again.
Hi Shekhar,
1. Hmm… yes it is but may be the time night drive will save you will be more worth than views.
2. Guess, you heard it from some wrong place. Rohtang Pass was opened in June first week, may end in 2012. So, highly unlikely you will find it open in April.
3. Nopes, only Rohtang Pass is there.
4. Nopes brother sorry on that front.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you Dheeraj for clarifying my doubts. few more questions to bug u, sorry 🙂
1. My kid is very much fond of animals.is the himalayan national park in manali worth a visit.if so how long it takes to cover this place?
2. Browsing through the sites, adventure actvities at solang valley looks very expensive.are there any government approved centres with nominal rates?
3. is the train route to joginder nagar from pathankot in operation.is it a good option to try with a 4 year old kid.
Your suggestions are really helping me to form a plan, so many thanks on that. Regards, Sekhar.
Hello Sekhar,
Please find my replies below in respective order:
1. Well, it is a national park and no such safaris are organized there. You have to take permissions and take an authorized guide with you for trekking. Also, requires a lot of time too. Better plan a dedicated trip to it and its base is Tirthan Valley not Manali. Also, spotting the animals or not, I am not so sure about that.
2. Well, when you reach there book them on the spot. They will be much much much cheaper as per the official rates here.
3. Not sure about the train route but should be working I feel.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you bro, you have given me a fair bit of idea for me to start planning. will get back to you if i need further ideas or help.really appreciate ur suggestions and quickfire responses. Regards, Sekhar.
My pleasure, feel free to write me any queries you have for your trip. All the best for the trip…
Thank you for the wishes Dheeraj.
Hey Dheeraj, hope you are doing good. Based on your suggestions and feedback, I have come up with the below plan with slight additions. Please share your thoughts on this.
20TH APRIL:Day 1: Delhi – Manali
Arival Delhi Rly.Station / Airport pick Up and Half Day sightseeing,Start your journey to Manali from Delhi Over night.
21ST APRIL:Day 2: Manali
Arrive Manali in the morning .Check in hotel,after breakfast visit for local sight seeing, Hadimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Club House, Vashist Hot water Spring, Tibetan Monastry and The Mall, Manali. Evening free time for independent activities. Overnight in the hotel.
22ND APRIL:Day 3: Rohtang Pass excursion
After breakfast, enjoy excursion to Rohtang Pass (its own) – Situated at an altitude of 3979 meters above sea level offers a wide panoramic view of the mountains where you can also witness Snow. Later in the noon return to the hotel. Rest of the day free for own activities. Overnight in the hotel. Places to cover – Solang Valley, Kothi, Rahala waterfalls, Marhi, Gulaba, Ice Linga temple.
23RD APRIL:Day 4: Manali – Naggar
After Breakfast Drive naggar en route visit Kullu, kasol,Manikara.over night stay at Hotel in naggar
24TH APRIL:Day 5: Naggar to Dharamshala
After breakfast free time for shopping at The Mall and other individual activities.After noon start your journey to Dharamshala in deluxe coach, arrive Dharamshala in the morning.
25TH APRIL:Day 6: Dharamshala – Delhi
After breakfast, enjoy local sight seeing visit Dal lake, His Holiness The Dalai Lama temple, Bhagsu Nag water fall & Shiv Temple.Evening free for visiting The Mcleodganj and shopping of Tibetan handicrafts and other items, Overnight proceed to Pathankot. Pathankot to Delhi overnight journey.
26TH APRIL:Day 7:DELHI
Delhi local sightseeing – delhi accomodation?
27TH APRIL:DAY 8: AGRA
Reach early morning at Agra to get the sunrise view of tajmahal. Agra fort, Fatehpur sikhri during day. Get the night full moon view of Tajmahal if possible. Return to delhi overnight. – delhi accomodation?
28TH APRIL:DAY 9: RETURN FLIGHT
Reach airport to catch the return flight to chennai.
Hi Sekhar,
I will suggest you drop Dharamshala out of the plan and better enjoy the circuit/places around Manali in the remaining two days. Best bet Tirthan Valley or on day at Kasol – Manikaran and other day resting at Manali only. Dharamshala is not adding any values here because one day you are traveling to Dharamshala and other day going back to Delhi.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thank you bro for your expert advise as always… Now I have set my eyes on the Thrithan valley. From your other blog, I got the below piece :-). Kindly advise if this is ok to club this to my manali plan in place of dharmashala.
day 1:Walk in to the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) to see nearby waterfalls. I think there are two of them at little distance to each other and enjoy the dinner alongside river before having a sound sleep
day 2: Drive to Jalori Pass from where you can trek to Serloskar Lake. On the way back have a meal at Sringi Vatika and as the food preparations takes time you can always walk down the river side to have some fun.return to delhi from there.Pls advise if this is fine with a 4 year old kid. Thanks again.
