TL;DR
Kullu Manali tour packages from Pune 2026 start at ₹11,765 (4N/5D flight packages) and go up to ₹37,523 for luxury 5-night stays. MakeMyTrip offers standard packages at ₹34,420 for 6 days/5 nights, while IManali provides budget options at ₹11,765. Veena World group tours cost ₹35,000 with Marathi-speaking guides. Complete itineraries cover Rohtang Pass snow activities, Solang Valley adventure park, Hadimba Temple visits, and Mall Road shopping. Hidden costs add ₹8,000-₹15,000 per person. Winter snow specials and Holi week deals available. Use code KULLUPUNE2026 for ₹3,000 off plus free Chandigarh airport transfer.
Why Pune Travelers Choose Kullu Manali Every Winter
Pune’s IT professionals, Koregaon Park families, and adventure enthusiasts transform into snow warriors each winter, chasing Kullu Manali’s magical winter landscape just one flight away from their busy lives. The journey from Hinjewadi’s air-conditioned offices to Manali’s snow-covered pine forests delivers everything from Rohtang Pass snowball fights and Solang Valley ATV adventures to the ancient mystery of Hadimba Temple and the roaring rapids of Kullu River rafting.
For Pune travelers, the connection to Kullu Manali proves surprisingly straightforward. IndiGo offers direct flights from Pune to Delhi (2.25 hours, ₹8,000-₹12,000 roundtrip), followed by a quick Delhi-Chandigarh hop (1 hour, ₹5,000-₹7,000), then an scenic 8-hour Volvo bus ride through the Himalayan foothills. Total door-to-door travel time reaches just 14 hours, making it more affordable than Goa flights (₹15,000+) and far more dramatic than weekend trips to Lonavala.

The 2026 winter season promises record snowfall at Rohtang Pass, turning the high-altitude destination into an Instagram paradise. A new ropeway at Solang Valley offers breathtaking aerial views above snowfields for ₹800 roundtrip. Hatu Peak snow treks gain popularity among adventure seekers, while Diwali week (October 20-24) already shows 90% booking capacity. Smart Pune travelers reserve their January 2026 slots now to avoid peak season rush.
Real stories from Pune travelers highlight the transformation. Hinjewadi software engineers return to work on Monday with LinkedIn-ready snow selfies, proudly wearing ₹2,000 snow boots purchased from roadside vendors. Koregaon Park couples celebrate anniversaries around apple orchard bonfires under starlit skies. Kothrud grandparents fulfill lifelong dreams of seeing snow for the first time, watching the first flakes dust Mall Road while wrapped in warm shawls.
Budget considerations remain crucial. Flight-inclusive packages start at ₹11,765 through budget operators like IManali, while MakeMyTrip’s standard packages cost around ₹34,000. Deluxe honeymoon packages reach ₹90,000 per couple through Heena Tours. The reality shows 1.5 times the quoted package price after accounting for meals (₹1,000 per day), adventure activities (₹3,000-₹5,000), and essential woolen shopping (₹5,000 average).
Kullu Manali delivers the perfect blend of snow adventure, spiritual exploration, and family bonding in weekend-friendly proportions. For Pune residents seeking their ultimate winter reset, this Himalayan destination becomes the clear choice every season.
Complete Package Comparison: Top Pune Operators Ranked
MakeMyTrip leads with 64 Manali packages customizable for Pune departures, spanning budget to luxury options. Their “Memorable Himachal” package costs ₹34,420 for 6 days/5 nights, covering Chandigarh-Manali-Chandigarh Volvo transfers (14 hours total), 3-star hotels like Hotel President or White Mountain, breakfast and dinner, Rohtang Pass permits, and Mall Road walks. This package attracts 65% of Pune bookings due to the trusted brand reputation.
IManali offers the most affordable flight packages starting at ₹11,765 for 4 nights/5 days, including Pune-Delhi-Chandigarh-Manali flights (₹12,000 extra), Hotel Mountain Top or Narayan Palace stays, Rohtang snow point visits, Kullu-Manikaran sightseeing, and local Manali exploration. These packages prove 45% cheaper than MakeMyTrip for identical itineraries.
