Shimla is a popular hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, known for its natural beauty, colonial-style architecture, and cooler climate. Shimla is a popular tourist destination about 114 kilometers away from Chandigarh. Many people make the trip between the two cities.
In this article, we’ll explore the various transportation options available for traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla, and provide some tips and recommendations for making the most of your trip.
The distance between Chandigarh and Shimla is about 114 kilometers, and the journey typically takes about 3-4 hours by road. There are several transportation options available for traveling between the two cities, including bus, train, flight, and taxi.
Each option has its own set of pros and cons, and it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences when deciding which mode of transportation is best for you.
Here is a table with different transportation options for traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla, along with some associated details:
| Transportation Option | Estimated Travel Time | Estimated Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | 3-4 hours | INR 300-400 (one-way) | Convenient, cost-effective | May not be as comfortable as other options, and may be affected by traffic |
| Train | 3-4 hours (regular) or 5-6 hours (toy train) | INR 200-300 (one-way) | Scenic (toy train), cost-effective | May not be as comfortable as other options, and may be affected by delays |
| Flight | 1 hour | INR 3,000-5,000 (one-way) | Fast, convenient | Expensive compared to other options |
| Taxi | 3-4 hours | Negotiable may be INR 3,000-5,000 (one-way) | Private, flexible | Expensive compared to other options |
Chandigarh To Shimla By Bus
One popular option for traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla is by bus. There are several private and state-run bus operators that offer regular services between the two cities. The journey by bus takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
How Much Does Chandigarh To Shimla Bus Ticket Cost
Buses are a convenient and cost-effective option, with tickets starting at around INR 300-400 for a one-way journey. There are several types of buses available, including regular, deluxe, and luxury, which offer varying levels of comfort and amenities.
When booking a bus ticket, it’s a good idea to check the schedule and fare in advance and to book tickets through a reputable operator.
Where To Catch A Bus from Chandigarh to Shimla
To catch a bus from Chandigarh to Shimla, you can head to the Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT), which is located in Sector 43. Buses to Shimla depart from here on a regular basis, and tickets can be purchased at the counter or through online platforms.
Once you arrive in Shimla, the bus will drop you off at the ISBT, which is located in the city center. From there, you can take a taxi or local bus to your final destination.
Chandigarh to Shimla by Train
Another option for traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla is by train. The nearest railway station to Shimla is Kalka, which is located about 80 kilometers from the city. From Kalka, visitors can take the narrow gauge toy train to Shimla, which is a scenic and nostalgically charming journey through the Himalayan foothills.
The toy train journey from Kalka to Shimla takes about 5-6 hours, and tickets can be booked through the Indian Railways website or at the railway station.
A toy train is a popular option for tourists, but it can be crowded and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. There are also regular trains available from Kalka to Shimla, which take about 3-4 hours, but these may not offer the same scenic experience as the toy train.
Where To Catch A Train from Chandigarh to Shimla
To catch a train from Chandigarh to Shimla, you can head to the Chandigarh Railway Station, which is located in Sector 17. Trains to Kalka depart from here on a regular basis, and tickets can be purchased at the counter or through the Indian Railways website.
Once you arrive in Kalka, you can catch the toy train or a regular train to Shimla. The railway station in Shimla is located in the city center, and from there you can take a taxi or local bus to your final destination.
Chandigarh to Shimla by Flight
A third option for traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla is by flight. The nearest airport to Shimla is located in Jubbarhatti, which is about 23 kilometers from the city center. There are several flights available from Chandigarh to Jubbarhatti, which take about 1 hour.
Flights can be booked through various online travel agencies or directly through the airline. While flying is the fastest and most convenient option, it can be more expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
Where To Catch A Flight from Chandigarh to Shimla
To catch a flight from Chandigarh to Shimla, you’ll need to head to the Chandigarh International Airport, which is located in Mohali. There are several flights available from Chandigarh to Jubbarhatti, with several airlines operating on this route.
You can book tickets through online platforms or directly through the airline, and it’s a good idea to check for promotions and discounts to get the best deal. Once you arrive in Jubbarhatti, you’ll need to take a taxi or local bus to Shimla, which takes about 1 hour.
Chandigarh to Shimla by Taxi
Finally, another option for traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla is by taxi. Taxis can be hired from Chandigarh to Shimla, with the journey taking about 3-4 hours depending on the route and traffic conditions.
Taxis can be booked through online platforms or directly through a taxi operator, and the fare can be negotiated in advance. Taxis offer the convenience of a private vehicle and the flexibility to customize your itinerary, but they can be more expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
Where to hire a taxi from Chandigarh to Shimla
To hire a taxi from Chandigarh to Shimla, you can either book a taxi through an online platform or directly through a taxi operator. You can find several taxi operators in Chandigarh, with a range of vehicles available including sedans, SUVs, and minivans.
It’s a good idea to negotiate the fare in advance and to check the reputation and reliability of the operator before booking. You can also consider booking a taxi through a travel agency, which can offer package deals that include transportation, accommodation, and activities.
When planning a trip from Chandigarh to Shimla
It’s important to consider other factors in addition to transportation.
Accommodation is an important consideration, with a range of options available including hotels, guest houses, and hostels. Food is another important factor, with a variety of local and international cuisines available in Shimla.
Finally, there are many activities and attractions to enjoy in Shimla, including sightseeing, hiking, and shopping, so it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance.
In conclusion, there are several transportation options available for traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla, including bus, train, flight, and taxi. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, and it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences when deciding which mode of transportation is best for you.
Regardless of which option you choose, Shimla is a beautiful and picturesque destination, with plenty of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and activities to enjoy. With careful planning and some research, you can make the most of your trip from Chandigarh to Shimla and create lasting memories.
Suraj Rana is a passionate writer who provides valuable information about Chandigarh on our website Chandigarh Explore. Discover the hidden gems of the city with Suraj Rana’s engaging and informative articles. Follow us to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings in Chandigarh!
