As customary with every Diwali celebration, Manali becomes a mountain festival, with pine trees covered in fairy lights, laughter coming from within cafes and tourists outside taking in the festive spirit of the Himalayan mountains.
This year, however, there is a twist.
Diwali 2025 is an early Diwali, it falls for some between October 18 and 23 with the primary Lakshmi Puja taking place on Monday, October 20 (some calendars say October 21 depending on the city).
This changes everything for visitors to Manali.
Why 2025 Is the Best Year to Celebrate Diwali in Manali
The early Diwali celebration this year will allow you to enjoy the peak autumn beauty in Manali at its fullness before tourists begin to arrive. Here’s why this is the sweet spot you’ve been waiting for:
1. The Weather:
You will enjoy golden sunshine, cool evenings, and crisp mountain air at the end of October. It will be pleasantly warm (15-18°C). It will drop down to 5-6°C, giving you the satisfaction of strolling, warming by bonfires, and being at riverside cafes.
2. The Hotels Are Still in Off-Season:
Since Diwali is prior to tourism season, prices on most hotels, Volvos, and local taxis will still be at off-season rates. Expect 20-30% tariff lower than in November and December
3. Less Crowds = More Comfort:
Although school will have gone back in shortly after Diwali, it is also not wedding season, therefore traffic will be lighter, and you won’t be waiting in lines at Solang and Atal Tunnel. You will have peaceful sightseeing days.
4. The possibility of Early Snowfall:
You may be lucky to see a light sprinkling of snow at Sissu, Koksar, or Atal Tunnel North.
Portal — the perfect pre-winter touch to your mountain getaway.
“It is a rare time of the year when Manali is a festive and quiet place, a celebration without the holiday frenzy.”
What to Expect in Manali During Diwali Week (October 18–23)
Manali’s Diwali isn’t about noise — it’s about warmth, light, and local charm.
- The town glows with diyas and lanterns along Mall Road and Old Manali.
- Local temples like Siyali Mahadev host evening aartis with devotional music.
- Cafés organize bonfire nights, acoustic sessions, and festive dinners.
- Locals exchange sweets with travellers, giving Diwali a community feel.
Even at its busiest, you’ll still find calm corners — riverside trails, mountain-view cafés, and open spaces where you can just breathe.
Is Manali Crowded During Diwali 2025?
Not really.
You will see energy and buzz – but the early Diwali in 2025 means thinner crowds compared to last year earlier in the season.
Here’s the real story:
- Hotel occupancy is expected near 65-75 %, not full.
- Traffic moving through the Atal Tunnel and Solang Valley only ebbs midday.
- You can get last-minute bookings at Naggar, Prini, Burua.
“It’s lively enough to feel festive – yet open enough to feel free.”
Weather Snapshot for Diwali in Manali (October 2025)
Daytime: Temperatures will be 15–18°C– Suitable for viewing sites, documenting your travels, or paragliding.
Night-time: Temperatures will be 4–6 ° C — You would need a sweater.
Chance of Snow: There is a moderate chance of snow near Sissu and in the Lahaul Valley.
Sky: Golden sunsets and a clear blue sky – Perfect for drones and long drives.
If you have only seen Manali in the snow, it will be lovely to see the Diwali glow; green valleys slowly turning golden and yellow.
How to Experience Diwali in Manali Without the Rush
Here are ways to take advantage of the early, calm holiday window of time:
Book early, travel light in the mountain: Make a hotel reservation and your Volvo seats before October 10th to lock in the best prices.
Be outside of the main town: Stay in Naggar or Vashisht or Hamta Valley, for peaceful evenings and beautiful morning views.
Drive in the morning by 9 am you can move freely, with no other vehicles on the road and the sunrise light, into the Atal tunnel or out to Sissu.
Get into the local spirit: Attend the Diwali aarti at Siyali Mahadev temple, Braham or have a small bonfire at your homestay.
Safety & Road Conditions (Updated October 2025)
Highway: The road between Chandigarh and Manali is clear.
Atal Tunnel: This is completely open to all vehicles. There may be minor snow but the BRO clears the snow each day.
Local routes (Naggar, Solang, Hamta): Both roads are safe and scenic.
Tip: After 7 PM, please do not drive because of poor visibility from fog. I suggest you take a layer, gloves and caps for the evenings.
Manali is completely safe for couples, families or solo travellers during Diwali week.
FAQs – Diwali Travel in Manali 2025
Q: Is Manali crowded during Diwali 2025?
A: No. Expect moderate, festive crowds — lively but manageable.
Q: What are the exact Diwali dates in 2025?
A: The Diwali period is October 18–23, with Lakshmi Puja on October 20 (Monday) in most calendars.
Q: Will I get to see snow in Manali during Diwali?
A: Light snow is possible near Sissu or Koksar, especially if temperatures dip below zero.
Q: Is it safe to drive from Delhi or Chandigarh during Diwali?
A: Yes, roads are fully open. Just start early and avoid late-night travel.
Q: Are hotel prices cheaper this year?
A: Yes. Since Diwali is early, most properties are still in pre-winter pricing — perfect for travellers seeking value.
Final Verdict — This Is the Best Diwali to Visit Manali
In 2025, you get a rare Diwali – one that’s got festive warmth without festive chaos.
Manali this October will be memorable, easy, and peaceful – the kind of place where you can be festive under real stars, not artificial city lights.
This year, skip the smoke and enjoy the sparkle in Manali.
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Also read: Is Sissu Open for Tourists After Recent Heavy Snowfall? (October 2025 Live