Best dhabas on the Chandigarh–Manali route

The Chandigarh–Manali drive is eight to ten hours. Good dhabas aren't luxury — they're clean loos, hot food, and parking that fits a Volvo.

Mandi

Raju Bhature wala near the bus stand — solid early breakfast stop if you left Chandigarh at 5 am. Paratha and chai before the climb gets serious.

Sundernagar

Lake-view dhabas on NH-21 serve decent paratha and rajma. Parking is easier than Mandi town centre.

Before Aut tunnel

Several clean options with turnover high enough that food isn't sitting for hours. Good last stop before Manali traffic.

What to skip

Random hill-side shacks in monsoon — low turnover means risky hygiene. Stick to busy places even if the view is less romantic.