How To Go Manali From Kolkata
Planning a trip to the mountains always feels exciting, and a journey from Kolkata to Manali brings even more thrill. Since Manali is one of India’s most loved hill destinations, travellers from Kolkata search for the best ways to reach there comfortably. Although Kolkata and Manali are far from each other, several convenient travel options exist. You can choose between trains, flights, buses, and road trips depending on your preference and budget. This complete guide will help you understand how to go Manali from Kolkata with clear routes, prices, time duration, and helpful tips. Best Hotel in Manali for Couple
Kolkata to Manali Distance
Before choosing a travel mode, you should know the total distance between both destinations. The Kolkata to Manali distance depends on the route and medium of travel.
The aerial distance between Kolkata and Manali is around 1320 km.
The road distance from Kolkata to Manali is nearly 1950–2000 km, depending on the highway you follow.
If you travel by train, you will first reach Delhi or Chandigarh and then move toward Manali. Therefore, the travel distance becomes longer.
Even though the journey is long, the breathtaking views of Manali make every moment worth it.
How to Go Manali From Kolkata by Train
Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and budget-friendly options. Although no direct train is available from Kolkata to Manali, you can still reach the destination easily by combining train and road travel. This method suits travellers who prefer a scenic journey and affordable pricing.
1. Train Route Overview
Since Manali does not have its own railway station, the nearest major stations are:
Chandigarh Railway Station
Ambala Cantt Railway Station
Both stations offer excellent connectivity to Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. From these stations, you need to take a bus or taxi to reach Manali.
2. Popular Trains From Kolkata to Chandigarh/Ambala
Several trains depart from Howrah, Sealdah, and Kolkata Railway Station. Some good options include:
Howrah – Kalka Mail
Howrah – Delhi Rajdhani (then Delhi to Chandigarh train)
Sealdah – Jammu Tawi Express
Howrah – Amritsar Mail
These trains run regularly, and they offer AC and sleeper coaches. Because these routes are popular, booking tickets early will ensure a smooth journey.
3. Connecting Journey to Manali
Once you reach Chandigarh or Ambala, you can choose between the following:
Volvo Bus to Manali (Most comfortable)
HRTC AC/Non-AC buses
Private taxi or shared cab
The road journey takes around 8–10 hours and offers beautiful mountain views.
4. Kolkata to Manali Train Ticket Price
The Kolkata to Manali train ticket price varies based on your class choice:
Sleeper Class: ₹500 – ₹700
3AC: ₹1500 – ₹2000
2AC: ₹2000 – ₹3000
The bus fare from Chandigarh to Manali usually ranges between ₹700 – ₹1500, depending on the bus type. So, the total cost stays budget-friendly for many travellers.
How to Go Manali From Kolkata by Flight
If you want the fastest and most comfortable travel option, flying is ideal. You save a lot of time, and the view from above the Himalayas looks mesmerizing.
1. Nearest Airport to Manali
The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, located around 50 km away. Because it is a small airport, the connectivity is limited but still reliable.
2. Kolkata → Kullu Flight Options
There is no direct flight from Kolkata to Bhuntar. However, you can travel using connecting flights via:
Delhi → Kullu (Bhuntar)
Chandigarh → Kullu
Most travellers prefer the Delhi route because it offers more frequent and affordable flights.
3. Kolkata to Manali Flight Ticket Price
The Kolkata to Manali flight ticket price depends on the season, but average fares include:
Kolkata to Delhi: ₹3500 – ₹7000
Delhi to Kullu: ₹4000 – ₹9000
So, the combined cost usually ranges from ₹8000 to ₹14,000. Prices rise during holidays and snowfall season.
4. Airport to Manali Distance
Once you reach Bhuntar Airport, you need to travel by taxi to Manali. The distance is nearly 50 km, and it usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The drive feels refreshing because the River Beas flows along the route.
How to Go Manali From Kolkata by Road
A road trip from Kolkata to Manali brings adventure, long highways, and scenic landscapes. You can enjoy complete flexibility during the journey, because you can stop anywhere and explore small towns along the way.
