Volvo Bus Operations Bolstering Tourism in Himachal
The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has expanded its Volvo bus services across Himachal Pradesh, catering to a wide range of travel needs with varying schedules, routes, and booking options.
### Routes and Schedules
HRTC operates an extensive network of Volvo bus services, connecting major cities such as Delhi, Leh, Manali, and Chandigarh, as well as several tourist destinations and remote areas like Kinnaur and Leh. One of the most challenging yet reliable routes is the seasonal service from Delhi to Leh via Keylong and Manali, which begins on July 1 and lasts until September when snowfall blocks the Manali-Leh highway. The journey takes approximately 32 to 36 hours, with stops at Mandi, Kullu, Manali, and Keylong. Beyond Keylong, passengers can take ordinary buses to Leh[1].
Another notable route is the daily service between Manali and Chandigarh, with more than 34 buses departing from Manali daily, starting at 8:00 AM and ending at 9:30 PM. Buses include Volvo, AC/non-AC sleeper, Dulux, and seater types, with major boarding points including Manali, Kullu, Kangra, Palampur, and Mandi[3].
HRTC also runs buses on various routes such as Pathankot to Kullu, Shimla, Palampur, and Chandigarh, connecting numerous towns within Himachal Pradesh and adjacent states[2][3].
### Booking Options
For added convenience, HRTC offers online booking through official platforms such as the HRTC website (http://www.hrtchp.com/) and popular third-party portals like Paytm and AbhiBus. These platforms enable travellers to select their journey type (one way/round trip), bus type (Volvo/seater/sleeper), and check AC bus availability. Online booking is quick, hassle-free, and often comes with promotional offers or cashback[2][4][5].
In addition to online booking, physical counters are available at major bus stands like Solan and Keylong for reservations and queries, with contact numbers provided for assistance[4][5].
### Summary Table
| Route | Bus Type | Schedule | Booking Options | Notes | |------------------------|----------------------|---------------------------------|---------------------------------|-----------------------------------------| | Delhi to Keylong (Volvo) | Volvo luxury | Starts July 1, seasonal (till Sep) | Online & counters | Challenging mountain route, 32-36 hrs | | Keylong to Leh | Ordinary bus | Seasonal | At station | Connects from Keylong for Leh journey | | Manali to Chandigarh | Volvo, AC/non-AC | First bus 8:00 AM, last 9:30 PM | Online & counters | Multiple types including Dulux & sleeper| | Various other Himachal routes | Volvo, sleeper, seater | Daily, multiple timings | Online booking portals | Wide network covering 647 destinations |
For the most updated schedules and bookings, it is recommended to check the official HRTC website or trusted booking platforms shortly before travel due to seasonal variations and road conditions[2][4].
In conclusion, HRTC’s Volvo bus service provides a diverse range of routes primarily linking major cities and tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring states, with convenient online booking and diverse bus types catering to different preferences and budgets. The Delhi to Leh Volvo service via Keylong is a highlight, offering a blend of luxury travel and rugged Himalayan routes[1][2][3][4].
The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) also extends its services to various lifestyle destinations, including financial centers such as Chandigarh and imaginative cities like Leh. Travelers can choose from a selection of automotive options, such as Volvo buses, while exploring the panoramic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. For those interested in adventure and exploration, the transportation industry provides opportunities to experience remote regions like Kinnaur and Manali, catering to an array of lifestyle preferences and needs. By choosing HRTC's services, individuals can enjoy comfortable journeys and convenient booking options for an unforgettable travel experience.
