Chandigarh to Mcleodganj

There are regular buses between McLeod Ganj and Chandigarh that make travelling to the destinations by roadways an affordable deal for travellers. About 11 to 12 buses head to McLeod Ganj every day from Chandigarh, covering a distance of about 260 kilometres. The journey lasts approximately 8 hours and includes some stops in between. Most buses depart in the evening and only a few in the afternoon. Those who prefer reaching McLeod Ganj early in the morning to explore it all through the day can book one of the evening rides. Those who prefer travelling during the day can opt for the buses that depart from Chandigarh around afternoon. But, because the number of day-time departures is very less, it is recommended that travellers book their tickets well in advance. Ticket bookings can be done at the ticket counters. Online platforms like redbus are also available for instant bookings and ticket confirmations.

Available Bus Options

Other than a bus ride, another preferred way to have a long road trip is to either drive one’s own vehicle up to McLeod Ganj or rent a cab. Because of the flourishing tourism in the region, one can easily book taxis/ cabs according to their convenience from Chandigarh. The best part of booking a cab is that travellers can stop at their own will and also cover attractions and destinations on the route. Usually, a non-stop drive to McLeod Ganj from Chandigarh takes around 6 to 7 hours. So, if stopping and exploring is on one’s mind, people can start early to make the most of the day.

 Tours and Travel Companies in Chandigarh offer not just a cab ride but also tour packages to tourists. Outstation trips with overnight bookings can be done for ease and convenience. One can book hatchbacks, sports utility vehicles, tempo travellers, minivans, sedans etc. depending on the number of people travelling and their preference or convenience. Online platforms like GoZo, Savaari and Clear Car Rental can be a good option, especially for those who want instant bookings.

The Routes That Can Be Taken

Route 1: The NH 205 Route

253 Kilometres, 6 hours

NH 205 – Chandigarh Una Road – Chandigarh Nangal Road – SH 22/ Chandigarh Una Road – SH 25/ Una Nangal Road – Amb Road – SH 25/ N 3/ Mubarakpur Road – NH 503/ Bharwain Road – NH 303 – SH 23 – Kangra Bypass – NH 154 – Dharamshala Gaggal Road – SH 17 – MDR 44/ Yol Road – SH 17 – Dharamshala Khanyara Road/ Dharamshala McLeod Ganj Road – Jogiwara Road – Bhagsu Road – Dharamsala McLeod Ganj Road – Sacred Dal Lake Road – Mall Road. McLeod Ganj is about 80 metres away from Mall Road.

Route 2: The SH 24 Route

261 Kilometres, 6 hours approximately

NH 5 – NH 205 – Rupnagar Bypass/ Power Colony Road – SH 24 – Garhashankar Nawanshahr Road/ Garhashankar Balachaur Road – Hoshiarpur Bypass Road – Chandigarh Road – SH 24 – Mall Road – Dhobi Ghat Road – Kotla Road – NH 3 – NH 503 – Bharwain Road – NH 303 – NH 503/ SH 23 – Kangra Bypass – NH 154 – Dharamshala Gaggal Road – MDR 44/ SH 17/ Yol Road – Dharamshala McLeod Ganj Road – Dharamshala Khanyara Road – Jogiwara Road – Bhagsu Road – Dal Lake Road – Mall Road.

Route 3: The SH 39 Route

295 Kilometres, 8 hours approximately

NH 5 – NH 205 – Chandigarh Nangal Road – Chandigarh Una Road – NH 154 – Industrial Area Road – Roura Road – MDR 33/ Kandrour Road – NH 103 – Sujanpur Road/ SH 39/ NH 3 – SH 39 – NH 154 – Shri Chamunda Devi Temple – SH 17 – Dharamshala McLeod Ganj Road – Dharamshala Khanyara Road – Jogiwara Road – Bhagsu Road – Dharamshala McLeod Ganj Road – Sacred Dal Lake Road – Mall Road. McLeod Ganj is about 80 metres ahead.