Veena World’s group departures provide comfort through dedicated Pune tour managers speaking Hindi and Marathi, with fixed pricing at ₹35,000-₹37,000. Their Shimla Manali Women’s Special departing February 15, 2026, includes Jain meal options and lighter Rohtang Pass walks suitable for all fitness levels. Seniors’ specials offer elevator hotels, Volvo semi-sleeper transfers, paced sightseeing, and oxygen cans available at high altitudes.
Budget group tours through Banbanjara target youth (18-35 age group) at ₹4,899 for 6 days/5 nights with dorm stays, shared tempos, and Instagram reel contests. Their Holi 2026 package (March 2 departure) fills quickly among college students and young professionals. Kinghills Travel offers train packages at ₹8,999, combining Pune-Delhi Rajdhani sleeper class (₹1,500) with Manali, Dharamshala, and Triund trek—a favorite among backpackers.
Thomas Cook provides reliable standard packages at ₹16,800 for 5 days/4 nights, while GT Holidays mid-range options cost ₹25,000 with better hotels and private vehicles. IRCTC Tourism offers government-backed Shimla Manali tours at ₹20,000 using trains, appealing to families seeking trusted operators. Swan Tours quick Manali express packages cost ₹18,500 for fast-paced 4 nights/5 days weekend getaways.
For the best value, IManali’s ₹11,765 flight package suits budget-conscious travelers. MakeMyTrip’s ₹34,420 package offers trusted reliability. Veena World’s ₹35,000 group tours provide Marathi comfort and safety. Banbanjara’s ₹4,899 youth packages target adventure seekers, while Heena Tours ₹90,000/couple luxury packages serve honeymooners seeking premium experiences.
Perfect 5-Day Kullu Manali Itinerary from Pune
Day 1: Pune to Chandigarh to Manali (Journey Through the Foothills)
The adventure begins with IndiGo flight 6E2293 departing Pune at 6:30 AM, landing in Delhi by 9:15 AM after a comfortable 2.25-hour journey. Travelers connect to IndiGo 6E6101 for the quick 1-hour hop to Chandigarh, arriving at 11:45 AM. From Chandigarh ISBT Sector 43, the Volvo AC sleeper bus departs at 12:30 PM for the scenic 310-kilometer, 8-10 hour drive through the Beas River Valley to Manali.
Key journey highlights include Bilaspur at 3 PM with stunning views of Pongal Dam and delicious butter parathas available for ₹80 each at roadside dhabas. Mandhala around 6 PM offers dramatic Beas River sunset views and cutting chai stalls for ₹20 per cup. The Aut Tunnel at 8 PM marks India’s longest highway tunnel at 10.5 kilometers. Arrival in Manali occurs around 11 PM, followed by check-in at Hotel President or similar 3-star properties. Hotel buffets serve Himachali thali featuring siddu (steamed bread) for ₹150 and madra (chickpea curry) for ₹120. The Volvo sleeper beds convert into cozy sleeping arrangements for the night.
Day 2: Rohtang Pass Snow Adventure (The Signature Experience)
Day 2 starts early at 4:30 AM with wake-up calls and steaming ginger-honey tea. Max taxi convoys depart at 5 AM carrying mandatory Rohtang permits costing ₹550 per person plus ₹500 per vehicle. Arrival at Rohtang Pass (13,050 feet) occurs by 8 AM, revealing a complete snow paradise perfect for winter visitors.
Snow activities fill three thrilling hours. Snowman building comes free with unlimited Instagram opportunities. Snow scooter rides cost ₹500 for 10 minutes of high-speed fun. Sledging runs ₹300 per person down gentle slopes. Snow bikes offer ₹800 for 15 minutes of guided adventure. Return to Manali happens by 12 PM, followed by lunch at Old Manali’s famous German bakery featuring apple strudel for ₹250.
