The call of the mountains is irresistible. When the Delhi heat becomes too much to bear, a escape to the timeless hill station of Shimla is the perfect remedy. The journey itself, winding through picturesque foothills and pine-scented air, is a core part of the experience.
This 2025 guide is your ultimate escape plan, breaking down everything you need to know about traveling from Delhi to Shimla by bus and car, so you can choose the adventure that’s right for you.
Overview: The Journey to the Queen of Hills
- Distance from Delhi: Approximately 350 kilometers
- Total Travel Time: 7 to 10 hours (highly dependent on traffic and weather)
- Key Route: Delhi → Ambala → Chandigarh → Kalka → Shimla (The climb truly begins at Kalka)
Option 1: Delhi to Shimla by Bus (The Budget-Friendly & Hassle-Free Choice)
Taking a bus is a popular and economical way to reach Shimla without the stress of driving.
Types of Buses Available:
- HRTC Volvo/AC Buses: Run by the state transport corporation. These are reliable, comfortable, and the best option for a direct journey. They often run overnight.
- Private AC Sleeper/Volvo Buses: Offered by various private operators. They can be more luxurious, with amenities like blankets and charging ports.
- Himachal Pradesh Tourism Buses: A great government-run option known for its service.
- Travel Time: 8 to 10 hours
- Approx. Cost: ₹800 – ₹1,500 (one-way for AC bus)
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: The cheapest way to travel comfortably.
- Hassle-Free: No need to navigate or worry about parking in Shimla’s crowded Mall Road.
- Overnight Journeys: Save on a night’s accommodation and wake up in the hills.
Cons:
- Fixed Schedule: Less flexibility to stop for photos or food.
- Motion Sickness: The winding roads from Kalka upwards can be challenging for those prone to sickness.
- Limited Legroom: Less space than a personal car.
Option 2: Delhi to Shimla by Car (The Flexible & Scenic Choice)
Driving your own car or hiring a taxi gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary.
- Travel Time: 7 to 9 hours (driving time, excluding long stops)
- Approx. Cost (Taxi): ₹7,000 – ₹10,000+ (for a round-trip, including driver and waiting)
- Approx. Cost (Self-Drive): ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 (Fuel + Tolls + Parking)
The Driving Route Explained:
- Delhi to Kalka (The Highway): A smooth, fast drive on NH-44 (via Chandigarh) or a slightly longer but less crowded route via NH-44 and NH-152D. This takes about 4-5 hours.
- Kalka to Shimla (The Mountain Drive): This is the main event. You have two options:
- NH-5 (The Hindustan-Tibet Road): This is the main, wider, and most common route. It’s well-maintained but has many twists, turns, and traffic.
- The Kalka-Shimla Highway (Old Route): Follows the iconic Kalka-Shimla toy train track for large sections. It’s narrower but incredibly scenic and often less crowded.
Pros:
- Ultimate Flexibility: Stop at stunning viewpoints, iconic tunnels, and charming cafes along the way.
- Comfort & Privacy: Your own space for luggage and family.
- Explore En Route: You can easily detour to places like Barog for a famous meal at Pinewood Hotel or Solan.
Cons:
- Most Expensive: Especially for a hired taxi.
- Driving Fatigue: Navigating mountain roads requires concentration and can be tiring.
- Parking in Shimla: Finding parking near the Mall Road can be a major challenge and is often expensive.
The Scenic Highlight: The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train Experience
If you’re traveling by car, consider this unique hybrid option. Drive from Delhi to Kalka (4-5 hours), park your car, and then take the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Toy Train for the final stretch. This 5-6 hour train journey is one of the most beautiful rail experiences in the world, passing through 102 tunnels and over 864 bridges.
Essential Hill Station Escape Tips for 2025
- Best Time to Travel:
- Ideal: March-June (for summer escape) and September-November (for clear skies).
- Monsoon (July-Aug): Avoid due to landslide risks.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Carry chains for your car tyres and check weather forecasts for snow.
- Pre-Journey Car Check: If driving, check your brakes, tyres, engine coolant, and wipers meticulously. Mountain driving puts extra strain on your vehicle.
- Pack Smart: Carry warm clothes (even in summer), sunglasses, water, snacks, motion sickness pills, and a good playlist for the drive.
- Start Early: Leave Delhi by 5:00 AM to avoid the capital’s traffic and reach the hills before dark. Driving on mountain roads at night is more challenging.
- Drive Defensively: Mountain driving is different. Use your horn before blind curves, always give way to descending vehicles, and never overspeed.
Must-Make Stops on Your Road Trip
- Pinjore Gardens: Just after Kalka, these beautiful Mughal-era gardens are perfect for a short break.
- Barog: Famous for the Barog Tunnel and the charming Pinewood Hotel, a great spot for lunch.
- Dharampur: A major stop with several good restaurants and cafes.
- Kasauli/Solan Detour: If you have extra time, take a small detour to these quieter hill stations.
Final Verdict: Bus or Car?
- Choose the Bus if: You are a solo or budget traveler, want to avoid the stress of driving and parking, and prefer a direct, simple journey.
- Choose the Car if: You are traveling with family or a group, value flexibility and comfort, and want to make the journey itself a scenic, exploratory adventure.
No matter how you choose to travel, the crisp mountain air and the first sight of Shimla’s colonial architecture will make every moment of the journey worthwhile.
Pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for an unforgettable mountain escape!
FAQ Section
Q1: Is it safe to drive from Delhi to Shimla at night?
A: It is not recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with mountain roads. The routes from Kalka to Shimla are winding, poorly lit, and can have unexpected obstacles. It’s always safer to drive during daylight hours.
Q2: What is the condition of the roads from Kalka to Shimla?
A: The main NH-5 is generally in good condition and well-maintained. However, it is a typical mountain road with sharp curves, so caution is always advised.
Q3: Are there any direct Volvo buses from Delhi to Shimla?
A: Yes. Both HRTC and private operators run direct, air-conditioned Volvo buses from Delhi’s Kashmere Gate ISBT and other pick-up points directly to Shimla’s Victory Tunnel or the new ISBT.
