Kullu Manali From Delhi


Kullu Manali Tour Package From Delhi
Kullu Manali from Delhi: A Scenic Escape into the Himalayas
Kullu Manali, nestled in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most sought-after hill stations in India. Known for its picturesque landscapes, snow-covered mountains, lush valleys, and serene environment, it is a perfect getaway for travelers from Delhi seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or someone looking for relaxation amidst nature, Kullu Manali offers something for everyone.
Distance and Travel Options from Delhi to Kullu Manali
Kullu Manali is located around 530 km from Delhi, making it easily accessible by road, train, and air. The journey itself is a treat, offering breathtaking views of the landscape as you travel through the Himalayan foothills.
- By Road: Traveling by road is the most popular way to reach Kullu Manali from Delhi. The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours, depending on traffic conditions. You can either take a private car or opt for state-run or private buses that offer overnight services. The route via NH44 and NH3 is scenic, passing through towns like Panipat, Ambala, Chandigarh, and Mandi before reaching Kullu Manali.
- By Train: Although there is no direct train to Manali, the nearest railway station is in Joginder Nagar, about 160 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kullu Manali. Alternatively, you can take a train to Chandigarh or Pathankot and continue your journey by road.
- By Air: The nearest airport to Manali is the Bhuntar Airport, located about 10 km from Kullu town. There are daily flights from Delhi to Bhuntar, but they are relatively small aircrafts, and the flights might be subject to weather conditions. Alternatively, you can fly to Kullu from Delhi and then take a cab to Manali.
Things to Do in Kullu Manali
Once you arrive in Kullu Manali, a world of adventure and natural beauty awaits you. The region is known for its diverse offerings, catering to both nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
- Manali: The town of Manali is the heart of the destination. You can explore the famous Hadimba Temple, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road, or visit the Tibetan Monastery. Solang Valley, just a short distance from Manali, is known for adventure sports like paragliding, zorbing, skiing, and snowboarding.
- Kullu: Known for its scenic landscapes, Kullu is often referred to as the ‘Valley of Gods’. You can explore the Kullu Valley, visit the Raghunath Temple, and embark on a trek to the Great Himalayan National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Rohtang Pass: For those who are visiting during the winter months, Rohtang Pass is a must-visit destination. Located at an altitude of 3,978 meters, it offers snow-clad views and an array of snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowball fights.
- Trekking and Nature Walks: Kullu Manali is known for its trekking trails. Some popular treks include the Bhrigu Lake Trek, Beas Kund Trek, and Chandrakhani Pass Trek, all of which offer stunning views of the mountains and the valleys.
Best Time to Visit Kullu Manali
The best time to visit Kullu Manali depends on the kind of experience you're seeking. For snow lovers, the winter months from December to February offer a magical snowy landscape. However, for those seeking a mild climate and lush greenery, the best months are from March to June. For trekking enthusiasts, the monsoon season (July to September) offers a unique experience, though it can be a bit slippery.
