Manali is a picturesque and snow-covered town in Himachal Pradesh that every traveller wishes to visit at least once. As a nature lover, you’re in danger of falling in love with Manali, a remote town that dates back to ancient times. Whether travelling solo, on a family trip or spending your honeymoon — you can book one of the Manali tour packages anytime. From cold weather, rocky mountains, green meadows, apple orchards, and mystical woods, to clear streams — this resort town has it all!
However, all of this sounds incredible when you have money in your wallet. But what to do when you’re running on a budget?
If that’s the case, then check out these top 6 tips on how you can visit Manali on a low budget.
1. Board a bus to reach Manali on a budget
Reaching Manali is quicker and more convenient by train or flight. However, you can hop on a bus from Delhi as well to save money.
Volvo buses are easily available from Delhi. You can book a bus ticket that will cost you anything between INR 1000 to 1400. The distance between Delhi to Manali is around 530 km. You should reach your destination after a 12-hour bus ride.
You can board a bus either from Himachal Bhawan or Inter State Bus Terminus in Delhi. These rides are convenient especially if you book an AC Volvo bus.
2. Hire a motorcycle ride to visit the popular tourist spots
Regardless of wherever you go as a tourist, the transportation cost alone can cost you plenty. When in Manali, you can easily avoid that by picking up a rental bike for a ride.
There are plenty of bike rentals where that offer motorcycles at a reasonable price. Choose an affordable rental bike according to your preferences, and start your journey. A government ID is necessary to book a ride, and your Aadhar card will do just fine. Bike rental in Manali costs around INR 500, depending on the bike you select.
3. Choose a budget-friendly hostel as your accommodation in Manali
Whether you’re travelling solo or with your partner for your honeymoon, staying at a hostel can be a big help. Especially when it’s the peak season, the accommodation cost at a hotel goes higher and higher. Guest houses and lodges are great options as well.
Old Manali includes a lot of budget hostels. These places offer you an incredible view of pine and deodar trees. You will also have a chance to meet with the locals and dive deeper into Manali culture. All these costs around INR 400 to 800 per head, including breakfast!
4. Visit these destinations to enjoy Manali in a pocket-friendly manner
Not all destinations in Manali are pocket friendly. However, there are indeed some affordable yet outstanding locations that you should definitely visit.
Rohtang Pass, Jogini Falls, Solang Valley, Winter Carnival, and Old Manali are some popular tourist attractions. These destinations are not very far from downtown Manali.
Browse through Thomas Cook’s website to get affordable Manali tour packages.
5. Get a taste of thrill in these adventurous activities
When in Manali, don’t forget to have some fun even if running on a budget. River rafting in Kullu is an immediately popular activity, and the cost is around INR 500 to 1000. Skiing is another famous adventure where you need to spend around INR 300.
Paragliding which starts around INR 600 is a great option during the summer months. Manali is also known for offering plenty of affordable treks.
6. Check out the lip-smacking local dishes while you’re there
Last but not least, you won’t survive without food, right? So you need to find meals that would be easy in your pocket.
In that case, you should stay away from those fancy hotels for starters. Your pocket would be empty by the time your stomach gets full. Vashisth village can be your idea of paradise where you can have local dishes. Try some Momo, Red rice, Trout, Khatta, Aktori, Chana Madra and Babru to get a local taste.
People might say that Manali tour packages are costly and that not everyone can afford them. However, a Manali tour is affordable in case you know the tricks. Just make sure to pick an off-season to be safe from spending a lot.
Thomas Cook is a leading tour and travel agency with a strong presence all around the world, including India. They offer the most convenient and affordable tour packages for travelling across the country. Check out their Manali tour packages today and book your favourite one.
