Hi, I am Manoj Kumar, the founder and travel writer behind Trip Guru Go. Over the years, I have spoken to many people who wanted to visit Manali but thought it would be too expensive. Honestly, I used to feel the same way. But once I started exploring different travel routes, I realised that the cheapest way to reach Manali is not only possible—it is quite simple if you plan.
Whether you are coming from Delhi, Mumbai, or anywhere else, I have explored the cheapest way to reach Manali through real trips and shared experiences. This guide covers the routes that have worked best, both for me and for many others. If you are still unsure about the best starting point, here is a complete guide on how to reach Manali from different parts of India.
Why Budget Travel to Manali is So Popular
Budget travel to Manali has become a favourite choice for students, solo travelers, and even small families looking for peace without spending too much. In my experience, budget travel to Manali is not only possible but also deeply fulfilling if you plan smart and stay flexible.
Manali is not just a destination. It feels like a pause — a break from city life, noise, and rush. What makes it even better is how easy it is to explore this hill town without spending much. Over the years, I have seen more and more travelers choosing budget travel to Manali, and for good reason.
Here is why this trend is only growing:
- It is emotionally rewarding – Nature, peace, and fresh mountain air do wonders for the soul.
- Affordable for all types of travelers – Manali welcomes everyone, whether you are a student, a solo backpacker, or a small family.
- Multiple low-cost travel options – Buses, shared cabs, and train connections keep it budget-friendly from major cities.
- Plenty of cheap stay and food choices – Hostels, homestays, and local dhabas make it easy to save on daily expenses.
- Safe and scenic year-round – Even with less money, you still enjoy stunning views, warm people, and clean mountain air.
That is why I always say — you do not need a luxury package to make Manali magical. Just a little planning, and you are all set. To plan your trip better, explore our detailed Manali tourism guide for things to do, places to stay, and more.
What is the cheapest way to reach Manali from Delhi?
If you are looking for the cheapest way to reach Manali from Delhi, here are the most trusted routes I recommend. I have taken the trip from Delhi to Manali more times than I can count — sometimes solo, sometimes with friends, and once even with my parents. Over time, I have figured out the most practical and affordable ways to get there. Whether you are a student on a tight budget or planning a relaxed family trip, there are plenty of cheap ways to reach Manali, and budget-friendly options from Delhi that are both reliable and easy to manage. These options fit different comfort levels and trip styles, without stretching your budget.
Over the years, I have seen many cheapest ways to reach Manali, budget-friendly options from Delhi. The most reliable ones are ordinary buses, Volvo services, and train-bus combinations — all tried and tested.
These are some of the most practical, affordable Delhi to Manali travel options if you want to travel smart without missing out on the experience. You can also check out this practical breakdown on how to reach Manali from Delhi using various modes of transport.
🚌 Budget-Friendly Bus Options:
Among the cheapest ways to reach Manali, budget-friendly options from Delhi are government buses, Volvo services, and train-bus combinations.
HRTC Ordinary Buses:
- Fare: Starting from ₹804
- Departure Point: ISBT Kashmere Gate
- Duration: Approximately 12–14 hours
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online via the HRTC website or at ISBT counters
HIMSUTA AC Volvo / SCANIA 2X2 Buses:
- Fare: ₹1,200 to ₹1,575
- Features: Air-conditioned, reclining seats, and better legroom
- Departure Times: Around 21:03 and 22:02 (night)
- Booking: Available through MakeMyTrip and RedBus
Pro tip: During peak times, buses fill up fast. Booking in advance gives you better prices and more seat options.
🚆 Train + Bus Combination
You will not find a direct train to Manali, but mixing train and bus travel is an easy and budget-friendly option. This article on how to reach Manali by train explains all available rail and bus connections in detail.
Option 1: Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali
- Train (3–5 hrs): Kalka Shatabdi, Shan-e-Punjab Express
- Fare: ₹800 – ₹1,200
- Bus: ₹900 – ₹1,500 (Volvo), ₹600 – ₹900 (ordinary)
- Duration: 8–10 hours by road
If you are starting from Punjab or nearby, this route guide on how to reach Manali from Chandigarh may help you save time and money.
Option 2: Delhi → Pathankot → Joginder Nagar → Manali
- Train: Around 12–14 hrs
- Bus: ₹300 – ₹500 from Joginder Nagar
- Scenic route, but slower — best if you are in no rush
Travel Tip: This route offers charming landscapes and is ideal for those who enjoy slow travel.
