Himachal Pradesh is North India's most popular hill destination, and the road trips here are legendary. Whether it's the colonial charm of Shimla or the mountain village vibe of Manali, driving is the best way to get there.
Delhi to Shimla (350 km, 7-8 hrs)
The Route
Delhi → Karnal → Ambala → Panchkula → Solan → Shimla
The highway is smooth until you hit the hills after Panchkula. The mountain stretch from Solan to Shimla has sharp turns and stunning valley views.
Shimla Highlights
- Mall Road and Ridge — the heart of Shimla
- Jakhu Temple — Hanuman temple with monkey encounters
- Kufri — short drive for snow activities and horse riding
- Christ Church — one of North India's oldest churches
Delhi to Manali (530 km, 10-12 hrs)
The Route
Delhi → Chandigarh → Mandi → Kullu → Manali
The highway segment to Chandigarh is fast. After Mandi, the road becomes a winding mountain stretch along the Beas River — beautiful but demanding.
Manali Highlights
- Solang Valley — paragliding, skiing (winter), zorbing
- Old Manali — cafes, backpacker culture, hippie vibes
- Hadimba Temple — ancient wood-carved temple in a cedar forest
- Atal Tunnel → Sissu → Lahaul Valley — the newest must-do drive
Mountain Driving Conditions
- Road quality: Highways are good; hill roads range from decent to rough
- Traffic: Truck convoys on the Manali highway can cause delays
- Weather risks: Landslides during monsoon (July-August), snow in winter
- Night driving: Avoid after dark — no streetlights on mountain roads
Why You Need a Professional Hill Driver
Mountain driving in India is a specialised skill. Hairpin bends, single-lane roads with oncoming trucks, and steep drops without guardrails — this is not the place for a first-timer.
Our drivers regularly navigate Himachal routes and know:
- When to honk around blind corners
- How to pass trucks on narrow stretches
- Alternative routes during landslide diversions
- The best dhabas for a hot meal in the mountains
Book Your Himachal Trip
Royal Fleet's hill-driving specialists will get you to Shimla or Manali safely and comfortably. Multi-day retention plans available for extended stays.