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How to reach Shimla and Kufri from Chandigarh or Kalka

Kalka/Chandigarh To Shimla-Kufri

Transportation Options To Reach Shimla-Kufri from Chandigarh or Kalka

By Train (Kalka-Shimla Toy Train)

  • Take a regular train from Chandigarh to Kalka, then the toy train to Shimla
  • Journey time: 5-6 hours (slower but scenic)
  • Cost: ₹300-800 (depending on class)
  • Pros: Unique experience, breathtaking views
  • Cons: Longer journey time, advance booking usually required Read More

By Bus

  • Regular government and private buses operate between Chandigarh and Shimla
  • Frequency: Every 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Cost: ₹250-400 for ordinary buses, ₹600-800 for Volvo buses
  • Pros: Economical, frequent departures
  • Cons: Can be crowded, less comfortable for long journeys

By Taxi/Cab

  • Available from Chandigarh Airport or city center
  • Cost: ₹2500-3500 (one-way)
  • Pros: Convenience, flexibility to stop en route
  • Cons: More expensive than public transport

Self-Drive Car Rental

  • Available from various agencies in Chandigarh
  • Cost: ₹1500-3000 per day (excluding fuel)
  • Pros: Complete control over your journey, ability to explore at your own pace
  • Cons: Navigating mountain roads can be challenging for inexperienced drivers

Air Travel Option

While there is no direct air connection between Chandigarh and Shimla, you can fly to a nearby airport and then complete your journey by road. Here are the details:

1. Fly to Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla Airport)

  • Nearest airport to Shimla, located about 22 km from the city center
  • Limited flights operate to this airport due to its small runway
  • Alliance Air (a subsidiary of Air India) operates flights from Delhi to Shimla
  • Flight duration from Delhi: Approximately 1 hour
  • From Chandigarh, you would need to:
    1. Take a flight to Delhi (40-50 minutes)
    2. Then take the Delhi-Shimla flight

Pros:

  • Fastest way to reach close to Shimla
  • Scenic aerial views of the Himalayas

Cons:

  • Limited flight options and frequent cancellations due to weather
  • More expensive than other modes of transport
  • Still requires road travel from the airport to Shimla and then to Kufri

2. Fly to Bhuntar Airport (Kullu Manali Airport)

  • Located about 175 km from Shimla
  • More flight options compared to Shimla Airport
  • Airlines like Air India and SpiceJet operate flights here

Pros:

  • More reliable than Shimla Airport
  • Opportunity to visit Kullu-Manali region

Cons:

  • Farther from Shimla, requiring a longer road journey (4-5 hours)

From Airport to Shimla-Kufri

  • Taxis available at both airports to reach Shimla
  • Cost: ₹2500-3500 from Shimla Airport, ₹4500-5500 from Bhuntar Airport
  • Time: 1 hour from Shimla Airport, 4-5 hours from Bhuntar Airport

Is Air Travel Worth It?

  • Consider air travel if:
    1. You’re extremely short on time
    2. You want to avoid long road journeys
    3. You’re interested in aerial views of the Himalayas
  • However, given the additional road travel required and potential for weather-related cancellations, many travelers find the direct road journey from Chandigarh more convenient and reliable.

Remember to check flight schedules and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Tips for the Journey

  1. Start early to avoid traffic and enjoy scenic views
  2. Carry motion sickness medication if prone to car sickness
  3. Pack warm clothes as temperatures can drop significantly
  4. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (April-June, December-January)

Reaching Kufri from Shimla

  • Taxis available from Shimla to Kufri (30-40 minutes)
  • Cost: ₹800-1200 (round trip)
  • Local buses also available but less frequent

Kufri Heritage Resort & SPA