The afternoon continues at Club House with additional snow play and river crossing activities for ₹100 per person. Evening brings Mall Road paragliding demonstrations and shopping at the Tibetan market where yak cheese sells for ₹300 per 100 grams. Dinner features traditional siddu and madra for ₹350, completing a perfect snow day.
Day 3: Solang Valley Adventure Park and Kullu Valley Exploration
Day 3 begins at 8 AM with an Innova departure to Solang Valley (14 km, 45 minutes). The adventure package costs ₹2,500 and includes 15 minutes ATV riding, 10 minutes zorbing, roundtrip ropeway at ₹800, and cable car rides for ₹650. Paragliding remains optional at ₹3,500 for a 30-minute tandem flight offering breathtaking Himalayan views.
Lunch follows at 2 PM during the 40-kilometer, 1.5-hour drive through Kullu Valley, known as the Shawls Valley for its handicraft hubs. Bargaining opportunities abound with pashmina shawls ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 and authentic Kullu shawls at ₹1,500 each. Return to Manali by 4 PM includes a relaxing visit to Vashisht hot springs for ₹50 entry fee.
Evening entertainment at Café 1947 features live music and wood-fired pizzas for ₹400. The combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and cultural shopping creates perfect balance for the third day.
Day 4: Manali Local Sightseeing, Hidimba Temple and Shopping
Morning sightseeing begins with Hadimba Devi Temple just 3 kilometers from Manali town. This 450-year-old pagoda-style temple sits amid a deodar grove offering puja opportunities for ₹100 and sacred threads for ₹20 each. Manu Temple follows, dedicated to the Himalayan Noah legend from ancient scriptures.
The Himachal Culture Museum charges ₹50 entry and showcases traditional artifacts and costumes. Afternoon exploration leads to Naggar Castle 20 kilometers away, featuring 1500 AD Himachali architecture and the Russian Roerich Art Gallery for another ₹50 entry.
Shopping becomes the highlight with Vivek wool factory sweaters at ₹3,000, Mall Road dry fruits for ₹800 per kilogram, and saffron spices at ₹300 per small packet. Evening activities include river crossing for ₹100 and Club House boating at ₹150 per person. Dinner features warming thukpa noodle soup for ₹250, perfect after a full day of cultural immersion.
Day 5: Manali to Chandigarh to Pune (Snow Memories Return Home)
The final day starts at 6 AM with an early Volvo departure back to Chandigarh covering 8 hours through familiar mountain scenery. Lunch at Chandigarh Sector 17 food street offers Amritsari kulcha for ₹80 each. Chandigarh-Delhi flights depart around 4 PM, connecting to Pune IndiGo flights landing by 9:45 PM.
The total roundtrip covers 1,200 kilometers with guaranteed snow selfies numbering over 500 Instagram posts. Travelers return home with hearts full of Himalayan memories and wardrobes stuffed with woolen treasures.
Hidden Costs Breakdown: What Packages Don’t Include
Pune-Chandigarh roundtrip flights represent the largest surprise expense at ₹12,000-₹18,000 per person. Pune-Delhi flights cost ₹8,000-₹12,000 through IndiGo, while Delhi-Chandigarh adds ₹5,000-₹7,000. Booking on Tuesdays or Wednesdays 60 days in advance saves ₹3,000 per ticket.
Meals create the next major surprise totaling ₹8,000 per person. Hotel breakfast buffets prove included, but local dhaba lunches cost ₹300 daily across 4 days equaling ₹1,200. Restaurant dinners average ₹500 daily for 4 days reaching ₹2,000. Snacks and cafes add another ₹1,000, while Rohtang Pass Maggie noodles cost ₹100 per plate across 4 people totaling ₹400.
Adventure activities accumulate ₹5,000-₹8,000 including Rohtang Pass permits at ₹550 per person plus ₹500 per vehicle. Solang Valley adventure combo packages cost ₹2,500 covering ATV, zorbing, and cable cars. Optional paragliding reaches ₹3,500, while zorbing and ATV rides add ₹1,500. Cable car rides cost ₹650 and Vashisht hot springs charge ₹50 entry.
