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Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in India, situated in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh. Known for its scenic beauty and adventurous activities, Manali attracts tourists from all over the country, including Kolkata. Reaching Manali from Kolkata requires crossing multiple state borders but the abundance of convenient transport options makes the journey easier.
This guide will help you understand the route from Kolkata to Manali and how to plan your trip accordingly.
By Flight
The fastest way to reach Manali from Kolkata is by taking a flight. Regular flights ply between Kolkata and Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, which is around 50 km from Manali. Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is well-connected to major airports across the country.
The total flight time between Kolkata and Kullu is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes with a stopover at Delhi. Once you land at Bhuntar, you can hire a private taxi or board a state transport bus to reach Manali.
By Train
Manali does not have its own railway station. The nearest broad gauge station is at Joginder Nagar, around 163 km away. However, you can board a train from Kolkata to Chandigarh or Ambala and then take a bus to Manali from there.
There are a few regular trains that ply between Kolkata and Chandigarh and the total journey takes around 35 hours. Train travel is economical but can be time-consuming.
Also read - How to Reach Manali from Chennai
By Road
A popular option for backpackers is to take a bus from Kolkata to Manali. It's a long yet scenic journey crossing several states like West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. Both state transport and private buses ply regularly on this route.
For a more comfortable travel experience, choose a Volvo bus. The total distance from Kolkata to Manali is nearly 2,000 km and the journey takes 2 to 3 days with overnight halts. You will pass through major cities like Delhi where you can stay and rest for the night before resuming your journey.
Also read - How to Reach Manali from Chandigarh
How to Plan Your Trip
Book flight/train/bus tickets in advance to get economically cheaper deals
Make necessary hotel reservations well in time, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer
Check weather conditions in Manali and carry necessary clothing & supplies
Keep important phone numbers and emergency contact details of transport services and local police stations
Pack light with essentials like toiletries, over-the-counter medicines, dry snacks, water, torch, etc
Ensure to obtain necessary travel documents like ID proof, permit (for foreign nationals)
Prefer day journey and avoid overnight travel to stay alert and safe
Conclusion
With this information, you should be able to conveniently plan how to reach Manali from Kolkata. Opt for the mode of transportation that suits your budget, duration of stay and comfort levels. Manali is an immensely popular tourist getaway that offers postcard-perfect views of the snow-capped Himalayas coupled with adventure activities like skiing, trekking and rafting. Use the tips mentioned above to ensure you enjoy a safe and stress-free journey!
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