🛣️ Self-Drive or Carpooling
Driving from Delhi to Manali offers more control and flexibility, especially for small groups.
- Route: Delhi → Panipat → Ambala → Bilaspur → Mandi → Manali
- Distance: ~540 km
- Fuel Cost: ₹3,300 (approx., based on ₹95/l petrol)
- Tolls: ₹735 (via Grand Trunk Road)
- Carpooling apps like BlaBlaCar: Rides start from ₹700 per seat
Travel Tip: Leave early in the morning to avoid traffic and get better visibility on the hilly stretches. Want to drive or carpool? Here is a list of the best road routes to Manali from Delhi with toll costs and fuel estimates.
Final Thoughts:
Honestly, I have taken different routes to Manali from Delhi, and none of them felt wrong. Some were cheaper, some were just more peaceful. If you are not sure which to pick, think about what matters more: time, money, or comfort. There are always budget-friendly ways from Delhi to reach Manali if you just stay a little flexible.
How can I reach Manali from Mumbai in the cheapest way?
Now let us look at the cheapest way to reach Manali from Mumbai — whether you choose a train, a flight, or a mix of both. The cheapest way to reach Manali from Mumbai usually includes a budget-friendly flight to Delhi or Chandigarh, followed by a bus ride. From Mumbai, there’s no straight route to Manali — I have always had to mix things, like taking a flight or train first, then hopping on a bus. Depends on time, honestly. If you are traveling from Karnataka, here is a smart route planner for how to reach Manali from Bangalore.
✈️ Flight + Bus Combo: Budget Airlines to Delhi or Chandigarh
You can also explore this step-by-step post on how to reach Manali by flight, including connecting routes and estimated fares.
Option 1: Mumbai → Delhi → Manali
- Flight: Mumbai to Delhi flights are frequent, with budget airlines like IndiGo and Air India offering fares starting from ₹3,000.
- Bus: From Delhi, take an overnight Volvo or HRTC bus to Manali. Fares range between ₹800 to ₹1,500, and the journey takes approximately 12-14 hours.
Option 2: Mumbai → Chandigarh → Manali
- Flight: Flights from Mumbai to Chandigarh are available, with fares starting around ₹3,500.
- Bus: From Chandigarh, board a bus to Manali. The journey takes about 9-10 hours, with fares ranging from ₹700 to ₹1,200.
Note: While there are flights to Bhuntar (the nearest airport to Manali), they are limited and often expensive. It’s generally more economical to fly to Delhi or Chandigarh and then take a bus. For more combinations and low-cost routes, read this helpful guide on how to reach Manali from Mumbai.
🚆 Train + Bus via Delhi or Ambala
1 Option: Mumbai → Delhi → Manali
- Train: Several trains run from Mumbai to Delhi, including the Rajdhani and August Kranti Express. Travel time is approximately 16-18 hours, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹2,500, depending on the class.
- Bus: From Delhi, proceed to Manali by bus as mentioned above.
2 Option: Mumbai → Ambala → Manali
- Train: Trains from Mumbai to Ambala take around 24 hours, with fares similar to the Mumbai-Delhi route.
- Bus: From Ambala, catch a bus to Manali. The journey takes about 8-10 hours, with fares between ₹600 to ₹1,000.
3 Option: Mumbai → Chandigarh → Manali
- Train: Mumbai to Chandigarh trains take approximately 28 hours.
- Bus: From Chandigarh, proceed to Manali by bus as previously described.
💰 Approximate Total Budget from Mumbai
| Mode of Travel | Estimated Cost (One Way) | Total Travel Time |
| Flight + Bus via Delhi | ₹3,800 – ₹5,000 | 14-16 hours |
| Flight + Bus via Chandigarh | ₹4,200 – ₹5,500 | 13-15 hours |
| Train + Bus via Delhi | ₹1,300 – ₹3,000 | 30-32 hours |
| Train + Bus via Ambala | ₹1,200 – ₹2,800 | 32-34 hours |
Tips to Save Money:
- Book in Advance: Train and flight fares are generally lower when booked well ahead of time.
- Travel Off-Peak: Avoid traveling during peak tourist seasons to get better deals.
