A Delhi to Manali road trip is one of the most exciting adventures you can experience in North India. Looking for the perfect weekend escape from Delhi? Whether you’re planning it with friends, family, or solo, driving to Manali lets you explore mountains, rivers, and scenic highways at your own pace. In this guide, we’ll help you plan the perfect journey with the best route, updated road info, stopovers, fuel cost, and safety tips for 2025.
Delhi to Manali Distance
- Total Distance: Approx. 530 km
Recommended Route From Delhi To Manali Road Trip:
Delhi → Panipat → Kurukshetra → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
Click the Map for Direct Location
This is the most popular and scenic route via NH 44 and NH 3. Roads are smooth in most parts, except for a few hill sections near Mandi.
Tip: Start early to avoid city traffic and arrive before sunset.
Best Travel Time: March to June and September to November
Delhi to Manali Road Trip
Delhi to Manali By Car Time
- Driving Time: 12 to 14 hours
- With Breaks: Add 1–2 hours more for meals or sightseeing
- Start Time Tip: Begin your journey early morning (4:00–6:00 AM)
Avoid driving after dark, especially between Mandi and Manali, due to sharp curves and fog.
Delhi to Manali By Volvo Bus
- Overnight journey from Delhi
- Time taken: 12 to 15 hours
- Buses depart in the evening and arrive the next morning in Manali
Top Stopovers & Places to Visit on the Way
Make your journey fun and comfortable with these breaks:
| Stopover | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Murthal | Breakfast at famous dhabas like Amrik Sukhdev |
| Chandigarh | City tour or fuel refill |
| Sundernagar | Short photo break by the lake |
| Pandoh Dam | Scenic view of the river and dam |
| Kullu | River rafting or visiting the market |
Delhi to Manali by Car Fare (Fuel + Toll Cost)
If you’re using your vehicle, here’s an estimated car fare breakdown:
Fuel Cost Estimate
- Round Trip Distance: ~1,060 km
- Average mileage: 15 km/litre
- Fuel needed: ~70 litres
- Fuel cost (petrol @ ₹100/l): ₹6,800 – ₹7,200
Diesel cars may cost less — approx ₹5,000 – ₹5,500 From Delhi to Manali Road Trip, round trip.
Delhi To Manali Road Trip Toll Charges
- Toll booths: 6–8
- Charges (round trip): ₹500 – ₹800
Total Estimated Car Fare
| Expense | Approx. Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Fuel | ₹6,500 – ₹7,500 |
| Tolls | ₹500 – ₹800 |
| Total Fare | ₹7,000 – ₹8,300 |
This excludes food, stay, or other travel expenses.
Delhi to Manali Road Conditions (Updated – July 2025)
- Delhi to Chandigarh: Excellent highways (NH 44)
- Chandigarh to Mandi: Mixed (good + hilly curves)
- Mandi to Manali: Curvy mountain roads, drive slowly
- Weather in July: Be cautious of landslides and rain
- Traffic: Moderate to heavy during weekends
Important: Avoid night travel in hill areas due to fog and low visibility.
Budget Breakdown (2025 Road Trip Estimate)
| Item | Approx. Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Fuel (round trip) | ₹6,000 – ₹7,500 |
| Toll charges | ₹500 – ₹800 |
| Meals & snacks | ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 |
| Hotel stay (1 night) | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Total Estimated Budget | ₹10,000 – ₹14,000 |
Travel with friends to share costs and make the trip more budget-friendly.
4-Day Sample Itinerary for Delhi to Manali Road Trip
| 1 | Start from Delhi → Reach Manali by evening |
|---|---|
| 2 | Explore Solang Valley, Mall Road, and Hadimba Temple |
| 3 | Drive to Rohtang Pass (if open) or Atal Tunnel |
| 4 | Return to Delhi via the same route. |
Don’t forget to check Rohtang Pass permit rules online.
What to Pack for the Trip
- Driving license & car papers
- Warm clothes (even in summer)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen & camera
- Power bank and offline map
- Snacks and drinking water
- First-aid kit & emergency numbers
FAQs About Delhi to Manali Road Trip
Q1. Is the road to Manali safe for driving?
Yes, it is safe if you drive carefully. Avoid night driving in hilly areas.
Q2. Can we go to Manali by bike from Delhi?
Yes! Many bikers do this trip. Just make sure your bike is serviced.
Q3. Do we need any permits?
For Rohtang Pass, yes. You can apply online on the Himachal tourism portal.
Q4. Can we take pets on this road trip?
Yes, but make sure your pet is comfortable with long drives.
Final Thoughts
The Delhi to Manali road trip is more than just a journey — it’s an unforgettable experience filled with mountains, rivers, fresh air, and freedom. With the right planning and timing, you can enjoy a safe and scenic ride through the heart of Himachal Pradesh.