How far is Shimla from Delhi, and which route is best?
Shimla is about 340 km from Delhi by road, and a cab takes 7–8 hours including one or two short tea or lunch breaks. There is really only one practical way up: the fast NH-44 highway to Chandigarh, then NH-5 into the Shivalik hills through Kalka, Parwanoo, Solan and Kandaghat. The last 110 km or so is winding mountain road climbing to 7,234 ft, which is why an experienced hill driver matters on this trip.
| Route | Via | Distance | Travel time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended | NH-44 → Chandigarh → NH-5 → Kalka → Solan → Shimla | ~340 km | 7 hr 30 min | Standard route, smoothest drive |
| Alternate (Saharanpur) | Yamunanagar → Paonta Sahib → Solan → Shimla | ~370 km | 9 hr | Scenic, more curves, longer |
For much of the climb the road runs beside the Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge railway, a UNESCO World Heritage line. If Chandigarh is as far as you need to go, our Delhi to Chandigarh taxi covers that leg on its own.
What are the best places to visit in Shimla?
The Ridge and Mall Road
The Ridge is the large open plaza at the centre of town, and it leads straight onto Mall Road, Shimla's famous shopping street. Both are for walking only. Come at sunset, when the snow-capped peaks light up on the horizon.
Christ Church
Standing on the Ridge, this neo-Gothic church from 1857 is the second-oldest in North India and the most photographed building in Shimla. Step inside for the stained-glass windows.
Jakhoo Temple
A 108-foot Hanuman statue crowns Jakhoo Hill and can be seen from across the city. Ride the Jakhu Ropeway or walk up from the Ridge in about 30 minutes. Sunrise is spectacular — and keep a close eye on your belongings, because the monkeys here are notorious.
Kufri
Sixteen km from town at 8,000 ft, Kufri is Shimla's skiing and adventure hub. From December to February there is skiing and tobogganing; all year round there are yak rides, horse rides to Mahasu Peak and the Himalayan Nature Park, home to red pandas.
Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study)
Built in 1888 as the British Viceroy's summer residence, and the venue of the 1945 Simla Conference, this Jacobean building is now an academic institute that is open for guided tours.
Chail, Naldehra and Tattapani
Chail, 45 km away, has the world's highest cricket ground at 2,144 m and a palace built by the Maharaja of Patiala in 1891. Naldehra (22 km) has Asia's oldest 9-hole golf course at 7,500 ft, and Tattapani (50 km) has natural sulphur hot springs on the banks of the Sutlej.
Kalka–Shimla toy train
The 96-km narrow-gauge railway from Kalka, built in 1903, crosses 102 tunnels and more than 800 bridges on its way up. If you want to ride the Shivalik Deluxe Express, book your seats in advance.
When is the best time to visit Shimla from Delhi?
Each season gives a very different trip:
- March to June (summer): 15–25°C and perfect weather. This is peak tourist season, so reserve your cab and hotel early.
- October and November: clear skies, autumn colours and fewer crowds. Highly recommended for a relaxed break.
- December to February (winter): -2 to 12°C, with snowfall in Kufri likely from late December. Hill-driving experience is essential, and our SUV drivers carry snow chains.
- July to September (monsoon): heavy rain and possible landslides. Avoid unless the trip can't wait.
Events worth planning around
- Sipi Fair (May): a fair at Mashobra celebrating Lord Shiva.
- Shimla Summer Festival (June): cultural shows, a dog show and a flower exhibition.
- Christmas and New Year: snowfall is possible, crowds are massive and rates run at a premium.
Tips for a smooth Delhi to Shimla trip
- Choose an SUV for winter. From December to February, an Ertiga, Scorpio or Innova Crysta is the sensible pick for the upper road, and our SUV drivers come equipped with snow chains.
- Tell us your bag count. Sedans take 2–3 bags, the Innova Crysta 4 and the Tempo Traveller 12, so we can send a car that fits everyone's luggage.
- Going on to Manali? The Delhi → Shimla → Mandi → Manali hill circuit is about 660 km over two days. Our Delhi to Manali taxi page has the details.
- Coming back by cab. Shimla to Delhi return taxis run at the same fares. If you reached Shimla by train or flight, call us and we will send a cab to your hotel.
