The Ultimate Itinerary: Covering the Chandigarh to Manali Distance in May and June
There are road trips, and then there’s the drive from Chandigarh to Manali — where the journey is just as spellbinding as the destination. If you’re planning a summer vacation in India with your family, there’s no better route to hit than this. Use this Manali itinerary to make the most of the distance from Chandigarh to Manali, with the best stopovers, where to eat and where to stay in Manali.
Consider this blog as your ultimate roadmap – From how to reach Manali from Chandigarh to exactly where you should stay once you get there — we’ve got it all.
In this Blog
Chandigarh to Manali Distance: What to Expect on the Road
Chandigarh to Manali distance is approximately 300 kilometers, and the drive usually takes 7 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions and stopovers. It’s a journey you want to savour — not rush.
The route we recommend is: Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
Start with exploring the best places to visit in Chandigarh, and continue your journey on to Bilaspur. The roads are well-maintained, but they do twist and climb, especially after Bilaspur. Don’t be surprised if the air feels cooler and crisper with every kilometre — it’s a prelude to the magic that awaits in Manali.
If you’re an early riser, start by 6 AM. It lets you avoid traffic and gives you time to pause at handpicked spots along the way. Take your car, rent a cab or take the Chandigarh to Manali bus, either way you’re in for a beautiful road trip. Many also prefer travelling from Chandigarh to Manali by train, which could be slightly time-efficient.
Optional Detour: The Shimla or Amritsar Loop
If you have time on your hands and want to extend the adventure, we’ve got some ideas:
Chandigarh to Shimla
Chandigarh to Shimla distance is about 113 km, a scenic 3-hour drive. Spend a day exploring the Queen of Hills before looping towards Manali.
Chandigarh to Amritsar
Chandigarh to Amritsar distance is 228 km, and is a cultural prelude to the mountains. Imagine starting your trip with visiting Golden Temple in Amritsar, and gorging on buttery kulchas before heading for alpine air.
This flexibility is what makes Himachal Pradesh one of the best places to visit in summer in India — you’re spoilt for choice.
Scenic Stopovers You Shouldn’t Skip
1. Sundernagar Lake – A great place to stretch your legs and admire still waters reflecting Himalayan skies.
2. Mandi – This riverside town is known as the ‘Varanasi of the Hills’. Grab some local snacks and admire the architecture.
3. Kullu – A few hours before Manali, you’ll pass through Kullu Valley. When you go from Kullu to Manali, you’re officially almost there, but the temptation to paraglide or raft in the Beas is strong — and worth it.
Manali Weather in May and June: A Breath of Fresh Air
If you’re escaping the sweltering plains and escaping city heat, Manali in May is a revelation. Manali temperature hovers between 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for both hiking and lazy lounging.
This season transforms Manali into one of the best places to visit in May in India. Snow is still visible on distant peaks, but the meadows are green, cafes are buzzing, and the vibe is just right. June follows with slightly warmer days, but the misty mornings in Manali’s temperature in May continue to enchant.
Where to Stay: A Cosy Homestay in Manali that Feels Like a Well-Kept Secret
Let’s skip the overcrowded resorts and cookie-cutter hotel rooms. The real experience lies in seizing the local experience with cottages, private villas and homestays in Manali.
If you’re someone who values privacy, space, and design-forward interiors, you’ll want to book Jodhpur House, a charming 3-bedroom villa with the most gorgeous backdrop. For larger groups, we recommend Johnson Studios that can accommodate up to 24 people, tucked away in a quieter part of Manali, yet close enough to the main attractions.
Your 3-Day Manali Itinerary (ideal for summer season)
Day 1: Arrival & Villa Check-in
- Reach the villa by late afternoon
- Freshen up with a welcome drink and unwind on the deck
- Enjoy a slow-paced evening with a bonfire, soft music, and home-cooked dinner
Day 2: Explore Old Manali & Solang Valley
- Breakfast with mountain views
- Head to Old Manali for cafés, shopping, and riverside strolls
- Post-lunch, make your way to Solang Valley for paragliding or just panoramic photo-ops
- Back at the villa, settle in for a BBQ night under the stars
Day 3: Hidimba Temple, Local Walks & Lazy Afternoons
- Visit the Hidimba Temple early morning
- Take a leisurely walk through pine forests nearby
- Spend the rest of the day at the villa — read, nap, or journal in the sun-soaked corners
- Depart post-lunch or extend your stay (you’ll be tempted!)
Insider Tips for the Chandigarh to Manali Route
- Fuel up in Chandigarh, and again around Bilaspur or Mandi
- Download offline maps — reception can be patchy in parts
- Keep a light jacket handy, even in summer. Nights get chilly
- Avoid night driving, especially near Kullu-Manali — fog and sharp turns aren’t beginner-friendly
Extend Your Trip: Other Hill Stations Near Delhi
If you’re on a longer break, tag on a few more stops before heading back:
- Manali to Kasol for a boho vibe and riverside cafés.
- Manali to Tirthan Valley for an offbeat experience, uncrowded and great for trout fishing
- Manali to Shimla or Chail for a softer descent before heading back to Delhi
These are some of the most laid-back yet exciting hill stations near Delhi and Chandigarh that pair perfectly with a Manali vacation in May and June.
Why This Route Never Gets Old
The Chandigarh to Manali distance is more than just kilometers on a map — it’s a rite of passage for every mountain lover. What elevates it is not just the winding roads or scenic vistas, but how you end the journey.
At the end of a journey, all you need is a layer of indulgence and intentionality. You’re not just visiting a destination — you’re curating an experience.
So this summer, don’t just go to Manali. Arrive, unwind, and stay a while — in a home that feels like it was waiting just for you.
