Amit Khanna
Sameer Staff answered 5 months ago
Reaching Manikaran from Delhi involves a combination of travel by air, train, and road. Manikaran is a popular pilgrimage site located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, known for its hot springs and the Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib. Here are detailed options for reaching Manikaran from Delhi for first-time visitors:
By Air:
Flight to Bhuntar Airport:
Delhi to Bhuntar: The nearest airport to Manikaran is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), about 34 km from Manikaran. Several airlines operate flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Bhuntar Airport.
From Bhuntar to Manikaran:
Taxi: Taxis are available at Bhuntar Airport. It takes about 1-2 hours to reach Manikaran by taxi.
Bus: Local buses or shared cabs are also available from Bhuntar to Manikaran.
By Train:
Train to Chandigarh/Kalka:
Delhi to Chandigarh: Take a train from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Chandigarh Railway Station (CDG). Several trains, like the Shatabdi Express, operate on this route.
Delhi to Kalka: Alternatively, you can take a train from New Delhi to Kalka Railway Station (KLK).
From Chandigarh/Kalka to Manikaran:
Bus: From Chandigarh or Kalka, you can take a bus to Bhuntar or Kullu. From there, take a local bus or taxi to Manikaran.
Taxi: You can hire a taxi directly from Chandigarh or Kalka to Manikaran, which takes about 7-9 hours.
By Road:
Direct Bus:
Volvo/Deluxe Buses: Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) and private operators run Volvo and deluxe buses from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate) to Manali, with a stop at Bhuntar. From Bhuntar, you can take a local bus or taxi to Manikaran.
Duration: The bus journey from Delhi to Bhuntar takes approximately 12-14 hours. From Bhuntar to Manikaran, it takes another 1-2 hours.
Self-Drive:
Route: The driving route from Delhi to Manikaran is approximately 550-600 km and takes about 12-14 hours. The route is as follows:
Delhi → Panipat → Karnal → Ambala → Chandigarh → Bilaspur → Mandi → Kullu → Bhuntar → Manikaran.
Road Conditions: The roads are generally good, but the hilly terrain can be challenging. It is advisable to drive during the daytime and check weather conditions beforehand.
General Tips for First-Time Visitors:
Clothing: Carry warm clothing as the weather in Manikaran can be cool, especially in the evenings.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the area.
Health: If you are prone to motion sickness, carry medication as the hilly roads can be winding.
Cash: Carry some cash as ATMs may not be readily available.
Accommodation: Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
By considering these options and tips, first-time visitors can plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to Manikaran from Delhi.
Anvi Staff answered 2 months ago
Nestled in the heart of the Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the town of Manikaran is a mesmerizing blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and hot springs that attract visitors from across the globe. The journey from Delhi to Manikaran is an experience in itself, passing through scenic valleys and offering glimpses of rural Himachal’s culture and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a breakdown of the journey and everything you need to know to make the most of it.
Route Overview
The distance between Delhi and Manikaran is around 535 kilometers. The most common and accessible route is via NH44 and NH3, covering the distance in approximately 12 to 14 hours by road, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Traveling by road allows travelers to enjoy the beauty of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, but there are also options for trains and buses if you prefer not to drive.
By Car: The Scenic Route
For the adventurous, a road trip from Delhi to Manikaran is highly recommended. Here’s the route in brief:
Delhi to Chandigarh (245 km): Take NH44 from Delhi, passing through Panipat and Ambala to reach Chandigarh. It’s a well-maintained road with plenty of roadside amenities and restaurants. Expect this leg of the journey to take around 4-5 hours.
Chandigarh to Bhuntar (185 km): This part of the drive will start introducing you to the hills. Head through Kharar, Kiratpur Sahib, and then on to Bhuntar via NH3. The road is winding and scenic as you enter the mountains, with lush greenery and rivers running parallel to the road. This stretch takes around 6 hours.
Bhuntar to Manikaran (35 km): From Bhuntar, the last leg of the journey is a scenic uphill drive along the Parvati River. Though it’s a shorter distance, the winding roads can take an hour or more, offering splendid views of the Parvati Valley.
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re looking to keep costs down, buses are an economical and relatively comfortable option. Regular Volvo and HRTC buses run from Delhi’s ISBT to Manali, stopping at Bhuntar. From there, you can hop on a local bus or taxi to Manikaran. Buses generally leave in the evening, allowing travelers to reach Bhuntar by early morning.
By Train: An Alternative Route
Although there is no direct train route to Manikaran, you can take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh or Pathankot, and then proceed by road. The Shatabdi Express is a popular choice between Delhi and Chandigarh. However, this option will still require a road journey to Manikaran from the closest train station.
Best Time to Visit Manikaran
The ideal time to visit is between March and June and September to November, as the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. During winter (December to February), the region experiences heavy snowfall, which can make the roads challenging to navigate but adds a unique charm to the landscape for those up for a snow-covered adventure.