Keylong is the administrative center of Lahaul and Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh. It is nestled in the Himalayas, known for its scenic beauty and serene environment. Delhi, the national capital, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to Keylong.

This route is popular among tourists and adventure seekers who want to explore the mountains and valleys of Himachal Pradesh. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Keylong, including trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips for a safe and comfortable journey.

Getting from Delhi to Keylong – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Delhi towards Keylong is limited as Keylong does not have a railway station. However, trains are useful for reaching nearby major stations before continuing by road.

• The nearest major railway station to Keylong is Pathankot, about 220 km away, accessible via direct trains from Delhi. Trains take roughly 8 to 10 hours, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹1500 depending on class.

• From Pathankot, you must take a bus or taxi to Keylong, which takes around 7 to 8 hours due to hilly terrain and narrow roads.

• Trains from Delhi to Pathankot run frequently, including overnight options, making it convenient to plan onward road travel early next day.

• During winter, heavy snowfall can disrupt train schedules and road connectivity beyond Pathankot, so check weather updates before booking.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC in advance is recommended, especially during tourist seasons and holidays, to avoid last-minute unavailability.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Keylong from Delhi, especially for budget travelers. State-run and private buses connect Delhi to Manali or Keylong directly.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates Volvo and deluxe buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Keylong, taking approximately 14 to 16 hours covering around 520 km.

• Bus fares range from ₹600 to ₹1200 depending on the type of bus and season, with frequent departures in the tourist season from April to October.

• Road conditions can be challenging during monsoon and winter due to landslides and snow, causing delays or cancellations, so check bus status before travel.

• Night buses are available, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing, but they can be crowded during holidays, so book tickets early.

• Intermediate stops include Manali and Mandi, where you can find food and rest options during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Keylong offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views at your own pace. This option is popular among families and groups.

• The distance from Delhi to Keylong by road is about 520 km via NH44 and NH3, taking approximately 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through important towns like Ambala, Chandigarh, Mandi, and Manali, with multiple toll plazas and rest stops for food and fuel.

• Driving in the mountains requires caution, especially near Rohtang Pass, which may be closed in winter due to snow; check road status before starting.

• Fuel stations are available along the highway, but it is advisable to fill up in major towns like Mandi or Manali to avoid shortages in remote areas.

• Using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps is helpful, but network coverage can be patchy in hilly stretches, so carry offline maps or ask locals for directions.

Flight

There is no airport in Keylong. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, which is about 140 km from Keylong. Flights can reduce travel time but require road travel afterward.

• Flights from Delhi to Bhuntar Airport take about 1 hour and are operated by airlines like Air India and Alliance Air, with fares typically between ₹2500 and ₹6000.

• From Bhuntar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Keylong, which takes around 4 to 5 hours on hilly roads.

• Flight schedules can be affected by weather conditions such as fog or rain, especially in winter and monsoon seasons, so keep flexible plans.

• Prepaid taxis and shared cabs are available at Bhuntar Airport for onward travel; booking in advance during peak seasons is advisable.

• Combining flight and road travel is ideal for those who want to save time but still experience the mountain drive.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Delhi to Keylong, ensuring a smooth and well-prepared journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets from Delhi to Pathankot or Bhuntar well in advance using IRCTC or airline websites to secure preferred dates and avoid last-minute hassles.

• If traveling by train, plan to arrive at Pathankot a day before to rest and prepare for the road journey to Keylong, as the mountainous roads require alertness and good weather.

• Reserve bus or taxi tickets from Pathankot or Bhuntar to Keylong through official HRTC counters or trusted travel agents to ensure reliable transport and avoid unlicensed operators.

• Pack essential items such as warm clothing, water bottles, snacks, and medicines, as facilities are limited on the road to Keylong and weather can be unpredictable.

• Start your road journey early in the morning to avoid night driving on mountain roads, which can be risky due to narrow lanes and limited lighting.

• Keep emergency contacts handy, including local police and hospital numbers, and inform family or friends about your travel plan for added safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in hilly areas.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber where available, especially in Bhuntar and Manali, to avoid overcharging by local drivers.

• During monsoon and winter, check weather and road conditions daily through local news or official transport websites to avoid getting stranded due to landslides or snow.

• Pack light but include warm clothes, rain gear, and sturdy footwear, as temperatures can drop sharply and weather can change quickly in the mountains.

• Book bus or taxi tickets at official counters or trusted online portals to avoid scams and ensure seat availability during peak tourist seasons.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying valuables openly, especially in crowded bus stands and railway stations, to prevent theft.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Keylong is from late April to early October when roads are mostly clear and weather is pleasant. Winters bring heavy snowfall, making travel difficult.

Monsoon season from July to September can cause landslides and roadblocks, so travel with caution or consider postponing your trip during heavy rains.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when roads and transport services are crowded and prices surge.

• Early morning departures are ideal to avoid traffic jams near Delhi and to reach Keylong before dark, especially on mountain roads.

• Winter months from November to March often see Rohtang Pass closed due to snow, cutting off direct road access to Keylong.

• Summer months offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it the peak tourist season with frequent transport services.

Arrival at Keylong & What to Expect

When you arrive in Keylong, you will find a small town with basic facilities and a peaceful atmosphere. The main bus stand and taxi points are close to the town center.

Local transport options include shared taxis, private cabs, and limited local buses that connect to nearby villages and tourist spots. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are rare, so negotiate fares beforehand.

Popular areas to stay are near the town center and along the main road, offering guesthouses, homestays, and small hotels. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended during peak seasons.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Keylong from Delhi depends on your priorities. If you want a comfortable and scenic journey, combining a flight to Bhuntar with a taxi ride is best. For budget travelers, taking a train to Pathankot followed by a bus or taxi is practical.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather and road conditions, and packing appropriately will help you enjoy a safe and memorable trip. With this guide, you can confidently prepare your journey from Delhi to Keylong and experience the beauty of Himachal Pradesh’s mountains.