Getting there
From Shimla the drive goes through Bilaspur, Mandi and Kullu, about 250 km and 8–9 hours with stops. From Dharamshala it is about 230 km via Palampur, Baijnath and Mandi, around 7 hours. From Chandigarh, plan a full day of about 300 km.
Suggested 4-day plan
Day 1: Drive to Manali. Stop at Pandoh dam and the Kullu shawl factories on the way.
Day 2: Solang valley and the Atal Tunnel to Sissu in Lahaul. Rohtang Pass needs an online permit, which we help you apply for, and is closed to tourist vehicles on Tuesdays.
Day 3: Manali local: Hadimba temple, Vashisht hot springs, Old Manali, the Tibetan monastery and Mall Road.
Day 4: Kullu valley: river rafting near Kullu, Manikaran Sahib and Kasol, then drive back or stay a night more.
Why the Urbania for Manali
The Shimla–Manali and Dharamshala–Manali roads are long, and a day in a cramped seat ruins the trip. Our reclining seats, individual AC vents and large windows make the drive part of the holiday. There is room in the luggage space for winter jackets, snow boots and shopping from the Kullu shawl stores.
