How to Plan the Perfect Delhi to Manali Road Trip
The road trip from Delhi to Manali is one of the best adventures in India. Imagine cruising along the winding highways with the towering Himalayas surrounding you; stopping at small dhabas for warm, buttery parathas; and opening the windows to let in the crisp mountain breeze. This isn’t just a drive, it’s an experience encompassing food, history, culture, and visually stunning landscapes. The distance from Delhi to Manali is about 470 km and can take anywhere between 10-12 hours. You will pass through picturesque towns in Himachal, see historic temples, and drive through scenic valleys. Smart planning will allow you to craft your Delhi to Manali itinerary into either an adventure packed with thrill or a well-deserved retreat. This guide outlines the best routes, breaks, packing advice, and safety tips for a road trip filled with beautiful scenery, food, and long-lasting memories. What’s in this blog Why Take a Road Trip from Delhi to Manali? Best Time to Travel Planning Your Route Packing and Preparing for the Trip Best Places and Stops on the Way Suggested Delhi to Manali Road Trip Itinerary Travel Essentials and Safety Tips Where to Stay Along the Route Why Plan with The Tarzan Way FAQs Final Thoughts Why Take a Road Trip from Delhi to Manali? Manali is one of the most loved hill stations in India; however, the adventure begins long before you reach the destination. If you drive from Delhi, you get to experience Scenic diversity – You go from Delhi with all its chaos, to flat farmland in Haryana and Chandigarh’s gardens to the mountains of Himachal. Freedom & flexibility – Stop where you want, eat the food that tempts you, and detour into remote villages. Unforgettable bonding – Long drives mean stories, laughter, memories, and experiences with your fellow travelers. Adventure factor – Hairpin bends, high passes, and spontaneous pitstops mean that the journey is as thrilling as the destination. Unlike a short easy flight, the road allows you to slow down and truly feel the spirit of Himachal. Best Time to Travel Timing really can impact your smooth roadway trip from Delhi to Manali. March–June – Great weather to experience and do fun activities. July–August – Torrential rains make the roads slippery and prone to landslides. No bueno. September–November – The weather is crisp, the air is clear and the crowd is smaller. December–February – A beautiful blanket of snow, but riskier driving option because of icy roads. If this is your first trip, I’d recommend a trip in March–June or September–November for a safer and comfortable trip. Planning Your Route The distance from Delhi to Manali is about 470 km, which can take 10-12 hours for a direct route. But the best part of this trip is to part it into a leisurely 3-5 days where you can visit towns along the way. Common Route Delhi → Murthal → Panipat → Ambala → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali Suggested Stopovers Murthal – well known for parathas, and dhaba culture. Chandigarh – well known for architecture, gardens and museums. Kalka & Solan – great hillside views. Kullu – with apple orchards, temples, and river rafting. You will get the most food, culture, and relaxation on your trip by having 2-3 stopovers. Packing and Preparing for the Trip Packing smart makes the difference between a nice road trip and a stressful one. Things to consider: Clothes – lightweight cottons for the daytime, heavier jackets for the evening. Travel gear – sunglasses, hats, power banks for the trip, and car chargers. Snacks – buy dry fruits, sandwiches, some chips, and lots of water. Medical kit – buy basic medicines, motion sickness tablets, and band-aids. Car supplies – spare tyre, basic toolkit, torchlights, and extra fuel cans. Pro Travel Tips: Servicing of your car should be done one week prior to your trip (e.g. battery check, brakes check, and tyres check). Make sure to create playlists for the length of your trip, to keep your spirits high on longer stretches. Assign roles in the planning. Having a navigator, photographer and DJ will engage everyone. Best Places and Stops on the Way There are so many stops you can make while driving along the Delhi-Manali Highway. It’s full of places you will want to stop over! In and Around Delhi Sadar Bazaar – chaotic, colorful, and full of tasty street food. Chole Bhature breakfast – a classic North Indian kickstart. Murthal (NH44) Renowned for giant stuffed parathas with butter and lassi. Kurukshetra & Panchkula Kurukshetra temples – deep dive into India’s mythology. Nada Sahib Gurudwara – a peaceful spiritual stop. Chandigarh Explore the Rock Garden, Rose Garden, and museums. Perfect place for an overnight halt. Shimla & Kasauli (Optional detour) Colonial architecture, Mall Road, toy train rides. Approaching Manali Kullu – apple orchards, rafting in Beas River, temples. Solang Valley – adventure hub for paragliding and skiing. Rohtang Pass – if open, this snow paradise is a must-visit. In Manali Stroll along Mall Road. Visit Hidimba Devi Temple. Cozy up in local cafes with mountain views. Suggested Delhi to Manali Road Trip Itinerary Here’s a basic 5-day road trip plan: Day 1: Delhi → Chandigarh (250 km, approx. 5–6 hour drive). After a day of visiting Chandigarh’s gardens, stay overnight at a hotel. Day 2: Chandigarh → Shimla/Kasauli (90-120 km, approx. 3-4 hour drive). Explore Shimla or Kasauli with their beautiful hills and colonial architecture; stay overnight. Day 3: Shimla/Kasauli → Mandi/Kullu (180 km, 6–7 hour drive). See the beautiful scenic drives, apple orchards, and temples on this drive and stay overnight. Day 4: Kullu → Manali (40 km; 2 hour drive). Arrive in Manali; spend the day exploring Mall Road and Hidimba Temple. You can stay here two nights – the accommodation options are plentiful. Day 5: Around Manali → Take day trips from Manali to Solang Valley or Rohtang Pass (if open). Either way, there will be wonderful scenery and adventure. This trip can be done in
Top Budget Hotels in Manali for a Mountain Getaway
Manali has always been a destination for travelers who love the beauty of the Himalayas. Snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, pine trees, and the Beas River create the perfect picture. But here’s the best thing: you can enjoy this beauty on a budget. There are several top-rated hotels in Manali for a mountain vacation that are affordable with amazing comfort, good eating options, and welcoming hospitality – for a reasonable prize! So, whether you are traveling solo, with friends, a family trip, or on your honeymoon, there is a great blend of affordable stay in Manali. In this blog, we will share some of the best budget hotels in Manali near Mall Road, budget places to stay in peace of mind, and other awesome backpacker hostels. Plan your trip with The Tarzan Way. What’s in this Blog? Why Choose Budget Hotels in Manali? The Orchard Greens Hotel Hotel Snow Valley Resort Zostel Manali Hotel Tibetan Classic Johnson Lodge Manali Tips to Choose the Best Budget Hotels in Manali Why Stay Near Mall Road? Using The Tarzan Way for Smarter Travel Planning FAQs Final Thoughts Why Choose Budget Hotels in Manali? Budget travel is not synonymous with compromised quality. As a matter of fact, most of the negatively reviewed budget hotels to stay in Manali have: Ideal locations – close to Mall Road, Hadimba Temple, and sleepy away from the hustle and bustle are some of the loveliest villages in Manali as Vashisht. Modern amenities – including Wi-Fi, room service, and travel assistance. Quality food – Indian cuisine, Tibetan food including momos and thukpa. More than this, the chances to experience the local activities – including treks, temples and adventure sports available in Manali like paragliding, and rafting. Budget hotels to stay in Manali that families, couples and backpackers take, about their family trips, or honeymoons, budget accommodation is an updated way to experience the magic of the mountains at 50% off. The Orchard Greens Hotel If you’re searching for Manali budget hotels near Mall Road, The Orchard Greens Hotel tops the list. Location: Just minutes away from Hadimba Temple and Manu Temple. Room Rates: From ₹1360 per night. Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, attached bathrooms, travel desk, fitness center, and a rooftop with breathtaking views. Why Stay Here? Central location makes it easy for couples and small families to explore the town. Hotel Snow Valley Resort Looking for top budget hotels in Manali for a mountain getaway for family? Hotel Snow Valley Resort offers peace and rejuvenation. Location: Nestled in Old Manali, surrounded by gardens and quiet trails. Room Rates: From ₹1500 per night. Unique Features: Floor-to-ceiling windows, yoga sessions, massages, vegetarian meals, and shuttle service to Mall Road. Nearby Adventures: River rafting in the Beas River and paragliding flights. Zostel Manali No list of best budget hotels in Manali is complete without mentioning Zostel – a favorite among backpackers. Location: Near Mall Road and also in Old Manali, Vashisht, Burwa, Pangan, and Dhobi. Room Rates: Beds from just ₹500 per night. Vibe: Colorful dorms, lively common spaces, terrace café, games, and karaoke nights. What’s Special: Free kitchen access, budget-friendly stays, and the chance to connect with travelers worldwide. Hotel Tibetan Classic For travelers wanting something culturally immersive, Hotel Tibetan Classic is an amazing choice. Location: The peaceful village of Vashisht. Room Rates: From ₹1500 per night. Ambience: Ladakhi-style interiors, woodwork, Buddhist murals, and garden café with mountain views. Special Experiences: Butter tea, Tibetan cuisine (momos, thukpa), wellness sessions, and massages. Johnson Lodge Manali One of the best budget hotels in Manali near Mall Road, Johnson Lodge blends comfort with affordability. Location: Central Manali, walking distance to Mall Road. Room Rates: From ₹1000 per night. Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, safety lockers, laundry, and a restaurant serving Indian & continental dishes. Why Stay Here? A convenient base for sightseeing while still enjoying a cozy retreat. Tips to Choose the Best Budget Hotels in Manali For Families: Look for budget hotels in Manali for family that provide larger rooms, safety, and kid-friendly food options. For Honeymooners: Choose the best budget hotels in Manali for honeymoon with scenic views and privacy. For Backpackers: Go for dorm-style hostels like Zostel to save money for activities. Near Mall Road: The best budget hotels in Manali near Mall Road are convenient for shopping, food, and nightlife. Cultural Stays: Try unique stays like dharamshala in Manali for stay to experience spirituality and culture. Why Stay Near Mall Road? Staying near Mall Road gives you easy access to: Street shopping for woolens and handicrafts. Local eateries and cafés. Quick access to taxis and bus stands. Proximity to tourist spots like Hadimba Temple. Using The Tarzan Way for Smarter Travel Planning Choosing where to stay in Manali can be overwhelming with so many options. That’s where The Tarzan Way makes a difference. Get personalized hotel recommendations. Build your own custom itinerary. Balance your budget with comfort. If you’re planning longer adventures, check out: Manali to Leh: The Ultimate High-Altitude Road Trip in India The Ultimate Manali Experience: Nature, Adventure, and Culture Exploring the Mountains: A Guide to the Main Attractions Along the Shimla-Manali Highway How to Plan the Perfect Delhi to Manali Road Trip The Ultimate Manali Travel Guide: How to reach and get around the mountain town With The Tarzan Way, you don’t just book hotels—you design your mountain getaway smarter. FAQs 1. Which are the top budget hotels in Manali for a mountain getaway? Some of the best include The Orchard Greens Hotel, Hotel Snow Valley Resort, Johnson Lodge, Hotel Tibetan Classic, and Zostel Manali. 2. What are the best budget hotels in Manali near Mall Road? Johnson Lodge and The Orchard Greens Hotel are excellent choices near Mall Road. 3. Are there budget hotels in Manali for family trips? Yes, Hotel Snow Valley Resort and The Orchard Greens Hotel are great for families. 4. Which are the best budget hotels in Manali for honeymoon couples? Hotel Tibetan Classic in Vashisht and Hotel Snow Valley Resort are
How to Travel Comfortably on a Budget in 2022
India is a country that is full of magic no matter what time of the year you get here! There is something in every corner that can amaze you even if the place you visit will be off-season. Everyone wants to travel in a luxurious manner but sometimes, we’ve got a limited budget. You need to remember that everyone’s definition of budget vacation will differ. A luxury trip might mean different things to different people, too. However, these pointers ought to be applicable whatever your spending limit and anticipated degree of luxury may be. Image by Taryn Elliott Here are a few things you can do when you travel to India to help you comfortably enjoy your time here while on a budget: Stay at an Airbnb or Homestay Plan a trip during the off-season Eat out less frequently Bargain! Bargain! Bargain! Hire, don’t buy Go to offbeat destinations Consult online travel