Shimla, known as the “ Summer Capital of India” or the Queen of Hills”, is one of the most visited hill stations all over India. It is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, which holds historical significance from the British colonial rule to some of the most important and historical pacts being done here. Apart from all these things, Shimla has snow-covered mountains, dreamy views, and a peace like no other place.
So, if you are looking for a trip with friends, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway with your partner, the Delhi to Shimla route is best, as it offers a glimpse of peaceful nature and a journey full of adventures.
The distance from Delhi to Shimla is one of the most popular road trip destinations, as it is perfect for a long drive. In this brief guide, we will discuss everything that you need to know that help you make your journey enjoyable and memorable.
Key Highlights of the Delhi to Shimla Road Trip
The distance from Delhi to Shimla by road is approximately 343 km to 360 km, which takes around 7 to 9 hours, also depending on the traffic and the route chosen by you. Shimla is the perfect spot for the Delhiites who want to escape from the chaos of their fast-paced life. It is the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway, as it can be reached in one day, so it could be a perfect weekend outing to relax and be calm. You can also book cabs from Delhi or use a taxi service in Delhi for a comfortable ride and avoid the inconvenience of driving by yourself.
Best Routes to travel from Delhi to Shimla by Road
Planning a Delhi to Shimla road trip, what matters the most is the choice of routes. Below are the three major routes for your road trip.
Route 1: Delhi – Panipat – Ambala – Chandigarh – Solan – Shimla (via NH44 & NH5)
Distance Covered: 350 km
Time Taken: 7–8 hours
About the Route: This route is known to be the most popular and fastest route, famous among travellers, with well-maintained roads, a number of food points, and petrol pumps along the way.
Route 2: Delhi – Yamunanagar – Nahan – Solan – Shimla
Distance Covered: 380 km
Time Taken: 9–10 hours
About the Route: This route is popular among travellers who love to enjoy the offbeat rides and enjoy the greenery along the way.
Must-Visit Food Stops on the Delhi to Shimla Road Trip:
- Murthal (Haryana): Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba – Known for its lip-smacking parathas and butter-loaded dishes and a family-friendly vibe.
- Karnal Haveli: Perfect for a traditional North-Indian meal in a traditional Punjabi ambiance.
- Solan Cafés: The Brew Estate and Himani Resorts serve great coffee and local snacks to calm and refresh your soul.
Stops to Take Along the Way
- Chandigarh: Visit the city, get a glimpse of well-planned urban infrastructure. Also, you can see Sukhna Lake, Rock Garden, Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, and the Capitol Complex.
- Timber Trail Resort (Parwanoo): Offers food with breathtaking views if you ride the cable car.
- Solan: This city is often called the “Mushroom City of India” or “The City of Red Gold” due to excessive farming of mushrooms and tomatoes. Short breaks here are refreshing.
- Renuka Lake: It holds religious significance as it is said to be the representation of goddess Renuka, wife of rishi Jamadagini and mother of Lord Parshuram.
Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Shimla
Summer (From March to June):
- It is the best time to visit Shimla to get a glimpse of breathtaking views and to escape the hot weather of Delhi.
- It is advised to book accommodations and hire a taxi service from Delhi to Shimla in advance because of the peak tourist season.
Monsoon (July to September):
- Rainy season with greenery and romantic vibes.
- We advise driving cautiously because there are several landslide-prone areas present during the monsoon season, and keep track of the live weather updates.
Winter (November to February):
- A perfect time if you want to see Shimla covered in snow.
- It is advised to carry snow chains and to drive very cautiously as the roads can be icy.
Vehicle & Driving Tips for the Delhi to Shimla Road Trip
- Your Delhi to Shimla trip by road can only be as good as the car you opt for. An SUV or a powerful sedan, especially in winter, is advised to be taken while travelling, as it can handle slippery and uneven roads very well.
- Always carry a first-aid kit, extra tyre, and snow chains in case of emergency.
- Before starting the trip, check brakes, clutch, tires, and suspension and repair if there is a slight issue. As an expert in tour and travel, we recommend fueling up your vehicle tank in Chandigarh or Solan before entering the hilly region of Shimla.
- Using Google Maps for navigation would be good, but a downloaded offline map for areas with poor network connectivity would be the best. While in goggy or icy weather, we recommend that you avoid driving at night because it can be risky due to low visibility on roads.
What to Pack for the Delhi to Shimla Road Trip?
Planning a Shimla trip from Delhi, packing smartly is very essential & necessary.
- Carry valid ID proofs.
