What Is the Best Route from Delhi to Manali by Road?

A road trip from Delhi to Manali is one of the most popular journeys for travelers heading towards the Himalayas. The route offers a mix of smooth highways, scenic hill roads, river views, and charming stopovers. Choosing the best route is important to ensure comfort, safety, and a pleasant travel experience, especially for families and group travelers.

The distance between Delhi and Manali is approximately 530–550 km, and the journey usually takes 12–14 hours, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and halt duration. Most travelers prefer to start early in the morning or travel overnight to avoid city congestion.

 Best Route from Delhi to Manali (Most Preferred)Delhi → Murthal → Karnal → Kurukshetra → Ambala → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali

This is considered the best and most reliable route from Delhi to Manali by road.

Why this route is recommended?

Well-maintained national highways (NH-44 & NH-3) Plenty of food stops and fuel stationsBetter road conditions compared to alternate routes Scenic views after entering Himachal PradeshFor travelers going in groups, this route is ideal because it allows regular breaks and smooth driving. Many people prefer booking a Tempo Traveller on Rent in Delhi for this journey, as it offers comfort, ample space, and a relaxed travel experience for long hours on the road.

 Major Stopovers Along the Way Murthal – Famous for highway dhabas Chandigarh – Good place for fuel and food breakBilaspur – Entry point to hill roadsMandi – Known as “Chhoti Kashi” with river views Kullu – Beautiful valley before reaching ManaliThese stopovers make the journey enjoyable and help reduce travel fatigue.

 Alternate Routes (Less Preferred)Some travelers consider alternate routes like:

Delhi → Shimla → Mandi → Manali - Delhi → Narkanda → Jalori Pass → ManaliWhile these routes are scenic, they involve narrow roads, steep climbs, and longer travel time, making them less suitable for large groups or first-time travelers.

Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Manali by Road March to June: Best weather, clear roads, peak seasonJuly to September: Green landscapes but landslide risk due to monsoon October to February: Snow views, but road conditions depend on snowfallAlways check weather updates before starting the journey, especially during winter and monsoon months.

Best Vehicle for Delhi to Manali Road Trip For group travel, comfort becomes a priority on such a long journey. A Tempo traveller Delhi Manali option is often preferred by families, corporate groups, and friends traveling together. It provides:

Pushback seats Ample legroom Space for luggage Better stability on hill roadsTraveling together in one vehicle also helps maintain coordination and reduces overall travel stress.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey Start early to avoid Delhi traffic Carry light snacks and water Take breaks every 2–3 hoursAvoid night driving in heavy fog or rainKeep offline maps for hill areas.

Final Thoughts: Delhi–Chandigarh–Mandi–Kullu–Manali route remains the best road route due to its safety, road quality, and convenience. With proper planning, the right vehicle, and timely breaks, the road journey to Manali can be as memorable as the destination itself.

Whether you are traveling with family or friends, choosing the right route and vehicle ensures a comfortable and enjoyable Manali road trip experience.