How to Reach Manali? Road, Air, or Rail

Ever wondered why people are ecstatic about how to reach Manali? Well, it is the places to visit Manali and the entire vibe of the region.

The beautiful hill station of Manali can be a perfect destination for tourists who want to enjoy the winter among the enthralling natural beauty and imposing mountains, which is also the best time to visit Shimla and Manali. 

With just a distance of 147.4 km from Manali’s nearest railway station and 52km from the nearest airport, this place offers easy accessibility from all parts of India. 

Besides, there are many things to do in Manali for all types of travellers. 

Since Manali is a popular tourist destination, there are different ways to reach Manali. Know everything about how to reach Manali to make a proper tour plan.

Check out the travel guide to Manali that includes the nearest airport to Manali, Manali railway station, and by-road journey which will help you to plan a memorable trip to Manali

How to Reach Manali by Flight?

• Kullu-Manali airport in Bhuntar is situated at a distance of 52 km from Manali. 
• Domestic airlines operate regular flights from Delhi and Chandigarh to this airport. 
• International travellers can first arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. 
• After that, they can take a domestic flight from Delhi to Kullu-Manali airport.
• Once you reach the airport at Bhuntar, take a private cab to Manali.
• Considering normal traffic and weather conditions, the journey should take about two hours to complete.

How to Reach Manali by Train?

• Manali does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station offering a narrow-gauge line connectivity to Pathankot.
• So, you must reach Pathankot first and take another train to Joginder Nagar. 
• However, the 164 km train journey from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar takes about 9 hours. 
• After that, it'll take another 5 hours to cover a distance of about 162 km and reach Manali by car.

Alternatively, you can reach Chandigarh railway station, which is well connected to railway stations of many major cities in India. 

From Chandigarh, you can opt for a private cab or a bus to reach Manali in about 8 to 9 hours.  

How to Reach Manali by Road?

Manali is well connected to Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, and many other major cities by road. You can easily find semi-sleeper luxury bus services plying to and from Manali. Besides, the road leading to Manali is full of scenic views. So, a road trip to Manali can be a good option if you are not on a tight schedule. 

Places to Visit in Manali

Whether you like exploring nature, visiting temples, or simply taking a stroll along the neighbourhood, Manali has something to offer for every kind of traveller. 

Some popular places to visit in Manali are Hadimba Temple, Tibetan monasteries, Vashisht hot water springs, Jogini Falls, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhrigu Lake, Hapta Pass, and many more. 

Here's a bit more detail on some of the best places to visit in Manali.

• Hadimba Temple: This ancient temple, dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata, is known for its unique wooden architecture and serene surroundings. It's surrounded by a cedar forest and offers a glimpse into the local religious practices.
• Tibetan Monasteries: Manali is home to several Tibetan monasteries, including the Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa and Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa. These monasteries are centers of Tibetan culture and spirituality, with beautiful Thangka paintings and serene prayer halls.
• Vashisht Hot Water Springs: Located in the village of Vashisht, these natural hot springs are believed to have medicinal properties. The village also has ancient temples dedicated to sage Vashisht and Lord Rama.
• Jogini Falls: A short trek from Vashisht village is one of the best activities to do in Manali. It leads to Jogini Falls, a picturesque waterfall that cascades from a height, offering a tranquil spot for relaxation and picnics.
• Solang Valley: Known for its adventure sports, Solang Valley offers activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (in winter). The valley also offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
• Rohtang Pass: This high mountain pass is a gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, peaks, and the Chandra River. It's a popular spot for snow activities like skiing and snowboarding.
• Manali Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Himalayan monal, snow leopard, and brown bear. It's a great place for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Bhrigu Lake: A trek to Bhrigu Lake is one of the fun things to do in Manali. It takes you through lush meadows and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The lake is considered sacred and is known for its changing colours.
• Hampta Pass: This scenic trek connects the Kullu Valley with Lahaul and offers a diverse landscape, from lush green valleys to barren landscapes of Lahaul.

Where to Stay in Manali?

The best time to visit Manali is during the winter season, between October to February. The town receives ample snowfall during this period. The snow-capped distant mountain peaks and the snow-covered landscape provide a surreal experience to the visitors. 

Club Mahindra White Meadows is one of the best resorts in Manali to unwind and enjoy your vacation amidst the picturesque landscape. 

Tourists can visit Manali during both the summer and winter seasons. Both seasons can provide an altogether different experience of the place. All you need is a backpack and a proper travel plan to reach this breathtakingly beautiful place. 

No matter how you choose to reach Manali—by air, rail, or road—the journey promises to be filled with breathtaking views and memorable experiences. To fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and charm of this hill station, consider staying at Club Mahindra White Meadows or Club Mahindra Snow Peaks. These Club Mahindra Resorts offer unparalleled comfort and stunning vistas, ensuring a perfect retreat after your adventures. 

With Club Mahindra membership, you gain access to exclusive amenities and personalized services that make your stay even more enjoyable. So, plan your trip, book your stay, and let the magic of Manali unfold before you.