Top 5 best scooter rentals in Manali

Scooter Rental in Manali – Practical Guidelines 

Required documents vary between rental companies, but common rules are as follows:

1. You can rent a small 50cc scooter with an ordinary B (car) licence or AM license;
2. You will need a car license or A1 (scooter) or A2 (small moto) driving licence for scooters with an engine capacity of 125cc;
3. A full moto licence (A class) is required for all scooters with an engine capacity more than 125cc.
   Some rental companies ask for an International Drivers Permit (IDP) and security deposit (cash or card); always check the terms of specific providers on the booking page before making a reservation.

Scooter Types and Local Suitability

Manali’s altitude (2,050m) and cool climate affect engine performance — smaller displacements (50cc–110cc) may struggle on sustained climbs. Most rental companies therefore prioritise 110cc–125cc scooters (Honda Activa 6G, Suzuki Access, TVS Jupiter) for their torque, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Vespa-style models are available but less common due to higher maintenance needs in dusty conditions. Three-wheelers are offered for riders seeking stability on descents. Electric scooters exist but have limited range in hilly terrain and are not recommended for routes beyond Old Manali.

Key Riding Considerations in the Kullu Valley

Road surfaces vary significantly: Mall Road is smooth, but the Old Manali road has potholes after monsoon, and the Vashisht approach includes loose gravel. Two-wheelers are banned from the Rohtang Pass itself (only permitted vehicles with permits allowed), but scooters can reach the base at Marhi (30 km) — though this is a full-day commitment requiring fitness and experience. Night riding is discouraged beyond Aleo due to lack of street lighting and animal crossings. Fuel stations are sparse outside Manali town — always fill up before heading out.

Extra Services Offered by Local Rental Companies

Depending on the provider, you may add: integral helmet (second), GPS navigation with offline hill maps, intercom for rider-pillion communication, unlimited mileage, top case for luggage, side cases, gloves, jacket, individual guide or tour (e.g., cultural loop), printed map, full insurance (highly recommended for mountain roads), one-way rental (e.g., Manali to Solang), and delivery to your hotel, bus stand, or Bhuntar Airport.

Top Destinations Accessible by Scooter

1. Old Manali – 3 km, iconic cafes, murals, river views
2. Vashisht Village and Hot Springs – 4 km, spiritual site, natural sulphur baths
3. Solang Valley base – 13 km, adventure sports hub, cable car access
4. Aleo Riverside Park – 2 km, picnic spots, gentle currents
5. Prini and apple orchards – 4 km, agritourism, farmstays
6. Naggar (partial route) – 22 km, scenic but steep — 125cc recommended
7. Kothi and Rani Temple – 10 km, waterfall, quiet valley
8. Jogini Falls trailhead – 6 km, short ride + 1 km hike
9. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary periphery – 8 km, birdwatching, forest edge
10. Marhi (Rohtang base camp) – 30 km, high-altitude stop, seasonal (May–Oct)

Booking and Support Protocol

Most rental companies operate near Mall Road or near the bus stand. Pre-booking online ensures model availability — especially during peak season (April–June, September–October). All provide a basic safety check (brakes, lights, tire pressure) and route advice. Emergency assistance is limited to central zones; riders on longer trips should carry a charged phone and share their itinerary.

On our website you can find the best deals for scooter hire in Manali; compare prices for scooter rental; read reviews of previous customers; and reserve a scooter online at a Guaranteed Best Price! Have a nice trip!