Bhagirath Palace is a majestic heritage hotel located in the serene town of Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Nestled amidst the Himalayas, it offers travelers a glimpse into royal history combined with stunning mountain views. This route is popular among tourists seeking a peaceful getaway, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bhagirath Palace, including train, bus, car, and flight options. Whether you are coming from Delhi, Chandigarh, or nearby cities, you will find detailed travel advice, tips, and step-by-step plans to make your journey hassle-free.

Getting from Major Cities to Bhagirath Palace – Main Options

Train

While Manali does not have a direct railway station, the nearest major railheads are at Chandigarh and Joginder Nagar. Train travel is a popular choice for those who prefer a comfortable and scenic journey before switching to road transport.

• Nearest stations:

  Chandigarh Railway Station (approx 310 km from Manali) and Joginder Nagar Station (approx 85 km). Chandigarh is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

• Train duration and cost:

  Trains to Chandigarh from Delhi take around 3–5 hours, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹1,200 depending on class. From Chandigarh, you will need to take a bus or taxi to Manali.

• Connecting road travel:

  From Chandigarh or Joginder Nagar, frequent buses and taxis are available to Manali. The road journey from Chandigarh takes about 8–10 hours, while from Joginder Nagar it takes 2.5–3 hours.

• Booking tips:

  Use IRCTC for train bookings well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and winter holidays to avoid waitlists.

• Scenic views:

  The train journey to Joginder Nagar passes through the scenic Kangra Valley, offering beautiful views of hills and rivers.

• Challenges:

  Last-mile connectivity from railway stations to Manali can be affected by weather, especially during winter or monsoon, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses are a cost-effective and popular option for reaching Manali and Bhagirath Palace. Both government and private operators run frequent services from major cities.

• From Chandigarh:

  Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and private Volvo buses run regularly to Manali. The journey takes 8–10 hours and costs between ₹400 and ₹900 depending on the bus type.

• From Delhi:

  Direct Volvo and deluxe buses depart from ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Manali overnight, taking approximately 12–14 hours. Tickets range from ₹700 to ₹1,200.

• Bus stops in Manali:

  Most buses stop at Manali Bus Stand, about 3 km from Bhagirath Palace. Local taxis and auto-rickshaws are available for the short onward journey.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo buses offer comfortable seating and are preferred for long journeys. Frequency increases during peak tourist seasons.

• Seasonal tips:

  During winter, some routes may be suspended due to snow; always check bus availability in advance.

• Road conditions:

  The NH3 highway from Chandigarh to Manali is well maintained but can be busy during holidays, causing delays.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Bhagirath Palace offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy the scenic Himalayan roads at your own pace. This mode is popular among families and groups.

• Route:

  The most common route is via NH3 from Chandigarh through Bilaspur, Mandi, and Kullu to Manali, covering approximately 310 km.

• Duration and tolls:

  The drive takes around 8–10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Expect multiple toll plazas en route, with toll charges totaling around ₹300–₹400.

• Road conditions:

  The highway is mostly well maintained, but some stretches near mountain passes can be narrow and winding. Avoid night driving, especially in monsoon and winter.

• Parking:

  Bhagirath Palace offers on-site parking for guests, making it convenient for self-drive travelers.

• Fuel stops and amenities:

  Numerous fuel stations and eateries like roadside dhabas and cafes are available along NH3, ideal for breaks.

• Local driving tips:

  Use GPS navigation and be cautious of sudden weather changes. Carry a physical map as backup in case of network issues.

Flight

The nearest airport to Bhagirath Palace is Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport), about 50 km away. Flights are limited but can save significant travel time.

• Airlines and connectivity:

  Flights operate mainly from Delhi to Bhuntar, with airlines like Alliance Air and Air India offering daily or alternate day services.

• Flight duration and cost:

  The flight takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Ticket prices range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 depending on booking time and season.

• Airport to Manali:

  From Bhuntar Airport, taxis and buses are available to Manali. The road journey takes around 1.5 hours via NH3.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance during peak seasons. Weather conditions can cause delays or cancellations, so have backup plans.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may be suspended during heavy snowfall or monsoon due to visibility issues.

• Local transport:

  Prepaid taxis and Ola cabs are available at the airport for safe and reliable transfers to Manali.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers aiming for a smooth journey to Bhagirath Palace in Manali.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains to Chandigarh or Joginder Nagar, or airline websites for flights to Bhuntar. Early booking ensures availability and better prices.

• Arrange onward transport:

  From railway stations or the airport, pre-book taxis or check bus schedules to Manali to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach departure points early:

  Arrive at stations or airports at least 1 hour before departure to manage security and boarding smoothly.

• Pack for mountain weather:

  Carry warm clothes, especially if traveling in winter. Keep snacks and water handy for long road journeys.

• Use local transport in Manali:

  Upon arrival, take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the bus stand or airport to Bhagirath Palace. Confirm fares beforehand or use prepaid services.

• Check-in and relax:

  Bhagirath Palace offers royal hospitality and comfortable amenities. Inform the hotel of your arrival time for smooth check-in.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on mountain roads:

  Drive cautiously on narrow Himalayan roads. Avoid night travel and check weather forecasts for landslides or snowfall.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants or hotel kitchens to avoid stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official websites like IRCTC and airline portals for secure bookings. For buses, HRTC counters or online portals like RedBus are reliable.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Manali, but coverage can be patchy. Prepaid taxis at bus stands are a safer bet.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light and use sturdy bags. Carry a small daypack for essentials during local sightseeing.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon can cause roadblocks; winter may bring heavy snow. Always have contingency plans and check local news before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bhagirath Palace is from March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Winters are cold with snowfall, ideal for snow lovers but challenging for travel.

Avoid peak festival weekends and public holidays when roads and accommodations are crowded. Early morning departures help beat traffic and enjoy daylight mountain views.

• Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months (July–August) due to landslide risks and slippery roads.

• Start your journey early in the day to avoid fog and traffic jams on NH3.

• Winter travel requires warm clothing and checking for road closures due to snow.

• Plan trips around weekdays if possible to avoid weekend tourist rush in Manali.

Arrival at Bhagirath Palace & What to Expect

Upon arriving in Manali, Bhagirath Palace stands out with its grand colonial architecture and lush gardens. The hotel is located near the Manali town center, making it convenient for exploring local markets and attractions.

Local transport options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental bikes. The hotel staff can assist with arranging sightseeing tours to nearby spots like Hadimba Temple, Mall Road, and Solang Valley. For stays, Bhagirath Palace offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a royal ambiance.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Bhagirath Palace depends on your starting point and preferences. For travelers from Delhi or Chandigarh, taking a train or flight combined with a taxi or bus ride offers a balanced mix of comfort and speed. Self-driving is ideal for those who enjoy scenic road trips and flexibility.

With proper planning, early bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions, your journey to Bhagirath Palace can be smooth and enjoyable. This guide equips you with all the essential information to travel confidently and immerse yourself in the royal charm of this Himalayan heritage hotel.