The picturesque journey from Mandi to Keylong via HRTC buses offers travellers an efficient and affordable way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. This guide provides all the essential details, including bus types, routes, and departure times, for planning your journey along this scenic route.

Table of Contents
Why Choose HRTC for the Mandi to Keylong Route?

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) is a trusted name in public transportation, known for its reliability and affordability. Here’s why HRTC buses are an excellent choice for your trip:
- Variety of Bus Options: HRTC offers a range of services, including ordinary and AC buses, to suit every traveler’s needs.
- Scenic Routes: The route from Mandi to Keylong passes through mesmerizing valleys, rivers, and mountain vistas.
- Accessibility: With multiple daily buses, HRTC ensures flexibility and convenience for travelers.

Overview of Mandi to Keylong HRTC Bus Services

The Mandi to Keylong route is served by six daily buses operated by HRTC. The buses range from ordinary to AC options, providing travelers with flexibility in terms of comfort and budget. The journey typically takes between 6 to 9 hours, depending on the service chosen.
Mandi to Keylong HRTC Bus Time Table

Below is the Mandi to Keylong HRTC Bus Time Table. Details such as departure and arrival times, bus types, and the complete route will be added here.The below data is based on HRTC Mandi Time Table and HRTC Keylong Time Table.
No. | Bus Type | Departure | Arrival | Time Taken | Route (Timing) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | ORDINARY | 01:00 | 08:00 | 7 Hrs 0 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (19:00) → BILASPUR (22:30) → SUNDER NAGAR (23:59) → NER CHOWK (0:30) →MANDI(01:00) → PANDOH (01:30) → AUT (02:10) → BHUNTAR (03:00) → KULLU (03:30) → PATLIKUHAL (04:30) → MANALI (05:30) → SHISHU (06:30) → GONDHLA (07:00) → TANDIPUL (07:30) →KEYLONG(08:00) |
2 | HIMDHARA 3X2 AC | 03:24 | 08:00 | 4 Hrs 36 Mins | HARIDWAR (16:00) → SAHARANPUR (18:10) → AMBALA (20:32) → CHANDIGARH 43 (21:58) → BILASPUR (01:42) → SUNDER NAGAR (02:48) →MANDI(03:24) → AUT (04:27) → BHUNTAR (04:54) → KULLU (05:09) → PATLIKUHAL (05:43) → MANALI (06:09) →KEYLONG(08:00) |
3 | ORDINARY | 06:02 | 12:30 | 6 Hrs 28 Mins | RECONGPEO (17:00) → RAMPUR (22:00) → SUNDER NAGAR (05:00) →MANDI(06:02) → KULLU (08:32) → MANALI (10:30) → SISSU (11:30) →KEYLONG(12:30) |
4 | ORDINARY | 09:15 | 19:00 | 9 Hrs 45 Mins | HARIDWAR (20:15) → CHANDIGARH 43 (03:15) → BILASPUR (06:50) → SUNDER NAGAR (08:30) →MANDI(09:15) → PANDOH (10:00) → BHUNTAR (11:50) → KULLU (12:20) → MANALI (14:00) →KEYLONG(19:00) |
5 | ORDINARY | 13:00 | 20:30 | 7 Hrs 30 Mins | DHARAMSHALA (07:10) → BAIJNATH (10:00) → JOGINDER NAGAR (10:40) →MANDI(13:00) → BHUNTAR (15:20) → KULLU (16:00) → MANALI (17:30) →KEYLONG(20:30) |
6 | ORDINARY | 23:55 | 06:30 | 6 Hrs 35 Mins | MCLEODGANJ (17:30) → DHARAMSHALA (17:50) → PALAMPUR (19:50) → JOGINDER NAGAR (21:30) →MANDI(23:55) → BHUNTAR (02:10) → KULLU (02:30) → MANALI (04:00) →KEYLONG(06:30) |
Stay tuned for the exact time table.
Key Highlights of the Journey


- Popular Stops Along the Route:
- Mandi: Known for its ancient temples and lush greenery.
- Kullu: Famous for its apple orchards and the Beas River.
- Manali: A hub for adventure sports and serene landscapes.
- Keylong: The gateway to Lahaul and Spiti valleys, known for its rugged beauty.
- Bus Features:
- Comfortable seating options, including AC and non-AC variants.
- Regular maintenance for safety and reliability.
- Reasonable fares catering to all budgets.

