Manali Himachal Pradesh, India Travel Guide
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India. Citizens of many countries, including the USA, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada, apply for an E-Visa. This option for tourism, business, and medical purposes. Applications process online through the official Indian e-Visa portal.
A Tourist e-Visa holds validity for 30 days (single entry), 1 year (multiple entry), or 5 years (multiple entry). Length of stay per visit has restrictions, like 90 days for most nationalities. For nationalities not eligible for the e-Visa, or for longer stays, travelers apply at the Indian embassy or consulate in their home country.
Visa fees vary by nationality and visa type. Payment occurs online during the e-Visa application or at the consulate or embassy for regular visas. No separate "entry fee" at immigration. Upon arrival at designated airports or seaports, present your passport and e-Visa printout (if applicable) for immigration clearance. Authorities collect biometrics.
All vehicles and visitors, excluding local residents, need a Rohtang Pass Permit. Obtain this permit online through the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) website or authorized agents. The number of permits issued daily is limited. An Inner Line Permit (ILP) for travel beyond Kaza in Spiti Valley or remote parts of Kinnaur, especially for foreign nationals. District authorities manage this permit for specific travel routes.
Landslides and road blockages during monsoons.
Pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, accessible trekking routes.
Overcrowded, leading to higher accommodation and travel costs. Traffic congestion.
Fewer crowds, comfortable weather.
Blooming flowers, good conditions for trekking. Limited access to high altitudes with snow.
Temperatures drop significantly by late November, and winter closures begin for high-altitude areas.
Lush landscapes, fewer tourists.
Lush green landscapes and waterfalls at their fullest. Fewer tourists mean lower prices for accommodation.
Risk of landslides and road blockages, especially on mountain highways. Incessant rain.
The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), symbolized as ₹. Banknotes come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 2000 INR. Currency exchange counters are available at major international airports and in Manali town. ATMs are widely available in Manali for cash withdrawals. Visa and MasterCard are broadly accepted. Inform your bank of your travel plans.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is customary if service charge is not included. For drivers, ₹100-₹300 for a day trip. Porters or bellboys, ₹50-₹100. Small amounts for housekeepers or helpful hotel staff.
Utilize local public buses for inter-village travel; they are economical.
Eat at local dhabas for authentic and inexpensive meals. Street food also a good value.
Bargain politely in local markets for goods and non-metered taxis. Confirm prices beforehand.
Stay in guesthouses or hostels, specifically in Old Manali, for better value for money.
Travel in the shoulder seasons (March-April, October-November) for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Prioritizing health and safety in Manali makes for a relaxing and enjoyable journey.
Be aware of common health concerns and practices for their prevention.
Ensure safe consumption of water and food to prevent health issues.
Costs vary widely depending on your travel style, from backpacking to luxury experiences. The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR).
Manali is generally a safe destination for tourists. Still, awareness of potential crime and natural hazards makes for a safer trip.
Manali is generally safe for tourists. Petty theft, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas like Mall Road. Remain vigilant in such places.
Solo travelers, specifically women, exercise caution when walking alone at night in dimly lit or isolated areas, especially in Old Manali. Scams involving drug touts or overcharging for services occur; always confirm prices beforehand.
Local Bus (within Manali/nearby villages): ₹20 - ₹100. Shared Taxi (Manali to Old Manali): ₹50 - ₹100. Taxi (short ride within Manali): ₹150 - ₹300. Overnight Volvo Bus from Delhi to Manali: ₹1,000 - ₹2,000.
Taxi (Manali to Solang Valley): ₹800 - ₹1,500 (round trip).
Taxi (Manali to Rohtang Pass - full day): ₹3,000 - ₹4,500 (round trip, includes waiting time).
Hadimba Temple: Free (small donation expected). Naggar Castle: ₹50 - ₹100 (Indian), ₹150 - ₹200 (foreigners). Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery: ₹50 - ₹100.
Paragliding (Solang Valley): ₹1,500 - ₹3,500 (short/long flight).
River Rafting: ₹800 - ₹1,500.
These are estimates for one person and exclude international flights. Adjust based on personal preferences and activities.
Budget Traveler: ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 (~$18 - $36).
Luxury Traveler: ₹7,000+ (~$85+).
| Category | Item | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Taxi (Manali to Solang Valley - round trip) | ₹800 - ₹1,500 |
| Transportation | Overnight Volvo Bus (Delhi to Manali) | ₹1,000 - ₹2,000 |
| Activities | Paragliding (Solang Valley) | ₹1,500 - ₹3,500 |
