Traveling to Manali in January is very different from traveling during the summer months, primarily due to snowfall but also due to changing weather, changing road conditions, and delays and changing costs.
As a local tour operator based in Manali I am providing a realistic guide to what is expected in terms of weather and activities during the coldest times of year and what works on the ground during peak wintertime.
Does Manali Get Snowfall in January?
Manali does receive snow during January, which is good news for tourists since many people want to experience snowfall in January; however snowfall does not happen on every single day in January.
- Peak winter timeframe in January is when the majority of snowfall takes place; however most snowfall is a result of weather systems called “Western Disturbances.”
- When visiting Manali during this time period however, you may see fresh fallen snow, older settled (compacted) snow, or all you may see is icy landscapes.
- Snowfall heavily depends only on the weather systems and does not have fixed dates for snowfall to occur.
Important Note: The snow on the roads and mountains will stay for a much longer timeframe than the actual fresh fallen snow.
Many visitors make the mistake of thinking that just because they see snow visible, that they are also seeing snowfall happen in the same timeframe.
So yes, Manali does get snow during January, but not every day; and as will also be mentioned, there is variation in the amount and timing of snowfall events.
Best Locations for Seeing Snowfall in Manali During January
Here are the most common locations for experiencing snowfall in Manali during January according to information from the locals.
Solang Valley –
- The most consistent snow area in winter
- Open even when Rohtang is closed
- This area is suitable for both families and couples.
Atal Tunnel Area –
- Potential for Heavy Snow
- Access available only if cleared the day before.
- No visits are allowed unless authorized.
Gulaba/Marhi Are
- Local Access to See Snow Depends on Attributes of Prior Snowfalls
- Roads May Be Closed Temporarily
Local Snow Points Near Manali Town
- During heavy snowfall, snow appears near Old Manali & nearby hills
NOTE: Conditions change every day! Always check for snow access on the day.
Temperature, Road and visibility For January in Manali
Learning what to expect with respect to January Climate in Manali will help avoid the unknowns when visiting Manali.
- Daytime High Temperatures Avg : 2.0 to 8.0 C
- Night Low Temperatures Avg: -5.0 to -10.0 C
- Frequent fog in the morning
- Risk of black ice on roads
Sightseeing may be delayed during the time it takes to clear snow from our roads. Therefore be prepared for delays during Winter Travel!
Is Visiting Manali In January Safe For Families, Couples and Seniors?
Yes, though you most likely will need to plan for potential delays, if you are familiar with wintertime driving/road conditions you’ll realize it can be a very enjoyable experience.
Safety Considerations:
- Many local drivers have been educated on how to drive safely in snow conditions.
- All hotel accommodations should provide a good heating system.
- If power outages occur, we still have ways to survive those outages and they are generally addressed very quickly.
When NOT to Travel:
- When heavy snowfall warnings are in effect;
- When traveling with older people who have breathing problems;
- If you cannot plan ahead or have any sort of last-minute flexible schedule.
Manali in winter for couples : Manali is a popular destination in winter, and therefore it is a very safe place to visit in January with a loved one.
Manali in January with family : Manali is also a safe destination for families during January; however, as long as they plan and book accommodation carefully.
Cost of traveling to Manali in January (couple, family and group)
The price of a trip to Manali changes on a daily basis depending on snowfall and demand.
Estimated Price Range:
- Couples: ₹14,000 – ₹25,000
- Families: ₹18,000 – ₹35,000
- Groups: Depends on size of vehicle.
Factors that may raise cost:
- Fresh snowfall (higher demand for vehicles to transport passengers);
- 4×4 vehicle upgrade;
- Availability of room heaters and hot water;
Price of visiting Manali may be cheaper or more expensive in January depending on how many days of snowfall have occurred.
January Manali Tour Package recommendations from locals:
Based on my experience with various tour packages from many different local companies;
Best trip experience can be achieved by planning your trip duration;
3 nights/4 days trips are a cheaper option for people looking to make the most of the shorter duration of snow;
4 nights/5 days: Provides more “wiggle room” if there are weather-related delays due to snow.
Best Areas to Stay In:
- Hadimba Road, Old Manali, are good options (when roads are clear).
- Avoid staying outside of the main area and I recommend avoiding remote areas during extreme winter conditions.
Sightseeing That Works in Snow
- सोलांग घाटी
- Local Manali town points
- Cafés and riverside walks (weather permitting)
👉 Explore:
- Manali Tour Packages
- मनाली फैमिली पैकेज
- मनाली युगल पैकेज
January in Manali: Private Cab or Volvo?
Volvo Bus
- Price-friendly
- Weather dependent – can be delayed / stopped due to snow
- Not recommended for young children or seniors
Private Taxi
- Safer travelling in snow
- Door-to-door
- Flexible Timing
Local Recommendations:
- For families and couples, Private Taxi is the safest option in January.
What to Pack for Manali in January (Must-Have Winter Items)
आवश्यक बातें:
- Snow Boots with traction
- Thermals & Heavy Jacket
- Wool Socks, Gloves & Beanie
- Personal Medications
Things to Avoid Overpacking:
- Excessive winter fashion layers
- Excessive footwear
- Dress Simple, Warm & Waterproof; this is all you need.
January Travel Tips for Manali by a Local Operator
- Travel only during the daylight hours
- Absolutely DO NOT drive overnight in high mountainous regions
- Select hotels with a back-up heating system
- Leave one buffer day in your itinerary
- Obtain daily status on road conditions
Local Coordination prevents last-minute chaos
Should you go to Manali in January?
Go if:
- You want to experience snow
- You can handle delays
- You like the peace and tranquillity of winter
Do not go if:
- You expect to see guaranteed snowfall every day
- You have very strict schedules
- You dislike the cold
Manali in January is stunning but only for those travelers who plan responsibly.
👉 Speak with a Manali expert
👉 Get LIVE updates on Road & Snow Conditions via WhatsApp
FAQs: Visiting Manali in January
Does it snow every year in January in Manali?
Yes, it snows in Manali in January. However, the amount of snow in each year may be different.
Where can I definitely see snow in January in Manali?
Solang Valley is the best area for guaranteed snow.
Is January a good month for family travel to Manali?
Yes, but you need to book a hotel and arrange transportation ahead of time.
What are the average night-time temperatures for Manali in January?
Expect night-time temperatures to be close to -10 degrees Celsius.
Will roads be open in Manali during January’s snowfall?
Yes, for the most part, however, there may be some temporary closures.
What is the expense of a couple trip to Manali during the month of January?
The cost for a couple’s trip to Manali in January can range between ₹14,000 and ₹25,000 based on the amount of snow and accommodations requested.
Is it safe to ride in a Volvo bus on bus routes to Manali in January?
Yes, it is safe to ride a Volvo, but the buses may not be able to reliably navigate through heavy snowfalls.
What is the best hotel area to stay in Manali in winter?
Hadimba Road and central Manali areas.
Advice from the Locals at the Time of Your Visit:
Visiting Manali in January isn’t about perfection; it is about being prepared. If you travel with the right knowledge, your trip to Manali in January will be safe, memorable, and stunningly picturesque.
यह भी पढ़ें: Jibhi in Winter for Couples – Snowfall Guide, Romantic Stays & Things to Do