Many travelers dream of traveling from Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan, to Manali, the beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh. This trip will take care of your ability to escape the dry heat of the desert for fresh, cool mountain air, enough to make it worth your time to enjoy the beauty of nature. This guide will cover distance and routes, how to get there, and specific information for families and couples.
Manali is situated about 570-610 kms from Jaipur by road.
One of the questions where the most travelers are curious is “How far is Manali from Jaipur by road?”
Distance between Jaipur to Manali depends on the way you take, but generally tends to be between 580 & 610kms.
Common Distance on known route:
- Jaipur - Manali (Via Delhi): Approx 580kms
- Jaipur - Manali (Via Chandigarh): Approx 610kms.
Traveling by Road:
Anticipate a travel time of 12 to 15 hours based on the conditions of traffic, weather and stops on your journey. The road trip offers the chance to travel through many different terrains, Flat land of Rajasthan & Haryana towards the winding roads of Himachal Pradesh.
Road Trip from Jaipur to Manali
you will have two different routes when you traveling by road:
1. Jaipur to Manali via Delhi
This is the more commonly used and shorter path. The journey will take you through the some of the most developed and busiest highways in North India, as part of the Golden Quadrilateral highway network.
Route Highlights:
Jaipur → Gurgaon → Delhi → Karnal → Ambala → Chandigarh → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
Benefits:
- Highways are generally in good shape from Jaipur to Delhi and beyond
- Frequent amenities and gas stations along the route
- Flat in the beginning before the hilly part of the journey
Challenges:
- Traveling during peak hours can result in traffic delays around Delhi
- Toll booths and city traffic around Chandigarh may slow you down
2. To get from Jaipur to Manali through Chandigarh:
While this route stretches slightly longer, it could snag a beautiful drive- especially after you hit Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights of the Route:
Jaipur → Alwar → Ambala → Chandigarh → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
Benefits:
- You will avoid congested traffic around Delhi
- Drive through beautiful hill towns and post-Chandigarh a more open and less stressful, highways
Challenges:
- The travel distance and travel time is longer compared to the Delhi route
Ways to go from Jaipur to Manali
Travelers have a few possibilities to take this journey depending on cost, convenience, and time. Let’s look at all the options.
1. By Car (Self-drive or rental)
If driving is an enjoyable experience for you and you may appreciate the freedom to wander wherever possible, then driving the trip from Jaipur to Manali would be a remarkable choice.
- Distance: Approximately 600km
- Travel time: About 12-15 hours
- Best route: Via Delhi or Chandigarh
- Advantages: Go wherever, explore some offbeat, control the speed of your movements
Tips:
- Leave early in the morning to avoid traffic and end night there.
- Bring water, snacks, and warmer clothing.
- Be certain that the vehicle is in good shape for the trip, particularly in the mountains.
2. By Taxi
If you'd like to travel without the hassle of driving, hiring a taxi is an option
- Cost: ₹7,000 to ₹12,000, one way, depending on type of vehicle
- Pros: Door-to-door service, comfort, and privacy
- Booking: Hired taxi variety- local agencies or apps like Ola Outstation, Uber Intercity, or private taxi agency.
- Driver knowledge: with experience knowing mountain routes.
3. By Bus
If you're on a budget, buses could be an option that is economical and popular.
- Types of buses are: Volvo AC, sleeper, deluxe and ordinary bus.
- Operators: HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) which creates bus schedule for state runs; and private bus companies.
- Time: 14 to 16 hours.
- Booking: On portals and bus stand in Jaipur.
- Pros: cheap, relatively comfortable and good for solo or small groups.
4. By Train
While Manali does not have a train station itself, you could take the train for a portion of the trip.
Railway Station less then...there are two trains....the nearest train stations would be:
- Chandigarh (311 km from Manali)
- Joginder Nagar (145 km from Manali)
- Take a train from Jaipur to Chandigarh, you can get a direct train, and then you'll need taxi, or bus from Chandigarh to Manali
- Time Rail: Jaipur to Chandigarh about ....7 or 8 hours to arrive ...and then it will take an estimated time of about 8 hours to 9 hours on the bus to travel to Manali.
- Pros: Comfortable, scenic and economical option for people who prefer train.
5. By Air
While Manali does have a small airport, there are no direct flights from Jaipur.
- Typical route: Jaipur → Delhi (major hub) → Kullu/ Bhuntar Airport (the nearest airport to Manali)
- Flight durations: Jaipur to Delhi about 1.5 hours; Delhi to Kullu about 1 hour.
- From Kullu to Manali: It is about 50 km in taxi, about 1.5 hours.
- Best For: Travelers wanting to avoid long roads and save time.
Driving me from Jaipur to Manali: A Detailed guide to road trip.
Many people find the most memorable way to travel is to go on the road. Here is a guide to planning and enjoying your experience in the car.
Pre-trip check of vehicle
- Inspect your vehicle’s tires, brakes, oil, and coolant to be sure they are in great working order.
- Inspect your headlights / brake lights.
- Have spare tires, tools, and a first aid kit.
Packing necessities
- Warm outfits (if traveling in cooler months).
- Food, water, and snacks for long stretches.
- Mobile charger/ power bank.
- Sunglasses, hat(s), sunscreen for the daytime driving.
- Medical kit which includes motion sickness medicine.