Shopping averages ₹5,000 with woolen sweaters at ₹3,000, shawls at ₹2,000, and dry fruits at ₹1,000 per kilogram. Tips and miscellaneous expenses total ₹2,000 including ₹1,500 for drivers and ₹500 for guides. Optional oxygen cans cost ₹200 each at high altitudes.
The typical ₹25,000 quoted package transforms into ₹40,000 actual spend per person after accounting for all realistic expenses.
Best Time Strategy: Maximize Snow, Minimize Costs
Winter snow season from December to February offers heavy snowfall and Rohtang Pass magic but comes at ₹25,000-₹35,000 pricing. Republic Day long weekend (January 26-28) proves particularly popular requiring bookings 120 days in advance due to peak hotel rates and 20% higher flight costs.
Holi week from March 2-6 emerges as the best value period with pre-summer snow still available and 40% hotel discounts. Pune’s Holi holiday aligns perfectly with 4-night packages costing ₹18,000-₹25,000. Booking 60 days in advance secures optimal rates.
Summer months from April to June feature apple blossom season and perfect river rafting conditions at ₹15,000-₹22,000 pricing. Monsoon season from July to September brings possible landslides but slashes hotel rates by 50% to ₹12,000-₹18,000, appealing to extreme budget travelers despite cloudy photography conditions.
Pune holiday alignment proves strategic with Holi (March 2-6) offering perfect 4-night packages, Diwali (October 20-24) marking early snow arrivals, and Republic Day (January 26-28) delivering peak snow experiences.
Complete Packing List for Pune to Kullu Manali
Snow essentials include waterproof trekking boots from Decathlon costing ₹2,500, thermal innerwear in two sets for ₹800, fleece jackets at ₹1,500, waterproof jacket and pants combinations for ₹2,000, four pairs of woolen socks plus two glove sets for ₹800, and balaclavas with snow goggles at ₹500.
Documents require Aadhar card and Voter ID as Himachal accepts these for identification, along with the online Rohtang permit form and ₹500 travel insurance. Electronics include a 20,000mAh powerbank for ₹1,000, action camera for snow videos, and universal chargers.
Health kit contains motion sickness medication for mountain roads, pain relief spray for trekking, lip balm and cold cream, plus Vicks inhaler for high-altitude breathing. Avoid packing drones (banned in Himachal), plastic bags (restricted), and revealing clothing (cultural respect required).
Safety, Road Conditions and Health Guide
Himachal Pradesh roads rank among India’s safest mountain routes with NH3 Chandigarh-Manali featuring excellent 4-lane highways and well-maintained mountain sections despite winding paths. Rohtang Pass operates one-way traffic regulation preventing congestion. Experienced drivers handle all conditions confidently.
Women travelers report excellent safety throughout Himachal Pradesh, safer than Rajasthan destinations. Families journey confidently with children. Acute Mountain Sickness remains rare below 13,000 feet elevation, though oxygen cans cost ₹200 each at high-altitude points.
Emergency services include 100 for police and 108 for ambulance. Chandigarh PGIMER hospital serves as the region’s best medical facility for serious needs.
Complete packages range from ₹11,765 budget flight options through IManali to ₹37,523 luxury packages through MakeMyTrip. Reality spending reaches ₹25,000-₹40,000 per person, including ₹12,000 flights, ₹6,000 activities, and ₹5,000 meals.
Book Your Snow Adventure from Pune Today
Samisha Holidays offers Pune-exclusive specials including the 5-day Kullu Manali Snow Special at ₹24,999 per person, Holi week package March 2-6 at ₹21,999, and family groups of 8+ paying ₹22,500 per head. Code KULLUPUNE2026 provides ₹3,000 instant discount plus free Chandigarh airport transfers.
WhatsApp instant booking available at +91-9823076958. Limited Holi week slots remain with January Republic Day packages filling quickly. Snow-covered Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley adventures await Pune’s winter warriors ready to escape urban routines for Himalayan magic.