How to Reach Shimla by Air, Bus, Train & Road

If you want to have a great Shimla trip, Trip Planners India is ideal. They provide the greatest choice of customisable Shimla tours from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. Choose from the vacation packages to Shimla, which offer exceptional offers and discounts. The Shimla Tour Packages feature a choice of immersive tours and activities that allow you to visit the main Shimla sightseeing attractions.

If you're wondering how to reach Shimla, the best alternative is to take a direct AC bus or Volvo from Delhi or Chandigarh. One can reach Delhi or Chandigarh via train or flight, depending on their preference. The distance between Delhi and Shimla is around 342 kilometres, while Chandigarh is merely four hours distant by car.

Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Shimla attracts tourists from all around the world, not only India. Shimla is located at an elevation of 2274 metres above sea level. Given the vast number of people who visit Shimla each year, it is critical to understand how to get there as well as the best time to visit Shimla.

Let us now look briefly at how to reach Shimla using the various modes of transport available.

How to Reach Shimla by Air

Shimla Airport, also known as Jubbarhatti Airport, is one of the smallest of any hill station airports. It is located approximately 25 kilometres from the main metropolis. It's definitely one of the smallest airstrips, and the plane ride is a little bumpy after landing. However, because this airport is not open all year, Chandigarh or Delhi are better options for connecting flights.

When flying to Chandigarh with the Shimla tour packages, most travellers choose to book taxis for the three to four-hour journey to Shimla. Regular buses are also available. Shimla is around 7 to 8 hours away from Delhi's airport.

How to Reach Shimla by Road

Shimla is well-connected by road to other important cities in North India. There are direct buses to Shimla from New Delhi, Chandigarh, Kullu, and Manali. HSRTC's bus service is excellent, with many AC and non-AC buses running from these places to Shimla. Shimla is approximately 8 hours away by vehicle from New Delhi. 

The distance between Shimla and New Delhi is approximately 325 kilometres. Many taxis are accessible from New Delhi to Shimla. Most people prefer to travel to Shimla from Delhi by road because it is a pleasant route, and you can view the breathtaking sights along the way.

How to Reach Shimla by Train

The Kalka Railway Station, around 90 kilometres from Shimla, is the nearest wide-gauge railway station. The train ride from Kalka to this destination takes approximately 5-6 hours. However, the stunning scenery and numerous tunnels compensate for the longer journey time.

Every day, approximately three or four trains depart Kalka for Shimla. Another option is to go by railcar, which is unique to India. Shimla and Chandigarh Railway Stations are approximately 113 kilometres apart. Shimla is connected to both railway stations by a network of local buses and taxis. Shimla has its own railway station; however, it is only served by narrow gauge trains that originate in Kalka.

How to Reach Shimla by Bus

Buses are one of the most popular modes of transportation to Shimla. Shimla is one of India's most popular tourist destinations, with daily buses from Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Jaipur, and Chandigarh. It is well connected to the majority of northern Indian cities. 

Travelling from Chandigarh to Shimla by bus is not a long journey, but if you are travelling from Delhi, it is advisable to take the overnight luxury bus that is air-conditioned. It is a pleasant overnight drive that provides a spectacular picture of Shimla when you wake up and open your eyes. Buses to Shimla leave either in the morning or late at night. 

How to Reach Shimla From Different Cities

Let’s check out the different modes through which you can reach Shimla: 

How to reach Shimla from Delhi

• By Air: Shimla is serviced by the airport in Jubbarhatti, which is 22 kilometres from the town. There is one direct flight that flies daily and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Take a flight to enjoy the best adventure activities in Shimla.
• By Train: There is no direct train to Shimla from Delhi, one of the best tourist places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The train makes a halt at Kalka station (placed in the basins of the Shivalik ranges) before continuing to Shimla. The train from Delhi to Kalka is broad gauge, whereas the one from Kalka to Shimla is narrow gauge. Also, you can explore some of the places to visit near Delhi for 2 days.
• By Bus: Frequent bus services are operating between Delhi and Shimla. Both government and commercial carriers operate day and night buses, and you can book them with the Shimla tour packages from Delhi. There are many types of buses available, including AC Volvo, AC Deluxe, Non-AC Deluxe, and Non-AC Ordinary. In between, you can explore places to visit near Delhi's must-visit sites.

How to reach Shimla from Jaipur

• By Air: The quickest way to get to Shimla, one of the best places to visit in North India from Jaipur, is by plane. You can fly directly from Jaipur International Airport to Chandigarh Airport, Shimla's nearest airport. The flight lasts around 1 hour and 15 minutes. 
• By Train: Though there is no direct train link between Jaipur and Shimla, one of the best hill stations in India, you can still enjoy a magnificent train ride by travelling from Jaipur to Kalka, a town near Shimla. From Kalka, travel on the famed Kalka-Shimla toy train.
• By Road: Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and one of the popular historical places in India, lies about 570 kilometres southwest of Shimla, a lovely hill station in Himachal Pradesh. The journey by road takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and the route chosen.

How to reach Shimla from Manali

• By Air: Manali's nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport, also known as Bhuntar Airport. Flights between Kullu and Delhi are available. However, they are infrequent and costly if you wish to travel to offbeat places in Himachal.
• By Train: Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the nearest station to Manali. It is located approximately 160 kilometres from Manali. 
• By Road: Manali, one of the best places to visit in India with family, is well connected by road. You may travel by bus or cab from adjacent cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. However, severe snowfall during the winter months may cause the roads leading to Manali to close. Before planning your trip, make sure to check the weather and road conditions.

