Shimla
350 km from Delhi
Manali
540 km from Delhi
Shimla vs Manali — Which Hill Station to Book By Car?
Shimla
“Colonial charm, peaceful walks, heritage architecture”
Drive Time
7-8 hours
Cab Fare
₹7,700 (sedan round trip)
Daily Cost
₹3,000-5,000/person
Best Time
March-June, December-February
Best For
Top Highlights
Advantages
- +Closer to Delhi — less travel fatigue
- +More affordable hotels and food
- +Excellent for elderly and families
- +Colonial architecture and rich history
- +Good connectivity and infrastructure
Drawbacks
- -Limited adventure activities
- -Can get crowded on Mall Road
- -Less snow compared to Manali
- -Fewer nightlife options
Manali
“Adventure capital, vibrant cafe culture, mountain thrills”
Drive Time
10-12 hours
Cab Fare
₹11,880 (sedan round trip)
Daily Cost
₹3,500-6,000/person
Best Time
March-June, December-February
Best For
Top Highlights
Advantages
- +Extensive adventure activities — paragliding, rafting, skiing
- +Better snow experiences at Solang and Rohtang
- +Vibrant Old Manali cafe and nightlife scene
- +Gateway to Leh-Ladakh via Atal Tunnel
- +More dramatic mountain scenery
Drawbacks
- -Longer drive from Delhi — more tiring
- -Higher overall costs
- -Very crowded during peak season
- -Road conditions can be challenging
Head-to-HeadComparison
Expert Analysis
Our Verdict
Choose Shimla for a relaxed, budget-friendly colonial hill station experience — perfect for families, couples, and senior citizens. Choose Manali for adventure sports, dramatic Himalayan scenery, and vibrant backpacker culture. For the best of both worlds, do the Shimla-Manali combo trip by car (6-7 days).
Book Your Trip Now
Triveni Cabs — AC sedan at ₹11/km, SUV at ₹15/km. Expert drivers for every route.
Explore More Services
Shimla vs Manali — FAQs
Common questions about choosing between these destinations
Our team is here to help. Contact us for personalized assistance.
