Shimla to Manali Road Trip -All Details
The trip from Shimla to Manali is a magical experience to have. It is not just a road trip but a memorable and wonderful adventure. I still remember when I had my first road trip to Shimla and Manali with my cousins, it was so wonderful that even after so many years we still talk about it. No matter if you are visiting for the first time or you are a frequent traveller, Shimla Manali road trip will never fail to amaze you. We also booked a car on rent in Delhi which was best for a seamless travelling experience, as none of us could drive. I would like to share some key details about this wonderful road trip from Shimla to Manali.
We have began our trip from Delhi to Shimla by car that took approx 8 hours to reach our hotel. By evening, we enjoyed shopping and strolling near markets in Mall Road. We were too much tired, so get back to hotel by 8 PM and took rest after dinner to get ready for next day- gonna to be exciting.
Let’s begin by learning some of the best routes that you can take from Shimla to Manali.
Shimla to Manali Distance and Routes
1) NH3 and NH5
This is the best and most preferable route to travel between Shimla and Manali. The distance covers approx. 270 km. You will pass through two small towns, Narkanda and Rampur Bushahr.
2) Shimla to Manali through Kullu
This route is a bit longer as its distance covers approx. 280 km. You must choose this route if you love road trips and you want to make your journey long-lasting.
Best Time for Shimla Manali Road Trip
Manali is blessed with various climates that differ totally from its seasons. The best time for Shimla to Manali Tour solely depends upon your preference. The weather remains pleasant in the summer and cold and frosty during the winter. We visited during the time of autumn, in early November, the weather was pleasant so we travelled comfortably around. You can also consider visiting between October and November for the best travel experience.
Travel Tips for the Road Trip
Here are a few things that we have kept in mind before starting our road trip that might help you. Packing essentials on the road trip to Himachal Pradesh can make a major difference in your journey.
Travel Early Morning
We started our journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach Manali timely. We have also clicked pictures and taken stoppages during the journey hassle-free.
Road Conditions
It would be better to check road conditions and even the weather conditions. You must not take risks on this route as changes are lower that you find relevant help if needed. We also checked our car’s condition and took the necessary tools with us.
Carry Essentials
Make sure to carry all the essential items like medicine, warm clothes, mittens and other essential items that you might need urgently.
Book Accommodation in Advance
To avoid last-minute hassle, book a hotel in advance to take a rest as soon as you arrive at your destination. If you are budget-conscious you may like to get ideas on how to plan a Budget Trip to Manali. It will save you money and time by arranging everything in advance.
Places to Eat on Shimla to Manali Route
HPTDC Café, Fagu Top
This cafe is located just where Shimla ends. It offers stunning views of the surroundings. We have tried their famous Himachali thali which includes all the famous dishes of Himachal Pradesh.
The Apple Cart Inn, Kandaghat
It is a perfect stop to have lunch if you are on a Manali Tour from Delhi. Their speciality is their home-cooked food like stuffed paratha and dal chawal.
Chawlas Restaurant, Mandi
Chawlas Restaurant is located in Mandi. You can try their north Indian cuisine which is popular among tourists. Their prices are also reasonable and they serve amazing food with the best service.
Valley View Restaurant, Kullu
Valley View Restaurant is located in Kullu. This restaurant offers a view of the Beas River. You can try momo, soup, snacks and tea in the evening with the beautiful view of its surroundings.
Off-Beat Places Along the Route
These are some places that you will encounter during the tour from Shimla to Manali.
Tattapani Hot Springs
Tattapani Hot Springs is located approximately 50 km from Shimla. This hot spring water has some remediable properties in it. It is located in a small village that also has adventure activities like river rafting and rock climbing.
Raison Village (Kullu)
Raison Village is located in Kullu. It is a small village that offers you to experience the rich life of villagers. You can stroll around the apple orchards, trekking and spend quality time alongside the river.
Bijli Mahadev Temple (Near Kullu)
Bijli Mahadev Temple is located 30 km from Kullu. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its trekking is quite challenging yet adventurous.
Kullu Great Himalayan National Park (Kullu)
Kullu Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO world heritage. There are over 375 species of animals in this national park, including rare species like snow leopards, Himalayan bears, etc.
Things to do in Manali Trip
Manali is the hub of adventurous activities. Manali has plenty to offer, from exploring the markets to taking part in local celebrations and activities. To make your Kullu Manali Tour memorable, you must try the activities mentioned below.
Visit Hadimba Devi Temple
Hadimba Devi was the wife of Bhima, who was a character of the Mahabharata. It is a Hindu temple surrounded by dense forest and this temple is made of wood.
River Rafting in Beas River
If you are an adventure lover, you must try river rafting in the Beas River. It is one of the most thrilling adventures that a thrill-seeker should not miss.
Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Monastery
Visit the Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Monastery to get a glimpse of Buddhist culture. It is a must-visit monastery because of its beautiful architecture and large Buddha statue.
Nature Walk at Manali Sanctuary
Nature Walk at Manali Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary. It is just 2 km from Manali and it takes 30 minutes to reach there. This sanctuary has a variety of wildlife species, like snow leopards and Himalayan monal.
Skiing in Solang Valley
One of the most adventurous things to do in Manali is skiing and playing with snow. If travelling in winter months, you may also get a chance to see snowfall.
Wrap Up
After enjoying Manali attractions for 2 days, we return to Shimla, spend one more day and visited Kufri to enhance the adventure memories in our travel book. On 5th Day of trip, we head back to Delhi.