experts 1. Stay at an Airbnb or Homestay Image by Business Traveller Staying in Airbnbs, homestays, or guesthouses run by locals in India is a great way to obtain the sense of a luxury vacation when you’re on a budget. These are comparatively cheaper than hotels but you’ll get to experience a similar stay. Plus, these places give a far more real experience, and you’ll probably have your own bathroom that isn’t shared with the owner and their family! Your host will also be able to teach you about the local way of life. 2. Plan a trip during the off-season It might be expensive to plan a luxury trip during public holidays and vacations. On the other side, traveling to places when they are off-season can save you a lot of cash. Choose a period of the year when there are fewer tourists if you want to have a luxurious holiday. It’s important to keep in mind that many tourists come to visit around the time of Indian holidays or festivities. So, try to get to these places at other times if possible. You’ll be able to take a more peaceful vacation and save money for a few frills. 3. Eat out less frequently Image by Alex Green It is possible to have a full meal for even 300 INR if you make your own meals. However, if you don’t plan it carefully, it could severely cut into your budget. Instead of eating out every night, it is worthwhile to prepare meals for yourself whenever you can in order to cut costs and take care of your health too. Additionally, you should stay away from tourist spots where items are overpriced owing to high demand; instead, stick to consuming street food meals near markets, which are typically less expensive overall. 4. Bargain! Bargain! Bargain! In India, practically every set price that is provided to a visitor is significantly higher than the going rate, which is arguably the most overdone travel advice. You can choose the wiser approach and begin negotiating at half price and proceed from that. Indians adore a good negotiator more than anything else! Real jewelry and gemstones should only be purchased if you don’t worry too much about their value since they are not certified. 5. Hire, don’t buy To get around town, hiring a car, a cycle, or a scooter can be more cost-effective than purchasing them. To have an enjoyable, and comfortable budget trip, make sure to return them to the sellers at the end of the trip in good condition. If you want to save even more money, you can also rent an apartment, a house, or a bed and breakfast rather than make a hotel reservation. When traveling with others, a villa may provide all the pleasures while staying within your means. 6. Go to offbeat destinations Image by Tour My India Look for new or offbeat destinations because the more well-known tourist destinations are often the most expensive to visit. The living expenses will be cheaper, there won’t be as many people there, and Airbnbs/homestays will be less expensive. In certain cases, you can have a more genuine experience in a place that receives fewer tourists since the locals are friendlier there. 7. Consult online travel experts A travel agency arranges everything for you, including hotel reservations and sightseeing stops, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday in luxury without worrying about accidents. In the end, everything is handled within a predetermined budget. Although many people believe that booking a trip online is a scam, a travel agency actually benefits customers in more ways than one. You’ll be shocked to find out how much money you can save with their help. Additionally, you can also try using some of the mobile apps for budgeting & handling money. Using mobile apps can be a great way to keep track of all your expenses & help you better manage your money. On a related note, you should definitely remember us the next time you plan a trip! Conclusion Irrespective of where you go, a magnificent travel adventure is really about the moments you remember. This is regardless of whether you like exploring new locations every day or prefer to take a peaceful getaway and take in the local beauty. There are some really cool budget destinations in India that you must visit! Make the best of not just the worldly delights a place has to offer, but also the soul of the place. You should always learn more about it from locals whether you travel solo, with your partner, or with your mates. For more such information stay tuned to www.thetarzanway.com