Yes Sekhar, it is much better to do it like this only. In fact on Day 4 itself come over to Tirthan Valley by evening after visiting Naggar in the day.
Thanks again, that much comforting to hear. Now a million dollar question, which is the better way to reach Manali from Delhi. Need to balance between the comfortness of volvo and the flexibility of taxi.
1. Delhi to Manali volvo
2. Delhi to Manali taxi
3. Delhi to Chandigarh train, take a couple of hours break and taxi from chandigarh to manali.
Is night travel in hills allowed for taxis?
Hi Sekhar,
I feel first option would be better in terms of comfort and second in terms of flexibility. I will not go with option 3 because of unwanted overhead involoded for a journey of just 3.5-4 Hrs
Regards
Dheeraj
Thank you Dheeraj once again for your valuable inputs.
Hey Dheeraj, back from my vacation to the himachal.Had a great time and good weather in manali and surroundings. Thanks for all your suggestions and guidance.
For the benefit of whoever travelling in the near future…
1. It took us 18 hours to reach manali from delhi in indigo including delhi traffic, 4-5 stops for refresh and the horrible horrible road condition and lorry traffic in bilaspur area.
2. Travelled to gulaba for snow where we took an ATV on a 5 km ride to reach clean snow (Rs 1600/- per couple) and my kid enjoyed a lot there. sking costed around 600 rs per person including ski dress, boots, ski devices and a good guide.taxi charge 1500 in xylo.
3. 3rd day visited naggar castle, manikaran.manikaran route was very good and scenic although our car tyre got punctured on the way. reached river side resort that night at 10:45 (car tyre again got punctured on the way from Aut to Thirthan and left us stranded on the hills with a roaring river at the side (very adventurous when i think of it now).
4. next day full rest at river side resort at thirthan enjoying the ambience and sound of the river.the resport people were very good and friendly.thanks for suggesting this place.
5. next day started at 10:30 am from thirthan to kalka via dharampur route.the route was good and we reached kalka at around 9pm.got the midnight train from kalka to delhi.reached delhi at 6:15am.
Thanks again…
Sekhar, great to see your valuable feedback up here. I am sure it will be useful for other travelers as well. Glad you have a nice trip to, would you love to share your complete experience as Travel Tale and be a part of Himalayan Travel Community starting soon up here?
Thank you. Yes, I would love to be a part of it.
Hi Dheeraj, when is your himalayan travel community coming up?
Sekhar, it is already launched 1st June 2013. Please click the link of Forums Or in the Side Bar Image or use the link: DoW – Himalayan Travel Community
🙂 🙂
Hi Dheeraj, Iam planning to visit manali around april 20 with my family and other couple.Pls suggest the following.
1. Is it better to start from chandigarh rather than delhi.if so, better to take bus or private taxi and which time to start(day or night)?
2. I want to do the trip individually without any package.i have 4 – 5 days and would like to cover local sightseeing apart from rohtang pass, snow point,solang valley, manikaran and naggar.what wud be the ideal itenary.
3. Is it possible to club dharmashala if I have an extra day and what options to return back to chandigarh/delhi from manali/dharmashala? Thanks in advance.
we are from bangalore planing to visit manali in 1st week of december is the cold manageble or else shouls visit in april.
Well, I am not sure how much cold would be comfortable for you guys. But, yeah the cold is pretty pretty manageable at least at Manali and around because the hotels do have plenty of facilities and all. In April you may get pleasant weather though.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for this valuable information. I am planning to visit Manali in 1st week of December. I want to know if there is any chance for snowfall during this time?
I actually wanted to come to enjoy the snowfall.
thanks,
Nakul
Hi Nakul,
At that time you will be able to see snow stock around the snow points of Gulaba/Marhi or Solang Valley whichever is open. So, if snow is the priority then there are no issues but for snowfall best bet is that, you keep the plan flexible and keep a check on weather updates on the day you plan to visit. The links here: Rohtang Pass, Kothi and Manali regions respectively can be helpful for you in tracking the weather updates of Manali and around. If it says raining in Manali, or rains/snow at Kothi or snows at Rohtang Pass then expect snowfall at nearby snow points of Solang and Marhi/Gulaba etc. As far as snow is concerned, you will find plenty of snow out there.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
can anyone tell me the latest on Road Condition from Chandigarh to Manali?
