The road trip from Shimla to Manali is a quintessential Himalayan adventure, connecting two of Himachal Pradesh’s most famous hill stations. This journey takes you through the heart of the state, offering breathtaking landscapes, charming valleys, and a glimpse into the serene mountain life. For anyone planning this iconic drive, knowing the driving distance and time from Shimla to Manali is crucial. This detailed 2026 guide provides all the necessary information on the route, travel duration, road conditions, and must-see places along the way.
Shimla to Manali Drive: A Quick Overview
The driving distance from Shimla to Manali is approximately 250 kilometres. This is not a short drive; it’s a full-day journey on winding mountain roads. Under normal traffic and weather conditions, the drive typically takes about 8 to 10 hours, without including long stops for sightseeing or meals.
The Best and Primary Route: Via NH205 and NH3
There is one main route that connects Shimla to Manali, which follows a series of National Highways through the valleys of Himachal Pradesh.
Route Description: Shimla -> Bilaspur -> Mandi -> Kullu -> Manali
- Shimla to Bilaspur (via NH205): The journey starts with a descent from Shimla. You will travel towards Bilaspur, passing through towns like Darlaghat. This section involves driving on winding roads.
- Bilaspur to Mandi (via NH205/NH154): From Bilaspur, you will continue towards Mandi. This stretch of the road runs alongside the beautiful Sutlej River and then the Beas River.
- Mandi to Kullu (via NH3): After Mandi, you will get onto NH3, which will take you all the way to Manali. This is the most scenic part of the journey, as the road follows the Beas River through the stunning Kullu Valley, also known as the ‘Valley of the Gods’.
- Kullu to Manali (via NH3): The final 40 kilometres from Kullu to Manali is a beautiful drive through apple orchards and pine forests, with the Beas River flowing right beside the road.
Key Highlights of the Route:
- Spectacular Scenery: This is one of the most scenic drives in India. The ever-present Beas River, lush green valleys, and snow-capped peaks in the distance make for an unforgettable journey.
- Road Conditions: The road is a two-lane mountain highway. While it is paved, the condition can be variable. Some sections are smooth, while others, especially during and after the monsoon, can be rough with potholes or landslide-prone. The Kiratpur-Ner Chowk four-lane project has improved parts of the journey significantly.
Analysing the Driving Time from Shimla to Manali
The 8-10 hour drive is a baseline. The actual time can be much longer due to various factors.
Factors That Influence Your Travel Time:
- Mountain Roads: The entire route is on winding, two-lane roads, which means average speeds are low (around 30-40 km/h).
- Weather Conditions: The monsoon season (July-September) is the most challenging time to travel, with a high risk of landslides that can block the road for hours or even days. In winter, heavy snowfall, especially near Manali, can also lead to road closures.
- Traffic: While not as bad as city traffic, bottlenecks can occur in major towns like Mandi and Kullu, especially during the peak tourist season (May-June and December-January).
- Breaks and Stops: The journey is long and tiring, and you will need to stop for at least one major meal break. The stunning scenery will also tempt you to make several stops for photos.
Realistic Time Breakdown (with breaks):
| Segment | Estimated Driving Time |
| Shimla to Mandi | 4 – 5 hours |
| Mandi to Manali | 3 – 4 hours |
| Breaks (Lunch, Photos) | 1 – 2 hours |
| Total Journey Time | 9 – 11 hours |
Given the long duration, it is highly recommended to start from Shimla as early as possible, preferably by 6-7 AM.
Toll Charges on the Shimla-Manali Route
As of early 2026, there are toll plazas on the newer four-lane sections of the highway. You can expect to pay a total one-way toll of approximately ₹150 – ₹200 for a private car. Always have FASTag for convenient payment.
Must-Visit Places and Pit Stops En Route
The journey is dotted with beautiful spots and charming towns.
Recommended Stops:
- Sundernagar: A beautiful town with a man-made lake, perfect for a short break.
- Mandi: A historic town known as the ‘Varanasi of the Hills’ due to its many old temples. It’s also a good place to stop for lunch.
- Pandoh Dam: A massive dam on the Beas River that offers a spectacular view. Stopping on the dam itself is prohibited, but you can get good views from the road.
- Kullu: Famous for its shawls and the annual Dussehra festival. You can stop here for some souvenir shopping or to try river rafting in the Beas River.
- Naggar Castle: A short detour before Manali, this historic castle offers stunning views of the valley and a glimpse into the region’s royal past.
For those looking for adventure, Himachal offers countless opportunities. Check out our guide on offbeat destinations in Himachal for more ideas.
Tips for This Challenging Mountain Drive
- Start Early: This is the most crucial tip. An early start ensures you reach Manali well before dark.
- Check Road Status: Always check the latest road conditions before you leave, especially during monsoon and winter. Landslides are common.
- Experienced Driver: This long and winding route is best handled by an experienced driver who is comfortable with mountain driving.
- Stay Hydrated and Carry Snacks: Carry enough water and some snacks, as road blockages can sometimes leave you stranded for a few hours.
- Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition, with special attention to brakes, tyres, and the engine.
Before planning your travel, check the bank holidays in Himachal Pradesh to avoid any unexpected closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Manali from Shimla by road?
The road distance between Shimla and Manali is approximately 250 kilometres. It’s a full-day journey through the winding roads of the Himachal valleys.
How long is the drive from Shimla to Manali?
The drive takes about 8 to 10 hours of non-stop driving. With breaks for food, photos, and rest, a realistic travel time is between 9 and 11 hours. It is highly recommended to start early in the morning.
What is the road condition between Shimla and Manali?
The road is a two-lane mountain highway. The condition is variable; while many parts are well-paved, some sections can be rough, narrow, and prone to landslides, especially during the monsoon season. Drive cautiously.
Is it better to hire a taxi or self-drive from Shimla to Manali?
For tourists not experienced with long-distance mountain driving, hiring a local taxi is the recommended and safer option. Local drivers are familiar with the terrain, road conditions, and can navigate the challenging sections with ease.
What is the best time of year for the Shimla-Manali road trip?
The best times are from April to June (pre-monsoon summer) and from October to November (post-monsoon autumn). The weather is pleasant, and the risk of landslides is low. The monsoon season (July-September) should be avoided.