What the overnight run to the hills is really like, and how to arrive rested.
The Delhi to Manali bus is about 13 hours, and most of what makes it comfortable is decided before you board.
Before you leave Delhi
Book an evening departure so the plains pass in the dark. Eat before boarding at Kashmere Gate or Majnu ka Tilla. Seats on the left side get the river views after sunrise.
Through the night
The bus stops for dinner near Murthal or Karnal, then runs the highway to Chandigarh. The climb begins after Bilaspur. If winding roads bother you, sit in the front half and keep the curtain open.
The last three hours
From Mandi the road follows the Beas through Kullu. Keep a jacket in your cabin bag, since Manali at 8 am is far colder than Delhi at 6 pm. Track the bus from My trips and tell your hotel when you are an hour out.
