Planning a trip to Manali is exciting, but without a clear budget, costs for taxis, Atal Tunnel trips and activities can add up fast. Whether you’re backpacking, traveling with family, or on a honeymoon, this guide gives you a realistic idea of what you’ll spend based on common routes and current prices.
Quick Answer
A budget Manali trip costs around ₹6,000 for 2 days, ₹9,000 for 3 days, and ₹14,000 for 5 days per person, including stay, food and local transport.
Manali Trip Cost per Person (Quick Overview)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
| Stay (per night) | ₹600 – ₹1,000 | ₹2,500 – ₹4,500 | ₹8,000+ |
| Food (per day) | ₹400 – ₹700 | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 | ₹3,000+ |
| Local transport | Shared taxi / bus | Private sedan | SUV / 4×4 |
| Daily average | ₹1,500 – ₹2,200 | ₹4,500 – ₹6,500 | ₹12,000+ |
All trip cost estimates below already include accommodation, food and local transport.
2-Day Manali Trip Cost – Short Visit
Ideal for weekend trips from Delhi or Chandigarh
Focus on Manali town and nearby attractions instead of rushing long distances.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Mall Road and local markets, Hadimba Temple, Old Manali cafés
- Day 2: Solang Valley (snow activities in winter)
Total cost (per person)
- Budget: ₹4,500 – ₹6,000
- Mid-range: ₹10,000 – ₹13,000
3-Day Manali Trip Cost – Atal Tunnel & Snow Areas
A good fit for couples and families
You have enough time to cross the Atal Tunnel and experience the breathtaking landscapes of Sissu.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Local sightseeing and Naggar Castle
- Day 2: Atal Tunnel drive to Sissu Lake
- Day 3: Solang Valley and Jogini Falls
Total cost (per person)
(Private cab charges for the Atal Tunnel route are included)
- Budget: ₹7,500 – ₹10,000
- Mid-range: ₹15,000 – ₹19,000
5-Day Manali Trip Cost – The Complete Experience
Best for Honeymooners and slow travelers
In five days, you can comfortably explore nearby destinations while still having long, slow mornings.
Itinerary
- Days 1–3: Manali, Solang, Atal Tunnel, Sissu
- Day 4: Kasol and Manikaran
- Day 5: Cafés and Shopping
Total cost (per person)
- Budget: ₹12,000 – ₹15,500
- Mid-range: ₹25,000 – ₹32,000
Taxi rates in Manali
Local Unions regulate taxi prices in Manali and they are mostly fixed.
- Solang Valley: ₹1,800 – ₹2,500
- Atal Tunnel & Sissu: ₹3,500 – ₹5,000
- Rohtang Pass: ₹5,500 – ₹8,000
(Permit fee approx. ₹550)
You can take shared taxis between Mall Road and Old Manali, which usually cost around ₹50 per seat.
Food & Dining Costs in Manali
Eat local, save money!
- Local dhabas: ₹150 – ₹200 per thali
- Old Manali cafés: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 for two
- Street food: Maggi ₹50, Siddu ₹60, Momos ₹100
(Food costs are already included in the total trip budgets above.)
Manali Trip Cost from Delhi
- HRTC Volvo bus: ₹800 – ₹1,200 (one way)
- Private cab: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 (one way)
- Best option: Volvo buses (cheapest & safest)
How to Reduce Your Manali Trip Cost
- Book Volvo tickets early
- Instead of Mall Road, plan your stay in Old Manali or Vashisht
- Visit in September or late February to avoid peak prices
- Skip Rohtang if you’re on a tight budget – Sissu often offers similar views at a lower cost
FAQs – Manali Trip Cost
No. Manali can be affordable if you plan smartly. Use shared transport, stay in budget hotels or hostels and eat locally.
Yes. Three days are enough to cover the main attractions comfortably, including Solang Valley and the Atal Tunnel route.
September and late February are usually cheaper due to fewer tourists and lower hotel rates.
Yes. Local unions set the Taxi Rates, though they may increase slightly during peak snow season.
These costs are optional and seasonal. Snow dress rentals cost around ₹250 per day, Rohtang Pass permits are about ₹550 and some budget hotels charge ₹300–₹500 per night for room heaters.
Manali works for a wide range of budgets. Once you’ve got a handle on the taxi rates, room prices and seasonal expenses, the stress of planning just disappears. You can now enjoy the mountains instead of constantly checking your bank account. Happy and safe travels!
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