Natural splendour and breathtaking scenery abound in the Himalayan foothills of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Visiting one of the most picturesque states in India on a road trip to Himachal Pradesh is sure to be an enjoyable experience. Without the hassle of public transportation, driving through the verdant landscape and suddenly taking in the breathtaking views is the way to go.
A road trip to Himachal Pradesh is the best option because some of the most picturesque tourist spots are intricate and hard to reach. Small towns, winding roads, and verdant meadows are all yours to explore on a trip to Himachal Pradesh. You are free to chat with locals while sampling stuffed omelettes sold on the side of the road and drinking Chai. A family road trip to Himachal Pradesh, whether by car or tempo traveller, will surely be an adventure you won’t forget. Refer to this comprehensive guide if you and your family are planning to go on an exciting trip to Himachal Pradesh. So, keep reading.
Must Read: A Himachal Road Trip with Tempo Traveller
For a comfortable journey, consider booking a one-way cab service from Chandigarh to Manali for your family trip.
For more helpful planning, read our guide to Jaisalmer Car Driver.
How to Go on a Trip to Himachal Pradesh From Delhi
Himachal Pradesh connects well by air, rail, and road, making it an ideal vacation spot in northern India. Here are the best options that you can take on a trip to Himachal Pradesh:
1. Trip to Himachal Pradesh from Delhi by Car
Many people, especially those who reside in the Delhi area or in proximity to Himachal Pradesh, enjoy taking the roads to reach the state. You can expect to cover 477 to 484 kilometres between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh on the road. You can easily cover the distance in seven or eight hours if you take the road through Delhi. A tempo traveller hire Delhi to Himachal Pradesh can easily reach you to your destination.
For more helpful planning, read our guide to Kashmir Car Adventure Road.
2. Trip to Himachal Pradesh from Delhi by Train
Two trains can get you from New Delhi to Shimla, but there isn’t a direct route:
- Train to Kalka
The most popular route from New Delhi to Shimla is via Kalka, the nearest railway station. The Himalayan Queen, Paschim Express, Shatabdi Express, and others travel between New Delhi and Kalka.
Additionally, exploring nearby attractions like the Kainchi Dham tour by car can add spiritual depth to your mountain journey.
- Toy Train from Kalka to Shimla
World Heritage Site Narrow-gauge Known variously as the Toy Train and the Kalka-Shimla Railway, this picturesque line winds its way through hilly terrain. Throughout 60 miles, you will encounter 900 turns, 864 bridges, and 102 tunnels. The six-hour trip will likely fly by.
3. Trip to Himachal Pradesh from Delhi by Flight
Jubbarhatti Airport, close to Shimla; Bhuntar Airport, close to Manali; and Gaggal Airport, in Kangra, are the three domestic airports that Himachal Pradesh has in operation. It is easy to reach any of these airports by plane from Delhi.
Road Trip to Himachal Pradesh from Delhi
Here, we will review the best driving routes from Delhi to a trip to Himachal Pradesh. One of the top road trips is at your fingertips. Let’s take a look at them.
For more helpful planning, read our guide to Jaipur Khatu Shyam Distance.
1. Delhi-Shimla-Narkanda-Baghi Drive
One popular weekend destination among Delhiites is the Shimla-Narkanda stretch of National Highway 5. After a two- or three-day weekend in Delhi, you can reach any stops along the Kalka-Shimla-Narkanda route. Baghi, Hatu Peak, Khadrala, Ratnari Village, Sungri Village, and Kotgarh are all within a day’s drive from Narkanda. You can choose tempo traveller hire from Delhi to Himachal Pradesh.
Similarly, you can plan an adventurous Spiti Valley tour by car to explore high-altitude landscapes and remote villages.
2. Delhi-Narkanda-Baga Sarahan-Sangla-Chitkul Road Trip
Only experienced road trippers and those interested in seeing lesser-known destinations, such as Baga Sarahan and Baspa Valley, should embark on this winter road trip. Your journey can begin in Delhi and end in Narkanda after stopping at Baga Sarahan, Sangla, Chitkul, and a return drive to Narkanda. You can finish your road trip in this way.
3. Delhi-Narkanda-Sangla-Jalori Pass-Manali Circuit Trip
The Himalayan towns of Shimla, Baspa, and the Kullu valley are all part of this driving tour. Narkanda, the Baspa Valley in Kinnaur, Jalori Pass, and Manali in the Kullu Valley all stop along the winding road. Travelling backwards from Delhi to Manali completes the loop.
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4. Delhi-Manali-Chandra Taal Lake-Jispa-Shinku(Shingo)-La-Pangi-Sach Pass-Dalhousie Road Trip
This is the optimal route for those who like to travel by car for extended periods. The Atal Tunnel, an engineering marvel of the 21st century, high altitude wetlands, a Himalayan pass more than 16,000 meters high, and hill stations like Dalhousie and Manali, which were popular during the British era, are all part of this seven-night, eight-day journey. Delhi to Manali, Chandra Taal Lake, Jispa, Shinku(Shingo)-La, Pangi, Sach Pass, Dalhousie, and back to Delhi is a possible itinerary.
For those interested in mountain road trips, consider exploring the 15 popular road trips from Jammu to discover more scenic routes.
5. Delhi-Narkanda-Darang Ghati-Sangla-Chitkul Trip
In one of Shimla’s smaller Himalayan valleys lies Darang Ghati, a wildlife sanctuary. Starting at Via Narkanda, you can arrange your journey to Daran Ghati, Sangla, and Chitkul. A tempo traveller hire in Himachal can help you to complete this trip.
Route Map and Distance of Trip to Himachal Pradesh from Delhi
How do you go on a trip to Himachal Pradesh from Delhi? We’ll go over the top routes.
1. Delhi to Himachal Pradesh’s Manali Road Trip Via NH 44
This one has been in operation for the longest time among India’s major north-south highways. You can use this to go from Ambala to Chandigarh. From Delhi, travel to Panipat, Kurukshetra, Ambala, Chandigarh, Bilaspur, Mandi, Kullu, and Manali. The journey from Delhi to Manali via this route will take around twelve to thirteen hours. The total mileage is around 560 km.
For spiritual seekers, the Haridwar Rishikesh tour by car offers a peaceful road trip experience with a driver.
2. Delhi to Himachal Pradesh’s Manali Road Trip Via NH 9
There is a slight increase in travel time compared to the standard route. It departs from the city route, which may be congested at certain periods. You can go from Delhi to Hansi, Samana, Patiala, Sirhind, Mandi, Naggar, and Manali. You can spend around 15 to 16 hours travelling the approximately 650 KM this route covers.
3. Road trip from Delhi to Himachal Pradesh’s Manali via NH 5
This route starts in Chandigarh and passes through Shimla to Manali. Travellers must first take NH 44 before joining NH 5 on this route. Route: Delhi to Panipat, then to Kurukshetra, Ambala, Zirakpur, Shimla, Bilaspur, Mandi, Kullu, and finally Manali. The entire journey along this route takes about fifteen hours.
Delhi to Himachal Pradesh Taxi Fare
On a trip to Himachal Pradesh, tempo Traveller is a relaxing car that guarantees a good trip, but a great bargain might make it unforgettable. Here are some options for the Tempo Traveller Hire that you can choose from:
Similarly, if you plan to explore Rajasthan, check out the Jaipur to Udaipur road trip for detailed distance and route information.
| TEMPO TRAVELLER TYPE | SEATING | FARE PER KM | DRIVER CHARGES (PER DAY) |
| Semi Sleeper Maharaja Tempo Traveller | 10 | 33 | 500 |
| 9 Seater Luxury Tempo Traveller | 9+2 | 24 | 500 |
| 12 Seater Deluxe Tempo Traveller | 12 | 25 | 500 |
| 11 Seater Standard Tempo Traveller | 11+1 | NA | NA |
| 12 Seater Luxury Tempo Traveller | 12 | 26 | 500 |
| 14 Seater Tempo Traveller | 13+1 | 25 | 400 |
| 15 Seater Tempo Traveller | 15+1 | 27 | 500 |
Best Time for a Trip to Himachal Pradesh
Because of the wide range of activities available throughout the year, Himachal Pradesh is a popular tourist destination. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lushest from February to June, or spring and summer, in Himachal Pradesh. The temperature range is 10–25 degrees Celsius. At this time of year, outdoor pursuits such as paragliding, camping, trekking, hiking, and water sports are most enjoyable on a trip to Himachal Pradesh.
Essential Packing Tips for Your Himachal Family Trip
Packing smartly ensures a comfortable journey. Carry layered clothing suitable for varying temperatures, especially if you travel between seasons. Additionally, include sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses for outdoor activities. Moreover, pack essential medicines and first-aid supplies for emergencies. For families with children, bring snacks and entertainment options for long drives. Furthermore, keep important documents like ID proofs and booking confirmations handy. A small backpack for day trips proves useful when exploring markets or trekking trails. Consequently, proper preparation enhances your overall travel experience significantly.
Conclusion
Finally, because of the enchantment it bestows upon its visitors throughout the year, Himachal Pradesh is a place to visit any time. Whether you’re a fan of the verdant foliage of the monsoons, the chilly winter landscapes, the brilliant colours of spring, or the pleasant summer weather, Himachal Pradesh has you covered throughout the year. You must go on a trip to Himachal Pradesh once in a while.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
February to June is the best month to explore Himachal Pradesh.
8-10 days are sufficient to explore Himachal.
Kasauli, Manali, Dalhousie, Kullu, Dharamshala, Tirthan Valley, Shimla, etc. are some of the safest places to explore in Himachal Pradesh.

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