- Use Travel Apps: Platforms like MakeMyTrip and RedBus often offer discounts and cashback offers.
- Pack Light: Some budget airlines charge extra for checked baggage. Traveling light can save you money.
Summary:
I have taken different routes from Mumbai to Manali over the years. When time was limited, flying to Delhi or Chandigarh and then taking a bus worked well. On trips where saving money mattered more, I chose the train and bus. Whichever way I went, reaching Manali always made the journey feel worth it.
🏡 Budget-Friendly Manali Travel Options for Families
Being both a travel planner and a parent, I know that planning a family trip feels very different. When children or older people, family members are involved, comfort matters just as much as the budget. From what I have seen, families do not need a big budget to enjoy Manali. A little planning is usually enough to make the trip smooth and memorable.
Over the years, I have helped many families discover budget-friendly travel options to Manali that balance ease, safety, and affordability.
✅ Best Travel Modes for Families
If you are coming from Delhi, the Volvo bus is still the most economical and comfortable choice for families. Choose overnight HIMSUTA AC or private Volvo buses — they offer reclining seats, clean interiors, and limited stops. These make the long 12–14 hour ride far more manageable. In my experience, the cheapest way to reach Manali budget-friendly options for family include Volvo buses and shared taxis — they offer comfort without costing too much.
If traveling from Mumbai or other distant cities, I suggest:
- Flight to Chandigarh or Delhi, followed by a Volvo bus to Manali.
- It reduces overall travel time and avoids multiple connections — ideal when you are with kids or older people.
If you are traveling with a group, hiring a private cab from Delhi or Chandigarh can also work out well when you split the cost.
These are the cheapest way to reach Manali budget budget-friendly options for family trips, offering comfort without the high price tag. Whether you choose a Volvo bus or a shared cab, the journey stays smooth and affordable for all age groups. These routes are among the cheapest ways to reach Manali, budget-friendly options for family travel that I have come across — simple, safe, and cost-effective.
💡 Tips to Reduce Luggage and Cost
I have made every mistake possible on family trips — packing too much, spending extra on food, or booking rooms too far from town.
Here is what I recommend to save money and stress:
- Pack light but smart – Carry layers instead of bulky woollens. Manali has local sweater shops if you need extra ones.
- Bring your own snacks and refillable water bottles – Saves money and keeps kids happy.
- Travel at night – Overnight travel cuts down hotel costs by one night.
- Pre-book local cabs or ask your homestay host for help – It is cheaper than hiring on the spot.
🏠 Homestays vs Budget Hotels – What Works Best for Families?
Both options are affordable in Manali, but each has its pros and cons depending on your needs.
🏠 Homestays
- Feel more personal and warm — hosts often help with food, transport, and sightseeing.
- Great for kids — more space to move around.
- Some offer home-cooked meals, which is a big plus for picky eaters.
🏨 Budget Hotels
- Offer more privacy and a 24/7 staff.
- Better suited if you want fixed check-in/out times and room service.
- Located near Mall Road or in Old Manali for easier access to attractions.
I prefer homestays for longer stays and budget hotels for short weekend trips. They both work — it just depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.
Final Thought: A trip to Manali with family does not have to be costly. With the right mode of travel and a comfortable place to stay, you can create beautiful memories without worrying about your wallet.
💸 Manali Trip Budget for 3 Days – Full Cost Breakdown
I often get asked, “How much does a 3-day Manali trip cost?” If you plan wisely, it can be surprisingly affordable. Whether you are solo, with friends, or with family, here is a realistic cost estimate based on my trips and feedback from budget travelers I have helped over the years.
Let us break down the 3-day Manali trip budget based on real travel routes, food expenses, and stay options:
🗓️ Day 1: Arrival and Stay
- Travel to Manali (from Delhi):
- HRTC or Volvo Bus: ₹800 – ₹1,200
- From Mumbai (Flight + Bus): ₹4,000 – ₹5,500
- HRTC or Volvo Bus: ₹800 – ₹1,200
- Stay in a Budget Hotel or Homestay: ₹600 – ₹1,200 (per night for 2 people)
- Food (local meals/dhaba): ₹250 – ₹400 per person
- Local transport (auto or shared cab): ₹150
🧾 Approximate Day 1 Spend:
₹1,500 – ₹2,000 (from Delhi)
₹4,500 – ₹6,000 (from Mumbai)
🗓️ Day 2: Local Sightseeing and Activities
- Breakfast: ₹80 – ₹120
- Visit Solang Valley or Hidimba Temple: Free to ₹100 (entry)
- Adventure activities (optional): ₹500 – ₹1,000 (paragliding, zorbing, etc.)
