Delhi to Shimla by Road: Distance, Travel Time and Stops

A road trip from Delhi to Shimla is one of the most loved journeys for travelers in North India. Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station known for its chilly climate, colonial beauty and all things natural. The journey takes you from the urban streets of Delhi to the serene hills of Himachal. Families, couples, and groups all love this trip as it provides a combination of highway comfort and mountain adventure. The trip itself is half the experience with food stops, short halts and viewseeing.

Delhi to Shimla Distance

The road distance between Delhi and Shimla is approximately 340 km. The drive typically takes 7 to 9 hours depending on the speed of driving and traffic. As most people like their journey to be leisurely, it is advisable to begin early morning. Early morning departure not only prevents you from facing too much traffic in Delhi and surrounding towns but also enables you to arrive in Shimla early enough before evening.

Delhi to Shimla Road Route

The most commonly used and convenient route is:

Delhi → Sonipat → Panipat → Kurukshetra → Ambala → Chandigarh → Kalka → Solan → Shimla

A road trip from Delhi to Shimla is one of the most loved journeys for travelers in North India. Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station known for its chilly climate, colonial beauty and all things natural. The journey takes you from the urban streets of Delhi to the serene hills of Himachal. Families, couples, and groups all love this trip as it provides a combination of highway comfort and mountain adventure. The trip itself is half the experience with food stops, short halts and viewseeing.

This is the most preferred route as it consists of smooth roads, petrol pumps, and ample food joints. Post-Chandigarh the road turns into a hilly one. The journey via Kalka and Solan provides the first feel of real mountains with bends, valleys, and pine forests. This section of the road takes time but is highly scenic.

How to Reach Shimla from Delhi

By Road: The most convenient mode is by car, taxi, or bus. It takes 7 to 9 hours by road. Delhi to Shimla buses run by government and private operators.

By Train: One of the more popular ways is by taking a train from Delhi to Kalka and then ride on the renowned toy train to Shimla. The journey on the toy train is slow and scenic with tunnels, bridges, and mountain scenery.

By Air: The closest airport is Jubbarhatti, about 22 km from Shimla. Flight connectivity is limited, and therefore most tourists use Chandigarh airport and travel by road.

Top Stops on the Way

The Delhi to Shimla highway has a few good stops which make it worthwhile.

Murthal: Right after Delhi, Murthal is known for parathas, lassi, and curd. A lot of travelers fix their breakfast break here.

Kurukshetra: As a holy city associated with the Mahabharata, Kurukshetra offers temples and ponds for a quick pit-stop.

Ambala: A good tea, snack, and petrol stop.

Chandigarh: A garden city with museums, markets, and restaurants. Numerous tourists take lunch here before embarking on the hilly ride.

Kalka: The town that serves as the base camp for the toy train. Even if you don't board the train, the town has a special railway heritage.

Solan: A quiet hill town renowned for breweries, temples, and apple orchards.

These halts divide the extended trip into smaller segments and make the road journey more comfortable.

Best Time to Visit Shimla

The best time to take a road trip is between March and June as well as between October and February. Summer season provides cool and mild weather that is perfect for sightseeing. Snowfall in December and January is the most sought after in the winter months. The monsoon season between July and September should not be the preferred option as the area receives heavy showers and sometimes landslides. Plan your travel in dry months to make the road safer and the journey more pleasant.

Where to Eat along the Way

Dining on any road trip is a significant aspect and Delhi to Shimla has many of delectable options.

Murthal Dhabas: Hot parathas served with butter tea and lassi.

Highway Dhabas along Panipat and Ambala: Renowned for North Indian thalis, dal and roti.

Chandigarh Restaurants: Numerous contemporary cafes and multi cuisine restaurants for travelers who seek variety.

Hill Dhabas close to Solan: Tea, maggi, pakoras and rajma rice are the hill specialties.

Travelers also need to have some snacks and packaged water handy in the car for the sake of convenience.

Things to Do in Shimla

Upon arrival in Shimla, there are plenty of places to visit.

The Ridge and Mall Road: The heart of Shimla with shops, cafes and colonial architecture.

Jakhoo Temple: A well-known temple of Lord Hanuman on a hilltop.

Christ Church: A beautiful church on the Ridge with lovely stained glass windows.

Kufri: It is famous for snow sports and horse riding.

Chadwick Falls: A natural falls amidst forests.

Other than these, Shimla has toy train rides, nature trails, and local bazaars selling handicrafts and woolens.

Travel Tips for Delhi to Shimla Road Trip

Begin early in the morning from Delhi.

Pack warm clothing as the climate in Shimla is colder than the plains.

Fill your fuel tank while leaving Chandigarh.

Travel safely on the hills and avoid overspeeding.

In monsoon check road condition before proceeding.

Take a short break to rest and enjoy the view.

Delhi to Shimla Taxi Service

Most tourists like to book a taxi for this road trip. In taxi service you can sit relaxed, enjoy the journey, and have a stoppage at any place of your choice. Ac Tempo Traveller Hire provides Delhi to Shimla cab services in the form of sedans, SUVs, tempo travellers, and buses. The Tempo Travellers are well-maintained and driven by experts who are familiar with routes and safe destinations. Families prefer this option more as they can travel in comfort without having to drive on mountain roads. Friends or office Groups prefer booking Tempo Travellers or Urbania Van for extra space and a better travel experience.

Conclusion

Delhi to Shimla road trip is a combination of highway driving and mountain driving that provides both comfort and adventure. Traversing approximately 340 km in 7 to 9 hours, the trip is great with halts at Murthal, Kurukshetra, Chandigarh, and Solan. With picturesque valleys, delicious food, and secure routes this road trip is ideal for couples, families, and groups. By opting for a trusted taxi service like Ac Tempo Traveller Hire tourists can take the trip without hassle. The drive to Shimla is not merely about getting to the destination, it is an experience of traveling along shifting landscapes that makes the journey unforgettable.