The Ultimate Guide: Finding the Best Way to Reach Manali in 2025

Most Recent Update : September 2025

Planning a trip to the mountains? Here’s a guide on how to reach Manali without any confusion. Nestled in Himachal Pradesh, Manali is one of the most visited hill stations in India. Whether you’re heading there for a winter escape or to witness the magical snowfall in Manali, getting there is easy with multiple travel options. Below is a quick look at the fastest ways to reach Manali by flight, train, and bus.

By Air

Reaching Manali, one of the most popular hill stations in India, has never been easier. With the advent of air travel, reaching this picturesque destination in the Himalayas is now just a few hours away. So whether you are looking to escape the summer heat or enjoy snow-capped mountains during winters, flying to Manali is an option. The fastest way to reach Manali by flight is to land at Bhuntar Airport, which is about 50 km from the town.

Kullu-Manali Airport

Kullu-Manali Airport, also known as Bhuntar Airport, is the primary airport serving the Kullu Valley and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, India. Located about 10 km south of Kullu and 50 km north of Manali, the airport is situated in the midst of scenic surroundings that offer stunning views for visitors. This airport serves as a gateway to some of the most popular tourist destinations in India like Kasol and Tirthan Valley.

The airport has a single terminal building that handles domestic flights. The terminal building is equipped with all basic facilities like baggage handling systems, security check-in counters, food outlets and souvenir shops. The airport operates daily flights connecting it to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore etc.

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By Train

Manali is a picturesque hill station located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, adventure sports, and cultural heritage. There is no direct train to Manali, but you can reach Joginder Nagar or Chandigarh and continue by road.

Joginder Nagar Railway Station

Nestled in the lap of nature, Joginder Nagar Railway Station is a picturesque location that offers breathtaking views to tourists. It is located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the most beautiful railway stations in India. The station was built in 1929 and has been operational ever since.

The unique feature of Joginder Nagar Railway Station is its narrow gauge railway track, which connects it to Pathankot. This train journey through the hills is a thrilling experience for tourists who get to witness panoramic views of lush greenery, winding rivers and cascading waterfalls along the way. The journey takes around 8 hours to complete and passes through several tunnels, bridges and quaint villages.

Apart from its scenic beauty, Joginder Nagar Railway Station also holds historical significance as it played a crucial role during India’s freedom struggle.

By Bus

Manali attracts tourists from all over the world. Manali, known for its breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys, is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. If you are planning to visit this paradise on earth, there are several ways you can reach here. However, if you want a budget-friendly option with scenic views along the way, taking a bus to reach Manali is your best bet. You can also reach Manali by bus from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major North Indian cities via Volvo and HRTC services.

Manali Bus Depot

Manali Bus Depot is one of the busiest bus depots in India. Located in the heart of Manali, it is a hub for tourists and locals alike. The depot has a range of buses that cater to different destinations across Himachal Pradesh and neighboring states.

The depot is well-organized with clear signboards indicating the arrival and departure timings of each bus. The staff at the depot are courteous and always willing to help passengers with their queries. From luxury coaches to local buses, there are plenty of options available for travellers depending on their budget and preferences.

How to reach manali from nearby big cities

People know Manali for its scenic beauty, adventure sports, and pleasant weather throughout the year.If you are planning to visit Manali from nearby big cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, kasol or Shimla, it is important to know the different modes of transportation available.

Delhi to manali

Distance between Manali and Delhi is 550 Kms by Road. If you’re planning a trip to Manali from Delhi, here are the best ways to reach this charming town.<,p>

The fastest way to get to Manali from Delhi is by air. You can fly directly from Delhi to Kullu-Manali airport which is approximately 50 km away from Manali or you can take a connecting flight via Chandigarh airport. However, other modes of transportation could be cheaper than air travel.

If you want an affordable option, then reaching Manali by bus could be your best bet. There are regular buses that run between Delhi and Manali every day with comfortable seating arrangements and scenic views on offer during the journey.

Chandigarh to manali

While there are several ways to get to Manali from Chandigarh, the most convenient mode of transportation depends on your preference and budget. Here are two best options for reaching Manali from Chandigarh.

The easiest way to reach Manali from Chandigarh is by air. The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, which is approximately 50 km away. Several airlines operate daily flights between Chandigarh and Bhuntar, making it an ideal option for travellers who are short on time or looking for a hassle-free journey. Once you reach Bhuntar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to get to Manali.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to reach Manali, taking a bus from Chandigarh is a budget-friendly option. The distance between Chandigarh and Manali is 307 Km by road. The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours depending on the traffic conditions and route taken by the driver. There are various options when it comes to buses such as Volvo, deluxe or semi-deluxe buses that come with different amenities such as air conditioning or comfortable seats.

Kasol to manali

If you’re planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh, then you cannot miss visiting the breathtakingly beautiful hill stations of Manali and Kasol. Both these destinations are popular among adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. However, if you’re wondering about the best way to reach Manali from Kasol, then keep reading!

There are several ways to travel from Kasol to Manali, but the most convenient and comfortable option is by road. You can either hire a taxi or take a bus from Kasol to Manali. The distance between the two places is only around 70 km, which can be covered in approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions.