- Lunch + Dinner: ₹400 – ₹500
- Transport for sightseeing: ₹300 (shared cab or rickshaw)
🧾 Approximate Day 2 Spend: ₹1,000 – ₹1,800
🗓️ Day 3: Exploring Cafes and Return Travel
- Breakfast in a local café: ₹150
- Shopping or souvenirs at Mall Road: ₹200 – ₹400 (optional)
- Return Bus to Delhi or Chandigarh: ₹800 – ₹1,200
- Snacks and meals for the road: ₹250
🧾 Approximate Day 3 Spend: ₹1,200 – ₹1,800
📊 Estimated Budget Table for 3-Day Manali Trip (Per Person)
| Category | From Delhi (₹) | From Mumbai (₹) |
| Travel (to & from Manali) | 1,600 – 2,400 | 7,000 – 8,000 |
| Stay (2 nights) | 1,200 – 2,400 | 1,200 – 2,400 |
| Food (3 days) | 750 – 1,200 | 750 – 1,200 |
| Local Travel | 400 – 600 | 400 – 600 |
| Activities + Shopping | 300 – 900 | 300 – 900 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ₹3,500 – ₹6,500 | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 |
As you can see, even a trip from Mumbai can be managed under ₹9,000 with advanced booking and smart choices. From Delhi, it is even easier — perfect for a last-minute escape without financial stress.
💡 Pro tip: Avoid peak tourist dates, skip premium cafes, and always compare prices across travel apps before booking.
💡 Money-Saving Tips from My Experience:
- Book transport and stay at least 2 weeks in advance.
- Travel off-season (March to May or mid-September) to avoid high tariffs.
- Share rides with fellow travelers from your hotel or homestay.
- Carry reusable water bottles and local snacks to cut daily food costs.
The truth is, you do not need a fancy package to enjoy Manali. A modest budget, good planning, and an open mind are enough to soak in everything this mountain town offers.
💡 Pro Tips to Save Money While Traveling to Manali
Over the years, I have gathered many money-saving tips for travelers who want to enjoy Manali without stretching their budget. Planning a budget trip to Manali is easier than most people think, especially if you follow a few money-saving tips for travelers I have learned over the years. With a few smart choices, you can still enjoy the mountain views and café sunsets without overspending.
The most important thing I have learned? Book early and travel smart. Last-minute tickets and weekend departures always cost more.
Here are a few key things I always keep in mind:
- Book your bus and stay 10–15 days in advance — rates stay low and options are better.
- Avoid peak seasons like late December and long weekends. Try traveling mid-week or in shoulder months like March and October.
- Choose local food and homestays over fancy cafés and hotels. It feels more authentic and saves you quite a bit.
Also, walk whenever you can. Manali is a compact town. If your stay is near Mall Road or Old Manali, most places are within reach on foot. It reduces your transport costs and allows you to explore the town at your own pace.
A few extra tips that always help me:
- Carry refillable water bottles and a few snacks.
- Pack light — especially if you are using budget buses.
- Team up with other travelers for shared taxis or activities.
Budget travel is not about doing less. It is about doing more with less — and I promise, it makes the trip more memorable.
🧳 Final Travel Itinerary Suggestion – Budget Manali Trip for 3 Days
If you are short on time but still want a refreshing escape, a 3-day trip to Manali is perfect. I have done this itinerary myself more than once, and with some careful planning, you can fit everything in without overspending or feeling rushed.
Day 1: Arrival + Local Vibes
Arrive early in the morning after an overnight bus or cab ride. Freshen up at your stay, then step out for a slow walk on Mall Road. Visit Hidimba Devi Temple and explore Old Manali’s cafés by afternoon.
Expenses to expect:
- Breakfast at a café: ₹100 – ₹150
- Local transport or walking: minimal or ₹100 for an auto
- Temple entry: free
- Dinner at a local dhaba: ₹150 – ₹200
Tip: Pick a homestay within walking distance of Mall Road. Saves time and travel money.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
Wake up early and head towards Solang Valley or Atal Tunnel for snow views and optional activities. Paragliding, ATV rides, or ziplining — do what fits your budget.
