Shimla is one of India’s most popular hill stations. The city is located in the lower Himalayas at an altitude of approx. 2200m above sea-level. Previously the ‘summer capital’ of the British, it’s now the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh.
It has always been a popular summer retreat in shimla especially for those residing in North India. It’s lush green surroundings and cool climate make it an ideal get away from the relentless summers of the plains. The old British architecture which is visible in a number of buildings like the Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Auckland House adds historic charm to this beautiful hill station.
Since the British made Shimla their summer capital, the city is well connected and easily accessible. If you wish to travel by train, then you need to board the train from Kalka, which is 96kms away from Shimla. Kalka is well connected to many cities including Chandigarh, Mumbai, Delhi, Ambala and Kolkata. It takes around 6hrs to reach Shimla from Kalka and 3-4 trains run daily on this route. For those wishing to travel comfortably, there is the Shivalik Express, which is a luxury train having less halts and a pantry facility. This railway track has recently been granted the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the Shivalik Express may be booked 120 days in advance, the booking for others opens only 30 days prior. Travel by train if you seek a truly Himalayan experience, as the train passes through 103 tunnels, with panoramic views of the Himalayas from its broad glass windows.
For those with a time crunch, air travel is the best option. Shimla has its own airport at Jubbarhatti, which is located 22kms away from the city. Flights from New Delhi, Chandigarh and Kullu operate on a daily basis. Taxis are easily available at reasonable fares. Alternatively, one may land at the Chandigarh Airport, located at a distance of 120 km from Shimla. Taxis to Shimla are easily available on this route as well. Opt for a pre-paid taxi to get the best price and avoid the hassle of bargaining.
Road travel is also a popular option with adventurous tourists or those who like to travel at their own pace. One may drive from Delhi or Chandigarh. Hiring a cab is also a good option if you want to travel comfortably. Delhi to Shimla is roughly 380kms, and Chandigarh to Shimla is just 120kms. Cabs are a good option as one can enjoy the beautiful scenery and stop to admire the views. If you are on a budget then bus travel is recommended. HPRTC buses connect all cities in Himachal Pradesh to Shimla. HPRTC buses as well as other luxury and ordinary buses run by private operators are easily available from Delhi and Chandigarh.
Mentioned above were the various ways on how to reach Shimla. Getting to Shimla is the easy bit, what is difficult is leaving this beautiful hill station, which allures you with its irresistible charm.
It has always been a popular summer retreat in shimla especially for those residing in North India. It’s lush green surroundings and cool climate make it an ideal get away from the relentless summers of the plains. The old British architecture which is visible in a number of buildings like the Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Auckland House adds historic charm to this beautiful hill station.
Since the British made Shimla their summer capital, the city is well connected and easily accessible. If you wish to travel by train, then you need to board the train from Kalka, which is 96kms away from Shimla. Kalka is well connected to many cities including Chandigarh, Mumbai, Delhi, Ambala and Kolkata. It takes around 6hrs to reach Shimla from Kalka and 3-4 trains run daily on this route. For those wishing to travel comfortably, there is the Shivalik Express, which is a luxury train having less halts and a pantry facility. This railway track has recently been granted the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the Shivalik Express may be booked 120 days in advance, the booking for others opens only 30 days prior. Travel by train if you seek a truly Himalayan experience, as the train passes through 103 tunnels, with panoramic views of the Himalayas from its broad glass windows.
For those with a time crunch, air travel is the best option. Shimla has its own airport at Jubbarhatti, which is located 22kms away from the city. Flights from New Delhi, Chandigarh and Kullu operate on a daily basis. Taxis are easily available at reasonable fares. Alternatively, one may land at the Chandigarh Airport, located at a distance of 120 km from Shimla. Taxis to Shimla are easily available on this route as well. Opt for a pre-paid taxi to get the best price and avoid the hassle of bargaining.
Road travel is also a popular option with adventurous tourists or those who like to travel at their own pace. One may drive from Delhi or Chandigarh. Hiring a cab is also a good option if you want to travel comfortably. Delhi to Shimla is roughly 380kms, and Chandigarh to Shimla is just 120kms. Cabs are a good option as one can enjoy the beautiful scenery and stop to admire the views. If you are on a budget then bus travel is recommended. HPRTC buses connect all cities in Himachal Pradesh to Shimla. HPRTC buses as well as other luxury and ordinary buses run by private operators are easily available from Delhi and Chandigarh.
Mentioned above were the various ways on how to reach Shimla. Getting to Shimla is the easy bit, what is difficult is leaving this beautiful hill station, which allures you with its irresistible charm.
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