🚗 My joyful Journey from Auli to Manali: Route, Distance & What the Road Trip Was Really Like
Starting from Auli, Uttarakhand, I had two options: either go through Rishikesh/Dehradun or take the shorter but hilly route via Joshimath–Karnaprayag–Rudraprayag–Shimla–Manali. I chose the first option for safety and road condition.
📍 Route Taken:
Auli ➡️ Joshimath ➡️ Rudraprayag ➡️ Rishikesh ➡️ Chandigarh ➡️ Manali
🛣️ Total Distance:
Approximately 790 km
⏱️ Total Travel Time:
Roughly 19–21 hours by road, including breaks and overnight halt.
🚌 Mode of Travel:
- Cab from Auli to Rishikesh (8 hours)
- Volvo Bus from Rishikesh to Manali via Chandigarh (12–13 hours overnight)
Though exhausting, the changing landscapes from Garhwal’s cliffs to Himachal’s valleys made it totally worth it! 🌄✨
🚉🚌✈️ How to Reach Manali from Anywhere in India
✈️ By Flight:
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), around 50 km from Manali
- Well connected to Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla
- From airport, take a taxi or pre-booked cab to Manali (1.5 hrs)
Manali doesn’t have a railway station, but you can reach via:
- Joginder Nagar Railway Station (143 km)
- Chandigarh Railway Station (310 km)
From these railway stations, you can easily catch taxis or hop on a local buses to reach Manali with comfortably.
🚌 By Bus:
- Frequent Volvo AC buses run daily from Delhi ISBT, Chandigarh, and Shimla to Manali, offering a comfortable and budget-friendly travel option.
- Book via Himachal Tourism or private platforms
- Comfortable overnight journeys, cost around ₹800–₹1400
🏞️ Best Places to Visit in Manali: My Real Recommendations
Manali is a gem of Himachal Pradesh, and exploring it on foot and cab gave me the best memories. Here are my handpicked must-visit attractions:
❄️ 1. Solang Valley
Perfect for skiing, ziplining, snow scooter rides, and just playing in the snow. Go early to avoid crowding. In winters, it’s a white wonderland. Solang Valley was truly one of the highlights of my Manali trip — an unforgettable mix of snow, adventure, and scenic beauty. I still remember the moment I stepped out of the cab — everything around me was blanketed in pure white snow, like something straight out of a dream. 🏔️
I tried skiing for the first time (fell a few times but laughed even more!), and the snow scooter ride gave me such an adrenaline rush I couldn’t stop smiling. Ziplining over the icy terrain with cold air brushing past my face felt surreal.
My advice? Get there early in the morning — not just to beat the crowds, but to soak in the calm, untouched beauty before the day gets busy. In winter, Solang Valley truly transforms into a magical snow paradise, perfect for anyone looking for adventure, fun, or simply a peaceful moment with nature.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who just wants to make a snow angel, Solang Valley in winter is an experience you’ll carry in your heart forever.
🛤️ 2. Rohtang Pass
A breathtaking mountain pass with ice walls and vistas. Requires a permit, open only from May to October. Hire a local cab with proper permission. Rohtang Pass was, without a doubt, one of the most awe-inspiring experiences of my Manali trip. Driving up those winding mountain roads, every turn revealed a view more dramatic than the last — towering snow walls, deep valleys, and clouds so close it felt like you could touch them.
At last when i reached the top, I was speechless. At 13,000 feet, the air was thin but fresh, and the panoramic view of snow-capped peaks stretching endlessly around me was nothing short of surreal. ❄️
If you’re planning to visit Rohtang Pass, keep in mind it’s only open from May to October, depending on weather conditions. You’ll need a Rohtang Permit, which can be arranged online or by your hotel. I’d highly recommend hiring a local cab driver who’s experienced with the terrain — not only do they know the route well, but many of them also help you navigate the permit process.
For me, Rohtang wasn’t just a tourist spot — it was a spiritual moment. Just standing there, surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas, made me feel small in the best way possible. If you love mountains, this is one place in Manali that will stay with you forever. 💙
🏕️ 3. Old Manali
This laid-back, boho side of Manali has quaint cafés, budget hostels, and scenic river walks. Loved the vibe here! Old Manali is the one place in Manali that completely stole my heart, The moment I crossed the little bridge over the gushing Beas River, I felt like I’d entered a different world — quieter, calmer, and somehow more soulful.