Verify Timings Before You Travel

While we strive to provide accurate information, bus schedules may vary. Always check the official HRTC website for the latest updates on timings and availability.
Tips for Travelers

Planning a trip from Mandi to Keylong? Here are some essential tips to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable:
1. Book Tickets in Advance
The Mandi to Keylong route is quite popular, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons. To secure your seat, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. HRTC provides online booking facilities, making it easier for travelers to plan ahead.

2. Carry Travel Essentials
The journey from Mandi to Keylong can take up to 15 hours, so it’s important to be prepared. Pack snacks, water bottles, and a thermos of tea or coffee to keep yourself refreshed. Additionally, carry warm clothing, as the temperatures can drop significantly during the trip, especially in the higher altitudes.
3. Check Weather Conditions
Mountain weather is known for its unpredictability. Before starting your trip, check the weather forecast for both Mandi and Keylong. This will help you dress appropriately and avoid potential travel disruptions caused by heavy rains or snow.
4. Arrive Early at the Bus Stand
To ensure a smooth boarding process, reach the bus stand at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Arriving early not only saves you from last-minute hassles but also gives you time to settle in and confirm your seat.

5. Keep Local Currency Handy
While traveling on the Mandi to Keylong route, you may want to buy snacks or souvenirs at stops. Having local currency in small denominations will make these purchases more convenient.
6. Be Ready for Scenic Stops
The Mandi to Keylong journey offers some breathtaking views along the way. Keep your camera or smartphone handy to capture the stunning landscapes, but remember to respect nature and avoid littering at these stops.

7. Stay Updated on Bus Timings
Timings for the Mandi to Keylong HRTC buses can change due to weather or road conditions. It’s a good idea to check the latest schedule on the official HRTC website or confirm with the local bus depot before your journey.
Internal and External Links

Internal Links:
- How to Book HRTC Bus Tickets Online: Step-by-Step Guide – Learn the easiest way to book your HRTC bus tickets online.
- Top 5 Reasons to Choose HRTC for Your Next Trip – Understand why HRTC is the best choice for reliable and comfortable travel across Himachal Pradesh.
- HRTC Bus Timings from Shimla to Chandigarh: 2025 Guide – If you’re planning a journey from Shimla, here’s a detailed guide for Shimla to Chandigarh bus timings.
- HRTC Volvo Services: Comfort and Luxury on Himachal Roads – Discover the benefits of traveling by HIMSUTA Volvo/Scania for a comfortable journey in Himachal Pradesh.
- Eco-Friendly Travel with HRTC: Himachal’s Move to Green Mobility – Explore how HRTC is contributing to sustainable travel with electric buses.
External Links:
For additional useful travel information, you can refer to the following external resources:
Himachal Pradesh Tourism Official Site – Plan your stay and get more information about tourist spots in Mandi and other destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
Official HRTC Website for Ticket Booking and Timings – Book tickets and check live bus timings directly from HRTC’s official platform.
RedBus – Book HRTC Bus Tickets Online – Another trusted platform to book HRTC bus tickets with real-time seat availability.
AbhiBus – HRTC Bus Booking – Another reliable bus booking service for HRTC buses across Himachal and neighboring states.
FAQs:

1. What is the average travel time from Mandi to Keylong by HRTC buses?
The travel time ranges between 6 to 9 hours, depending on the bus service selected.
2. How many HRTC buses operate daily on the Mandi to Keylong route?
A total of six buses run daily on this route.
3. What types of buses are available for this journey?
HRTC offers ordinary and AC bus services, such as HIMDHARA 3X2 AC and ordinary buses.
4. Can I pre-book tickets for the Mandi to Keylong HRTC bus?
Yes, tickets can be booked online via the official HRTC portal or at the nearest HRTC counter.
5. Are night buses available on this route?
Yes, there is a night bus departing from Mandi at 23:55 and arriving in Keylong at 6:30.
6. What are the major halts during the journey?
Major halts include Bhuntar, Kullu, Manali, and Sissu, among others.
7. Is luggage allowed on HRTC buses?
Yes, passengers can carry personal and household goods free of charge.
8. Are there rest stops during the journey?
Yes, the buses make scheduled stops at key points for refreshments and breaks.
9. How do I verify the bus schedule before traveling?
Check the latest schedule on the official HRTC website or contact your nearest HRTC depot.
10. Are the buses on this route operational during winter?
HRTC buses operate year-round; however, service may be affected during heavy snowfall.
Conclusion

Traveling from Mandi to Keylong by HRTC bus is a memorable experience that combines comfort, affordability, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or adventure, HRTC ensures a hassle-free journey. Don’t forget to verify bus timings on the official HRTC website before planning your trip.
Start your journey today and explore the serene landscapes of Himachal Pradesh with HRTC!