Manali is one of India’s most popular hill stations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. Whether you are planning a honeymoon, a family trip, or a solo adventure, figuring out how to reach Manali from Mumbai can feel a bit tricky due to the lack of direct connectivity. But don’t worry—we have broken it down step-by-step, with the latest 2025 information, to help you choose the best route that fits your budget, time, and travel preferences.
If you are planning a trip from Mumbai to Manali, you have multiple travel options, including trains, flights, and road trips. This comprehensive guide will help you choose the best way to reach Manali from Mumbai, with detailed information on routes, costs, and travel tips.
📍 Manali at a Glance
- Location: Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh
- Altitude: Approx. 2,050 meters (6,726 ft) above sea level
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport)
- Nearest Major Railway Stations: Chandigarh and Delhi
- Best Time to Visit: March–June (summer) & October–February (snow season)
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport, KUU) – ~50 km from Manali
- Distance By Road: ~1,950 km (via NH48 & NH3, takes ~36+ hours)
- Distance By Flight: ~1,360 km (Mumbai to Bhuntar, ~2 hours) + 2-hour drive to Manali
- Nearest Major Railway Stations:
- Chandigarh (~310 km) – Best connected from Mumbai
- Delhi (~550 km) – Alternate option
🚀 Quick Summary: Best Ways to Reach Manali from Mumbai
| Mode of Travel | Details |
|---|---|
| Train + Road | Route: Direct Volvo buses from Mumbai to Manali. Duration: 36–40 hours. Cost: ₹1,500–₹2,500. Key Info: Overnight buses are available. Comfortable but time-consuming. |
| Flight + Road | Route: Mumbai → Chandigarh/Delhi → Manali. Duration: 24–42 hours. Cost: ₹1,800–₹3,500. Key Info: The nearest stations are Chandigarh (310 km) or Delhi (540 km). Take a bus or taxi from there. |
| By Road | Route: Mumbai → Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali. Duration: 36–40 hours. Cost: ₹10,000–₹15,000 (fuel/taxi). Key Info: Distance: ~1,800 km. Scenic route with stops in Delhi/Chandigarh. |
| Bus | Route: Direct Volvo buses from Mumbai to Manali. Duration: 36–40 hours. Cost: ₹1,500–₹2,500. Key Info: Overnight buses available. Comfortable but time-consuming. |
1. How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Flight (2025 Guide)
There is no direct flight from Mumbai to Manali. The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport (KUU), located about 50 km away. However, flights to Bhuntar are limited and often affected by weather conditions. A more reliable option is to fly to Chandigarh or Delhi and then travel to Manali by road.
Step-by-Step Flight Route:
- Book a flight from Mumbai (BOM) to Kullu (KUU) – There are no direct flights, but connecting flights are available via Delhi or Chandigarh.
- From Bhuntar (Kullu Airport), hire a cab or take a HRTC/Himachal Tourism bus to reach Manali.
Option 1: Mumbai to Bhuntar by Flight
- Book a Flight from Mumbai to Bhuntar:
- Airlines like Air India and SpiceJet operate flights to Bhuntar.
- Flight duration: Approximately 2.5 hours (including a layover in Delhi).
- Ticket price: ₹5,000–₹10,000 (one way, depending on the season).
- Bhuntar to Manali by Road:
- Distance: 50 km.
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours.
- Options: Hire a taxi or take a local bus.
Option 2: Mumbai to Chandigarh/Delhi by Flight
- Book a Flight from Mumbai to Chandigarh or Delhi:
- Flight duration: Approximately 2–2.5 hours.
- Ticket price: ₹3,000–₹7,000 (one way).
- Chandigarh/Delhi to Manali by Road:
- From Chandigarh: Distance is 310 km (8–9 hours by road).
- From Delhi: Distance is 540 km (12–14 hours by road).
- Options: Hire a taxi or take a bus (Volvo buses are recommended).
Flight Info (Updated for 2025):
- Typical Price Range: INR 3,500 – INR 7,000+ (one-way, varies by season & demand)
- Departure Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM), Mumbai
- Arrival Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), Bhuntar
- Flight Duration: 2 hours 5 minutes (approx.)
