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 (August 2026): The Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway is currently closed beyond Mandi Bharari Chowk in Bilaspur due to continuous rockfall near Mehla. Traffic is diverted via Nauni Chowk, Mandi Bharari Bridge, and Swarghat (NH-205). Heavy rainfall is forecast with orange and yellow alerts issued for various districts until August 15, 2026, leading to 118 roads shut across Himachal Pradesh. Avoid unnecessary travel on the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway during this period. 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. 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.
Start ultra-early to escape Delhi NCR before truck traffic peaks. Take NH44 towards Panipat.
0 km
Stop at Gulshan or Amrik Sukhdev. Aloo Parathas with white butter are mandatory here.
60 km
Refuel at a reliable COCO pump on NH44. Highway cruising speeds are high here.
200 km
Turn off towards Kiratpur. Enter the new 4-lane expressway tunnels bypassing Swarghat. Enjoy the smooth tarmac.
290 km
Stop at a roadside dhaba near the lake. The weather will start getting cooler.
390 km
Halt for the night in Mandi town. **Due to continuous rockfall near Mehla, the Kiratpur-Manali highway is currently closed beyond Mandi Bharari Chowk. Traffic is diverted via Nauni Chowk, Mandi Bharari Bridge, and Swarghat (NH-205). Expect significant delays and check local advisories. Avoid riding to Manali in the dark as the Pandoh stretch is tricky and subject to night traffic restrictions for heavy vehicles (10 PM - 6 AM).**
415 km
A relaxed start. The road narrows near Pandoh Dam. **Be aware of ongoing extensive restoration and stabilization work, particularly between Pandoh and Manali, to address flood and landslide-prone stretches. The Mandi-Pandoh-Aut stretch is classified as high risk for active landslides. Watch for trucks and potential delays.**
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Cross the 3km Aut tunnel. Stop briefly at Hanogi Mata temple by the riverside.
40 km
Cruising past Kullu on the 4-lane highway. Great views of the valley opening up.
80 km
Cross the bridge to Old Manali. Check into a backpacker hostel (Zostel/Alt Life).
110 km
Walk around the village. Visit Dylan's Coffee House or Cafe 1947 by the river.
110 km
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Ride up towards Solang. In Feb, expect snow on the road sides. Park and enjoy the view.
Ride to the tunnel entrance. Be aware of heavy snowfall, slippery roads, and potential restrictions. Crossing to the North Portal (Sissu) may be restricted by police due to snow and avalanche threats; check local advisories. Note: As of April 2026, access beyond Solang Valley and near Atal Tunnel's North Portal is restricted to 4x4 vehicles only, and an e-permit is required for the Atal Tunnel-Koksar-Chandertal circuit.
Hot Maggi and tea at local stalls while watching skiers.
Evening stroll at the main Mall Road for souvenirs and momos.
Leave early to cover the mountain stretch before traffic builds up.
Quick stop for Parathas. Keep a steady pace.
Bypass Chandigarh via the Zirakpur flyover. **IMPORTANT UPDATE (August 2026): The Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway is currently closed beyond Mandi Bharari Chowk in Bilaspur due to continuous rockfall near Mehla. Traffic is diverted via Nauni Chowk, Mandi Bharari Bridge, and Swarghat (NH-205). Expect significant delays and check local advisories. Be aware that 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 areas like Jagar Nullah. The Mandi-Pandoh-Aut stretch is classified as high risk for active landslides. Night traffic for heavy vehicles is halted at Pandoh (10 PM - 6 AM).** Stop at a food court.
Final pitstop. Wash face, stretch legs for the final hour into Delhi.
Trip ends. Home sweet home.
+ 3 more stops in this day
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29-item route-specific packing list locked.
Tuned for this route's terrain, weather, and altitude.