Highlights
- 1 - Scenic Road Journey -
The 12-14 hour road trip from Delhi to Kullu Manali is an adventure in itself. Travelers pass through picturesque towns and lush green landscapes, offering stunning views of the Himalayan foothills along the way. - 2 - Adventure Sports at Solang Valley -
Solang Valley, just a short distance from Manali, is known for its adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, skiing, and snowboarding. It's a perfect spot for adrenaline junkies. - 3 - Rohtang Pass -
One of the most popular attractions in Manali, Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking snow-capped views and activities like skiing, snowball fights, and snowboarding. It's a must-visit during winter. - 4 - Hadimba Temple -
Located in the heart of Manali, the Hadimba Temple is an ancient shrine surrounded by cedar forests. Its unique architecture and tranquil surroundings make it a spiritual and scenic highlight. - 5 - Beas River and Riverside Walks -
The Beas River flows through Kullu Manali, offering opportunities for riverside walks, picnics, and even river rafting. The calm river and the surrounding mountains provide a serene escape. - 6 - Great Himalayan National Park -
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Himalayan National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers. It boasts rich biodiversity and offers several trekking routes. - 7 - Kullu Valley - The Valley of Gods -
Kullu Valley, with its lush green landscapes, apple orchards, and rivers, is known as the "Valley of Gods." It offers a serene escape with opportunities for nature walks and local sightseeing. - 8 - Trekking Trails -
Kullu Manali is home to several famous trekking routes, including the Bhrigu Lake Trek, Beas Kund Trek, and Chandrakhani Pass Trek. These trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. - 8 - Tibetan Monasteries and Culture -
Manali is home to several Tibetan monasteries, including the Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa and the Manu Temple. These provide a glimpse into the local Tibetan culture and offer a peaceful atmosphere. - 9 - Tibetan Monasteries and Culture -
Manali is home to several Tibetan monasteries, including the Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa and the Manu Temple. These provide a glimpse into the local Tibetan culture and offer a peaceful atmosphere. - 10 - Mall Road and Local Markets -
Mall Road in Manali is a lively street filled with shops, cafes, and local markets. It’s the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, woolens, and enjoy local cuisine.
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi to Manali (Travel Day)
- Morning:
Depart from Delhi by overnight bus or private vehicle. The journey will take around 12-14 hours, depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions. - Option 1: Overnight Volvo Bus
Board an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi’s ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal). This will be a comfortable ride with amenities such as reclining seats and air conditioning. - Option 2: Private Car
If you prefer a more flexible and scenic journey, hire a private car. Take breaks along the way to stretch and enjoy the scenic views of the foothills. - Evening: Arrive in Manali. Check into your hotel, freshen up, and take some rest after the long journey.
Day 2: Explore Manali
- Morning:
After breakfast, start your day with a visit to Hadimba Temple. This ancient temple, set amidst cedar forests, is a peaceful spot to soak in nature and history. - Midday:
Head to Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu, located near Old Manali. Explore the quaint surroundings and enjoy a walk through the old town. - Lunch: Enjoy a local meal at a café on Mall Road.
- Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Mall Road for shopping. You can pick up woolens, souvenirs, or local handicrafts.
- Evening: Enjoy a serene riverside walk along the Beas River, or visit the Tibetan Monastery to explore Buddhist culture.
Day 3: Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass (Adventure Day)
- Morning:
After breakfast, take a short drive to Solang Valley (14 km from Manali), known for its adventure activities. Try paragliding, zorbing, or skiing (seasonal). For snow lovers, this is the perfect spot in winter. - Lunch: Have lunch at a café in Solang Valley with stunning views of the mountains.
- Afternoon: Proceed to Rohtang Pass (subject to seasonal access). Located at an altitude of 3,978 meters, it offers snow-covered views and exciting snow activities. If you visit during summer, enjoy the scenic beauty and take a few photos.
- Evening: Return to Manali. Relax and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4: Day Trip to Kullu and Naggar
- Morning:
After breakfast, take a short drive to Kullu (40 minutes from Manali). Known as the "Valley of Gods," Kullu offers scenic views, apple orchards, and temples. Visit Raghunath Temple and explore the local markets. - Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant in Kullu, where you can savor Himachali delicacies like Chana Madra or Dham.
- Afternoon: Drive to Naggar, a charming village near Kullu. Visit the Naggar Castle, a beautiful historical structure, and the Roerich Art Gallery, showcasing the works of Russian artist Nicholas Roerich.
- Evening: Return to Manali, relax, and enjoy dinner in one of the cozy cafes on Mall Road.
Day 5: Departure – Manali to Delhi
- Morning:
Have a relaxed breakfast and, if time permits, explore the local markets or enjoy a short trek to Jogini Waterfalls (if you're up for some light hiking). - Midday: Check out from your hotel and start your journey back to Delhi. You can opt for an overnight Volvo bus or a private car for a comfortable return trip.
- Evening: Arrive in Delhi by evening or early morning the following day, depending on your travel schedule.
