Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is also one of the most popular hill stations in North India. Hugged by pine trees, snow-covered mountains, and colonial architecture, it is the favorite getaway from the hustle of Delhi. Thousands of people visit here each year for weekend breaks, honeymoons, and family vacations.
Delhi to Shimla is a well-traveled highway and there are quite a few ways one can reach there — by train, bus, taxi, Tempo Traveller, or even flight. Read on for a detailed guide that shall assist you in choosing the best mode of transport for your journey.
What Is the Distance from Delhi to Shimla?
The distance via road from Delhi to Shimla is approximately 340 km. Depending upon the volume of traffic, weather conditions and number of halts, it takes typically 7 to 9 hours.
The initial distance is covered on flat highways in Haryana and Punjab, and the final leg is done on twisting hill roads in Himachal Pradesh. The variance of scenery, from urban traffic to serene hills, adds interest to the trip.
What Is the Best Road Route from Delhi to Shimla?
The most popular route is:
Delhi → Sonipat → Panipat → Karnal → Kurukshetra → Ambala → Chandigarh → Kalka → Solan → Shimla
You will drive on NH44 up to Chandigarh and then take NH5 to Shimla. This road has good roads and plenty of eating joints such as dhabas, cafés, and fast-food restaurants.
If you depart early morning, 5–6 AM, you miss heavy Delhi and Haryana traffic and can arrive in Shimla by early afternoon.
How to Travel from Delhi to Shimla by Train?
There is no direct train from Delhi to Shimla. The train travel has two parts:
Delhi to Kalka – Trains such as the Shatabdi Express, Himalayan Queen, and Kalka Mail operate daily. Journey time is approximately 4–5 hours.
Kalka to Shimla – This sector is catered to by the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage journey that takes 5–6 hours. It traverses 102 tunnels, picturesque valleys, and vintage railway stations.
Though the toy train takes longer than a car trip, it provides incomparable scenery and a romantic travel experience. Most tourists opt for the train for the scenery.
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How to Travel from Delhi to Shimla by Bus?
Buses are also affordable and comfortable means of getting to Shimla. Government and private operators both run regular services.
Operators: HRTC, Himachal Tourism and private bus operators.
Starting Points in Delhi: ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Majnu Ka Tilla.
Travel Time: 8–9 hours.
You have the option of regular buses, deluxe buses or Volvo AC buses. Overnight buses are also favored since they leave daytime free for sightseeing. After reaching Shimla ISBT, you can take a taxi or walk to your hotel based on the location.
How to Go from Delhi to Shimla by Taxi?
A taxi would be the most comfortable option if you are traveling with family or prefer a personal journey.
Travel Time: Approximately 7–8 hours.
Cost: ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 for one way, depending on the vehicle type (sedan, SUV, or luxury).
Advantage: You may stop whenever you desire for food, photography, or short breaks.
Taxis may be hired online or from travel agencies. The journey is smooth, and you won’t have to worry about driving.
How to Travel from Delhi to Shimla by Tempo Traveller?
For group of office colleagues, friends, or a big family, a Tempo Traveller is the ideal choice.
Seating Choices: 9-seater, 12-seater, 14-seater, and 17-seater.
Amenities: Pushback seats, music system, air conditioning, and ample luggage space.
Advantage: All can travel together and the journey is pleasant and cost-effective when shared costs.
Tempo Travellers are created for long travels, thus the journey is more comfortable than in several small vehicles.
Read More: 7 Perfect Road Trips from Delhi
Can You Fly from Delhi to Shimla?
There exists a little airport at Jubbarhatti, which is about 22 km from the actual city. Flight possibilities are extremely limited, costly, and weather-dependent in most cases.
A preferable option is to take the flight from Delhi to Chandigarh Airport and drive or take a bus/taxi from there to Shimla. The road trip from Chandigarh to Shimla is for 3–4 hours and gives picturesque hill views.
What Are the Best Attractions in Shimla?
Shimla is a famous hill station with numerous locations reflecting its natural beauty and history. Some of the best attractions you can visit are listed below:
The Ridge – This open area in the center of Shimla provides broad vistas of the mountains. It is the best location for evening strolls, local festivals, and photography.
Mall Road – The central street of Shimla has shops, cafes and restaurants. You can experience the Himachali cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and experience the boisterous climate.
Jakhoo Temple – It is on Jakhoo Hill and has a temple devoted to Lord Hanuman. It provides a full view of the town and the surrounding mountains.
Christ Church – The oldest church in North India, famous for its neo-gothic architecture and stained glass windows. It is a city landmark.
Kufri – A hill station 16 km from Shimla, well known for winter snow sports, horse riding and mountain viewpoints.
Green Valley – In pine and deodar trees, it is a serene nature walk and photogenic location.
Annandale – A level land that hosts a golf course and a picnic place. It is covered with dense forests and is ideal for a peaceful visit.
Mashobra and Naldehra – Famous for apple orchards and pine forests, these areas are also home to picturesque walking trails and a lovely golf course.
When Is the Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Shimla?
Summer (March to June) – The weather is pleasant and good for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Monsoon (July to September) – The hills look green and fresh but there can be chances of landslides.
Winter (October to February) – The weather is cold and you may see snowfall in December and January.
Travel Tips You Should Know Before Going to Shimla
Start your trip early in the morning so you can enjoy the hill drive in daylight.
Carry light woollen clothes in summer and heavy jackets in winter.
If you are traveling in the holiday season book your tickets or taxi early.
In the rainy season check the weather and road conditions before you go.
Final Words
Traveling from Delhi to Shimla is simple and pleasant due to the numerous transport options. Whether by the picturesque toy train, the luxury of a taxi, the affordability of a bus or a party tour in a Tempo Traveller, there is every kind of experience. The travel itself is made up of alternating surroundings, from city roads to refreshing mountain drives.
When you reach there, Shimla greets you with cool air, pine-clad mountains and a combination of nature and history, making the journey worthwhile every kilometre.
