Ahmedabad to Manali: 1397 km Road Guide 17h 35m Drive — Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Ahmedabad to Manali? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 1397km journey. Explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Ahmedabad to Manali
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 17h 35m | ₹13,341 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | ~2h 20m | ₹4,890 - ₹9,779 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹786 – ₹2,877 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹2,393 – ₹9,420 |
How to Reach Manali from Ahmedabad: Car, Train, Bus & Flight Options
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
Drive Ahmedabad to Manali (1397 km, 17h 35m)
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
Fly Ahmedabad to Manali (~2h 20m flight)
Speed, long distances, business travel
Train from Ahmedabad to Manali
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
Bus from Ahmedabad to Manali
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 1397km long-distance journey, consider flying (~2h 20m) to save time, or take a train for a more scenic and relaxed experience.
What to Eat in Ahmedabad Before You Hit the Road
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Must-Try Food in Ahmedabad Before Your Drive
- local_dining Dhokla - A steamed savory cake made from fermented batter of rice and split chickpeas (try at Das Khaman)
- local_dining Thepla - A flatbread made with wheat flour, spices, and fenugreek leaves (try at a local home or restaurant)
- local_dining Undhiyu - A mixed vegetable casserole cooked upside down in earthen pots (seasonal dish available in winter)
Agashiye • Old City
Road Trip Stops: Best Cities Between Ahmedabad and Manali
These cities sit along your Ahmedabad to Manali route corridor and are worth a brief stop:
Udaipur
Udaipur is a small agricultural town in Gujarat, often overlooked in favor of its more famous namesake in Rajasthan. This Udaipur provides a glimpse into rural Gujarati life, serving primarily as a transit point for nearby villages and agricultural areas.
attractions Top Attractions
Shree Umiya Mataji Temple
This temple is dedicated to Umiya Mataji, a revered deity in the region. It's a significant religious site for the local community and a place of daily worship.
Local Agricultural Farms
Udaipur is surrounded by agricultural farms growing crops like cotton, millet, and groundnuts. Visiting these farms provides insight into the region's primary occupation.
Village Market
The village market is a bustling hub where locals buy and sell fresh produce, spices, and other household items. It's a great place to observe the daily life of the community.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Gujarati Thali - A platter with a variety of vegetarian dishes (try at local restaurants).
Kumbhalgarh
Kumbhalgarh is a Mewar fortress on the Aravali Hills in Rajasthan, India. It is known for its impressive architecture, massive fortifications, and the second-longest continuous wall in the world after the Great Wall of China.
attractions Top Attractions
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a formidable structure. It is renowned for its 36 km long wall, numerous temples, palaces, and gardens.
Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds)
The Badal Mahal, or Palace of Clouds, is the highest point within Kumbhalgarh Fort. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Aravalli hills.
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary surrounds the fort and is home to a variety of wildlife. Animals include leopards, sloth bears, wolves, and various species of deer and birds.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Dal Baati Churma - A traditional Rajasthani dish consisting of lentil curry, baked wheat balls, and a sweet dessert (try at local restaurants).
Ajmer
Ajmer, located in Rajasthan, is a city famed for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a revered Sufi shrine. It serves as a gateway to Pushkar and offers a blend of spiritual and historical experiences.
attractions Top Attractions
Ajmer Sharif Dargah
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. It is one of the most sacred Muslim pilgrimage sites in India.
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is a historical mosque built from the remains of Hindu and Jain temples. Its name translates to 'shed of two and a half days'.
Ana Sagar Lake
Ana Sagar Lake is a man-made lake offering a serene escape from the city's hustle. It was built by Maharaja Ana Ji Chauhan in the 12th century.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Sohan Halwa - a sweet delicacy unique to Ajmer (try at various sweet shops near Dargah)
Pushkar
Pushkar is a small town in Rajasthan, India, known for its sacred lake and the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. The town is also famous for the annual Pushkar Camel Fair, a vibrant spectacle of trade and culture.
attractions Top Attractions
Brahma Temple
The Brahma Temple is one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator in the Hindu trinity. It's a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Pushkar Lake
Pushkar Lake is a sacred lake believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. It is surrounded by 52 ghats (bathing steps), each with its own significance.
Savitri Temple
The Savitri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Savitri, the first wife of Lord Brahma. It's located on top of Ratnagiri Hill, offering stunning views of Pushkar Lake and the surrounding landscape.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Malpua - A sweet pancake, best tried at local sweet shops.
Patiala
Top Attractions in Manali: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Manali, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Hadimba Devi Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 08:00-18:00 dailyHadimba Devi Temple is a unique wooden temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. Built in 1553, it features intricate carvings and a pagoda-shaped roof.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - less crowded and peaceful
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
-
Solang Valley
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 Free (activities extra) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailySolang Valley is a picturesque valley known for its adventure activities and scenic beauty. During winter, it is covered in snow, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime - for adventure activities
💡 Insider Tip: Bargain for the prices of adventure activities to get a better deal.
-
Vashisht Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 07:00-22:00 dailyVashisht Temple is famous for its hot springs, believed to have medicinal properties. The temple is dedicated to Sage Vashisht, one of the seven great sages in Hindu mythology.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime - relaxing hot springs
💡 Insider Tip: Carry your own towel and soap for hygiene purposes.
-
Rohtang Pass
⏱ 5-6 hours • 💰 ₹500 (permit required) • 🕐 Open seasonally (May to October), 09:00-17:00Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime - clear weather for views
💡 Insider Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid traffic and get the best views before the clouds roll in.
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Manikaran Sahib
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursManikaran Sahib is a Sikh gurdwara located in the Parvati Valley. It is known for its hot springs and the belief that food can be cooked in the hot spring water.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime - spiritual experience
💡 Insider Tip: The langar is a must-try, offering simple and delicious vegetarian meals.
-
Manu Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-17:00 dailyManu Temple is dedicated to Sage Manu, who is believed to be the creator of the human race. The temple is located in Old Manali and offers panoramic views of the valley.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - peaceful atmosphere
💡 Insider Tip: Explore the cafes and shops in Old Manali after visiting the temple.
Where to Eat in Manali: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Manali
Don't leave Manali without tasting these local specialties:
- Trout Fish - Freshly caught and grilled, available at restaurants near the Beas River.
- Sidu - Steamed bread made from wheat flour and stuffed with potatoes or poppy seeds.
- Thukpa - A Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables or meat, available at Tibetan restaurants.
- Babru - A type of pancake made from black gram flour, served with chutney or vegetables.
Recommended Restaurants in Manali
Casa Bella Vista
Italian • ₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Wood-fired pizzas
A cozy restaurant with a rustic ambiance and delicious Italian food. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Located in Old Manali.
📍 Old Manali
Drifters' Cafe
Continental • ₹₹ (₹700-1100 for two)
Specialty: Burgers and sandwiches
A popular cafe with a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu. Offers a range of continental dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Located near Manu Temple Road.
📍 Manu Temple Road
Johnson's Cafe
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹1200-1800 for two)
Specialty: Trout fish
An elegant restaurant with a sophisticated ambiance and a diverse menu. Known for its trout fish and other continental dishes. Located near Mall Road.
📍 Mall Road
Dylan's Toasted & Roasted Coffee House
Cafe • ₹ (₹400-600 for two)
Specialty: Coffee and desserts
A cozy cafe with a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of coffee and desserts. A perfect spot for a quick bite or a leisurely afternoon. Located in Old Manali.
📍 Old Manali
Where to Stay in Manali: Hotels for Every Budget
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Zostel Manali
Price: ₹500-1000/night
Location: Old Manali
A popular hostel with a lively atmosphere and great views. Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.
The Hosteller Manali
Price: ₹600-1200/night
Location: Near Mall Road
A comfortable hostel with modern amenities and a convenient location. Offers both dorms and private rooms.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Snow Valley Resorts
Price: ₹3000-5000/night
Location: Near Hadimba Temple
A well-maintained resort with comfortable rooms and beautiful views. Offers a range of amenities and services.
Honeymoon Inn Manali
Price: ₹2500-4500/night
Location: Aleo
A cozy hotel with comfortable rooms and a romantic atmosphere. Popular among honeymooners and couples.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
The Himalayan
Price: ₹8000+/night
Location: Hadimba Road
A luxurious resort with elegant rooms and stunning views. Offers a range of amenities and personalized services.
Span Resort & Spa
Price: ₹10000+/night
Location: Kullu-Manali Highway
A premium resort with luxurious rooms and a world-class spa. Offers a serene and relaxing experience amidst nature.
Best Time to Visit Manali: Season & Weather Travel Guide
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Manali:
Best Time: March to June
Temperature: 10-25 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and sunny weather with clear skies. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Why Visit: This is the best time for trekking, paragliding, and exploring the valleys around Manali. The weather is perfect for honeymooners and families to enjoy the natural beauty. The Beas River is also at its fullest, offering excellent rafting opportunities.
Important Note: Expect higher prices for accommodation and activities. Book hotels and tours in advance to avoid disappointment.
Shoulder Season: September to November
Temperature: 5-15 degrees C
Weather: Cool and crisp weather with occasional showers. The landscape turns vibrant with autumn colors.
Why Visit: The crowds are thinner, and the prices are more reasonable compared to the peak season. It's a great time for trekking and enjoying the scenic beauty without the summer rush.
Important Note: Some adventure activities might be limited due to weather conditions. Pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings.
Avoid: December to February
Temperature: -5 to 10 degrees C
Weather: Very cold with heavy snowfall. Many roads and passes are closed due to snow.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during these months unless you are specifically interested in skiing and snow-related activities. Most trekking routes are inaccessible, and the town can feel isolated.
Important Note: If you do visit, be prepared for extreme cold and potential travel disruptions. Ensure that your accommodation has proper heating facilities.
Manali Travel Tips: Money, Safety & Local Advice
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are available in Manali town and near Mall Road.
Payment Methods: Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected at local markets and with taxi drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water to avoid stomach problems.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic.
Common Health Issues: Altitude sickness can be a problem at higher altitudes. Acclimatize gradually and drink plenty of water.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. SIM cards are available at local stores with proper identification.
WiFi Availability: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and cafes.
👕 What to Wear
Pack warm clothing, especially if you are visiting during the winter months. Comfortable shoes are essential for trekking and sightseeing.
Ahmedabad to Manali FAQ: Distance, Cost, Time & Best Routes (2026)
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