Chandigarh to Shimla: Best Travel Routes, Tips, and Attractions

Chandigarh to Shimla is one of North India’s most beloved travel routes, known for its scenic beauty and smooth connectivity. Travelers are treated to a landscape of winding hills, pine forests, and colonial charm. Perfect for weekend escapes and leisurely drives, this route combines natural beauty with road-trip ease. To make the most of this experience, careful planning and route selection are essential. This guide shares key travel tips, the best routes, and must-visit attractions along the way.

Many people begin the trip with excitement but get stuck in traffic. That can spoil the entire mood of the holiday. So, it is important to know the best travel routes, useful tips, and must-visit places. Let’s explore everything step-by-step.

Why Choose the Chandigarh to Shimla Route?

First, this route is not only beautiful but also very easy to access. Chandigarh has great connectivity by rail, air, and road. Shimla is around 115 km from Chandigarh. Depending on the traffic and route, the travel time can range from 3 to 5 hours.

Most importantly, the drive is full of scenic views, charming dhabas, and lovely weather. Moreover, it gives you several stopover options that make the journey even more memorable.

Best Travel Routes from Chandigarh to Shimla

There are mainly two road routes to reach Shimla from Chandigarh. Each one has its own charm.

Route 1: Chandigarh – Kalka – Dharampur – Solan – Shimla

This is the most popular and direct route. It is also well-maintained and ideal for cars and bikes.

Distance: Around 115 km

Travel Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hoursRoute Description: After starting from Chandigarh, you will first reach Kalka. This town is known for its historic Kalka-Shimla toy train. From here, continue towards Parwanoo and then head to Dharampur. After crossing Solan, you will be close to Shimla.This route is great for people who want a smooth drive. Moreover, you will find many places to eat and rest.

Route 2: Chandigarh – Baddi – Arki – Shalaghat – Shimla

This route is less crowded and more scenic, but slightly longer.

Distance: Around 135 km

Travel Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hoursRoute Description: Start from Chandigarh and take the road towards Baddi. From here, drive to Arki, a small town known for its fort. Continue towards Shalaghat, and then reach Shimla.This route is perfect for those who want a peaceful journey. However, the roads are narrow in a few places. So, drive carefully.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Now that you know the routes, let’s talk about travel tips. These can help you avoid delays and discomfort.

• Start Early: Leave Chandigarh early in the morning to skip city traffic.
• Check the Weather: Shimla can get foggy, especially in winter or early morning.
• Keep Documents Ready: Carry your ID and car papers. You might need them at checkpoints.
• Fuel Up in Advance: Petrol pumps are not frequent in the hills, so fill up before Parwanoo.
• Carry Snacks and Water: Though dhabas are there, it’s best to carry some basic items.
• Avoid Night Travel: The hill roads can be tricky after dark. So, drive only in daylight.
• Respect Local Rules: Avoid honking in quiet zones and don’t litter.

Following these tips will surely make your Chandigarh to Shimla journey pleasant and stress-free.

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Best Time to Travel from Chandigarh to Shimla

The best time to travel depends on your interests. Here is a seasonal breakdown:

• Summer (March to June): This is the most popular season. The weather remains pleasant, and the roads are clear.
• Monsoon (July to September): The region sees heavy rain. Landslides can block roads. So, avoid this season if possible.
• Winter (October to February): Snow lovers will enjoy winter. However, drive carefully as roads may be slippery.

If you want clear roads and blue skies, travel during late March or early April. This is when you get the best of both worlds.

Stopover Attractions on the Way

There are several places between Chandigarh and Shimla that you should not miss.

Timber Trail (Parwanoo)

Located in Parwanoo, this is a beautiful resort with a cable car ride. It offers amazing valley views. The cable ride is thrilling.

Ideal Stopover Time: 30 to 45 minutes

Best For: Families and couplesLocation: NH-22, Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh

Kalka Town

Known for the famous Kalka-Shimla railway station. A UNESCO World Heritage site starts from here.

Ideal Stopover Time: 20 to 30 minutes
Best For: Train lovers and history buffs
Location: Kalka, Panchkula District, Haryana

Dharampur and Giani Da Dhaba

This place is known for its old-school dhaba food. Here, you can enjoy authentic North Indian food.

Ideal Stopover Time: 30 to 40 minutes

Best For: Foodies and travelers
Location: NH-5, Dharampur, Solan

Solan Brewery and Mohan Meakin

Solan is known as the Mushroom City and has one of the oldest breweries in India.

Ideal Stopover Time: 1 hour

Best For: History and beverage lovers

Location: Solan, Himachal Pradesh

Kufri

Though not on the way, Kufri is very close to Shimla. You can plan it as a next-day trip. It offers horse rides, snow games, and beautiful landscapes.

Ideal Stopover Time: Half-dayBest For: Adventure seekers and families
Location: 15 km from Shimla

Here, What Greets You Upon Arrival!

Once you enter Shimla, the first thing you will notice is the cool air. You will see old colonial buildings, pine forests, and winding roads. The town is lively with tourists, but also offers quiet corners for peace.

You can now plan your stay and visit nearby attractions like:

• Mall Road
• Jakhu Temple
• The Ridge
• Christ Church
• Chadwick Falls

Each of these places adds a new charm to your Shimla trip. Spend at least two days here to enjoy everything.

You may also like: How do you plan a trip to Tara Devi Temple from Shimla?

No Car? No Problem! Best Alternatives to Drive to Shimla

If you don’t want to drive, you still have options.

Bus: HRTC and Volvo buses run daily from Chandigarh to Shimla. They are safe and affordable.

Train: Take a train from Chandigarh to Kalka. From Kalka, board the Kalka-Shimla toy train.

Taxi Services: You can book private cabs from Chandigarh. It offers comfort and flexibility.

Choose what suits your budget and travel style.

Your Travel Bag Checklist for Chandigarh to Shimla

To make your trip easy and fun, don’t forget these items:

• Light woolens or jackets, even in summer
• Power bank and mobile charger
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Camera for capturing memories
• First-aid kit for emergencies
• ID cards and hotel bookings

Keep your luggage light, especially if you plan to walk around in Shimla.

You may also like: Shimla’s Transition from Old Shimla to New Shimla

Conclusion

A trip from Chandigarh to Shimla is more than just a journey. It is an experience full of beauty, culture, and adventure. You can take the direct Kalka-Solan route or choose the peaceful Arki path. Along the way, enjoy local food, scenic views, and small hill towns.

To make your stay more memorable, choose the best hotels that offer comfort and scenic views. Eco Hospitality offers two top properties in Shimla. Hotel Woodrina is just 7 km from Mall Road and sits at 7,000 feet. It offers a calm retreat surrounded by deodar forests and stunning sunsets. Golden Fern Resort, located at Kachi Ghati on the Shimla-Kalka highway, is just 5 km from the center. Each room opens to the valley, giving you a private balcony view of the mountains.

Plan your Chandigarh to Shimla trip well and enjoy every moment of this Himalayan escape!