Shimla in Himachal Pradesh is a favorite spot for many travelers worldwide. Getting there is part of the adventure, whether you fly into the small Shimla Airport, ride the historic Kalka-Shimla Railway, or drive through scenic hills.
Each travel option offers unique experiences and challenges, shaping how you experience this charming town. Let’s dive into these choices a bit more. You might find some details that help you decide how to visit.
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| By Train | Nearest Station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km from Shimla) |
| Route: Kalka to Shimla by Toy Train (UNESCO World Heritage Site) | |
| Duration: Around 5-6 hours | |
| Frequency: Multiple trains daily; including Shivalik Express, Himalayan Queen | |
| By Air | Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (22 km from Shimla) |
| Flight Availability: Limited direct flights from major cities like Delhi | |
| Alternative Airports: Chandigarh International Airport (115 km from Shimla) | |
| From Airport to Shimla: Taxis or buses available | |
| By Road | From Delhi: 342 km (approximately 8 hours) |
| From Chandigarh: 114 km (approximately 4 hours) | |
| Bus Services: Regular HRTC, private buses from major cities (Volvo, deluxe, semi-deluxe options available) | |
| Taxi/Car Rental: Available from nearby cities like Chandigarh, Delhi | |
| Highway Routes: NH5 connects Shimla to major cities; scenic views and well-maintained roads |
Reaching Shimla by Air
Nearby airports and airline services
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Shimla Airport, also known as Jubbarhatti Airport, is the nearest domestic airport to Shimila. It’s about 22 kilometers from the city center and has around five flights a week from Delhi, making it an easy gateway for travelers.
If you’re coming from abroad, the closest major airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. You can take a prepaid taxi or a bus from Delhi to Shimla, about 350 kilometers away. The drive offers stunning views of Himachal Pradesh, transitioning from the busy capital to the peaceful hills of Shimla.
Reaching Shimila by Train
Connecting trains and scenic routes
Traveling to Shimla by train is a beautiful journey from Kalka. You can catch the daily Kalka Shatabdi from New Delhi to get there. Once in Kalka, the real adventure begins on the historic Kalka-Shimla Railway. This line, built in 1903, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It snakes through green mountains, offering breathtaking views.
The railway stretches for 96 kilometers, featuring 102 tunnels and 864 bridges. It passes through several quaint stations. The Barog tunnel, the longest one, and the old-timey station at Solan are particularly striking. This scenic train ride doesn’t just take you to Shimla—it also offers a peek into the area’s colonial past. It’s a memorable way to travel.
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Reaching Shimla by Road
Bus and car travel options
Shimla is easy to reach by road. You can take a bus or drive from big cities like New Delhi, Dehradun, and Chandigarh. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses are a cheap option. You can take a luxury bus from New Delhi if you want more comfort. These have reclining seats and air-conditioning.
| City | Distance to Shimla (in km) | Approximate Travel Time by Road |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 342 km | 7-8 hours |
| Chandigarh | 114 km | 3-4 hours |
| Manali | 248 km | 7-8 hours |
| Amritsar | 315 km | 6-7 hours |
| Dehradun | 227 km | 6-7 hours |
| Leh | 650 km | 18-20 hours |
| Jaipur | 570 km | 10-11 hours |
| Ludhiana | 199 km | 5-6 hours |
| Haridwar | 282 km | 7-8 hours |
| Agra | 440 km | 8-9 hours |
This table provides a clear overview of the distances between Shimla and key cities for travelers.
If you prefer to be alone, driving is a great choice. The drive takes you through beautiful scenery on National Highways 1 and 22. It’s about 342 kilometers from New Delhi and usually takes 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway.
Conclusion
Getting to Shimla by air, road, or train is easy and suits everyone’s needs. Whether you take a scenic train ride, drive at your own pace, or catch a quick flight, each method has perks. Shimla Airport connects well with other cities, the roads are good, and the historic Kalka-Shimla railway makes the trip memorable. You can find daily connections from major cities, making your travel plans smooth and enjoyable. When planning your trip, consider how much time it will take, how comfortable you want to be, and if you want to enjoy some great views. This way, you can get the best out of your journey to Shimla.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.