1. Road Trip Route
The most preferred route for Kolkata to Manali by road includes:
Kolkata → Dhanbad → Varanasi → Lucknow → Kanpur → Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali
This route offers smooth road conditions and plenty of food stops.
2. Total Driving Distance & Time
Total distance: 1950–2000 km
Total driving time: 35–40 hours
Although the journey takes time, you can divide it into stages:
Kolkata to Varanasi
Varanasi to Lucknow
Lucknow to Delhi
Delhi to Manali
Breaking the journey makes the trip much more comfortable.
3. Things to Know Before Road Trip
Start early in the morning for safer driving.
Check weather updates, especially near Manali.
Keep warm clothes, as temperatures drop on mountain routes.
Make sure your vehicle is serviced before the trip.
Use GPS to avoid wrong turns around hilly areas.
A road trip offers a memorable experience, especially if you travel with friends or family.
How to Go Manali From Kolkata by Bus
Although no direct bus runs between Kolkata and Manali, a combination of buses can help you reach comfortably. This method suits budget travellers who don’t mind long road journeys.
1. Direct Bus Availability
While no direct Kolkata to Manali bus exists, you can follow this path:
Kolkata → Delhi (By bus or train)
Delhi → Manali (By HRTC or private Volvo bus)
Delhi to Manali buses operate day and night, so choosing a suitable timing becomes easy.
2. Kolkata to Manali Bus Route Breakdown
You can begin your journey from Kolkata by taking:
A bus to Delhi
A train to Delhi
A flight to Delhi
Once you reach Delhi, you will find several buses leaving for Manali from Majnu Ka Tila, ISBT Kashmiri Gate, and RK Ashram Metro Station.
Delhi to Manali travel time is around 10–12 hours, and the route stays scenic throughout.
3. Approx Bus Ticket Price
Kolkata to Delhi bus: ₹1500 – ₹2500
Delhi to Manali Volvo: ₹800 – ₹1800
Even though the journey is long, the total cost stays affordable.
How to Go Manali From Kolkata Railway Station
Travelling directly from a Kolkata railway station is convenient because multiple stations serve long-distance trains. You can start your journey from:
Howrah Junction
Sealdah Railway Station
Kolkata Railway Station (Chitpur)
Several trains from these stations travel towards Chandigarh, Ambala, Delhi, and Kalka. After reaching the nearest major station, you can continue by bus or taxi toward Manali. Travellers often prefer trains from Howrah because they offer comfortable seating and better timing.
Best Time to Visit Manali From Kolkata
Choosing the right season makes your trip more enjoyable. Manali stays pleasant throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience.
Summer (March to June)
This period is perfect for family trips, adventure sports, and sightseeing. The weather stays cool and refreshing.
Winter (December to February)
If you want to enjoy snowfall, winter offers the best experience. Roads become busier because this season attracts many tourists.
Monsoon (July to September)
Travelling during monsoon requires caution because of landslides. However, the greenery looks stunning.
Autumn (October to November)
This season offers clear skies, peaceful surroundings, and great weather for nature lovers.
Tips for Kolkata Travellers Visiting Manali
To make your journey smooth, you can follow these simple yet helpful tips:
Carry warm clothes even in summer because nights stay cold.
Book hotels early during peak seasons.
Keep essential medicines for motion sickness.
Stay hydrated on long train or road journeys.
Keep cash because ATMs in hilly areas may not work sometimes.
Travel with proper footwear as Manali has many walking trails.
Plan activities like paragliding and river rafting in advance.
These tips will make your Manali trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to go Manali from Kolkata, and choosing the best travel mode becomes easy. Flights offer the fastest option, while trains provide a comfortable and budget-friendly journey. If you love long drives, a road trip will give you unforgettable memories. No matter which option you select, the beautiful landscapes of Manali will welcome you warmly. So start planning your trip today and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.