Taking a road trip from Delhi to the peaceful mountain vistas of Manali is one of Northern India’s favorite escapes. Whether you are backpacking on a shoestring budget or looking for a comfortable family vacation, knowing your costs ahead of time helps you plan smart.
1. Transportation Costs (Delhi to Manali & Return)
Overnight Volvo / Luxury Bus: ₹800 – ₹1,800 per person (One way)
Buses leave from Kashmiri Gate or ISBT Delhi in the evening and reach Manali in 12–14 hours. This is the most popular, budget-friendly option.
Private Taxi / Cab: ₹5,800 – ₹8,000 (One way)
Best for families or groups traveling together. Sedan cabs start around ₹5,800, while SUVs cost around ₹8,000.
Self-Drive / Personal Car: ₹4,000 – ₹5,500 (Fuel + Tolls)
The distance is around 530 km via NH-44 & NH-21, with total one-way highway tolls costing roughly ₹455.
2. Accommodation Costs (Per Night)
Hostels & Backpacker Stays: ₹400 – ₹900 per bed
Old Manali offers cozy hostel dorms perfect for solo travelers and digital nomads.
Budget Hotels & Homestays: ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 per night
Clean, comfortable double rooms near Mall Road or quiet outskirts like Aleo.
Mid-Range Resorts & Boutique Stays: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per night
Includes mountain views, private balconies, and complimentary breakfast options.
3. Food & Cafe Expenses
Local Eateries & Dhaba Meals: ₹150 – ₹300 per person/meal
Enjoy warm bowls of momos, thukpa, siddu, and simple North Indian thalis along Mall Road.
Old Manali Cafes: ₹400 – ₹800 per person/meal
Savor wood-fired pizzas, trout fish, and artisanal coffee in rustic streamside settings.
4. Sightseeing & Local Transport
Local Auto / Scooty Rental: ₹500 – ₹1,000 per day
Renting a scooter is the most convenient way to explore Old Manali, Vashisht, and nearby villages.
Adventure Sports (Solang Valley): ₹1,000 – ₹3,500 per activity
Paragliding, zorbing, and cable car rides vary depending on the season and package chosen.
Rohtang Pass Permit / Atal Tunnel Taxi: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per car
A day trip beyond the tunnel to Sissu or up to Rohtang Pass requires a local cab or permit fees.
Estimated Total Budget per Person (3 Days / 2 Nights)
Budget Backpacker: ₹4,500 – ₹6,500 (Volvo bus + hostel dorm + local meals)
Comfort Couple / Friends: ₹8,500 – ₹13,000 (Volvo bus/shared cab + 3-star hotel + cafe dining)
Luxury / Private Family Trip: ₹18,000+ (Private SUV cab + 4/5-star resort + adventure sports)
Written by
Funtoor Travel Team
Travel planners based in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. We plan and arrange trips — stays, transport and experiences — across the Himalayas.
