Chandigarh to Shimla Travel Guide

Planning a trip from the plains to the mountains? Chandigarh is the gateway to Himachal Pradesh, and Shimla is the most popular hill station to start with. Whether you’re a tourist heading for a holiday, a student going back to college in Himachal, or a business traveler, there are multiple convenient ways to reach Shimla from Chandigarh. Here’s a complete guide covering distance, transport options, fares, and travel tips.

Chandigarh to Shimla Distance

By Road: ~112 km via NH5 (takes 3.5–5 hours depending on traffic).
By Train: ~96 km (via Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge railway).
By Air: ~60 km aerial distance (no regular direct flights).

Chandigarh to Shimla by Bus

Buses are the most affordable and widely used transport mode.

Options Available:

HRTC (Government Buses): Regular, deluxe, and Volvo.
Private Operators: Volvo, AC sleeper, and luxury coaches.

Timings:

Buses depart every 30–45 minutes from ISBT Sector 43, Chandigarh.
First bus usually leaves around 5:00 AM; last departures close to 10:00 PM.

Fares (Approx.):

Ordinary: ₹200–₹300
Deluxe: ₹350–₹450
Volvo/AC: ₹600–₹900

Travel Time: 4–5 hours, depending on road conditions.

Chandigarh to Shimla by Taxi / Cab

Ideal for families or travelers looking for comfort and flexibility.

Duration: 3.5–4 hours
Fare: ₹2,500–₹3,500 (one-way; depends on sedan/SUV)
Availability: Local taxi operators, Himachal cabs, and sometimes Ola/Uber Outstation.

Why choose taxi?

Door-to-door convenience.
Can stop at Pinjore Gardens, Timber Trail (Parwanoo), or Solan for sightseeing on the way.

Chandigarh to Shimla by Train

This is one of the most scenic train journeys in India.

Step 1: Chandigarh → Kalka (40 min by train/taxi).
Step 2: Kalka → Shimla (Toy Train, 5–6 hours).

The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train passes through 102 tunnels, 800+ bridges, and stunning hill scenery.

Popular Trains:

Shivalik Deluxe Express
Himalayan Queen
Rail Motor Car

Total Travel Time: 6–7 hours (leisurely but memorable).

Chandigarh to Shimla by Flight

Currently, no direct commercial flights from Chandigarh to Shimla.
However, Alliance Air sometimes operates limited flights from Delhi → Shimla.
Most travelers prefer taking a road journey or train from Chandigarh.

Chandigarh Airport to Shimla

If you’re landing at Chandigarh Airport (IXC) and heading straight to Shimla:

Distance: ~120 km
Time: 4–5 hours by taxi or Volvo bus
Taxis are easily available outside the airport, or you can pre-book.

Best Travel Option

Budget Travelers: Ordinary/Deluxe buses from ISBT 43.
Comfort & Speed: Volvo bus or taxi.
Scenic Route: Toy Train from Kalka.
With Kids/Family: Taxi (with stops on the way).

Quick Travel Tips

Always pre-book Volvo tickets during weekends and summer/winter holidays.
If you love photography, take the Toy Train at least once.
Avoid late-night road travel in monsoon/winter due to fog and landslides.
Start early in the day from Chandigarh to enjoy views en route.