Guide · 5 min read · Updated 2026-07-26

What to Pack for Manali — Winter and Summer Lists

The short answer

For a winter Manali trip, pack thermals, a proper insulated jacket, waterproof shoes with grip, gloves, a woollen cap, sunscreen and lip balm. For summer, pack layers, one warm jacket for the high-altitude days, rain protection and sun cover. In every season, the one item people underestimate is footwear with real grip.

Winter: December to March

Two sets of thermals, three to four warm layers, one insulated and preferably waterproof outer jacket, waterproof shoes or boots with grip, woollen socks, gloves, a cap that covers the ears and a scarf. Manali town runs roughly 0°C to 10°C by day, and Solang and Sissu are colder with wind on top. Rent heavy snow boots and jackets in Manali rather than buying them at home — one day's rental costs a fraction of a purchase you will never use again.

Summer: April to June

Daytime is 15°C to 25°C and comfortable in cottons, but any day that goes above 3,000 m — Rohtang, Sissu — needs a real jacket. Pack layers rather than one heavy coat, plus sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen. Mountain sun at altitude burns faster than plains sun at the same temperature.

Monsoon: July and August

A rain jacket rather than an umbrella, quick-drying clothes, waterproof bags for electronics, and shoes you accept will get wet. Also pack patience and a flexible return plan, because road closures happen.

The things people forget

Lip balm and moisturiser — the dry cold cracks skin fast. Sunscreen in winter, because snow glare is worse than summer sun. A power bank, since cold drains phone batteries quickly. Any regular medication, plus basic altitude and motion-sickness tablets. Original photo ID for hotel check-in, which is enforced strictly in Himachal.

What not to bring

Heavy suitcases, if you are on a bus package — the Volvo hold and hotel stairs both punish them. New shoes you have not broken in. Expensive jewellery. Drones, which need permissions you almost certainly do not have and which get you into trouble near the Atal Tunnel and border-road areas.

Guide facts
TopicWhat to Pack for Manali — Winter and Summer Lists
Reading time5 minutes
Written fromManali, Himachal Pradesh
Last updated2026-07-26
Applies to2026 season

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Packages this guide applies to

Manali 3 Nights / 4 Days Group Tour
Manali 3 Nights / 4 Days Group Tour
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  • Group
  • Ex Delhi

Manali 3 Nights / 4 Days Group Tour

First-timers who want the full Manali circuit without overspending

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Manali Couple Package 2N/3D from Delhi
Manali Couple Package 2N/3D from Delhi
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Manali Couple Package 2N/3D from Delhi

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Kullu Manali Kasol Tour Package 3N/4D
Kullu Manali Kasol Tour Package 3N/4D
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Kullu Manali Kasol Tour Package 3N/4D

Groups who want the Parvati valley added to the standard Manali circuit

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Shimla Manali Tour Package 4N/5D
Shimla Manali Tour Package 4N/5D
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Shimla Manali Tour Package 4N/5D

Families who want two hill stations in one holiday

₹11,999 ₹14,000 per person

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Questions people actually ask

Can I rent snow clothes in Manali?

Yes. Jackets, snow boots, gloves and trousers are all available on daily rent in Manali town and at Solang. Rent in town — the same items cost noticeably more at the Solang entrance.

How cold does Manali get in January?

Daytime temperatures in town typically sit between roughly 0°C and 8°C, with nights below freezing. Solang and Sissu are several degrees colder again, and wind chill makes the difference feel larger.

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