How to reach Shimla from Hyderabad

• By Air: Schedule a flight from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) to either Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) or Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) with the Shimla tour packages from Hyderabad. Then, from Chandigarh, you can take a bus or taxi to Shimla.
• By Train: You can go by train from Hyderabad to Kalka (the nearest major railway station to Shimla). From Kalka, you can take the toy train or a taxi to Shimla.
• By Road: If you want to drive or take a bus, you may cover around 1,800 kilometres via road. This would take approximately 30-35 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The primary route often follows NH44 and NH5. 

How to reach Shimla from Chennai

• By Air: Book a flight from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi with the Shimla tour packages from Chennai. The flight lasts around 2 to 3 hours.
• By Train: You can also take the train straight from Chennai to Kalka or Ambala. From Kalka or Ambala, you'll need to take a taxi or bus to Shimla. This alternative may take longer, but it can provide a scenic and delightful experience.
• By Road: If you choose to drive, you can make a long journey from Chennai to Shimla. The journey is about 2,400 kilometres, and it will take many days, depending on your route and stops.

How to reach Shimla from Chandigarh

• By Air: The nearest airport to Shimla is Jubbarhatti Airport, which is approximately 22 kilometres away. There are a limited number of flights from Chandigarh to Shimla. If you pick this option, you must organise transportation from the airport to Shimla by purchasing Himachal tour packages.
• By Train: Shimla's nearest major railway station is Kalka. Take a train from Chandigarh to Kalka with the Shimla tour packages, then change to the Kalka-Shimla toy train or a taxi. The toy train ride lasts approximately 5-6 hours and provides stunning sights.
• By Bus: Several state-run and private bus routes connect Chandigarh to Shimla. The journey with the Shimla tour packages from Chandigarh usually takes 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and the type of bus. Buses depart from the Chandigarh Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT).

How to reach Shimla from Mumbai

• By Air: The quickest route is to travel from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai) to Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla) with the Shimla tour packages from Mumbai. Several airlines offer flights on this route. The flight lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours.
• By Train: You can take a train from Mumbai to Kalka, the closest major railway station to Shimla. This route is covered by trains such as the Kalka Mail and the Maharashtra Express. The trip takes approximately 16 to 20 hours.
• By Road: If you want to drive or take the bus, you may cover around 1,800 kilometres. The trip takes approximately 30-35 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. 

How to reach Shimla from Pune

• By Air: Schedule a direct flight from Pune International Airport (PNQ) to Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) with the Shimla tour packages from Pune. Then, from Chandigarh Airport, you can take a taxi (3-4 hours) or a bus to Shimla.
• By Train: Take the train from Pune Junction (PUNE) to Kalka. Several trains operate on this route, and the journey can take between 22 and 24 hours. From Kalka, ride the famed toy train to Shimla.
• By Road: You can drive or take a taxi from Pune to Shimla and visit Summer Hills, one of the best places to visit in Shimla. The route is around 1,700 kilometres and can take 30 to 35 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route typically goes via NH 48 and NH 5.

How to reach Shimla from Kalka

• By Air: Although Shimla has an airport, there are no flights between Kalka and Shimla. Shimla is served by Shimla Airport, located at Jubbarhatti, 22 kilometres from the city centre. You may fly from Chandigarh to Shimla. Chandigarh is 39 kilometres from Kalka. 
• By Train: The historical narrow-gauge toy train is a popular and scenic choice. The travel takes approximately 5-6 hours, and trains run regularly throughout the day. 
• By Bus: Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) provides daily bus service between Kalka and Shimla. The buses are comfortable, and the travel takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Important Tips and Guidelines

If you are planning a trip to Shimla, it is important to be informed of the DOs and DON'Ts to ensure that your trip goes smoothly.

Do’s:

• Respect the local culture and traditions: Himachal Pradesh has a rich cultural heritage, which should be respected. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering a Himachal Pradesh famous temple or someone's home, and respect local customs.
• Protect the environment: Himachal Pradesh is famed for its natural beauty. Thus, it is important to protect it by not littering, discarding cigarette butts, or creating any harm to the natural surroundings.
• Get vaccinated: Himachal Pradesh is located in an area prone to disease epidemics like influenza, hepatitis A, and typhoid. It is critical to get vaccinated to protect yourself from these illnesses.

Don'ts:

• Don't drink and drive: Drinking and driving is banned in Shimla, one of the top 10 tourist places in Himachal Pradesh, and it can have serious consequences. If you plan on drinking, make sure to have a designated driver or take a taxi or public transportation.
• Don’t carry or use illegal drugs: Carrying or using illegal narcotics is unlawful in Himachal Pradesh, and doing so can have serious consequences.
• Do not take pictures of sensitive locations: Some areas in Himachal Pradesh may be sensitive, and photographing them may be restricted. When taking photos, always be sure to follow local laws and customs.

How to Commute Within Shimla

You can choose among them to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. The availability of these choices is dependent on the roads. The types of transportation available there take you through vast landscapes with blooming wildflowers, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and the banks of streams. 

When travelling through the breathtaking Shimla valley, you will have those unique road experiences that you have seen in movies. Many tour operators in Shimla offer transportation services. In this post, we have listed the four most convenient transit solutions that will conform to your itinerary.

• Taxi and cab services
• Bike rental services
• Public transportations
• Private transportations

Conclusion

To reach Shimla with Trip Planners India, first select a package that includes travel from major cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh, or Mumbai. You can go on an amazing road excursion in luxurious buses or private vehicles, or you can take the incredible Toy Train to Shimla from Kalka with the best tour planners India. 

Flights to Chandigarh or Shimla Airport are possible, followed by a scenic drive over the mountains. The best tour package in India guarantees smooth, well-organised travel with comfortable accommodations and guided tours for an unforgettable Shimla experience.