- Airlines: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India (seasonal)
- Post-Flight Travel: Taxi/Bus from Bhuntar to Manali (~50 km, 2 hours)
Tip: Book your flights at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays.
2. How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Train (2025 Update)
Manali does not have its railway station, so traveling by train requires a combination of rail and road travel. The nearest major railway stations to Manali are Chandigarh and Delhi, which are well-connected to Mumbai. From there, you can continue your journey to Manali by road.
Best Train Routes from Mumbai Step-by-Step Guide:
Option 1: Mumbai → Chandigarh → Manali
- Train: Paschim Express (Train No. 12925) – Daily service
- Travel Time: Approximately 24–28 hours.
- Fare (3AC): Approx. ₹1,750
- From Chandigarh, take a Volvo bus, taxi, or shared cab to Manali (Approx. 9 hours / 300 km)
Option 2: Mumbai → Delhi → Manali
- Trains: Rajdhani Express, August Kranti Rajdhani, Golden Temple Mail
- Travel Time: 17–20 hours
- Fare (3AC): ₹1,500 to ₹2,300
- From Delhi, board a Volvo bus or a cab to Manali (540 km / 12–14 hours)
Mumbai to Manali train ticket price (total): ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 (including connecting road journey)
Nearest Railway Stations to Manali:
- Joginder Nagar Railway Station (160 km from Manali) is the closest, but it has limited connectivity.
- Chandigarh Railway Station (310 km) and Delhi Railway Station (540 km) are more convenient options.
For those wondering how to go to Manali from Mumbai via train, the most convenient way is via Delhi or Chandigarh, followed by a road journey. If you are planning to travel via Delhi, you can also check our detailed guide on how to reach Manali from Delhi for complete route options, travel time, and updated fares.
3. How to Reach Manali from Mumbai by Road (2025 Details)
If you love road trips and want to drive through changing landscapes, then this one’s for you. A road trip from Mumbai to Manali is an adventurous and scenic option, allowing you to enjoy the diverse landscapes of India. The distance is approximately 1,800–2,000 km, depending on the route you choose. You can either drive your car or hire a taxi.
Road Routes Step-by-Step Guide:
Route 1: Mumbai → Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali
| Route | Distance & Time | Main Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai → Delhi | 1,400 km, 20–22 hours | Mumbai → Nashik → Indore → Gwalior → Delhi |
| Delhi → Chandigarh | 250 km, 4–5 hours | Delhi → Karnal → Ambala → Chandigarh |
| Chandigarh → Manali | 310 km, 8–9 hours | Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali |
Route 2: Mumbai → Ahmedabad → Udaipur → Jaipur → Delhi → Manali
| Route | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai to Ahmedabad | 530 km | 8–9 hours |
| Ahmedabad to Udaipur | 260 km | 4–5 hours |
| Udaipur to Jaipur | 400 km | 6–7 hours |
| Jaipur to Delhi | 270 km | 5–6 hours |
| Delhi to Manali | 540 km | 12–14 hours |
| Total | 2,000 km | ~35–41 hours |
Key Notes:
- Total Distance: Approx. 1,950–2,000 km
- Driving Time: 34 to 38 hours (excluding overnight stays)
- Best Stops: Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Jaipur, Delhi (for rest & sightseeing)
Road Conditions:
- The roads are mostly in good condition.
- You will pass through several national highways: NH48, NH44, and NH3.
- From Delhi, you can take the scenic NH3 (Delhi → Karnal → Mandi → Manali)
Tips for Road Trips:
- Plan your stops (e.g., Delhi, Chandigarh, or Jaipur).
- Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, especially for the hilly terrain.
- Carry necessary documents (e.g., driving license, vehicle papers).
- Check weather conditions before starting your journey.