Hello Jayant,
The road conditions between Chandigarh and Manali are fine barring few rough patches in between.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
ahmedabad via delhi to himachal pradesh
suggest me for honeymoon places for above direction
Rashmi, you can go with Tirthan Valley if you want peaceful and secluded place, go with Manali if you want complete package of snow and shopping, go with Kinnaur Valley + Shimla circuit if you are OK with a bit more cold conditions in snow, or go with Dalhousie/Kalatop/Khajjiar again if you want peace. You can also go with Pabbar Valley if you love something off-beat.
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello everyone.
I would like to know your opinion for our trip to Manali-Naggar-Tirthan valley.
In our 3 days plan in Manali, along with usual Manali local visit, Solang valley, Rohtang pass etc we would like to add Naggar-Tirthan valley to our trip in Nov. We would like to know more information about those 2 places.
What are the main attractions in Naggar-Tirthan valley?
We have a plan to see Naggar in half a day and come back to Manali on same day.
Can we see Tirthan valley on the way from Manali to Chandigarh?? How much time is required to see Tirthan valley.
Rough itinerary:
Day 1: Local Manali visit like hidimba temple, manu temple, vashist, Tibetian monetary, Naggar.
Day 2: Solang Valley, Rohtang pass
Day 3: Just relax or some missing places from day 1
Day 4: Manali to Chandigarh, planning to cover tirthan valley.
Please suggest.
If it needs more time, then we can plan accordingly. Please let us know.
Please let us know
Hi Pradeep,
There are lot of things to see in Tirthan Valley and would require from you at least 2 days if not 3. If you have then go for it otherwise make a dedicated trip to Tirthan Valley at a later time. For Naggar Castle, if you can spend a night and explore the Krishna Temple, it would be a nice experience.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Sorry for the delayed reply.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
We are planning for one week holiday in North. We are reaching Agra on 25th December and visiting Taj Mahal. Next day local sight seeing at Delhi and night train to Kalka. From Kalka planning to take vehicle to shelpani and plan to spend 4-5 days there. We would like to know whether Shelpani gets snow or we have to go towards manali for snow related activities. Which are places to visited nearby shelapani. Kindly advice on iternay also.
Hi Ketan,
Well, Shelpani – Karapther – Rohru does get snow but depends if it had snowed till that date, however, there will surely be snow at Chansal Pass at that time of the year. So, if you want peace and solitude then Shelapani – Rohru – Karapther (Pabbar Valley) is the right place at that time because Manali will be flooded with tourists. Yes, I am not sure if you get to have any snow activities there in snow around Chansal Pass like there are at snow points of Manali.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your prompt response. How far is chansal pass from shelapani? Is it possible to have a day trip and come back to shelapani? Or would you advice kufri for snow. Basically I am definately with you for peace and solitude but my children wants to experience the snow so what would you advice?
Hi Ketan,
Shelpani to Rohru to Chansal Pass to Rohru to Shelapani is about 150 KMs drive and would take more than 8 Hrs, so possible day trip but since it will be snowed out not sure upto where you will able to reach but definitely not upto Chansal Pass in December. You may have a dash at Rohru from where I think it is about 95 odd KMs round trip.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi Dheeraj
We are going to manali in june month & we paln to take own car (Swift)we are 2 male & 2 female & 1 kid.so what is your suggestion for drive own car.becoz it is 12 -14 hrs drive???
Hi Vipin,
With 5 people on Swift, 14 Hrs journey would be tiring as far as I beleive.
Regards,
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj – I was looking for your assistance in recommending where to stay while traveling between Delhi and Manali ? Wanted to have a night halt given the number of children and senior citizens we are traveling with. Bilaspur, mandi ..or any other place…do you have recommended hotels given its only one night..
Hi dheeraj,
I m a total adventure junkie. I m from mumbai and visiting manali and rohtang this april 12 till the 17…i m basically visting for snow adventure. i m planning a road trip from delhi. we r a group of 4 and could u plz guide us budget hotels around manali or even rohtang would be preferable. could u plz advice me on shieing adventures. Thank you in anticipation…
Hello Natash,
Great to know about your spirit for adventure. Well, in Manali you can check out Manali – Naggar road for budget accommodation options. There are many of them available there. You can also try to stay a bit away from Manali at Vashisht where as well you find some good moderate budget accommodation options. One of them where we stayed was: The River View Hotel – Manali. You can contact them and check about the prices, if you want.
Rohtang Pass will be closed and best I guess you can go upto Gulaba to enjoy snow or Solang Valley. at solang Valley, you can go for adventure sports.
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any doubts or queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
we are going from delhi to manali with kids and elders. I was thinking of taking a stop at either mandi, bilaspur or sundernagar to make sure its half way (traveling time perspective) so we can all stretch our legs and take a night halt. where would you recommend we do that and if you have any decent hotel in mind
1st week of June I am travelling with my family from New Delhi and intending to see Shimla and Manali. This is my first visit to North India. I want to know will visiting Rohtang Pass be a problem. Do you know of people who had altitude issues visiting these places. I am from Singapore and doctors are not sure or much of help.