Suggested Departure Time
- Leave early between 4 AM and 6 AM to avoid rush hour traffic and maximize daylight travel
- Early departure also helps to reach Manali before late night mountain driving
Recommended Stops and Tourist Attractions on Route
- Delhi: If you have time, a quick visit to India Gate or Lotus Temple is refreshing
- Chandigarh: Explore the Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake for a scenic break
- Ambala: Famous for its military cantonment and temples
- Mandi: Known as ‘Varanasi of Hills’ for its ancient temples and riverside beauty
- Kullu: Famous for apple orchards and cultural festivals
- Highways till Chandigarh are generally smooth and well maintained
- Post Chandigarh, roads start winding as you enter the hills — drive cautiously
- Monsoon and winter months require extra care due to slippery and foggy conditions
- Ideal for families, groups, or travelers wanting privacy
- Available through aggregators and local agencies
- Drivers are experienced with mountain roads
- Pricing depends on car type and negotiation but expect ₹7,000 - ₹12,000 for one-way
- Budget-friendly option, especially Volvo AC buses
- Check schedules and book in advance during peak seasons
- Some buses run overnight, allowing you to reach Manali rested
- No direct train to Manali; nearest major station is Chandigarh
- Trains from Jaipur to Chandigarh are frequent and comfortable
- From Chandigarh, taxis and buses connect to Manali
- Jaipur to Delhi: Multiple daily flights, approx. 1.5-hour duration
- Delhi to Kullu (Bhuntar Airport): Limited flights, seasonal
- Transfer from Kullu airport to Manali by taxi
- Saves significant travel time
- Avoids long and tiring road travel
- Convenient for seniors and families
- Flights to Bhuntar can be delayed or canceled due to weather
- Always check flight availability in advance
- Airport transfer can add 1-2 hours to your journey
- Schedule frequent breaks every 2-3 hours for kids to stretch and refresh
- Pack plenty of snacks, games, and entertainment for children
- Select family-friendly accommodation in Manali with amenities like play areas and meals
- Carry essential medicines and warm clothing for all ages
- Leisure parks or food courts in Delhi or Chandigarh
- Visit Mandi for temples and open spaces where kids can roam
- Apple orchards near Kullu for an outdoor experience
- Solang Valley: Paragliding and scenic views perfect for couples
- Old Manali: Quaint cafes, peaceful streets, and artistic vibes
- Beas River: Quiet spots for picnics and sunset views
- Spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds
- Winters can be romantic too with snow and cozy fires
- Boutique hotels with mountain views
- Cozy cottages and resorts offering couple packages
- Spa and wellness centers for relaxation
- Delhi: Historical monuments like Red Fort, India Gate, and Lotus Temple
- Chandigarh: Visit the Rock Garden, Rose Garden, and Sukhna Lake
- Ambala: Known for its temples and army cantonment
- Mandi: Ancient temples and riverside beauty provide a cultural experience
- Solang Valley: Adventure sports like paragliding, skiing, and ropeway rides
- Rohtang Pass: High-altitude pass with stunning snow-capped views (open seasonally)
- Naggar Castle: Historical fort with Himalayan vistas
- Vashisht Baths: Natural hot springs perfect for relaxation
- Jogini Waterfall: A pleasant trek from Old Manali for nature lovers
- Always check weather forecasts, especially in winter and monsoon
- Carry cash as some remote areas may not have digital payment options
- Inform someone about your travel plans if driving alone
- Respect local customs and environment to enjoy a responsible trip
-
The distance from Jaipur to Manali is around 580 to 610 km, depending on the route you take—via Delhi (approx. 580 km) or via Chandigarh (approx. 610 km).
-
It usually takes 12 to 15 hours by car or taxi, depending on traffic, road conditions, and the number of breaks you take.
-
Couples often visit Solang Valley, Old Manali, Beas River, Vashisht Hot Springs, and Jogini Waterfall for romantic experiences.
-
Yes, Manali is a hub for adventure seekers. You can enjoy paragliding, skiing, snowboarding, river rafting, trekking, and camping.
-
Yes. Snowfall generally occurs between late December and February. This is the best season for honeymooners and snow adventure lovers.
Road Conditions
Jaipur to Manali by Taxi, Bus, and Train
Taxi Services
Bus Travel
Train Travel
Jaipur to Manali Flight Options
Though direct flights from Jaipur to Manali don’t exist, a multi-leg journey via Delhi is the fastest.
Flight Route:
Benefits of Flying
Things to Note
Family Road Trip Plan from Jaipur to Manali
Traveling with family on a road trip requires some special planning.
Tips for a Smooth Family Trip
Recommended Stops for Families
Romantic Trip from Jaipur to Manali for Couples
Manali offers an idyllic backdrop for couples seeking romance amid nature’s beauty.
Romantic Places in Manali
Best Time for Couples
Accommodation Ideas
Tourist Spots Between Jaipur and Manali
If you have time during your journey, several fascinating stops await:
Romantic Places in Manali
Extend your itinerary by exploring these nearby attractions:
Final Travel Tips for Jaipur to Manali Trip
Conclusion
Traveling from Jaipur to Manali offers an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes and cultures. Whether by road, train, or air, the trip caters to all travel styles—be it a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a solo backpacking experience. With multiple routes and transport modes, you can customize your trip to match your preferences and budget.
Start planning your Jaipur to Manali journey today and immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the Himalayas.
Plan your Jaipur to Manali trip with expert tips. Travel in comfort and style – curated by Luxoria, your luxury travel companion.