If you’re planning a trip from Shimla to Manali, using the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus service can be one of the most convenient and cost-effective options. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, adventure, or simply commuting between these two stunning hill stations, HRTC provides several bus options daily to suit your schedule and preferences.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the Shimla to Manali HRTC bus timings, types of buses available, routes covered, and essential tips to make your journey smooth.

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Types of Buses Available from Shimla to Manali

HRTC offers different types of buses to cater to various needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the available bus services from Shimla to Manali:
- HIMSUTA AC Volvo/Scania 2×2 – Premium bus service for those who prefer comfort and luxury.
- HIMMANI Deluxe 2×2 (Old) – A more affordable option with comfortable seating and good service.
- Ordinary HRTC Buses – Basic yet reliable service for budget travelers, with slightly longer travel times.

Each type of bus has its own schedule, offering flexibility depending on when you plan to travel.
Shimla to Manali HRTC Bus Timing and Routes

There are multiple HRTC buses operating between Shimla and Manali, departing at different times throughout the day. Below is a detailed look at the bus timings and routes. The below data is based on HRTC Manali Time Table and HRTC Shimla Time Table.
Bus Type | Departure | Arrival | Time Taken | Route |
---|---|---|---|---|
HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA 2X2 | 11:00 | 18:30 | 7 Hrs 30 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (11:00) → BILASPUR (13:40) → SUNDER NAGAR (14:50) → MANDI (15:30) → AUT (16:30) → BHUNTAR (17:10) → KULLU (17:30) → MANALI (18:30) |
HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA 2X2 | 21:00 | 6:10 | 9 Hrs 10 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (21:00) → DARLAGHAT (22:15) → BILASPUR (0:15) → GHAGAS (0:30) → BARMANA (1:00) → SALAPAR (1:15) → SUNDER NAGAR (2:00) → NER CHOWK (2:15) → MANDI (2:40) → PANDOH (3:00) → AUT (4:00) → BHUNTAR (4:15) → KULLU (4:50) → MANALI (6:10) |
HIMMANI DELUXE 2X2 OLD | 8:00 | 17:40 | 9 Hrs 40 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (8:00) → GHAGAS (11:30) → SUNDER NAGAR (12:45) → NER CHOWK (13:00) → MANDI (13:24) → AUT (14:30) → BHUNTAR (15:45) → KULLU (16:12) → PATLIKUHAL (17:00) → MANALI (17:40) |
HIMMANI DELUXE 2X2 OLD | 20:20 | 5:00 | 8 Hrs 40 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (20:20) → DARLAGHAT (21:30) → BRAMPUKHAR (22:45) → BILASPUR (23:00) → GHAGAS (23:30) → BARMANA (23:35) → SUNDER NAGAR (23:36) → NER CHOWK (23:51) → MANDI (1:15) → AUT (2:00) → BHUNTAR (2:40) → KULLU (3:00) → PATLIKUHAL (4:00) → MANALI (5:00) |
ORDINARY | 9:15 | 17:00 | 7 Hrs 45 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (9:15) → GHAGAS (12:00) → BARMANA (12:30) → SUNDER NAGAR (12:40) → NER CHOWK (13:00) → MANDI (14:30) → AUT (14:40) → BHUNTAR (14:45) → KULLU (15:20) → PATLIKUHAL (15:30) → MANALI (17:00) |
ORDINARY | 10:35 | 19:00 | 8 Hrs 25 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (10:35) → DARLAGHAT (12:35) → CHAMAKHRIPUL (12:50) → BHRARIGHAT (13:10) → NAMHOL (13:15) → BRAMPUKHAR (13:30) → JUKHALA (13:45) → GHAGAS (14:00) → BARMANA (14:15) → SALAPAR (14:30) → SUNDER NAGAR (15:00) → NER CHOWK (15:20) → MANDI (15:40) → PANDOH (16:20) → HANOGI (16:30) → AUT (17:00) → BAJOURA (17:05) → BHUNTAR (17:10) → MOHAL (17:15) → KULLU (17:30) → MANALI (19:00) |
ORDINARY | 19:00 | 5:30 | 10 Hrs 30 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (19:00) → BILASPUR (22:30) → SUNDER NAGAR (23:59) → NER CHOWK (0:30) → MANDI (1:00) → PANDOH (1:30) → AUT (2:10) → BHUNTAR (3:00) → KULLU (3:30) → PATLIKUHAL (4:30) → MANALI (5:30) |
ORDINARY | 21:40 | 6:00 | 8 Hrs 20 Mins | SHIMLA ISBT TUTIKANDI (21:40) → BILASPUR (0:40) → SUNDER NAGAR (1:50) → NER CHOWK (2:10) → MANDI (2:30) → PANDOH (3:00) → AUT (3:50) → BHUNTAR (4:30) → KULLU (4:40) → PATLIKUHAL (5:30) → MANALI (6:00) |