Travel by Bus:
| Travel Option | Details | Price/Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai to Delhi/Chandigarh | No direct buses to Manali. First reach Delhi/Chandigarh via: | |
| – Train (Mumbai to Delhi) | ₹500–₹2,000 (varies by class) | |
| – Flight (Mumbai to Delhi) | ₹3,000–₹7,000 | |
| Delhi to Manali (HRTC Bus) | Depart from ISBT Kashmere Gate | ₹1,300–₹1,800 (Volvo) |
| Travel Time | 12–14 hours | |
| Chandigarh to Manali | Depart from Chandigarh ISBT | ₹1,000–₹1,500 (Volvo) |
| Travel Time | 8–9 hours |
🧳 Which Option Should You Choose?
| Route | Travel Time | Approx. Cost | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight via Kullu | 7–9 hrs | ₹7,000–₹11,000 | Short on time |
| Train + Road via Delhi | 30–36 hrs | ₹2,500–₹4,000 | Budget travelers |
| Train + Road via Chandigarh | 30–34 hrs | ₹2,500–₹4,000 | Balanced option |
| Full Road Trip | 34–38 hrs | ₹7,000–₹10,000 (fuel/tolls) | Road trip lovers |
🏔️ How to Visit Shimla, Kullu, and Manali from Mumbai
If you want to explore Shimla or Kullu on your way to Manali, here’s how you can do it: I want to cover all three. Here’s a Shimla–Kullu–Manali plan:
- Mumbai to Delhi (train/flight)
- Delhi to Shimla (Volvo bus or Toy Train via Kalka)
- Shimla to Kullu–Manali (road, 250 km)
- Return from Manali to Delhi, then back to Mumbai
Via Shimla:
- Mumbai to Shimla:
- Take a train or flight to Chandigarh, then travel to Shimla by road (approx. 110 km).
- Shimla to Manali:
- Distance: 250 km.
- Travel time: 7–8 hours.
- Route: Shimla → Kufri → Narkanda → Rampur → Manali.
Via Kullu:
- Mumbai to Kullu:
- Fly directly to Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) or take a train/flight to Chandigarh/Delhi and then travel to Kullu by road.
- Kullu to Manali:
- Distance: 40 km.
- Travel time: 1–1.5 hours.
- Options: Hire a taxi or take a local bus.
This route is scenic and ideal for a week-long trip. You can also look for packages covering this triangle from major travel agencies.
📅 Best Time to Travel from Mumbai to Manali
| Season | Weather | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| April to June | Pleasant | Perfect for snow lovers, skiing, and honeymoon |
| July to September | Rainy | Avoid due to landslides |
| October to February | Cold/Snowy | Perfect for snow lovers, skiing, and a honeymoon |
✅ Final Travel Tips (2025)
- Book early for better prices on flights and trains.
- Carry warm clothes even in summer—nights can be chilly.
- Avoid monsoon months for safety.
- Volvo buses from Delhi or Chandigarh are best for a comfortable overnight journey.
- If flying to Kullu, check weather updates—flights often get delayed in winter.
If you are short on time, flying to Kullu is the fastest option. Those on a budget can take a train to Delhi, followed by a bus to Manali. Prefer adventure? A road trip lets you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Mumbai to Manali Flight and Train Ticket Prices
- Flight Ticket Price:
- Mumbai to Bhuntar: ₹5,000–₹10,000 (one way).
- Mumbai to Chandigarh: ₹3,000–₹7,000 (one way).
- Mumbai to Delhi: ₹2,500–₹6,000 (one way).
- Train Ticket Price:
- Mumbai to Chandigarh: ₹500–₹1,500 (sleeper to AC classes).
- Mumbai to Delhi: ₹500–₹2,000 (sleeper to AC classes).
Best Time to Visit Manali
- Summer (March to June): Ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities.
- Winter (October to February): Perfect for snow lovers and winter sports.
- Monsoon (July to September): Avoid due to landslides and heavy rainfall.
Travel Tips for Manali: Your Ultimate Guide
Planning a trip to Manali? Here are essential tips to ensure a smooth and memorable experience:
1. Beat Altitude Sickness
Manali sits at 2,050 meters, and altitude sickness can affect some travelers.
- Symptoms: Headache, nausea, dizziness.
- Prevention Tips:
✅ Arrive gradually; spend a day in Shimla or Chandigarh first.
✅ Stay hydrated (drink 3–4 liters of water daily).
✅ Avoid alcohol and smoking.