This part of town has a cozy, bohemian vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. I spent hours just wandering through the narrow lanes, sipping hot coffee in quirky cafés with fairy lights and wooden decks overlooking the river. 🪵☕
The budget hostels here are perfect for solo travelers and backpackers, and I met some of the most interesting people — artists, writers, travelers from all over the world. One of my favorite mornings was just sitting on a stone bench by the river, watching the water sparkle in the early sun and listening to soft acoustic music drifting from a nearby café. 🎶
If you’re looking for a peaceful Manali tour with lots of character, Old Manali is a must. It’s not about ticking off sights — it’s about soaking in the atmosphere. Whether you’re into slow travel, café hopping, or just aimless walking, this is the part of Manali that truly feels like a soulful retreat.
🛕 4. Hadimba Temple
Ancient and peaceful, surrounded by cedar trees. A perfect spot to find calm. Visiting Hadimba Temple in Manali was one of the most calming and grounding moments of my trip. Tucked away in a serene cedar forest, the temple feels almost hidden — like a sacred secret waiting to be discovered.
As I walked up the quiet path lined with towering deodar trees, the cool mountain air mixed with the scent of pine created a peaceful stillness around me. The temple itself, built entirely of wood with intricate carvings, has this ancient energy that you can feel the moment you step inside its grounds. 🙏
I sat on one of the benches nearby for a while, just watching the trees sway and listening to the faint sound of prayer bells. It wasn’t just a sightseeing stop — it was a moment of stillness in the middle of all the travel hustle.
Whether you’re spiritual or not, Hadimba Devi Temple is a must-visit for its historical significance, natural beauty, and the sense of peace it brings. This the place in Manali is to slow down, and reconnect the breathe— with the nature and with yourself.
🌊 5. Vashisht Hot Springs
Natural sulfur hot water baths. Great to relax aching muscles! After days of exploring Manali’s chilly mountains and winding trails, stepping into the Vashisht Hot Springs felt like pure bliss. it”s in the quaint Vashisht village, just a short drive from the main town, and known for its natural sulfur-rich hot water baths — and believe me, they’re as soothing as they sound.
The moment I dipped my tired feet into the warm, mineral-rich water, I could feel the tension melt away. It was like nature itself was giving me a much-needed spa day! 🛁💆♂️ Surrounded by old stone architecture and local life, the experience felt both rejuvenating and deeply cultural.
Locals believe the hot springs have healing properties, and honestly, after soaking for a while, I genuinely felt lighter — both physically and mentally. Whether you’ve been trekking, sightseeing, or just want a quiet moment to unwind, this is one spot you shouldn’t skip.
My tip: Go early in the morning when it’s less crowded. The combination of the cool mountain air and warm spring water is something you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
🏞️ 6. Jogini Falls
A short but rewarding trek with stunning waterfalls and local villages on the way. Trekking to Jogini Falls was one of those peaceful yet soul-refreshing moments of my Manali journey that I didn’t expect — and ended up absolutely loving. The trail starts near Vashisht village, and though it’s a short hike, it’s filled with charm: winding paths through pine forests, glimpses of local life, and the distant sound of rushing water that pulls you forward. 🚶♂️🌲
The best part? As you approach the falls, the sight is breathtaking — water cascading down the rock face surrounded by sheer natural beauty. I remember just sitting there, shoes off, dipping my feet in the cold stream, completely in awe of how peaceful it felt.
If you love short treks in Manali, want to see life in the hills up close, and crave that offbeat escape from the crowd, Jogini Waterfall is a perfect pick. It’s not just about reaching the waterfall — it’s about everything you see and feel on the way there.
🍛 Where and What to Eat in Manali: My Personal Food Diary
Manali offers a vibrant food scene, where you can savor everything from steaming street momos and authentic Himachali delights to flavorful Israeli platters, and continental cuisines.