Travel Tips for Shimla to Manali HRTC Bus Journey
- Book Your Tickets in Advance: Since Manali is a popular tourist destination, buses tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. You can easily book HRTC bus tickets online through the official HRTC website.
- Choose the Right Bus Type: If comfort is your priority, go for the HIMSUTA Volvo/Scania buses. For budget travelers, ordinary HRTC buses are a good option, but they may take longer to reach your destination.
- Check the Weather: The road from Shimla to Manali can sometimes be affected by weather conditions like snow or rain, especially during winter. Always check the weather forecast before your journey to avoid delays or cancellations.
- Pack Essentials: The journey can be long, especially on ordinary buses, so carry snacks, water, and some light entertainment (like a book or music) to keep yourself comfortable.
- Be Prepared for Breaks: Most HRTC buses take a few breaks along the route at rest stops in Bilaspur, Mandi, or Kullu. This is your chance to stretch your legs, grab a quick bite, or use the restroom.
Internal Links for More Information:
- How To Book HRTC Bus Ticket Online?
- 5 Reasons to Choose HRTC: Himachal Road Transport Corporation for Your Next Trip
- 327 HRTC Electric Buses: Green Mobility on the Rise in Himachal Pradesh
Conclusion

The Shimla to Manali HRTC bus timing is well-structured to accommodate various travelers, whether you’re looking for a luxury bus experience or an economical journey. The range of buses, from HIMSUTA Volvos to Ordinary services, ensures that you have plenty of options based on your preferences and travel budget.
By choosing HRTC, you’re not just saving money; you’re also opting for an eco-friendly and safe mode of transport to explore the beautiful Himachal Pradesh. So, book your tickets, pack your bags, and enjoy a scenic ride from Shimla to Manali with HRTC!

FAQs:Shimla to Manali HRTC Bus Timing

1. What is the shortest travel time from Shimla to Manali by HRTC bus?
- The shortest travel time is 7 hours 30 minutes, offered by the HIMSUTA AC Volvo/Scania 2×2 bus, departing at 11:00 AM.
2. What is the longest travel time for HRTC buses from Shimla to Manali?
- The longest travel time is 10 hours 30 minutes, taken by the Ordinary HRTC Bus, departing at 7:00 PM.
3. How many HRTC buses operate daily from Shimla to Manali?
- There are 8 HRTC buses operating daily on this route, including Volvo, Deluxe, and Ordinary services.
4. What is the earliest HRTC bus departure from Shimla to Manali?
- The earliest bus departs at 8:00 AM (HIMMANI Deluxe 2×2 Old).
5. What is the latest HRTC bus departure from Shimla to Manali?
- The latest bus departs at 9:40 PM (Ordinary HRTC Bus).
6. Which bus is the most comfortable option for Shimla to Manali?
- The HIMSUTA AC Volvo/Scania 2×2 buses are the most comfortable option, offering premium services.
7. How much time does the HIMSUTA Volvo bus take to reach Manali from Shimla?
- The HIMSUTA Volvo bus takes around 7 hours 30 minutes during the day and 9 hours 10 minutes for the night service.
8. Does HRTC offer night bus services from Shimla to Manali?
- Yes, there are several night buses, including the HIMSUTA Volvo and Ordinary buses, departing between 7:00 PM and 9:40 PM.