One of the most visited places in India is Manali. Everybody enjoys visiting Manali at least once in their lifetime, including families, couples, and hikers. For as long as anyone can remember, it has been one of India's most popular tourist destinations. Therefore, it is a great option to travel to this lovely town in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Make travel plans to Manali on a tight budget.
The "Valley of the Gods," or Kullu Valley, is where it is situated. It is located at the northernmost point of the Beas River-formed Kullu Valley.
In the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of all the cost-effective locations, activities, accommodations, etc.. This article offers the ideal guide to budgeting for a trip to Manali so that it never breaks the bank.
Why are the names Kullu and Manali frequently used synonymously?
Kullu and Manali are often used jointly because of their proximity. However, Manali and Kullu are adorable, although they are around 50 kilometers apart. Because they are both on the same tourist route, visitors to that place pass through Kullu. From a tourism perspective, it is combined more precisely.
Travel Options For Manali Trip Budget
Due to its excellent bus, train, and aircraft connections to major towns like Delhi and Chandigarh, getting to Manali won't be a problem. It may be a practical and affordable choice if you are selecting any Manali tour package; otherwise, you can use-
1. By Road -
Bus travel is the most affordable way to get to Manali. If you are willing to take an overnight bus from Delhi or Chandigarh, it is the most convenient way to get there. Private buses and Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses operating in both AC and non-AC categories are common. The cost often ranges from ₹500 to ₹1500 per seat, contingent on the type of bus used.
2. By Air-
About 50 kilometers away from Manali is the closest airport, located at Bhuntar. A pre-paid taxi can be taken from the airport, and domestic flights are available from Bhuntar to numerous destinations. Flights, however, may not be the most reliable method of transportation to or from Manali due to weather conditions.
3. By Train -
You must first take the train to Shimla because there are no direct trains. Although the trip may be lengthy, if tickets are purchased in advance, it is indeed a very economical option.
What are the Budget Friendly Accommodations in Manali?
1. Begin with solo travelers.
If you're traveling alone, every budget travel guide to Manali will advise you to stay in hostels, where you'll have a great time. For three to five nights, the cost of the hostel is roughly INR 1800 to Rs. 2500 ($25 to $35) per person.
2. For couples
Both hostels and hotels are available in Manali; a room like this is less expensive than two bunk beds at a hostel or hotel. In terms of cost, a private room may also cost between Rs. 4000 and Rs. 5000 ($56 and $70) for five nights, while two bunk beds must cost between Rs. 3600 and Rs. 5000 ($50 and $56). It makes far more sense to reserve a separate room rather than two hostel bunk beds. It would cost between Rs. 2000 and Rs. 2500 ($28 to $35) per person for five nights. If you wish to make a shorter journey, you can figure out the costs appropriately.
3. Finally, the groups
For the groups, hostels are strictly prohibited. Most hostels don't let groups stay there; if they do, they won't let you stay in a room with five bunk beds. Always stay in a hostel when traveling with others. Two rooms will cost approximately Rs. 9000 to Rs. 12000 ($126 to $168) for five nights if you are traveling in a group of five. An economical group stay in Manali would cost between Rs. 1800 and Rs. 2400 ($25 and $33) per person.
What are the affordable food options in Manali?
There is nothing to fear regarding food alternatives in Manali, you will find several of them that too in inexpensive pricing. For that, you must visit –
1. Local Dhabas –
It would be wise to choose dhabas rather than restaurants. This is the most effective technique to discover a place's real food. You may get a filling dinner at local dhabas for around ₹100 to ₹150. Some mouthwatering Himachali and North Indian delicacies can be found here.
2. Cafes –
Some of the most well-known and reasonably priced cafes in Manali serve both local and foreign cuisines. You should absolutely give this a try if it fits inside your budget.
3. Street food –
This is a delicious, cost-effective, and lifesaver. You can rely on this choice at all times.
Fun activities for the Manali trip budget
1. River Rafting
40 kilometers from Manali, in Kullu, is an exhilarating outdoor activity. The optimum seasons for rafting are January through June and September through December. Rafting is affordable and won't break your Manali trip budget; the price range is between Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000, depending on the distance traveled.
2. Skiing
Don't pass up skiing in the Solang Valley if you're ever in Manali in the winter. December, January, and February are the greatest months. Additionally, a 10-minute novice skiing session would cost roughly Rs 300, which is included in the budget for a trip to Manali.
3. Paragliding
The warmer months of April through May and September through October are great times to undertake this pastime. While a lengthy tandem flight ride will cost roughly Rs. 1800 and last approximately 20 minutes, offering you the finest views and a more affordable trip to Manali, a short tandem paragliding flight will cost approximately Rs. 600 and last approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Trekking
Manali offers a wide variety of treks, from simple to challenging. Among the most well-known are the Deo Tibba Trek, Beas Kund, Hampta Pass, and Brigu Trek.
Pro tips for a Budget Manali Trip
1. Visit such a location during the off-season to save money. Summer and winter are the best seasons to visit Manali, whereas January through March and September through November are the off-seasons. At this point, there are excellent accommodation rates, there is less crowding, and it is simple to engage in activities.
2. Use local transportation if you aren't selecting tour packages.
3. Strike a Good Deal Always haggle over rates, whether you're shopping or trying out adventurous activities.
The Bottom Line
With just a guide, you can always plan a trip on a tight budget. If you are traveling with someone, you may easily arrange a three-day Manali tour for less than ₹5000. Additionally, it can be less if you're traveling alone. Whether you're visiting Manali for its breathtaking beauty, its exhilarating adventure activities, or just to unwind, using this Manali travel guide can help you make the most of your trip while spending the least amount of money.