Manali has been in my travel plans since forever, right? Like, since I was a kid, scrolling travel magazines. I always dreamed about fighting crowds, being stuck in a tourist trap, and not really seeing the real beauty of the place.
A friend told me about this ‘new Manali’ thing which isn’t limited to the town only but the entire journey from Delhi, and that it is quite the spectacle!
I prepped for what I thought was the usual set of plans, getting a ticket on the mentioned bus (but why later). But, my entire outlook on travel ended up changing completely with the unexpected.
Why I Trust This Road Trip Is Visually The Best In The World (In A Healthy Way)
Well, I am speechless. I have gone on a few trips in my lifetime, but the Manali to Delhi route is on a completely different level.
Now, I understand it’s not all about the gorgeous views of the crystal clear roads with the rich snowy plains and the Himalayas, it is also about feeling free of all stress and full awareness of everything around you.
Remember the time when you are on a drive and your favorite song begins to play? The trip I went on for 600 kilometers felt just like that.
Moments that made me crystallize my thoughts in my soundtrack are those which, in the beginning, made me go ‘Whoa!’.
Let me explain for you in a list form:
1. Breakfast Is A Religious Experience: Murthal
All the food served in planes or in fancy restaurants can stay. I would pick roadside dhabas in Murthal any day, they serve real magic.
As much as I didn’t imagine myself to be interested in parathas, the ones served here surely got my attention. Filled to the brim with potatoes, coated and served with butter, unlike other places, these parathas were only served with spicy pickles. Such food makes dreams come alive. Such food is the best food!
The parathas serve Pure Punjabi energy with thumping music and sizzling pots filled with people dancing, laughing, grocery hauling, and talking. It is without a doubt the ultimate restaurant to visit during road trips.
2. Kurukshetra: A Little Bit Of Soul Searching
Surprisingly, I had low expectations set from Kurukshetra. Apparently, this place has quiet and spiritual energy in the space where the Bhagavad Gita was written. Surprisingly, it proved itself to be chromatically pleasing.
In silence, without any child, bs elephant and an army of guards eye candy parade, one is sure to get Austin down the Brahma Sarovar which has no end. Calm the ripples of the lake water.
I don’t usually resonate with the concept of self-discovery in one’s travels, nonetheless, I felt a lot more centered after that.
3. Chandigarh: Garden Beauty and City Vibes
Chandigarh is that one sweet spot between city and tranquil. When I was walking in the city, I visited the Rock Garden, which is a recycled art installation (isn’t that amazing?), and I truly appreciated the atmosphere.
When taking a break from work, I like to pause for some coffee, check the time, stretch my legs, and remind myself that I still live in the 21st century.
4. The Himalayas: No Filter Needed
There are no words to properly capture this landscape, it’s impossible to portray with words – you have to see it for yourself! The mountains have cool air, epic scenery, and make you gasp.
Those dreamy routes, and those mountains that look cloud nine, fluffy clouds, are all breathtaking – it feels like a Bob Ross painting.
You know the feeling when you literally just have to sit back and appreciate life while putting your phone away for a couple of minutes?
5. Kullu Valley: So Much More Than Just Apples
Kullu Valley gives fairy tales a run for their money, with apple orchards as far as the eye can see, panoramic views of the Beas river surging through the valley, adding to the overall experience.
I spent an entire day simply strolling through the meadows, taking in the wonderful sights, and feeling like I was worlds away from the pressure of city life.
6. Solang Valley: Chasing That Adrenaline Rush
Though I am not much of an adrenaline junkie, I made it a point to try out paragliding at Solang Valley. And wow… That was absolutely terrifying, but wonderful at the same time.
Soaring above those mountains and feeling the wind brush against my face is an experience that will be etched in my memory forever.
7. Manali: Your Himalayan Homebase
You finally made it! Manali is an absolutely unforgettable town filled with a wonderful blend of chaos and charm… all of which is located in the center of the majestic Himalayan mountains.
You can check out Old Manali’s quaint cafes, pay a visit to the beautiful Hadimba Temple, or do some window shopping at the markets. Don’t forget to take in the vibes as you stroll through the town.
And don’t say I didn’t warn you about the overload of sensory stimulation!
The Secret Sauce: Why This Journey Is Going Viral
To be completely honest, I think it’s because the journey is authentic. This is definitely not a vacation that has been curated, it’s all about the in-between moments, unexpected encounters, and everything else that comes along.
It’s all about steering away from the tourist locations and defining your own version of paradise.
Level Up Your Trip: The zingbus Maxx Factor
This is where I let you guys in on the ‘zingbus’, which is where everything takes an interesting turn.
I didn’t hop on just any bus – I specifically booked a seat on the zingbus Maxx, and believe me, it was worth it.
This was definitely not what I expected from a bus; it was a complete experience.
Here is what we are talking about:
- Onboard buses, a 5-course meal is offered. It was actually remarkable.
- Gold Star Crew – and I mean it; these people were fantastic.
- Personal Virtual Concierge – Your helping hand at every moment!
- Enhanced Safety Features such as driver monitoring system, live tracking, etc.
- Additionally, the usual stuff like charging points, sockets, leg rests, blankets, and surprisingly efficient timing.
Before I even reached Manali, they transformed a standard bus ride into a vacation.
Final Takeaways: This Is A Refresh, Not A Trip
The Delhi to Manali bus route isn’t just a path to travel but an opportunity to recharge, reconnect, and rediscover yourself. Say goodbye to typical touristy activities and enjoy the exhilaration of finding your own adventure and crafting unforgettable memories to cherish forever.
Stop scrolling endlessly on Instagram and begin designing your very own getaway. The new Manali is beckoning — are you prepared to jump in?
Book a ticket now on zingbus Maxx and experience the buzz for yourself — you may just surprise yourself with what you find along the way.
You can count on me.
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