If you are not sure how to reach Shimla from Delhi by train, road, or air, don’t worry. You have come to the right place where you can learn how! Shimla is a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh where you can find a pleasant climate, that is best for a summer trip. In this article, I have discussed how to get from Delhi to Shimla by all modes of transport. Explore the article further and get to know about how to reach Shimla!
How to Reach Shimla from Delhi by Road
Though Shimla is a hill station, it is well connected by road and there are several options to travel from Delhi to Shimla depending on your preference and convenience. The distance from Delhi to Shimla is approximately 344-345 km and the travel time may vary depending on the route and traffic. Here are various ways to travel from Delhi to Shimla by road:
Via Ambala
If you are wondering how to get from Delhi to Shimla in the easiest way, well, it is by going through Ambala. This route takes about 10-11 hours via NH 44 and NH 5 and there are several attractions like Kalesar National Park and Chail Sanctuary which you can get to see while traveling.
Places Covered: Delhi -> Panipat -> Karnal -> Yamuna Nagar -> Solan -> Chail -> Shimla
Via Yamuna Nagar
The next shortest route to Shimla from Delhi is through the Yamna Nagar. This route takes around 12-13 hours and also offers amazing views along the way, making it perfect for a memorable travel experience.
Places Covered: Delhi -> Ghaziabad -> Modinagar -> Meerut -> Muzaffarnagar -> Dehradun -> Kolar -> Barog -> Shimla
Via Dehradun
If you are not worried about the distance but want to enjoy the ride all the way to Shimla, then I would recommend this route via Dehradun. This route offers scenic tours with stopovers like Giani da Dhaba in Dharampur, famous for its food joints.
Places Covered: Delhi -> Panipat -> Karnal -> Kurukshetra -> Ambala -> Pinjore -> Kasauli -> Shimla
How to Reach Shimla from Delhi by Train
If you are a nature lover, then I would suggest you travel from Delhi to Shimla by train. It is the best way to enjoy the natural beauty throughout the path to Shimla. If you are wondering how to reach Shimla from Delhi by train, here is all you need to know. There are no direct trains from Delhi to Shimla, you need to take a two-part journey. The first part is from Delhi to Kalka, and the second is from Kalka to Shimla.
Delhi to Kalka
The train from Delhi to Kalka is a unique travel experience that not only offers a safe and efficient journey but also offers passengers beautiful scenery spots along the way. The train journey from Delhi to Kalka passes through Ambala Cantt and Chandigarh, providing a glimpse of the markets and delicious local food.
| Train Name | Train Number | Departing Time | Reaching Time | Duration | Distance Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Delhi Kalka Express (Un Reserved) | 14331 | 16:15 | 21:40 | 5h 25m | 267 km |
| Kalka Shatabdi | 12012 | 17:45 | 21:55 | 4h 10m | 303 km |
| Kalka Shatabdi | 12005 | 17:15 | 21:20 | 4h 5m | 303 km |
| Kalka Shatabdi | 12011 | 15:00 | 19:15 | 4h 15m | 303 km |
Kalka To Shimla
Once you reach the Kalka railway station in Haryana, you are all set to enjoy a joyful toy train ride to Shimla! The train to Shimla is a narrow gauge that is apt for a toy train ride. Here are the train details that run from Kalka to Shimla.
| Train Name | Train Number | Departing Time | Reaching Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KLK SML PASS | 52457 | 04:00 | 09:20 | 5h 20m |
| RAIL MOTOR | 72451 | 05:10 | 09:50 | 4h 40m |
| SHIVALK DLX EXP | 52451 | 05:30 | 10:15 | 4h 45m |
| KALKA SIMLA EXP | 52453 | 06:00 | 11:05 | 5h 5m |
| HIMALYAN QUEEN | 52455 | 12:10 | 17:20 | 5h 10m |
How to Reach Shimla from Delhi by Air
If you ask me how to get from Delhi to Shimla in the fastest way, well, it is obviously to fly from New Delhi to Shimla. The airport in Shimla is located in Jubbarhatti which is about 22 km away from Shimla. There is only one airline that operates here, which is Alliance Air, and you can directly reach Shimla Airport from Delhi!
Click here to check flights from Delhi to Shimla: Alliance Air
In case the tickets are booked, you can instead fly to Chandigarh airport. From there, you can take a taxi from Chandigarh to Shimla or reach the Kalka station to get to Shimla by train.
7 Best Things To Do In Shimla
If you are visiting Shimla for the first time, here are the ten best things to do in Shimla for a great trip experience.
1. Toy Train Ride
The first thing that you need to experience in Shimla is the scenic Kalka-Shimla train ride. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is 96 km long and covers 103 tunnels, 864 bridges, and 919 curves along with the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The train follows the mountains, giving you a glimpse of the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
2. Go to Shimla Ridge
The Shimla Ridge forms the heart of the city which offers mindblowing views of the Himalayas. This place is surrounded by buildings of the colonial period, Gothic structures, and historical landmarks such as Christ Church and the National Library. The Ridge is a prominent spot where people host cultural events and festivals, making it a must-visit spot in Shimla!
3. Shopping At Lakkar Bazaar Store
The Lakkar Bazaar store is another popular place in Shimla to go shopping. It is also known as Wood Market, which has beautifully carved wooden objects, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. Teh market attracts a lot of people especially at night due to its attractive twinkling lights in the evening and the smell of street food in the air. So try visiting this place and pick up souvenirs or gifts from loved ones.
4. Relax on Mall Road
Mall Road is one of the best places where you can find a lot of people and therefore experience a social life in Shimla. This Mall Road is lined with several shops, restaurants, and cafes, that offer plenty of local food varieties and shopping options. So, it is quite a place to take a leisurely walk, grab a bite to eat, or just sit back and enjoy the warm atmosphere!
5. Explore Jakhu Hanuman Temple
If you are a religious person, here is the Jakhu Hanuman Temple, which is a beautiful shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is located at the highest point of Shimla and thus offers beautiful views of the city and the surrounding hills. The temple is famous for the 108-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman and is a popular destination for devotees and tourists. Visit the temple and get yourself relaxed here!
6. Ice Sports at Shimla Ice Sports Club
Are you a person who seeks adventure? If yes, then why not try ice skating at the Shimla Ice Skating Club?! It is the best outdoor skating rink in India and a must-visit place in Shimla. This place is located in the heart of the city, where the rink offers a unique ice skating experience in the heart of the Himalayas. Enjoy the thrill of ice skating, take lessons from master instructors, or just watch others skate while sipping hot chocolate!!
7. Take a trip to Chadwick Falls
Chadwick Falls is a beautiful waterfall in the middle of Glen Forests. Take a short trip to the falls which are surrounded by lush vegetation and give a peaceful atmosphere. The falls are a popular spot for picnics, photography and just enjoying the natural beauty!!
Also Read: Tourist Places in Kashmir
Also Read: Tourist Spots in Himachal Pradesh