Important Travel Details: Distance, Driving Time & Ideal Stops in 2025
If you love road trips and are planning your next adventure from Delhi to Manali in 2025. This guide will give you all the details you need to plan the perfect road trip, from best routes and toll charges to must-visit spots in Manali. Road trips offers a sense of relaxation, inner peace, and ultimate freedom to explore the world at your own pace.
Recently I went on a road trip with my family from Delhi to Manali. I had been wanting to explore Manali and its surrounding areas for a long time and and doing it with my loved ones made it even more special. It was very special because I was with my family and the experience was better than I had expected.
Total Distance & Travel Time : Delhi to Manali via New Route(2025)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | 530–540 KM (from Delhi) |
| Travel Time | 11 to 12 hours (including breaks) |
Road Conditions & Route Insights: Delhi to Manali 2025
The road conditions on the Delhi to Manali route are mostly good, particularly up to Mandi, with smooth highways and well-maintained stretches that make the drive comfortable and scenic.
Once you cross Chandigarh, you’ll hit hilly terrain via the new Sundernagar bypass and Pandoh Tunnel with amazing views. This route avoids Bilaspur’s old traffic zone. You pass scenic valleys before entering Kullu, then Manali.
- Main Route: NH 44 → NH 154 → NH 3 (via new Pandoh–Sundernagar bypass)
- This route avoids heavy traffic zones and offers incredible views as you approach the hills of Himachal.
Toll Charges (One-Way): Delhi to Manali in 2025
The approximate total cost for your Delhi to Manali road trip, including toll charges and the mandatory Manali Green Tax, is around ₹1,100
Fuel Costs from Delhi to Manali(2025)
You can expect a fuel cost of approximately ₹3,500 to ₹4,500 for a one-way road trip from Delhi to Manali, depending on factors like fuel type and vehicle model. I personally drove a 2019 Maruti Swift (petrol variant), and my fuel expense fell within this range.
Things to keep in Mind
I had a lot of fun on this trip, but there are a few things to keep in mind for a better experience. Since the peak season begins from May, so Manali gets extremely crowded like Mall Road and other connecting roads. There was heavy traffic and due to congestion, 30-40 kms took 3-4 hours to cover so If you plan your timings and routes well, you can avoid most of these hassles and enjoy the trip even more.
Where to Stop for Breakfast: Murthal – The King of Parathas
Every Delhi to Manali road trip deserves a pit stop for breakfast, our first stop was at Murthal, was around 60–70 km from Delhi. We stopped at Mannat, Murthal around 7 AM and enjoyed aloo-onion paratha with Garlic chutney and chai — the perfect start to a hill journey.
Best Time to Visit Delhi to Manali in 2025
The best time to visit Manali depends on the kind of experience you’re seeking. Whether you’re looking for pleasant weather, snowy landscapes, or thrilling adventure sports, Manali has something unique to offer in every season. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ideal time to plan your Manali trip based on different travel preferences:
- March to June: Perfect for Pleasant Weather and Scenic Views
- October to December: Ideal for Snow Sports and Tranquil Escape
- Avoid Peak Season (May-June) for a More Peaceful Journey
Top Places to Visit in Manali & Surroundings
Once you arrive in Manali, get ready to explore its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and iconic tourist spots. From serene temples to breathtaking valleys, here are the top places to visit in and around Manali that you shouldn’t miss:
- Hadimba Temple – Ancient wooden temple amid pine forest
- Mall Road – For shopping, cafes, and souvenirs
- Rohtang Pass (Must-Visit, Permit Required) – Located about 50 km from Manali, Open mid-May to November (depending on snow), Permit related details – https://rohtangpermits.nic.in
- Sissu Lake & Boating – Drive through Atal Tunnel and reach Sissu in about 45–60 mins (depends on traffic conditions, it took more than 3 hours to reach from Sissu lake to our hotel in Manali due to heavy traffic), Boating at Sissu Lake – Charges ₹200–₹400 per person
- Solang Valley – if you are interested in activities like Paragliding, ATV Ride Etc.
This photo was taken at Rohtang Pass, and believe me — the weather here changes faster than you can blink. One moment it was sunny with clear skies, and the next, clouds rolled in with a sudden chill and mist.
Travel Tips: Delhi to Manali 2025
- Check Traffic Conditions/Advisory and Avoid traveling on weekends or long holidays
- Manali can get very crowded, especially during weekends or holidays
- Apply for Rohtang Pass Permit in Advance
- Keep medicines for motion sickness, cold, and headaches.
- Bring warm clothes and gloves — temperatures drop quickly near Rohtang and Sissu.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and moisturizers — even in cold weather, the sun can be harsh at high altitudes.
Hidden Gem: Shangarh Valley in 2025
You can Visit Shangarh on Your Return Journey : If you have a few extra hours and are confident behind the wheel, I highly recommend taking a detour to Shangarh, a hidden gem in the Sainj Valley of Himachal Pradesh.
- Known for its lush meadows, ancient wooden temples, and untouched natural beauty.
- Perfect for photography, short hikes, and unwinding in nature.
- You can plan Shangarh as a stop while returning from Manali.
- Please Note : The last 15–20 km stretch from Sainj to Shangarh has narrow and bumpy roads with several sharp curves and a worst short sand patch.
- Only recommended for confident drivers with prior experience of mountain driving.
This picture was taken at Shangarh Valley — a place that truly tests your patience before rewarding you with jaw-dropping beauty. The journey wasn’t easy, but every bump and turn was worth this one perfect view.
This road trip from Delhi to Manali, with detours to Rohtang Pass, Sissu, and the hidden gem Shangarh Valley, gave us memories that will last a lifetime. From scenic tunnels to snow-filled meadows and peaceful local villages, every moment felt magical. If you’re planning a mountain getaway, this route promises not just a destination but a beautiful journey.
For more such real travel experiences, tips, and hidden places, keep visiting Top Travel Journeys — your trusted companion for exploring India, one road trip at a time.