While Auckland heads to the beach, your family could be building a snowman in the Himalayan foothills. Here is how to plan it.
Quick answer: can I do a Shimla and Manali trip from New Zealand in the summer holidays?
Yes. Fly from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch or Queenstown to Delhi, then travel north by train and road. Snow in Shimla and Manali typically falls from December to February, so the school holidays can work well. Plan at least ten days away, because the journey is long and mountain weather can slow roads. Book flights early, as the December holiday period is busy.
Why Shimla and Manali in a Kiwi summer?
Most of us spend the summer holidays outdoors in the sun. Himachal Pradesh in the Indian Himalaya is the opposite. It is cold, quiet and often white. For children who have never seen real snow, it is a big moment.
Shimla is a hill town with colonial-era buildings, a long pedestrian Mall and old pine forests. Manali sits further north in the Kullu valley, closer to the high peaks. Together they make a good loop, and you can add Delhi on either end for family and shopping.
New Zealand’s Term 4 ends no later than Friday 18 December 2026, and each school sets its own last day, so check yours. That gives many families a window to travel in late December and January.
Getting there: Auckland to Delhi
Distances in Kerala can feel long on winding roads, so do not pack too much into each day. Two or three bases usually works best.
Delhi to Shimla and Manali: your options
There are a few ways north. The right one depends on your group, your luggage and how much you enjoy a long drive. These times are approximate and come from travel guides, so confirm current timetables before you go.
Route | Approx. time | Best for |
Delhi to Kalka by train, then the toy train to Shimla | About 4 hours to Kalka, then 5 to 6 hours on the toy train (96 km) | Families who want the scenic ride. Book ahead, as the best services sell out. |
Delhi to Chandigarh by train, then a taxi to Shimla | Faster rail leg, then a road transfer | Saving time with young children |
Shimla to Manali by road | About 250 km, typically 7 to 8 hours | Linking the two towns. Start early and expect winding roads. |
Delhi to Manali by road | Roughly 10 to 13 hours, depending on traffic | Flexible groups using a private driver |
A common pattern is Delhi, Shimla, Manali, then back to Delhi. Mann Travel books the flights and hotels. For trains and local drivers, you can book through the official channels or a local operator you trust.
Where to find snow, and when
Snow in Manali is typically most reliable from December through to mid-February, though timing shifts from year to year. Shimla also sees snow in winter, but not every day. Nobody can promise a white Christmas, so keep your plans flexible.
Rohtang Pass is typically closed in winter, so do not count on visiting it. Many visitors head to Solang Valley or towards the Atal Tunnel instead. Roads can close quickly after heavy snow, and this did happen near the Atal Tunnel in January 2026. Ask your hotel about current road conditions each morning.
What to wear: from jandals to thermals
This is the big contrast for Kiwi families. You leave in summer clothes and land in winter. Layers are the answer.
Back home in summer | In the Himalayan winter |
Shorts, jandals, sunhat | Thermal base layers, warm socks, waterproof boots |
Light jacket for the evening | Padded jacket, beanie, gloves, scarf |
Sunscreen for the beach | Sunscreen and sunglasses for bright snow |
6 tips for a smoother trip
1. Give yourself buffer days
Snow can delay roads. Do not book a tight connection straight after a mountain drive.
2. Book the toy train early
Seats on the popular Kalka to Shimla services can sell out, so reserve as soon as your dates are set.
3. Rest in Delhi first
Jet lag and winding roads do not mix well. One easy night in Delhi helps everyone.
4. Pack light, layer well
Mountain taxis have limited boot space. Soft bags are easier than hard suitcases.
5. Carry travel medicine
Bring motion-sickness tablets for the hill roads, plus any regular prescriptions.
6. Use MannPass if you work or study in education
Verified NZ students, teachers, lecturers and education staff can join Mann Travel Offer for $25 off selected return flights between New Zealand and India. It is valid for 30 days, can be renewed, and cannot be combined with other offers.
Travelling with children or grandparents
- Check your documents early. Check the Indian visa requirements for your passport on the official Indian visa website, and read the NZ Government’s advice at SafeTravel. Mann Travel does not process visas.
- Keep altitude in mind. Manali sits at roughly 2,000 metres. Take it slowly on arrival, drink plenty of water and speak to your doctor before travelling if anyone has health concerns.
- Choose family-friendly stays. Ask for heated rooms and a ground-floor option for older relatives.
- Travel insurance matters. Make sure your policy covers winter activities and mountain travel.
- Book as one group. It keeps seats together and makes changes easier.
Why book with Mann Travel?
Mann Travel specialises in flights and hotels to India. Our Auckland team speaks Hindi, Punjabi and English, supports families and groups, and is on call 24/7. We offer flexible payment options such as PayLite and Afterpay. If you are tracking prices, ask us for a live fare for your dates.
Let’s take you home, or somewhere new.
Search live fares at manntravel.co.nz/flights or call our Auckland team on 09 973 1940. You can also contact us online.
frequently asked questions
When does it snow in Shimla and Manali?
Snow typically falls from December to February, and Manali is usually the more reliable of the two. Timing varies each year, so keep your plans flexible.
How long should I allow for a Shimla and Manali trip?
Plan at least ten days away from New Zealand. That covers the flights, a rest day in Delhi and a few nights in each hill town.
How do I get from Delhi to Shimla?
Most people take a train to Kalka or Chandigarh, then the toy train or a taxi to Shimla. Check current timetables before you book.
Which New Zealand cities can I fly to India from?
Mann Travel books flights to India from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.
Do I need a visa to visit India from New Zealand?
Requirements depend on your passport. Check the official Indian visa website before you book. Mann Travel does not process visas.
Fares and availability change daily and depend on the airline, date and fare type. Road, rail and snow conditions change quickly, so check current information before you travel.