🥞 Breakfast:
- Café 1947 (Old Manali) – Try their pancakes, eggs, and coffee beside the river 🥰
- Drifter’s Inn – A serene European-style breakfast
🍛 Lunch:
- Johnson’s Café – Their trout fish platter is famous 🎣
- The Lazy Dog – Stunning riverside lunch spot with global cuisine
🍲 Dinner:
- Chopsticks (Mall Road) – A popular spot in Manali is Chopsticks (Mall Road), and it is famous for serving delicious Chinese and authentic Tibetan food in a cozy, inviting setting. 🍜
- Mount View Restaurant – Authentic Himachali thali to taste local flavors
And don’t miss out to grab hot momos served by local street vendors along Mall Road — a must-try street food experience in Manali!
🏨 Best Hotels for a Comfortable Stay: My Honest Picks
Depending on your budget, Manali has great stay options.
💸 Budget (₹800–₹2000/night)
- Zostel Manali – Youth-friendly, great community vibe
- Hotel Greenfields – Simple, clean, close to Hadimba Temple
💰 Mid-Range (₹2000–₹5000/night)
- Snow Valley Resorts – Excellent service and valley views
- Himalayan Country House – Cozy and charming wooden interiors
💎 Luxury (₹5000+)
- The Himalayan – The Himalayan is a luxury hotel in Manali, offering castle-style architecture, elegant interiors, and breathtaking mountain views that make your stay feel truly royal. 🏰
- Span Resort & Spa – Span Resort & Spa in Manali is a peaceful luxury retreat getaway beautifully nestled along the banks of the Beas River, offering a perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and breathtaking natural beauty.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Manali
❄️ Winter: December to February
Perfect for snow sports and honeymooners. I visited Manali in early March and was lucky enough to witness the season’s final snowfall — a magical experience I’ll never forget!
🌸 Summer: March to June
Ideal for trekkers, family trips, and adventure seekers
🌧️ Monsoon: July to September
Not recommended due to heavy rainfall and landslides
🌐 Internet, SIM, and Connectivity
- Jio and Airtel worked well in Manali town
- In Rohtang and Solang, the network is patchy — download maps in advance
- Most hotels offer free WiFi
💸 Budget Breakdown: Realistic Cost Estimation
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Auli to Rishikesh Taxi | ₹3000–₹4000 |
| Rishikesh to Manali Bus | ₹1200 |
| Hotel (3 nights) | ₹3000–₹6000 |
| Food (per day) | ₹500–₹800 |
| Sightseeing & Cabs | ₹2000–₹3000 |
| Misc (shopping, snacks) | ₹1000 |
🌟 Hidden Gems & Personal Favourites
Apart from the popular spots, I explored:
- Sethan Village – 12 km from Manali, a tranquil hamlet with snow hikes and no crowd
- Hampta Pass (if trekking) – Ideal in summer months, needs 4–5 days
- Café Meraki – Cozy café in Vashisht, try their Nutella crepes!
🛍️ What to Shop in Manali
- Woollen clothes (scarves, mufflers, sweaters)
- Himachali caps – Authentic souvenirs
- Handmade soaps, oils, and herbs
- Don’t forget to bargain, especially at Mall Road market
🧭 Related Journeys You Might Love
If you’re enjoying this guide, you might also like reading about some of my other recent trips. I’ve shared my detailed experiences from the stunning landscapes of Leh-Ladakh, the misty hills of Mussoorie, the peaceful banks of Rishikesh, and the serene escape to Auli via Nainital and Bhimtal. Each destination had something special—whether it was the raw beauty of the Himalayas, spiritual calm, or just a quiet walk in the hills. I hope these guides help you plan your own meaningful and memorable journeys across Uttarakhand and beyond.
📸 Why This Trip Was Life-Changing
From the sacred silence of Auli’s snow fields to the bustling cafés and cozy pine homes of Manali, this trip connected me with nature, food, culture, and myself. Watching the sunrise over the Beas River in Manali each morning filled me with a deep sense of peace and gratitude — it was a truly soul-stirring experience. 🌅🌅
Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family looking for a fulfilling getaway, Manali is more than a destination — it’s an experience.
So pack your bags, get your permits, and let the mountains call you! 🏔️❤️
✍️ Travel Mantra
“Take only memories, leave only footprints.”
Stay safe, respect the locals, support small businesses, and let the magic of Himachal live in your heart forever.
