Rishikesh to Manali Distance
The distance from Rishikesh to Manali is approximately 490 kilometers by road, depending on the chosen route. The journey can take 12 to 14 hours by car due to hilly terrains and varying road conditions.
1. By Road (Car/Taxi): 490 km – 12 to 14 hours
2. By Bus: Overnight and day buses available – 13 to 15 hours
3. By Train: No direct train, but you can travel via Haridwar or Chandigarh
4. By Flight: Nearest airports are Dehradun (DED) and Kullu-Manali (KUU)
Best Routes from Rishikesh to Manali
Rishikesh – Chandigarh – Manali Route (Recommended)
Distance: 500 km
Route: Rishikesh → Dehradun → Chandigarh → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
Travel Time: 13 to 14 hours
Highlights: Wide highways, smooth travel, several eateries along the way.
Rishikesh – Shimla – Manali Route
Distance: 560 km
Route: Rishikesh → Dehradun → Shimla → Kullu → Manali
Travel Time: 15 to 16 hours
Highlights: Scenic landscapes, apple orchards, and hill station beauty.
Rishikesh to Manali by Road
Traveling by road is the most popular choice as it allows you to enjoy the scenic Himalayan drive. You can choose between private taxis, self-drive cars, or state-run buses.
Rishikesh to Manali by Bus
Several private operators and Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) run buses between Rishikesh and Manali.
Deluxe AC Bus: ₹1,200 – ₹1,500
Volvo Sleeper Bus: ₹1,600 – ₹2,000
Non-AC Bus: ₹800 – ₹1,000
Travel Time: 13 to 15 hours
Most buses start in the evening from Rishikesh and reach Manali by next morning.
Rishikesh to Manali by Train
There is no direct train from Rishikesh to Manali. However, travelers can follow this route:
Rishikesh → Chandigarh by Train (approx. 5–6 hours)
Chandigarh → Manali by Road (approx. 8–9 hours)
This option is suitable for those who prefer a mix of train and road journey.
Rishikesh to Manali by Flight
The nearest airports are
1. Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED): 20 km from Rishikesh
2. Kullu-Manali Airport, Bhuntar (KUU): 50 km from Manali
Route Option:
Flight from Dehradun to Kullu (via Delhi) → Taxi to Manali (1.5 hours).
Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours (including layovers).
Attractions Along the Way
While traveling from Rishikesh to Manali, you can explore many beautiful stopovers.
1. Dehradun: Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara
2. Chandigarh: Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake
3. Mandi: Prashar Lake, Triloknath Temple
4. Kullu: Great Himalayan National Park, River Rafting
Things to Do in Manali
Once you reach Manali, a wide variety of activities and attractions await you.
1. Solang Valley: Adventure sports like skiing, paragliding, and snowboarding.
2. Rohtang Pass: A scenic mountain pass covered in snow most of the year.
3. Old Manali: Cafes, hippie culture, and rustic charm.
4. Hadimba Temple: Famous wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests.
5. Manikaran Sahib: Hot water springs and Gurudwara.
6. Kasol: Popular backpacking destination, just a few hours from Manali.
Best Time to Travel from Rishikesh to Manali
1. Summer (March to June): Best for adventure activities like paragliding, rafting, and trekking.
2. Monsoon (July to September): Roads may be slippery due to heavy rain; not recommended.
3. Winter (October to February): Ideal for snowfall lovers, skiing, and winter sports.
Travel Tips for Rishikesh to Manali Journey
1. Start Early: Begin your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and cover maximum distance in daylight.
2. Carry Essentials: Warm clothes, snacks, and medicines are a must due to hilly terrain.
3. Book in Advance: Hotels and buses fill quickly during peak seasons.
4. Check Road Conditions: Particularly in winter and monsoon when landslides are common.
5. Stay Hydrated: Long road journeys in the mountains can be tiring.
Conclusion
Traveling from Rishikesh to Manali is a rewarding experience, combining the spiritual aura of Rishikesh with the natural splendor of Manali. Whether you choose to travel by road, bus, or flight, this journey promises incredible views, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
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