Know the destination
About Manali
Manali, in Himachal's Kullu Valley on the banks of the Beas, is one of India's top destinations for mountain adventure and honeymoons. It is a base for Solang Valley, the seasonal Rohtang Pass, and for skiing, paragliding, rafting and trekking.
Plan smart
Best Time to Visit
December to February for snow and snow sports; March to June for pleasant weather and adventure activities. Rohtang Pass is generally open only in the warmer months.
Getting there
How to Reach Manali
By air: Bhuntar airport near Kullu (~50 km) has limited flights; Chandigarh (~310 km) is the nearest major airport for most travellers. By train: Chandigarh and Kalka are the practical railheads, with road onward. By road: very well served by overnight Volvo and state buses from Delhi (~530 km) and Chandigarh.
Move around
Local Transport
Local taxis and auto-rickshaws cover the town and nearby sights; shared cabs and tour operators run trips to Solang Valley and (with a permit) Rohtang Pass. Old Manali is walkable from the main town.
RailwayJoginder Nagar is a narrow-gauge railhead but slow; Chandigarh and Kalka are the practical mainline railheads, with road onward to Manali.
AirportBhuntar Airport near Kullu (~50 km) has limited flights; Chandigarh (~310 km) is the nearest major airport for most travellers.
BusVery well served by overnight Volvo and state buses from Delhi (~530 km) and Chandigarh; a common overnight bus route.
Explore
Top Places to Visit in Manali
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Solang Valley
Adventure-sports valley near Manali famous for paragliding, zorbing and winter snow.
Read more ›⌖
Hadimba Temple
Ancient wooden pagoda-style temple set in a cedar forest, dedicated to Hidimba Devi.
Read more ›⌖
Old Manali
Laid-back riverside quarter known for cafes, guesthouses and a relaxed traveller vibe.
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Rohtang Pass
High Himalayan mountain pass with snow and dramatic views — seasonal and permit-controlled.
Read more ›⌖
Vashisht Hot Springs & Temple
Village known for natural sulphur hot springs and an old stone temple to sage Vashisht.
Read more ›⌖
Manu Temple
Temple in Old Manali dedicated to the sage Manu, from whom the town takes its name.
Read more ›Taste the city
Local Food
Himachali and Tibetan food both feature strongly — try local trout, thukpa, momos and siddu. Old Manali and Mall Road have a wide range of cafes and restaurants.
Suggested plan
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Hadimba Temple, Old Manali and Mall Road; riverside cafes in the evening.
Day 2: Solang Valley for adventure activities or snow play.
Day 3 (seasonal): Rohtang Pass with a permit, or the Naggar/Kullu side and local sightseeing.
Prepare well
What to Pack
Heavy warm layers and snow-appropriate footwear in winter; lighter layers plus a rain jacket in the warmer months; sturdy shoes for any trekking or adventure activity.
Practical guide
Travel Tips
Rohtang Pass access is seasonal and permit-controlled with daily vehicle limits — arrange permits in advance and check the current opening status. Adventure activities are weather-dependent.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions about Manali
When can I see snow in Manali?▼
Mainly December to February, with the Solang Valley and Rohtang areas receiving the heaviest snowfall.
Do I need a permit for Rohtang Pass?▼
Yes. Rohtang Pass is seasonal and permit-controlled; arrange the permit in advance and check current opening status before travelling.
How do I reach Manali?▼
Overnight bus from Delhi (~530 km) is common; alternatively fly to Bhuntar (limited) or Chandigarh, then continue by road.