Regards
Krishna
Hello Krishna,
Not sure how many days you have in hand but for visiting Shimla and Manali you can do something like:
Day 1 | Reach Shimla from by overnight volvo from previous night. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
Day 2 | Around Shimla, a relaxing day. Jakhoo Temple, State Museum, Mall Road, Ridge etc. as you like or may be you can visit Kufri in the first half of the day and all this in the second half of the day.
Day 3 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla (a bit long day) or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic :))
Day 4 | Shimla – Manali
Day 5 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 6 | Manali – Rohtang Pass – Manali. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 7 | Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Musueum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top)
Day 8 | Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi. Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volvo to Delhi will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or you have the option to come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus. Or, you can also co-ordinate with bus HPTDC guys so that the bus pick you from the nearest pickup point for Naggar on the way to Delhi. Naggar Castle guys will arrange the taxi for the drop there.
** if you have time then try, Manali Sanctuary can also be covered as it is just about 2-3 KMs from Manali town and there is trail which starts from Manali Log Huts or Dhungri temple that leads you into the woods.
This will help your body get accustomed to hills before you reach Rohtang Pass.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any doubts or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dinesh,
I am from Hyderabad. I am planning to visit Shimla/Manali from 13th April to 19th April. I will be visiting along with my parents, wife and two children of age 7 years and 10 years. I have decided to take an Innova from New Delhi. My schedule is as below:
13th April – Start from New Delhi and proceed to Shimla. If possible travel around Chandigarh. Night halt and Shimla
14th April – See 2 or 3 major places in Shimla and proceed to Kufri. In the night I will be going to Shelapani (Dwarika Residency) around 80 Kms from Shimla (This was the place strongly suggested by one of my relative and I also saw very good reviews even though it is not a famous landmark.)
15th April – Stay and Shelapani
16th April – Proceed towards Manali.
17th April – Visit places in Manali
18th April – Go to Solang valley and if possible a bit higher towards Rohtang Pass(I think the pass will be closed so maybe I will see how much distance it is allowed to go). On returning I will proceed to Naggar and have a night halt there.
19th April – Spend 3-4 hours in Naggar and proceed towards New Delhi so that I can reach there by night.
Overall I prefer to stay in Hotels away from the mad rush (Please suggest such hotels) and also have some adventure which my children can enjoy and my parents can join without much stress.
Suggest some hotels which are away from
Hi Khadeer,
The plan looks OK to me but quite a lot of traveling I see here to see places. Shelapani is indeed a great place to be and you are right about it. If possible drop Shimla altogether and straight away go to Shelapani and relax there for couple of days. Visit Karapather, Rohru and the way upto snow has blocked towards Chansal Pass. You will more enjoy there away from mad tourist and commercialized rush of Shimla town. But, if you intend to visit Shimla then there is nothing wrong with the plan above as per my knowledge.
Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
If you want to stay away from hustle bustle then better stay at Solang Valley, very calm and quite instead of Manali. Hotel Iceland is a nice option there. Johnson's is also good in Manali though on the road towards old Manali, so you do hear some autos running around. But, being a bit away from mall (not much so that everything is accessible in case required), it is an optimum location. Otherwise, if you have a family you can book Hadmiba Cottages or Log Huts, away from town and secluded. Though food was not that good but since they provide kitchen may be you can try your hands with some cooking too in case required. But, very calm location.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj sarma
Thanks for your prompt and valuable response. Well maybe I will drop my plan for Chandigarh and Shimla but maybe I will go to Kufri. Maybe my children would enjoy it. My parents can rest in Shelapani.
Regarding my stay in Naggar also if it becomes very tiresome I can drop it.
Once again thanks a lot for your prompt advise.
Dear Sir,
We are planning a trip Delhi-Manali-Delhi in June'12 end. we are 4 members all are males. we are going by our car. please suggest places/sports/adventures/budget hotels and restaurants to visit in manali.
Hello Mahesh,
Well, June is the most rushed season of the year. You will find whole Manali flooded with lots of people and almost all hotels very much booked. Try to go pre-booked if you are one of those who do not prefer the hassles on vacation. Otherwise, with search here and there, you will be able to of course find some or the other accommodation.
Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc. You can enjoy adventure activities at Solang Valley for Paragliding, Snow activities at Rohtang Pass or Marhi, Rafting near Kullu etc. You can visit Naggar Castle if you have time.
