Delhi to Manali

Embark on an iconic motorcycle journey from the capital to the snow-capped peaks of Himachal, utilizing the new Kiratpur-Nerchowk expressway tunnels. **IMPORTANT UPDATE (October 2026): As of September 11, 2026, the new Dayod (2.8 km) and Hanogi (650 m) tunnels on the Pandoh-Takoli section of NH-03 have opened, significantly easing congestion and reducing travel time between Mandi and Kullu to approximately 60 minutes. While these tunnels bypass some critical bottlenecks, post-monsoon cleanup operations are still active on the Kiratpur to Mandi section, with road crews frequently narrowing traffic to single lanes near Mandi Bharari Chowk and Bilaspur bypass to stabilize loose hill cuts. The Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway may still be affected by continuous rockfall near Mehla, with traffic potentially diverted beyond Mandi Bharari Chowk in Bilaspur via Nauni Chowk, Mandi Bharari Bridge, and Swarghat (NH-205). As of September 26, 2026, 42 roads remained blocked across Himachal Pradesh, with 19 in Mandi and 8 in Kullu, following a spell of widespread rainfall and warnings for landslides/mudslides that continued until October 2, 2026. Night traffic for heavy vehicles is halted at Pandoh (10 PM - 6 AM).** Be aware that entry to Himachal Pradesh has revised toll fees for out-of-state vehicles, effective April 1, 2026: **private five-seater cars (and passenger vehicles up to 12+1 seating) are now charged ₹100 per day**, and a Manali Green Tax of ₹100 applies to out-of-state bikes. Recent protests against these entry taxes have caused temporary road blockades on the Kiratpur Sahib-Manali National Highway, indicating potential for future disruptions. Additionally, an e-permit is now required for vehicles entering Lahaul-Spiti and for the Atal Tunnel-Koksar-Chandertal circuit. Extensive restoration and stabilization work is ongoing on the Kiratpur-Manali highway, particularly between Pandoh and Manali, to address flood and landslide-prone stretches, including a planned 600-meter diversion tunnel to bypass the landslide-damaged Jhalogi tunnel. The Himachal Pradesh High Court has noted prolonged delays and damaged stretches, with ongoing permanent restoration efforts aiming for completion before monsoon, which may cause significant delays. The NHAI has also awarded a tender for underpass-cum-flyovers at Dadaur and Nagchala in Mandi district, with work expected to start within three months. This 4-day winter ride balances highway thrills with technical mountain riding, offering pitstops at legendary dhabas and views of the Beas River. Experience the transition from mustard fields to pine forests, culminating in the vibrant cafe culture of Old Manali.