- Woolen clothes, gloves, thermal wear are a must to pack even during March.
- Pack a raincoat or umbrella if you are traveling in the monsoon season.
- Carry torch, power banks, USB cables, and chargers.
- Pack first-aid kit and essential medicines in case of emergencies.
- Carry snacks and drinking water to avoid unnecessary stops and to munch on while travelling.
- Download offline maps for navigation and music in case of poor network connectivity for uninterrupted fun.
Best Hotels to Stay in Shimla
Budget Friendly:
- Hotel Shingar: It is located on Mall Road near the famous tourist attractions. This hotel offers you cosy rooms and suites with a multi-cuisine restaurant and bar with a terrace.
- Hotel Dalziel: Located on the Mall Road near the SBI main branch, offering you comfortable accommodation with basic amenities and a restaurant serving multiple cuisines.
Mid-Range Budget:
- Hotel Willow Banks: It is a 4-star hotel with stylish interiors, located in a prime location with good food options and excellent services, offering a glimpse of the beautiful mountain valleys.
- Honeymoon Inn Shimla: It is a perfect choice for couples who want a romantic getaway, and also a suitable inn for families, offering comfortable rooms with mountain views and delicious food options.
Luxury Stay:
- The Oberoi Cecil: Located at Chaura Maidan Road, this hotel shares a memory of British Colonial Rule and offers you a luxurious and comfortable stay with its exceptional services.
- Wildflower Hall: Formerly known as Lord Kitchener’s residence, this hotel is located near Cedar Forest in Mashobra, offering you breathtaking views of Himalayan ranges and luxurious stay.
Must-Visit Places in Shimla
- Mall Road: A famous tourist attraction in Shimla. A promenade where multiple shops are available for shopping, cafes for dining, and a beautiful view of the mountains.
- Jakhoo Temple: A famous Lord Hanuman’s temple located at the highest peak of Shimla, with stunning mountain views and a 108-feet towering Lord Hanuman idol.
- Kufri & Narkanda: Visit here to enjoy adventures like skiing, trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, etc.
- Christ Church: It is the second oldest church in the North-India, which holds historical significance of the British Colonial era. A known tourist attraction giving gothic vibes.
Safety Tips from Travel Experts for your Delhi to Shimla Journey
- Keep track of the olive weather and road updates beforehand, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons.
- Carry cash to pay at toll plazas and at the local shops, as online or card payments may not be supported in the hilly areas.
- Start early in the morning from Delhi to avoid traffic during the rush hours, also to reach Shimla before nightfall.
- Follow the speed limits mentioned on the signboards and strictly don’t try to overtake other vehicles on the blind curves.
- Use the handbrakes of the vehicles if you are parking the vehicle incline or decline on the slopes.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the distance from Delhi to Shimla by road?
A: The distance from Delhi to Shimla by road is approximately 343–360 km, depending on the choice of route taken.
Q2. How much time does it take to reach from Delhi to Shimla by road?
A: It takes about 7–9 hours to reach from Delhi to Shimla with regular stops.
Q3. Is it safe to drive from Delhi to Shimla in winter?
A: Yes, but roads can be slippery due to ice, so it is advised to drive cautiously and use snow chains, and most importantly, drive slowly.
Q4. What is the best mode to reach Shimla from Delhi?
A: The best option is by car or taxi service from Delhi. Trains and flights are also available, but they are not as convenient as you will need last-minute assistance to reach your accommodation.
Q5. Is there any train available from Delhi to Shimla directly?
A: No, there is no direct train from Delhi to Shimla, but you can take a train from Delhi to Kalka station, and then you have to commute via toy train from Kalka to Shimla.
Q6. Can I book a cab service for a Delhi to Shimla trip?
A: Yes, several providers like Chiku Cab offer Delhi to Shimla cab services with several packages as per your convenience.
Pack your bag and head to the road & Enjoy a Memorable Delhi to Shimla Road Trip
The Delhi to Shimla route offers a memorable journey with well-maintained smooth smooth-running highway roads, multiple food joints on the way, prominent fuel stations, and most importantly, the breathtaking views of the mountain valleys.
Hire a taxi service from Delhi to Shimla road trip, and with this detailed guide, make the right preparations and enjoy this adventurous trip with comfort to cherish the memories forever.
I’m a wanderer who loves venturing on to unknown and unseen places. I explore freely to various fun and adventurous places, whether it be spiritual temple tours, captivating landscapes, and more. I wonder around in search of hidden gems and tourist attractions, temples, and other places.
