The loop at a glance
Starting from Delhi or Rishikesh, the usual order is McLeod Ganj first, then Bir, then Manali, then Kasol, and back to Delhi or Chandigarh. Going this way, the long drives come at the start and end, and the legs in between are short.
| Leg | Approx. distance | By taxi |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to McLeod Ganj | 475–490 km | 10–12½ hours |
| McLeod Ganj to Bir | 65–80 km | 2–2½ hours |
| Bir to Manali | 170–180 km | 5–6 hours |
| Manali to Kasol | about 75 km | 2½–3 hours |
| Kasol to Delhi | 510–530 km | 11–13 hours |
McLeod Ganj
Upper Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama's temple complex and the Tibetan community in exile, with monasteries, cafés, bookshops and the walk to Triund. Bhagsu and Dharamkot, just above town, are where many longer-stay travellers settle. Allow three or four nights.
Bir
A small village in the Kangra valley that's India's best-known paragliding site, with a Tibetan colony, monasteries and a relaxed café scene. Paragliding stops each year from about 15 July to 15 September. Two or three nights is typical.
Manali
Old Manali and Vashisht are the backpacker areas, with guesthouses, cafés and hot springs. From Manali, day trips go to the Solang valley, the Atal Tunnel and Sissu, and, with a permit, Rohtang Pass. In summer, Manali is also the gateway to Lahaul, Spiti and the road to Leh.
Kasol and the Parvati valley
Kasol is the base for the valley, with Manikaran's hot springs and gurudwara close by, and trails to Kheerganga, Tosh and Malana. Chalal, across the river, is quieter. Many travellers stay a week or more.
Getting around
Buses link all these places, often with changes at Mandi, Bhuntar or Pathankot, and overnight Volvo buses run from Delhi to McLeod Ganj, Manali and Kasol. Taxis are quicker and go door to door, and split between two to four travellers they're often good value. A mix works well: taxis for the short legs between hill towns, where buses are slow, and a bus or taxi for the long run from Delhi.
- Best months: March–June and September–November
- July–August: monsoon slides and the paragliding ban
- Carry cash; ATMs are limited in smaller places
Adding Spiti or Ladakh
In summer, roughly June to September, many travellers extend the loop from Manali into Lahaul, Spiti or Ladakh. Manali to Kaza over Kunzum La or Manali to Leh over the high passes are the big road trips, and both need a few days, a capable vehicle and careful attention to altitude. Spiti can also be reached through Kinnaur from Shimla for most of the year. Read our altitude guide before planning either.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do we need for the loop?+
Two weeks is comfortable; ten days is possible at a faster pace.
Which order is best?+
McLeod Ganj, Bir, Manali, Kasol works well, with the long drives at either end.
Can we do it in reverse?+
Yes. Delhi to Kasol first, then Manali, Bir and McLeod Ganj, and back to Delhi.
Is a taxi worth it for backpackers?+
For the short legs between hill towns, often yes, especially shared between two to four people.
Can we add Spiti to the loop?+
Yes, in summer, from Manali over Kunzum La, or through Kinnaur from Shimla for most of the year.