You can refer the article above for the accommodation options and how to find budget hotels plus list of good restaurants in Manali.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sir, Now we planning our trip in July end or 1st week of august. is there any problem in manali due to rainfall. i just want to know we can enjoy in this season or we have to cancel our trip
Hello Mahesh,
I will suggest avoid that period as monsoons will most probably will be in full swing and will mean too much trouble at times rather any kind of enjoyment. So, kindly avoid this period and make plans in Autumn or Fall in October types.
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any doubts or queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Sir, Actually we all are in Indian army. In may we are on leave for exams and for some family functions and next leave will be grant in july end or august. sep/oct no chance.
So advice we have to go manali or suggest some other place where we can enjoy. trip should be not more than 1500KMs
Hello Mahesh,
Well, I can understand but in monsoons most of the places in hills suffer from monsoons. The only worry is that for the past few years rains are so bad that it even affects the connectivity of Delhi – Manali Highway, forget about interiors. Also, when it will be raining all day you won't be able to enjoy the trip. You can try your your luck but nothing will be guaranteed in hills. As per other places, you can try Jodhpur, Udaipur, Mount Abu in August end or mid types when heat goes off a bit. Here, too if sun is out instead of clouds you will feel the heat 🙁
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any doubts or queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am going to Manali/Manikaran new holi on 6-03-2012 with 8 of family members.At this time is it possible to visit rohtang pass ?
How is the weather at this time there ? how much woolen clothes we should take us ?
Regards,
Harvinder
Hello Harvinder,
Rohtang Pass will be closed at this time of the year. At max, you will be allowed upto Gulaba, about 32 KMs from Rohtang Pass. You need to carry heavy woolens as temperatures will be very low and cold.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Just gone through the advices from you and thought u can help me too.
I am planning to visit Kulu- Manali & Shimla ( in May-2012)
so will u please suggest me hw to plan my schedule
Point which i need your suggestion is
1) from Delhi which place is better to visit first Shimla or Manali( i want to see both)
2) Which mode of transport will be better between shimla & Manali
3) will 5 days enough to visit both Shimla & Manali
4) WHich hotel will be recomended by you both in shimla & Manali ( My budget is 2000 per 24 hrs is that ok from nice decent room or it costs more please let me knoe the budget for a decent Room)
5) Places to visit in SHimla & Manali ( we are newly married couple)
6) Regarding shopping please let me know what & where we should buy( means what items are good in Shimla & Manali)
7) Do we need to take heavy woolen clothes along with us in May also.
Please do reply me through mail, waiting for your reply
Thanks in Advance
& Highly appreciating your responses
Hello Raja,
In 5 days, it is not advisable to visit both Shimla and Manali. It is better you visit Manali because you will be able to see snow in Manali in May but will not be able to see any snow in or around Shimla. So, go with Manali only as 5 days are too short to cover both the places.
Travel by overnight Volvo between Manali and Delhi. Go with Johnson's or Jimmy Johnson's Hotel in Manali or Manali Heights, if that is your budget. If you want to stay away from the hustle-bustle then stay at Hotel Iceland at Solang Valley, about 16 KMs from Manali. Yes, carry light woolens in May as well and atleast one heavy woolen clothing. As for the plan –
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for half of the day and enjoy the x-mas in the evening including Mall road. (I assume that you will be reaching in the morning by Volvo)
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi (Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volov will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus)
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
I am planning to got to manali during 21st March for 5 days from Pune .Let me know the best way to reach Manali and is there any way i can go to dal housie or shimla .I want to know will Rohtang pass be open and how would the weather be like.Any recommendations on the hotels say a 3 star with a good valley view.Would you recommend taking a car or catch a volvo to reach manali.
Regards
Priya
H Priya,
Well, you can come over to Delhi and take the overnight volvo from here. It is most convenient of the option unless you plan to self drive. Rohtang Pass will be closed at that time but you will find plenty of snow at snow points of Marhi or Gulaba. Do go with heavy woolens as weather would be cold at that time as though not like today's 🙂 … Johnson’s, Jimmy Johnson’s, Manali Heights are some good options of stay in Manali. Johnson's are my best bet always …
Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc, Snow Points are at either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass and do check out Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place for a day, if possible). As per plan, you can try to follow something like –
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for half of the day and enjoy the x-mas in the evening including Mall road. (I assume that you will be reaching in the morning by Volvo)
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi (Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volov will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus)
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Great pictures and interesting tips. I hope to visit here someday..
We are total 6 friends planning to visit manali via Delhi and Shimla in the last week of january'12.
we have got 4days and 5 nights schedule.
Need your help in deciding the routine that will be most beneficial for us.
Thank You !
Will be gratefull if you suggest us means of transport and budget hotels.