If you prefer a more adventurous mode of transport, then you can also rent a bike or scooter from Kasol and ride all the way up to Manali through winding roads amidst lush greenery and scenic views of the mountains.

shimla to manali

Shimla and Manali are two of the most beautiful hill stations in India. They attract a lot of tourists every year due to their scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and adventure activities. However, many tourists find it confusing to reach Manali from Shimla since the two are located around 250 km apart.

The most popular way to reach Manali is by road. There are several buses that run between Shimla and Manali on a daily basis. The journey takes around 7-8 hours and the roads offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. If you want to travel in comfort, you can also hire a taxi or self-drive car for the trip. You will have more freedom to stop wherever you want and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Driving to Shimla: A Scenic and Flexible Road Trip

For those who love the freedom of the open road, driving is a great option. A road trip to Shimla can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The journey offers stunning mountain scenery. You travel on well-maintained highways. This option allows you to travel at your own pace. You can make stops along the way to admire views. You can also explore hidden gems off the beaten path. A road trip gives you complete control over your itinerary. It is perfect for families and groups of friends.

Popular and Picturesque Driving Routes

The most common route to Shimla is from Delhi via Chandigarh. You will follow NH 44, NH 152, and then NH 5. This route is about 344 kilometers long. The drive takes around 7 to 9 hours. This time depends on traffic and weather conditions. The road from Chandigarh to Shimla is especially scenic. It winds through the beautiful Himalayan foothills. The Himalayan Expressway from Parwanoo onwards is a pleasure to drive on. Another popular route is from Manali. This drive is about 250 kilometers. It takes around 7 to 8 hours through picturesque valleys.

Important Things to Consider for Your Road Trip

A road trip offers flexibility. However, it is important to be prepared for mountain driving. Roads can be narrow and winding in some sections. It is advisable to drive cautiously. This is crucial during monsoon and winter seasons. Road conditions can become challenging then. Vehicle and Driving Preparations Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition. Check the brakes, tires, and engine oil before you start. Be aware of the rules of mountain driving. Always give way to uphill traffic. Honk on blind curves to alert oncoming vehicles. Be prepared for possible traffic congestion. This is common during peak tourist seasons in Shimla. Also, carry a first-aid kit, toolkit, and puncture repair kit.

Parking and Navigating within Shimla

Parking in Shimla can be a major challenge. The city has several multi-level parking facilities. Key parking lots are near the HPTDC Lift and in Chotta Shimla. A new smart parking system allows advance booking for some lots, like the Lift parking. It is best to park your car and explore the town on foot. Many central areas like The Mall Road are pedestrian-only. Using the local lift from Cart Road is a great way to reach the Mall. This will save you from navigating narrow and crowded streets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the fastest way to reach Shimla?

The fastest way to reach Shimla is by flying. You can take a flight to Chandigarh International Airport (IXC). From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to Shimla. The drive from Chandigarh takes about 3 to 4 hours. Shimla has its own airport (SLV), but it has limited and often unreliable flights.

Is there a direct train to Shimla?

No, there are no direct broad-gauge trains to Shimla. The nearest major railway station is in Kalka (KLK). From Kalka, you must take the historic Kalka-Shimla toy train. This narrow-gauge train is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How can I book the Kalka-Shimla toy train?

You can book tickets for the Kalka-Shimla toy train online. Use the official website of the IRCTC. It is very important to book your tickets in advance. They sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

How to reach Shimla by bus from Delhi?

Regular bus services run from Delhi to Shimla. Both government (HRTC) and private companies operate these buses. You can board a bus from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi. The journey takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road.

What is the condition of the road to Shimla?

The road to Shimla is generally in good condition. The Chandigarh-Shimla highway (NH5) is well-maintained. However, it is a mountainous road with sharp curves. It is important to drive carefully. Road conditions can be affected by rain and snow.

Is it safe to travel to Shimla at night?

Traveling by overnight bus or taxi is generally safe. The highways are busy, and services run through the night. However, if you are driving yourself, avoid night driving. This is especially true if you are not experienced with mountain roads.

What is the best time to travel to Shimla by road?

The best time for a road trip is from March to June. The weather is pleasant, and the roads are clear. Another good time is the post-monsoon season, from September to November. Avoid peak monsoon (July-August) due to landslide risks.

Can I use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola in Shimla?

Ride-sharing apps have a very limited presence in Shimla. It is best to rely on local taxi unions for transportation within the city. You can hire them for point-to-point travel or for full-day sightseeing tours.

What is the Green Tax for entering Shimla?

Vehicles with non-Himachal Pradesh registration numbers have to pay a Green Tax. This tax is collected at the entry point to Shimla. The fee is used for environmental initiatives in the city. The amount varies depending on the type of vehicle.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to reach Manali, you can plan your journey based on your preferences and time. Flying is the quickest option, but many enjoy the scenic drive or a mix of train and road travel. Once you arrive, don’t forget to check out the amazing snowfall in Manali. For bus bookings, visit HRTC, and for flights or train schedules, you can use IRCTC. Click here for Manali tourism official website.

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Published By :

Binu Lamba

Binu Lamba is a 29-year-old editor and fact-checker with 7 years of experience in travel content. He verifies all location details, hotel recommendations, and travel tips to ensure our guides are accurate, updated, and helpful for readers planning real trips.

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Our AI writing assistant supports the creation of travel content under strict human supervision. All AI-generated posts are thoroughly reviewed, fact-checked, and updated by our team to maintain trust and accuracy in our travel recommendations.

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