How To Reach Mandi
Planning A Trip To Mandi? Here are some guidelines on how to reach Mandi
Mandi, also known as Sahor, is a major town in the Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at a distance of 145 km from Shimla, this little hill station is also known as ‘Choti Kashi’ due to it being surrounded by 81 temples. The fastest way to reach Mandi is by air, but unfortunately there is no airport and neither is there any railway station in Mandi. You can take a flight to airports and a train to railway stations that are close to the hill station and then travel by a cab. However, driving all the way to Mandi is possible, as it is connected to various highways that lead to bigger cities. Let’s have a look at some of the most convenient ways to reach the beautiful hilltop of Mandi.
By Air
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Since Mandi is situated in one of the most isolated spots of Himachal Pradesh, it is not directly accessible by air. You will have to take a flight to the nearest airport, which is the Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, located at a distance of 60 km from Mandi. Flights for major airlines like Indigo, Air India and Spice Jet ply frequently to this airport from mainly prime cities in the north. Alternatively, the Chandigarh Airport though further away, can also be used by travelers to reach Mandi. After reaching the airport, you can hire a cab to reach your destination.
By Road
Photograph by tripshire.com
Mandi is well connected to northern cities like Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla, which makes it easier for tourists to travel by road. Picturesque sceneries will capture your eyes while you drive up to this beautiful place. If you are not in the mood to drive all the way, you can always take a bus from neighbouring cities like Delhi or Chandigarh, which takes about 8-12 hours depending on the halts taken. HRTC has facilitated a good number of busses that ply from these cities to Mandi, making it convenient and pocket friendly.
By Rail
Photograph by indiarailinfo.com
Mandi does not have a railway station of its own, but visitors can travel to the Joginder Nagar Railway Station, located at a distance of 58 km from Mandi. This is a remote railway station and is not frequented by many trains. Hence, travellers can even take a train to Chandigarh Railway station that is 187 km from Mandi and then take a cab or take a connecting train to the Joginder Nagar Railway Station. Train journeys are always fun while travelling with your family and friends. Once you reach either of the railway stations, you can find cabs right outside that will take you to Mandi.
Getting Around
Photograph by avenuemail.in
You can move around Mandi by using private as well as government busses that ply to different places in and around the town. These buses that are facilitated by HRTC are quite comfortable and suit the budget as well. You can also get around town by using auto-rickshaws, or even renting it out for the say. Private cabs are available to rent out for the purpose of moving around and sightseeing as well. Depending on your budget, you can use any of these modes of transportation.