What it may cost:
- Shared cab to Solang: ₹300 per person (round trip)
- Activity (optional): ₹500 – ₹1,000
- Meals: ₹400 – ₹500 for the day
In the evening, relax in Vashisht hot springs or just stroll through pine-covered trails nearby.
Day 3: Chill, Shop, and Return
Keep it light. Have breakfast with a view, pick up souvenirs from the Tibetan Market or Mall Road, and head back to Delhi or Chandigarh by your booked evening bus.
Spending for the day:
- Shopping (optional): ₹200 – ₹400
- Café lunch: ₹150
- Return bus fare: ₹800 – ₹1,200
✍️ Summary
This itinerary covers a mix of sightseeing, food, and free time — ideal for travelers who want a peaceful and budget-friendly trip. With a bit of flexibility, you can easily keep the entire trip within ₹3,500–₹6,000 (from Delhi) or ₹8,000–₹12,000 (from Mumbai), including travel, stay, food, and fun.
✅ Conclusion
In conclusion, I truly believe the cheapest way to reach Manali is all about planning early and choosing what suits your comfort. For me, overnight buses from Delhi have always worked best. But if you are coming from farther away, a flight-plus-bus combo can still keep things affordable. No matter which route you take, you do not need a big budget to enjoy Manali — just a smart plan and an open heart. If you ever feel stuck while planning, just remember — even the smallest journey to the hills begins with a single smart step.
Must-Watch Video Before Visiting Manali
FAQs – Cheapest Way to Reach and Travel in Manali
The cheapest way to reach Manali is by taking a government-run HRTC ordinary bus from Delhi. It costs around ₹800 and takes about 12 to 14 hours. If you are coming from a distant city like Mumbai, the most economical option is a low-cost flight to Delhi or Chandigarh, followed by a bus to Manali.
From Delhi, your most affordable option is the HRTC ordinary or semi-sleeper bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Fares start at ₹800 and go up to ₹1,200 depending on the type of bus and season. Book early to get the best seats and rates.
If you are traveling from Delhi, a 3-day budget trip to Manali can cost between ₹3,500 and ₹6,500 per person. This includes round-trip travel, two nights of accommodation, local food, and basic sightseeing. From Mumbai, the total budget ranges from ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 due to higher travel costs.
Book overnight buses to save on hotel nights, choose budget homestays with kitchen access, and eat at local restaurants instead of cafes. Travel during off-peak seasons and avoid school holidays. With smart planning, a 3-day family trip from Delhi can be done under ₹8,000 per person.
There is no direct train to Manali. The cheapest and most direct route is by bus from Delhi. If you prefer trains, you can take one to Chandigarh or Ambala and continue by bus, but it adds extra time and connections. In most cases, a direct overnight bus is the better budget option.
March to May (before the school holidays) and September to early November are ideal — find out why in our full guide on the best time to visit Manali. You will find lower hotel and bus prices, fewer tourists, and pleasant weather. Avoid long weekends and major holidays for the best deals.
The best way is to book a low-cost flight from Mumbai to Delhi or Chandigarh, which can cost between ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 if booked early. From there, take an overnight bus to Manali for ₹800 to ₹1,200. This flight-plus-bus combo saves time and money compared to a long train ride.
💡Book buses and stays at least two weeks in advance.
💡Travel mid-week and during off-season months.
💡Stay in homestays or shared hostels near Mall Road.
💡Walk whenever possible to save on transport.
💡Eat at dhabas instead of tourist cafés.
💡Share cabs with fellow travelers to split costs.
References:
- Indian Railways Official Portal – www.indianrail.gov.in
For real-time train schedules and ticket booking to nearby stations like Joginder Nagar and Chandigarh. - Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) – hrtchp.com
For booking government-run budget buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other cities to Manali. - RedBus – www.redbus.in
A trusted platform to find and compare budget-friendly bus options, private Volvo services, and sleeper coaches. - IRCTC – www.irctc.co.in
Book economical train tickets and check available routes to reach Manali’s nearest railway stations. - Rome2Rio – www.rome2rio.com
Great for visualizing multimodal budget routes (bus + train + shared cab) to Manali from major Indian cities. - India Map and Travel Guide – www.mapsofindia.com
Useful for planning your road route and estimating travel time and fuel costs from various cities.
