Manali in Winter: Where to Find Snow and How to Plan from Delhi

Snow is the reason most people plan Manali in winter. Our Himachal team is based in Rangri, Manali, so this is what we tell friends: the best chance of snow is from late December to February, and you may need to drive a little higher than Mall Road to find it.

When does it snow in Manali?

Manali town usually gets snowfall a few times between late December and February. Higher points like Solang Valley and the area beyond the Atal Tunnel hold snow for much longer. In November and March you may see snow on the peaks but not in town.

Best snow points

• Solang Valley — about 14 km from Manali. Skiing, snow scooters and a ropeway. Busiest on weekends.
• Atal Tunnel and Sissu — the 9 km Atal Tunnel takes you to the Lahaul side, where snow lasts through winter. The road can close after heavy snowfall.
• Kothi and Gulaba — on the old Rohtang road; how far vehicles can go depends on snow and permits.

How to reach Manali from Delhi

Most travellers take an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi, around 12–14 hours. Our Manali group trips start from ₹5,000 per person for 4 nights / 5 days including Volvo travel — check the package page for the latest price and dates. Private cab tours start from ₹7,000 per person.

What to pack

• A down or padded jacket, thermals, woollen socks
• Waterproof shoes with grip — snow turns to ice by evening
• Gloves, cap and sunglasses (snow glare is strong)
• Moisturiser and lip balm
• Power bank — cold drains phone batteries fast

Add Kasol, Naggar or Kullu

If you have a day or two more, add Naggar Castle and the Kullu valley, or the cafés of Kasol in the Parvati valley. Our 5N/6D Manali–Kasol trips cover both.

Three mistakes winter visitors make

1. Driving up late in the day. Roads to Solang and Sissu freeze after sunset. Go in the morning and be back by late afternoon.
2. Renting snow gear without checking it. Boots and suits at roadside shops vary a lot in quality. Check sizes and zips before you pay.
3. Packing only for Mall Road. It may feel mild in town and bitterly cold at Solang. Layers beat one heavy jacket.

Manali with children and parents

Short walks in the Van Vihar and Hadimba Temple area, a cable car ride at Solang and a relaxed day in Naggar work well for families. Keep the snow outings to half-days, carry hot drinks in a flask, and book a hotel with reliable heating.

How many days?

Four nights in Manali is enough to see the town, Solang and the Atal Tunnel side without rushing. Add a night each for Kasol or Naggar–Kullu. Compare our Manali group and private trips.