Inclusions
Transportation
- Round-trip transportation from Delhi to Kullu Manali by Volvo bus or private vehicle (depending on your choice of transport).
- Comfortable, air-conditioned travel with ample legroom for a smooth journey.
- On-route breaks for refreshments and sightseeing (if traveling by private vehicle).
Accommodation
- 3-Star or 4-Star hotel stay in Manali (depending on package selection) with modern amenities.
- Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis (single occupancy available on request).
- Complimentary breakfast during the stay in Manali.
Sightseeing & Activities
- Sightseeing tours as per the itinerary, including visits to famous attractions like Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Solang Valley, Kullu Valley, and Rohtang Pass (seasonal).
- Adventure activities such as paragliding, zorbing, skiing, and snowboarding (available seasonally in Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass).
- Entry fees for temples and monuments mentioned in the itinerary.
Local Transfers
- Comfortable, private vehicle for local sightseeing in Manali, Kullu, and Naggar.
- Airport/Bus Station pick-up and drop-off in Manali.
Meals
- Daily breakfast at the hotel.
- Select lunch and dinner at local restaurants or hotels (if part of the package).
Tour Guide (Optional)
- An experienced local guide for sightseeing and trekking (optional, available on request).
Travel Insurance (if included in the package)
- Basic travel insurance covering accidents, trip cancellations, and health emergencies during the trip.
Taxes & Service Charges
- All applicable taxes, including GST, service charges, and parking fees.
- Entry fees for tourist spots as specified in the itinerary.
Shopping and Local Experience
- Visit to local markets like Mall Road for souvenir shopping and experiencing local handicrafts and cuisine.
- Opportunities to interact with local people and explore the culture of Kullu Manali.
FAQ
1 - How far is Kullu Manali from Delhi?
Kullu Manali is approximately 530 km from Delhi. The journey takes around 12-14 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions.
2 - What is the best way to travel from Delhi to Kullu Manali?
Volvo buses offer an overnight journey, while a private car gives more flexibility and comfort. You can also take a train to nearby stations like Chandigarh and then travel by road.
3 - When is the best time to visit Kullu Manali from Delhi?
- Winter (December to February): Ideal for snow activities at Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley.
- Summer (March to June): Perfect for pleasant weather and outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.
- Monsoon (July to September): Best for trekking, but be cautious of heavy rainfall and landslides.
4 - Can I visit Rohtang Pass during my trip to Kullu Manali?
Yes, Rohtang Pass is a popular attraction. However, it is accessible only during the summer and early winter months (May to November), as it gets closed due to heavy snowfall in the winter. You need a permit to visit.
5 - Are adventure activities like paragliding and skiing available in Kullu Manali?
Yes, Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass are the prime spots for adventure activities such as paragliding, skiing, snowboarding, and zorbing. These activities are season-dependent and are available mainly in the winter and early spring months.
6 - How can I reach Kullu Manali by air?
The nearest airport to Kullu Manali is Bhuntar Airport, about 10 km from Kullu. You can fly from Delhi to Bhuntar, and then take a taxi or bus to reach Manali. However, flights are limited and subject to weather conditions.
7 - What are the main tourist attractions in Kullu Manali?
Key attractions include:
- Hadimba Temple
- Solang Valley (for adventure sports)
- Rohtang Pass (for snow activities)
- Manu Temple
- Tibetan Monasteries
- Great Himalayan National Park
- Kullu Valley (apple orchards and temples)
8 - Is Kullu Manali a good destination for families and kids?
Yes, Kullu Manali is an excellent destination for families and kids. The area offers a mix of scenic views, nature walks, temples, and adventure sports suitable for all age groups.
9 - What is the weather like in Kullu Manali?
- Winter (December to February): Cold with snowfall, temperatures can drop below freezing.
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C.
- Monsoon (July to September): Rainy with possible landslides and slippery roads.
10 - What are the accommodation options in Kullu Manali?
Kullu Manali offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels and guesthouses to luxury resorts. You can find options that suit various budgets and preferences, with many offering beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.