Hi Osman,
If you have just 4 days then I will suggest that you better select one circuit out of either Shimla or Manali as it is not possible to enjoy both of them in such small duration of time. Please let me know on your selection and I will advice you the required plan/itinerary.
I hope this helps. Let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Great Working Dheeraj , I will be very thankful to you for your information
Hey Ravi,
You already did but pleasure is mine and I am already grateful that you liked the DeViL on WheeLs… Facebook Page. So, thanks for it. Best wishes for your trip and wishing you a very very happy and prosperous new year…
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
I'm planning to go for Manali via Kasauli from Delhi in 1 Jan,2012 till 6/7 Jan,2012 in our own car. Please suggest some cheap & best hotels/motels for both the places as its a budget trip(we both are male members only, so we can save some more costs at this point as well). Please suggest if any changes are required and please suggest would it be safe/economical to go by our own car.
Hi Friend,
Considering about 1200 KMs run, you will be spending about 6.5K-7K for fuel which divided by two will count about 3.5K per head. Taking volvo tickets to Manali will cost you about 2.5K each but then you will be hiring taxis for local sighseeing as well. Also, you do not have the option to go via multiple places and have to take Manali-Delhi volvo only. So, if you can drive that much then go by your own car. Starting 2nd Jan it will be off-season in entire Himachal so you will definitely find great deals at some hotels. I have never been to Kasauli so cannot comment on hotels and also if there is any specific reason for Kasauli then only include it otherwise it will increase the distance of traveling by much. If you are OK with driving and want to do Kasauli then I will suggest that you go furher towards Shimla – Kufri and Chindi route to reach Manali. It is quite scenic and beautiful. At Manali you can try hotels at Manali-Naggar road, old Manali, Vashishth. All of them present there are decent as well as economic.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more details or have some queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
Firstly congrats on an excellent blog.
I am planning a trip to Shimla-Manali in the last week of Mar '12 from Kolkata. Planning to take Kol-chandigarh flight and stay 2 Nights there before proceeding to Shimla (3 Nights) and then to Manali (4 or 5 Nights). From manali I am thinking of taking flight from Kulu to Delhi and then Kolkata (Is this flight option feasible).
1) Is end Mar a good time to visit this hill station
2) Should I do Shimla and then manali or vice versa
3) Since R Pass will be closed where else will I find snow
4) Can travel agent you advise for good car travel.
5) Is the both way flight option a correct thing to do. (Getting it cheap right now).
Would love to get your comments.
Thanks
Gautam
Hi Gautam,
Thanks alot. If you are getting the tickets at cheaper cost then I will say go with it atleast on the way to Chandigarh. In between i.e. Chandigarh – Shimla and Manali – Delhi it will be much wiser decision to take Volvo and save some bucks. Manali – Delhi Volvo runs at evening so basically you will not be loosing on time front as well because of night, almost comfortable, journey 🙂 … So book tickets from Delhi to Kolkata only. Now coming back to your queries –
1. Yes, it is a good time to visit the place when weather is cold but fine too in the sunlight. Being off-season you will get hefty discounts at all places/hotels including HPTDC properties.
2. Go to Shimla first and then Manali. You will feel much more accustomed to hills by then.
3. Well, at Shimla side in March I feel you will find snow at Hatu Peak near Narkanda and on Manali side, don;t worry at all as you will find loads of snow at Marhi/Gulaba snow points.
4. No need to involve any travel agent at all. Book the Volvo tickets (Shimla-Chandigarh and Manali-Delhi) online from HPTDC Online Bus Booking website. For local travel you will find taxi easily from local taxi stands of Manali and Shimla. If you do not want to do it on your own then ask your hotel to arrange taxi for you. It will be much better and economic then opting for Travel Agent.
5. Nopes, as I said I am not sure about Delhi-Kolkata and vice versa but do not book it in between as it will save some good money, mostlikely half of the entire trip if you are more than 2 🙂 …
As per the itinerary goes –
Day 1 | Reach Shimla from Chandigarh by overnight volvo from previous night. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
Day 2 | Around Shimla, a relaxing day. Jakhoo Temple, State Museum, Mall Road, Ridge etc. as you like or may be you can visit Kufri in the first half of the day and all this in the second half of the day.
Day 3 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla (a bit long day) or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic :))
Day 4 | Shimla – Manali
Day 5 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 6 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 7 | Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Musueum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top)
Day 8 | Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi. Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volvo to Delhi will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or you have the option to come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus. Or, you can also co-ordinate with bus HPTDC guys so that the bus pick you from the nearest pickup point for Naggar on the way to Delhi. Naggar Castle guys will arrange the taxi for the drop there.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have doubts or queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a ton for the immediate response. Only goes to show your passion.
