Delhi to Manali is India's most popular mountain road trip, usually driven in a single long day or broken with a night in Chandigarh, Mandi or Kullu. The route follows the Grand Trunk Road north to Ambala and Chandigarh or Kiratpur, then climbs into Himachal through Bilaspur and Mandi before following the Beas through its gorge to Kullu and Manali.
The Kiratpur–Manali four-lane highway, with several new tunnels between Bilaspur, Mandi and Kullu, has shortened the drive noticeably, though some stretches remain landslide-prone. This page covers the journey; our Manali guide covers what to do once you arrive.
Quick answer
Delhi to Manali is about 530 km by road via Chandigarh or Kiratpur, Bilaspur, Mandi and Kullu, and usually takes 11 to 14 hours of driving depending on traffic and road works. Most people either leave before dawn and drive through, or stop overnight in Chandigarh, Mandi or Kullu. March to June and September to November are best; avoid the peak monsoon.
Key takeaways
- The main route is Delhi–Ambala–Kiratpur–Bilaspur–Mandi–Kullu–Manali, about 530 km.
- The new four-lane highway and tunnels have cut driving time, but check for landslide closures.
- Break the drive at Chandigarh, Mandi or Kullu if you prefer daylight driving.
- Out-of-state cars pay Himachal's entry toll and Manali's green tax.
- The Pandoh to Aut stretch along the Beas is the most landslide-prone section.
The route at a glance
| Leg | Approx. distance | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi–Murthal–Panipat–Ambala | 200 km | Expressway-standard NH44, dhabas at Murthal |
| Ambala–Kiratpur | 100 km | Plains, entry into the Shivalik foothills |
| Kiratpur–Bilaspur–Mandi | About 110 km | Four-lane with tunnels, Gobind Sagar reservoir |
| Mandi–Pandoh–Aut–Kullu | About 70 km | Beas gorge, tunnels, landslide-prone |
| Kullu–Manali | 40 km | Valley road through apple orchards |
Route options
Via Kiratpur (main route)
The fastest route today, using the new four-lane highway through Bilaspur and Mandi.
Via Chandigarh and Swarghat
The older route through Ropar and Swarghat; still used when there are closures.
Via Shimla
A longer route up to Shimla and then down to Mandi via Tattapani and Sundernagar, useful if you want to combine both towns.
Stops along the way
Mandi
An old temple town on the Beas, halfway into the hills.
Where to stop overnight
- Chandigarh: for an evening start from Delhi; the hill drive then starts fresh.
- Mandi: roughly two-thirds of the way, leaving a short final day.
- Kullu or Naggar: for a relaxed arrival, especially with children.
Two- to five-day plans
| Days | Plan |
|---|---|
| 2 | Drive up with a night in Mandi; one day in Manali; drive back overnight or next day |
| 3 | Drive up; Old Manali and Hadimba; Solang or the Atal Tunnel to Sissu |
| 5 | Add Naggar and Kasol, or a day at Tirthan via Aut |
Once you arrive
Manali
What to do in Manali.
Manali guide · Things to do in Manali · Adventure activities in Manali
Food and fuel
Fuel is available all along the route, including in Mandi, Kullu and Manali. Murthal's dhabas and the highway food courts near Karnal are popular breakfast stops, and there are good roadside cafés around Bilaspur and Mandi.
When to go
March to June is the peak season, with long queues into Manali on weekends. September to November is quieter and clearer. The monsoon brings landslides between Mandi and Kullu; in recent years floods on the Beas have closed the highway for days. From December to February, snow is likely beyond Manali, and roads to Solang and the Atal Tunnel may be restricted.
Safety
- Mountain roads close or slow down after heavy rain, snow or landslides; check road status and weather updates each morning and avoid driving after dark.
- Permits, tolls, entry fees, pass openings and road works change; check official sources shortly before you travel.
- Distances and driving times are approximate and vary with traffic, weather, road works and stops.
What to pack
- Driving licence, RC, insurance and PUC certificate, with copies
- Warm layers and a rain jacket
- Motion-sickness tablets for winding roads
- Cash for small towns and barriers
Want the route, stops and stays planned around your dates?
FAQs
How far is Manali from Delhi by road?
About 530 km via Kiratpur, Mandi and Kullu.
How long does it take to drive from Delhi to Manali?
Usually 11 to 14 hours, depending on traffic, weather and road works.
Where should I stop overnight between Delhi and Manali?
Chandigarh, Mandi or Kullu are the usual choices.
Is the Delhi to Manali road good?
Most of it is now a wide highway, but the Beas gorge section is prone to landslides, especially in the monsoon.
Do I need to pay any fees to enter Manali by car?
Yes. Out-of-state vehicles pay Himachal's entry toll and Manali's green tax. Check current rates.
Can I drive from Delhi to Manali in winter?
Yes, the road to Manali usually stays open; beyond Manali, snow may restrict access.