✅ Rest for 24–48 hours after arrival.
⚠️ Consult a doctor for altitude sickness pills like Diamox if needed.
2. Pack Smart for Manali
- All Seasons: Warm clothes, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a power bank, and basic meds.
- Winter (Oct–Feb): Heavy woolens, thermals, gloves, moisturizer, and lip balm.
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Light woolens and a sun hat.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Waterproof jacket and umbrella.
3. Getting Around Manali
- Taxis: Hire for local sightseeing; negotiate fares in advance.
- Buses: Affordable HRTC buses connect major areas.
- Two-Wheelers: Rent a scooter/bike (₹500–₹800/day); drive carefully on hilly roads.
- Walking: Explore attractions like Hadimba Temple and Mall Road on foot.
4. Adventure Activities to Try
- Must-Do: Paragliding, skiing, trekking, river rafting, zorbing, and ziplining.
- Pro Tips:
✅ Choose licensed operators.
✅ Check weather conditions before booking.
✅ Wear proper gear and stay within your limits.
5. General Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip
- Carry ID Proof: Needed for hotel check-ins and permits.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, especially at temples.
- Stay Connected: BSNL and Airtel have the best network coverage.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Avoid littering; carry a reusable water bottle.
- Permits: Obtain permits for Rohtang Pass or restricted areas in advance.
Ready to explore Manali? Use these tips to plan your trip and make it unforgettable! 🌄
Popular Routes to Manali
| Route | Time Taken | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Manali | 10 hours 51 mins | 537 km |
| Shimla to Manali | 6 hours 36 mins | 248 km |
| Chandigarh to Manali | 7 hours 25 mins | 309 km |
| Amritsar to Manali | 8 hours 50 mins | 399 km |
| Mumbai to Manali | 1 day 8 hours | 1,958 km |
| Bangalore to Manali | 1 day 18 hours | 2,673 km |
Popular Routes from Mumbai
| Route | Time Taken | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai to Goa | 9 hours 49 mins | 583 km |
| Mumbai to Coorg | 17 hours 3 mins | 1,026 km |
| Mumbai to Lonavala | 1 hour 35 mins | 84 km |
| Mumbai to Panchgani | 4 hours 13 mins | 242 km |
| Mumbai to Pondicherry | 19 hours 51 mins | 1,298 km |
| Mumbai to Shirdi | 4 hours 17 mins | 241 km |
Manali Travel Route Map – Find the Best Way to Reach
Conclusion
Reaching Manali from Mumbai is an exciting journey, whether you choose to travel by train, flight, or road. Each mode of transport offers a unique experience, from the scenic beauty of a road trip to the convenience of a flight. Plan your trip well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, and enjoy the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. Safe travels!
FAQs: How to Reach Manali from Mumbai
The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), located about 50 km from Manali. However, flights to Bhuntar are limited, and many travelers prefer flying to Chandigarh or Delhi.
The nearest major railway stations are Chandigarh (310 km) and Delhi (540 km). From there, you can travel to Manali by road.
The aerial distance between Mumbai and Manali is approximately 1,400 km. However, there are no direct flights to Manali. You can fly to Bhuntar, Chandigarh, or Delhi and then travel by road.
There is no direct train to Manali. You can take a train to Chandigarh (24–28 hours) or Delhi (16–18 hours) and then travel to Manali by road (8–14 hours).
Flight tickets from Mumbai to Bhuntar cost around ₹5,000–₹10,000 (one way). Flights to Chandigarh or Delhi cost ₹3,000–₹7,000 (one way).
Yes, there are direct Volvo buses from Mumbai to Manali. The journey takes around 36–40 hours.
Yes, you can drive from Mumbai to Manali. The distance is approximately 1,800–2,000 km, and the journey takes around 36–40 hours.
The best time to visit Manali is from March to June for pleasant weather and October to February for snowfall.
Take a train or flight to Chandigarh, then travel to Shimla by road (110 km). From Shimla, drive to Manali (250 km).
Fly to Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) or take a train/flight to Chandigarh/Delhi and then travel to Kullu by road. From Kullu, Manali is just 40 km away.