Firstly, I would not like to take the 14 hr bus journey (family members uncomfortable) and since the tickets are cheap looking to block Kol-Chandigarh and Manali-Kol flight tickets tomorrow.
1) Is there a Chandigarh-Shimla and then Shimla Manali volvo service. Is it safe and comfortable enough.
2) How is the taxi service of HPTDC (planning to take it on the Shimla-manali route so that I can stop whereever I want and I believe the path is beautiful)
3) Is 3 days (shimla) and 5 days (manali) sufficent (will add a day or two on your suggestion)
4) Planning to stay at Apple country resort at manali. Is it fine. Any name you would reco.
5) Shimla not done enough reserach. Would you advise any hotel (Budget – 4000-7000)
6) Lastly flight from kulu is at 8:45 AM for delhi. How early will I have to start from hotel and is it safe.
Please let me know as per your convenience. Want to freeze the entire trip in a day or two. Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Gautam
Hi Gautam,
Please find my answers in respective order of your queries –
1. Yes, there is a volvo service between Shimla and Chandigarh, guess by HPTDC as well. I doubt if there is any Volvo service between Shimla and Manali but yes there is a Deluxe bus that runs between Manali and Shimla by HPTDC.
2. Path is OK I will say atleast the one you will take because in March the beautiful one via Jalori Pass will be closed. You can of course try Karsog Valley route via Chindi and may be halt for a day at Chindi to break the journey in between and on the go explore Naldhera – Tattapani – Karsog Valley on the route. Chindi is a very nice, secluded and calm place to be at. Since, you can add a day then I will advice you to take this route only. The third route i.e. normal route between Shimla – Manali isn't that scenic 🙂 …
3. Yes, that will be fine I believe. Just add a day incase you plan to take Chindi route to enjoy it thoroughly.
4. Not sure about Apple country resort but yes, Johnson's, Jimmy Johnson's, Piccadily and Manali Heights are some good options IMO, if you are OK with their budgets. Even if you plan to stay somewhere else do checkout a meal or two at Johnson's (both of them are equally good)
5. Try Peterhoff Heritage Hotel by HPTDC in Shimla. I never stayed in Shimla so cannot provide any first hand experience for its hotels.
6. Kullu is about 40 KMs from Manali, so try to start about 5.30-6.00 AM types to avoid any kind of last minute hassles. Yes, it is completely safe there. No worries.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have any queries or doubts. Do not miss a meal or two at few of the food joints mentioned above in the article 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sorry for the late response and a big thank you for the detailed reply. My flights tickets are now booked. Working on other aspects of my trip. Will take further advise from you closer to my trip date.
Thanks again. Keep up the excellent work.
Gautam, you are most welcome anytime. Have a great new year ahead…
hi dheeraj,
the plan you suggested is gud,directly going to srinagar fm delhi n coming down to manali-shimla.i have a query,do u know any parcel service in delhi who courier bikes to srinagar?and how many days ll it take to get bike in srinagar?one more thing is will i get bike for rent at ladakh for going to manali and need a facility of leaving rented one at manali?thnx in advance mate.
Hello Jaison,
Well, I haven't used it personally but I guess you can ship your bike to Srinagar using GATI services. Check their website to get the rates. If you are planning to transport using Railways upto Delhi then do carry the bikes with you and try to avoid parcel shipment as it may jeopardize the whole plan for you. Using, parcel shipment it may be possible that you end up waiting or finding traces of your bike in Railway officers and do not forget how babus work in our country 😀 … Try GATI, I will say as I have seen lot of people using their services. They do offer discounts I guess to students, so check that too and try to convince them that you are a student. You can ask the process for getting the bike at Srinagar from GATI guys.
Yes, I guess there are bike rentals available in Leh who allow you to drop the bike in Manali. Of course, they charge a bit more. Also, check the some of the tips given in the article here on hiring bikes from Manali but many of these tips are applicable to Leh bike rentals as well.
I hope this helps. Let me know for further doubts/queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj vai
we ,are a group of 4 people ..planning to go to Delhi from Manali.We will be reaching Manali from Leh at afternoon…and on next day evening ..we are having flights from Delhi..Normally all buses(MANALI TO Delhi volvo) as per our analysis (Govt/Private) are used to leave Manali around Evening time…but as we will be reaching Manali ..in evening …we will not be able to catch them….In this respect can you suggest some private cab reference from Manali to Delhi..our plan is to start late night from Manali.
Thanks in advance.
Avigeet, there in HRTC Ordinary bus that leaves at 9.30 PM from Manali in the night. Check that and book your tickets online for it.
hello mr.dheeraj, thanks for that very informative blog of yours.is there snowfall in the last weeks of november or early december in shimla .
