Introduction
Shimla is a small city in India. It is the capital of the state called Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is in the mountains, so it is cool and beautiful. Shimla is also popular for outdoor activities like hiking, horse riding, and skiing when it snows. It is one of the best hill stations in India.
A very popular hill station destination is Manali which is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is a base for tourists going to Ladakh and is visited by tourists during the whole journey.
In this article you will find details about routes you should consider while traveling to Manali from Delhi , Distance you need to cover ,best time to visit Manali and some important travel tips.
Distance and Route Overview
The distance from Shimla to Manali is 250 kilometers by road .It often takes 7 to 8 hours.The road goes through the mountains with many curves and beautiful views. You will see tall trees, rivers, and sometimes snow.
The journey starts from Shimla, goes through towns like Mandi and Kull then reaches Manali. The road is mostly a two-way mountain road. It can be slow because of the hills, but the views are very nice.
There is no train or airplane between Shimla and Manali because both are in the mountains and connected only by roads.
Modes of transport
By Bus
There are many buses that go from Shimla to Manal, these are budget friendly options. You can take a government bus or private buses.It takes 8 to 10 hours because they stop a lot. Some buses are Volvo, which are more comfortable.
By Car / Taxi
Hiring a taxi/cab is the most easy and comfortable option. It will take 7 to 8 hours to reach the destination. You can book a private taxi or take a shared taxi.This is faster and more comfortable than the bus. You can stop anytime to enjoy the views or take a break.
By Private Car
If you have your own car, it will be the best way to travel from Shimla to Manali. This gives you flexibility to stop and enjoy the view. It will take 7 to 8 hours to reach the destination.
By Bike
Some people like to ride a motorcycle from Shimla to Manali. It is a popular way to enjoy the mountains and nature. The ride takes about 7 to 8 hours. You need to be careful on the curvy roads.
Best Routes by Road
Route 1 via Mandi – Kullu
It is the fastest and most used route.. It is recommended for scenic views of mountains, valleys, and forests .Road is good but hilly .You pass through nice towns like Mandi and Kullu where you can stop for food or rest. Shimla to Manali distance via this route is 250 km. The journey takes 7 to 8 hours. The route is as follows:
Shimla > Mandi > Kullu > Manali
Route 2 via NH205
This is the alternative route from Shimla to Manali , which passes through small towns. This route has less traffic than the main route. Shimla to Manali distance via this route is 280 km. The journey takes 8 to 9 hours. The route is as follows:
Shimla > Nahan > Rajgarh > Manali
Best Time To Travel
Summer season (March to June) and Winter season (October to February) are the best months to travel from Shimla to Manali. The weather is pleasant and you can enjoy cool weather and it’s great for snow lovers.
Avoid the Monsoon season(July to August) .There is risk of landslides and slippery roads.Some tourist spots may be closed.
Travel Tips
- Start your journey early in the morning or late evening to avoid city traffic.
- Carry woollen clothes,it can be very cold over there especially in the morning and evening.
- If you are traveling by road,make sure to fill your fuel tank as there are a limited number of fuel stations on hills.
- Book your hotel or resort in advance, especially during peak season.
- Check Weather Before You Go,especially in monsoon season.
- Do not forget to download offline maps for remote areas.
- Avoid driving at night due to poor visibility and risky roads.
- Remote areas do not accept digital payments,carry cash with you.
- Carry basic medicines for motion sickness, cold, or allergies.
FAQs
How far is Manali from Shimla?
Manali is about 250 kilometers from Shimla by road.
How long does it take to travel from Shimla to Manali?
It takes around 7 to 8 hours by car or bus.
Is the road from Shimla to Manali safe?
Yes, the road is mostly safe. But it has many turns because it is in the mountains.
Can I travel by train or flight from Shimla to Manali?
No, there is no train or flight between Shimla and Manali.
What is the best time to travel?
The best time is from March to June and September to November.
Conclusion
Traveling from Shimla to Manali is a beautiful and fun journey. The road goes through mountains, rivers, and green trees. You can travel by bus, car, or bike. The best time to go is March to June or September to November when the weather is nice.
This trip gives you a chance to enjoy nature, take photos, and make happy memories. It is a great trip for families, friends, and nature lovers.
