Manali to Vijayawada: 2249 km Road Guide 28h 38m Drive — Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Manali to Vijayawada? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2249km journey. Explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Manali to Vijayawada
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 28h 38m | ₹21,478 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | ~3h 30m | ₹7,872 - ₹15,743 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹1,233 – ₹4,568 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹3,850 – ₹12,645 |
How to Reach Vijayawada from Manali: Car, Train, Bus & Flight Options
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
Drive Manali to Vijayawada (2249 km, 28h 38m)
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
Fly Manali to Vijayawada (~3h 30m flight)
Speed, long distances, business travel
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 2249km long-distance journey, consider flying (~3h 30m) to save time, or take a train for a more scenic and relaxed experience.
What to Eat in Manali Before You Hit the Road
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Must-Try Food in Manali Before Your Drive
- local_dining Trout Fish - Freshly caught and grilled, available at restaurants near the Beas River.
- local_dining Sidu - Steamed bread made from wheat flour and stuffed with potatoes or poppy seeds.
- local_dining Thukpa - A Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables or meat, available at Tibetan restaurants.
Casa Bella Vista • Old Manali
Road Trip Stops: Best Cities Between Manali and Vijayawada
These cities sit along your Manali to Vijayawada route corridor and are worth a brief stop:
Shimla
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a charming hill station nestled in the Himalayan foothills. Once the summer capital of British India, it retains a colonial ambiance evident in its architecture and layout.
attractions Top Attractions
The Ridge
The Ridge is a large open space located in the heart of Shimla. It serves as the central hub for social gatherings and cultural events.
Jakhoo Temple
Jakhoo Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, situated on Jakhoo Hill, Shimla's highest point.
Christ Church
Christ Church is the second oldest church in North India, showcasing stunning neo-Gothic architecture.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chana Madra - Chickpea curry cooked in yogurt and spices (try at local restaurants)
Kufri
Chail
Chail is a quiet hill station in Himachal Pradesh, known for its serene environment and the historic Chail Palace. It was once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Patiala. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
attractions Top Attractions
Chail Palace
Chail Palace is a historic building that was once the summer residence of the Maharaja of Patiala. It's known for its architecture and regal ambiance.
Chail Cricket Ground
The Chail Cricket Ground is known as the world's highest cricket ground. It was built in 1893 and is situated at an altitude of 2,444 meters.
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir is a temple dedicated to a local saint. It is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Madra - A traditional dish made with chickpeas in yogurt gravy (try at Himachali restaurants)
Chakrata
Paonta Sahib
Top Attractions in Vijayawada: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Vijayawada, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
-
Kanaka Durga Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free (Indians), Free (foreigners) • 🕐 4am-9pmBest Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening
💡 Insider Tip: Use the free bus service from the foothill to reach the temple entrance. Book special darshan online to save time.
-
Undavalli Caves
⏱ 1-1.5 hours • 💰 rupees 25 (Indians), rupees 300 (foreigners) • 🕐 9am-5:30pmBest Time to Visit: Morning
💡 Insider Tip: Climb to the top level for excellent views of the surrounding countryside and the Krishna River.
-
Prakasam Barrage
⏱ 30-45 minutes • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursBest Time to Visit: Sunset
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during sunset for the most picturesque views and cooler temperatures. Be mindful of traffic.
-
Bhavani Island
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 rupees 10 (Indians), rupees 10 (foreigners) for island entry. Boat rides extra. • 🕐 9am-6pmBest Time to Visit: Afternoon
💡 Insider Tip: Negotiate boat ride prices if you are a large group. Confirm the operational status of water sports before visiting.
-
Victoria Jubilee Museum (Bapu Museum)
⏱ 1-1.5 hours • 💰 rupees 10 (Indians), rupees 100 (foreigners) • 🕐 10:30am-5pmBest Time to Visit: Morning
💡 Insider Tip: Check for any temporary exhibitions before your visit. It is a quiet escape from the city noise.
-
Gandhi Hill
⏱ 1-1.5 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 9am-6pmBest Time to Visit: Late afternoon
💡 Insider Tip: Combine this visit with exploring the bustling area around the railway station. Carry water, especially during warmer months.
Where to Eat in Vijayawada: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Vijayawada
Don't leave Vijayawada without tasting these local specialties:
- Pulihora - tangy tamarind rice, available at most local eateries, rupees 50-80
- Gongura Pachadi - spicy sorrel leaf chutney, served with meals, local restaurants, rupees 30-50 (as part of thali)
- Ulava Charu - horse gram soup, specialty restaurants like Minerva Coffee Shop, rupees 150-200
- Chepala Pulusu - spicy fish curry, seafood restaurants, rupees 250-400
- Pootharekulu - paper-thin sweet made from rice starch, local sweet shops, rupees 20-40 per piece
- Kaja - traditional sweet pastry, sweet shops like Sri Durga Sweets, rupees 20-30 per piece
- Andhra Thali - full meal with rice, curries, sambar, rasam, curd, local restaurants, rupees 150-250
Recommended Restaurants in Vijayawada
Minerva Coffee Shop
South Indian •
Sweet Magic
Multi-cuisine, Sweets •
Cross Roads Restaurant
Indian •
Sarovar Restaurant (The Gateway Hotel)
Multi-cuisine •
Where to Stay in Vijayawada: Hotels for Every Budget
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Ilapuram
Price:
rupees 1200-2000. Centrally located near Besant Road. Basic amenities, clean rooms, good for short stays.
Hotel Sree Ram Grand
Price:
rupees 1000-1800. Close to railway station. Offers comfortable rooms and decent service. Good value for money.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Marg Krishnaaya
Price:
rupees 2500-4000. Modern hotel on MG Road. Features a restaurant, comfortable rooms, and good service. Popular for business travelers.
The Executive Inn
Price:
rupees 2000-3500. Located near Benz Circle. Offers spacious rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and conference facilities. Good for families.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Novotel Vijayawada Varun Beach
Price:
rupees 5000-8000+. Near airport, with modern amenities, pool, and multiple dining options. Offers international standards of comfort.
The Gateway Hotel MG Road
Price:
rupees 4500-7000+. Centrally located on MG Road. Part of Taj Group, offering excellent service, fine dining, and well-appointed rooms.
Best Time to Visit Vijayawada: Season & Weather Travel Guide
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Vijayawada:
Best Time
Temperature: 18-28 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant, dry, and relatively cool. Ideal for sightseeing.
Why Visit: Comfortable weather for exploring temples and outdoor sites. Less humidity.
Shoulder Season
Temperature: 30-45 degrees C
Weather: Hot and dry, with peak temperatures in May. Uncomfortable for daytime activities.
Why Visit: Fewer tourists, potential for good discounts. Good for indoor activities.
Monsoon
Temperature: 25-35 degrees C
Weather: Warm and humid with moderate to heavy rainfall. Can cause disruptions.
Why Visit: Lush green landscapes, pleasant after rain. Good for indoor cultural experiences.
Vijayawada Travel Tips: Money, Safety & Local Advice
💰 Money & Budget
🏥 Health & Safety
📱 Communication
👕 What to Wear
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Light, breathable cotton clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. Casual wear is fine for general city exploration.
Manali to Vijayawada FAQ: Distance, Cost, Time & Best Routes (2026)
More Road Trips from Manali: Popular Nearby Routes
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Manali:
How to Reach Vijayawada from Other Cities
Traveling to Vijayawada from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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