Hello Mr. Jagan,
I do not think that region around Shimla receive any snow before late December or early January. If you want snow and looking to visit Shimla/Kufri/Narkanda then plan your journey in January or February. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have more queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
first of all thanks for such an informative and planned blog..i am planning to visit manali for 3 nights and 4 days for honeymoon at november ,2011 end.could u sugget me the best hotel at manali.and whether it would be better to hire a car with driver to travel from rohtak/delhi to manali and use tha for all 4 days.or to go there by volvo bus ..please.waiting for ur reply.thanks.
Hello Dinesh,
Thanks buddy, just trying my best to keep updated information for fellow travelers as well as tourists.
Since, you are going on a Honeymoon I will suggest that you go with Johnsons Lodge or Jimmy Johnsons Hotel near circuit house, Manali. Both are great options of stay with almost equivalent comfort and almost identical in prices. You can opt for any of them. Personally, it is one of my favorites in Manali. Ask for off-season discount too or may be be bargain for the entire discounted package for honeymoon. HPTDC offers 30% discount in offseason so you can expect a bit more like about 40-45% from private properties. Best thing is it is near to Mall road, so everything is accessible easily and then it serves one of the finest cuisines in whole Manali town. Even if you do not plan to stay there then do check a meal or two in their restaurant.
You should plan to travel using overnight Volvo which will be far more comfortable as well as economic option rather than hiring taxi from Rohtak. Plus, you will be less tired too. Being off season you will get decent prices for local taxi from Manali taxi union.
As a side note, I will strongly advice a night stay at Naggar Castle, Naggar as I feel it is one of the romantic places around that region I have ever been. Having a meal or coffee in the restaurant at balcony table is just a great feeling as I recall from my honeymoon trip too :)… If planning, then do book room with front view. Read complete review here.
I hope this helps. Feel free to let me know incase you have further doubts or queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
thanks for your reply sir.
about jhonson 's .i think cottage will be too big for two persons.and i have checked their website which doesn't show any room with mountain view.
through net i zeroed on honeymoonin hote (http://www.hotelhoneymooninn.net/manali/rooms.html) but on tripadvisor.com i found some bad reviews about that.
could u please suggest me a good hotel which gave an excellent view of valley or mountains and room have balcony.
i am really thankful for your views on naggar and included it as a must visit place with one night stay…….
sir what about staying all 3 nights at naggar castle?
thanks….
Hello Dinesh,
Well, most hotels in Manali town will offer similar views what Johnson's offer. In that case you need to get room outta Manali town. I am sorry I cannot recall any hotel with such view apart from Hadimba Cottages which offers similar views. You can check the complete review at the link but again that is away from mall road and food was not all that good. You can check some hotels in Solang Valley too for some great views.
Now staying at Naggar Castle for 3 days: Well, it is a great idea if you are looking forward to spend time at secluded place and ready to travel about 1-1.5 Hr to reach Manali and enjoy shopping or snow points because Naggar itself only offers a Krishna temple and some boring art galleries along with Naggar Castle itself. It is a great place with majestic views, if you are OK with the above facts and also keep in mind that in day time tourists from Manali will visit Naggar Castle to explore it and hence you may find a little rush there. But, you can always spend that time hiking to the Krishna temple or enjoying with the tourists or may be sitting in your balcony itself.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj,
we hav planned for shimla,manali trip in 1st week of october.is it better to go at this period??nd as i gt to know dat rohtang pass is closed on tuesdays.is it true??
Hello Saranya,
Well, firstly in the first week of October it will be Durga Puja and Dusherra festivals going on in Kullu – Manali region. The whole valley will be flocked with tourists and locales from all near by villages and you may have tough time finding the accommodations too. So, do book in advance especially for Manali region. As per weather, that will be fine enough to enjoy the beauty at its best. Yes, Rohtang Pass is closed on Tuesdays for tourists due to maintenance work on that road.
If interested, for more information on Manali and Rohtang Pass including accommodation options, food joints, must see places etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have some doubts or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
We are planning to Visit Manali on October 16 – 20, Are there any chances to see snow at Rohtang [not live], will be able to do skiing.. please advise
Minal, usually the snowfall starts by October at all the high mountain passes. I guess seeing a delayed monsoon you may or you may not be able to see snow at Rohtang Pass in mid-October. As far as skiing is concerned that will be very much unlikely to happen 🙁 … I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have some queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj,
We have planed a visit to Shimla, Kullu -manali during diwali vacation (23 to 1st Nov) Are there any change we see snow at least at Rohtang.
Hello Rajesh,
Yes, you will surely be able to see snow at/around Rohtang Pass near Manali by the time you are planning to visit the region. You can check the pictures of snow at Solang Valley in the second week of November 2009 at the link here.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma