How to Reach Manali from Delhi (or Chandigarh)

Bus

• Operators: HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) and private operators (Volvo, Scania, Mercedes).

• Journey Type: Mostly overnight.

• Distance/Time: 540-570 km / 12 to 15 hours (Approx.)

• Boarding Points: ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Majnu ka Tila (Delhi).

Self-Drive / Cab

• Best for: Groups and those preferring flexible pit stops.

• Route: Generally well-maintained (NH44 to Bilaspur, then NH154).

• Distance/Time: 500-530 km / 11 to 13 hours (Approx.)

• Cab Cost (One-Way): ₹9,000 – ₹12,000+

Flight (Fastest)

• Destination Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), Bhuntar (50 km from Manali).

• Flight Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (Delhi to Bhuntar).

• Total Time: Flight + 2 hours (cab from Bhuntar to Manali).

• Note: Often expensive and prone to weather delays.

Train

• Important: No direct train to Manali.

• Nearest Railheads: Chandigarh, Kalka, or Ambala.

• Journey: Train (3-5 hours) + Bus/Cab to Manali (7-9 hours).

Chandigarh to Shimla Taxi & Bus

Chandigarh is a major gateway to Shimla.

• Distance: Approx. 115 km

• Travel Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours (subject to traffic)

• Best Route: Via Zirakpur – Kalka – Solan – Kandaghat (NH 5)

Chandigarh to Shimla Taxi & Bus

Chandigarh is a major gateway to Shimla.

• Distance: Approx. 115 km

• Travel Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours (subject to traffic)

• Best Route: Via Zirakpur – Kalka – Solan – Kandaghat (NH 5)

Note on Cost: Fares vary significantly based on the season and taxi operator.

Alternative: Bus

• Option: HRTC (Ordinary and AC) buses.

• Boarding: Chandigarh Sector 43 ISBT.

• Cost: Generally the cheapest, costing ₹250 – ₹1000 per person.

Access to Spiti Valley (Kaza)

Spiti Valley is a remote, high-altitude destination.

Nearest Airport

• Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), Bhuntar.

• Distance to Kaza: Approx. 250 km (via Manali route).

How to Reach Kaza from Bhuntar (KUU)

The journey is only by road, often long and challenging.

Via Manali & Kunzum Pass

• Season: Late May/Early June to Mid-October

  • (Closed during winter due to snow)

• Time: 10 – 12 hours (One long day or with an overnight stop).

• Key Info:

  • Shortest route.

  • Crosses the very high Kunzum Pass (15,060 ft).

  • Acclimatization is essential due to rapid altitude gain.

Via Shimla & Kinnaur Valley

• Season: Almost All Year Round

  • (Only occasional closures due to landslides/snow)

• Time: 2 Days (Requires an overnight halt, e.g., in Reckong Peo/Kalpa).

• Key Info:

  • Longer but more reliable route.

  • Highly recommended for slow acclimatization, which is safer.

Transportation from Bhuntar

1. Taxi/Cab: Most convenient but most expensive option.

2. Bus (HRTC):

   • Bhuntar to Manali (3 hours).

   • Then, Manali to Kaza (early morning direct bus, runs only when Kunzum Pass is open).