Among the offers we checked — fastest way from Delhi to Shimla: Flight, about 1h 15min (from €76). Cheapest: Bus, from €6 (about 8h). Other options (estimates, not checked against a live listing): Train (Indian Railways). Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): HRTC, FlixBus, Pal Travel Lines; main departure point: Delhi.
There are 3 ways to get from Delhi to Shimla
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Companies selling this route on 12Go
Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.
| Company | Mode | Departs from | From | Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HRTC | Bus | Delhi | €6 | 21 |
| Pal Travel Lines | Bus | Delhi | €11 | 4 |
| FlixBus | Bus | Delhi Dhaula Kuan N | €11 | 14 |
| Laxmi Holidays | Bus | Delhi | €15 | 4 |
| Ram Dalal Holidays | Bus | Delhi | €15 | 4 |
| Vishal Tour And Travels | Bus | Delhi | €15 | 2 |
| City Land Travels | Bus | Delhi | €15 | 1 |
| Zingbus | Bus | Delhi | €20 | 2 |
| Sai Ganraj Travels | Bus | Delhi | €23 | 4 |
| Rsk Holidays | Bus | Delhi | €23 | 1 |
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Practical tips
Trains, especially sleeper classes and the Toy Train, can sell out days or even weeks in advance. For buses, particularly AC Volvo coaches to hill stations, booking 2-3 days ahead is wise, especially during weekends or public holidays, to ensure a comfortable seat.
While non-AC buses are cheaper, the long, winding hill roads to Shimla can be gruelling. An AC coach offers a far more comfortable, often quieter, ride, making it worth the slight extra cost for a restful journey. Avoid non-AC buses for overnight or long-distance hill travel.
Remember there's no direct train to Shimla. You take a regular train to Kalka, then switch to the 'Toy Train'. Factor in the transfer time and separate bookings. If you prefer a single journey, the bus is more straightforward.
Even if Delhi is hot, Shimla can be surprisingly cool, especially in the mornings and evenings. Always pack layers and a light jacket, even in summer, to stay comfortable as the altitude changes.
Platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn are invaluable for comparing train, bus, and flight options side-by-side. They provide real durations, prices, and often allow direct booking with instant confirmation, easing the planning process significantly.
The journey experience
Navigating from Delhi to Shimla, the 'Queen of Hills', offers a classic Indian travel experience. Your priority, like many independent travellers, is finding the right balance between comfort, cost, and time. For this route, the choice truly boils down to the unique charm of the Toy Train, or the direct speed and comfort of an AC bus. We'll break down which option makes the most sense for your journey.
While a direct train isn't an option to Shimla itself, the iconic narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway (the 'Toy Train') connects from Kalka, which is accessible from Delhi. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a journey in itself, winding through tunnels and over bridges, taking about 6 hours from Kalka. The more direct and cheapest route from Delhi is by AC bus, typically taking between 8 and 9 hours and costing from around €6 to €13. Operators like HRTC and private companies offer frequent services, often departing from Kashmiri Gate ISBT.
Given the overlap of options in India, for your Delhi to Shimla leg, consider this: if time is tight and you want a direct journey, the AC bus is your best bet for comfort and efficiency. However, if you're keen on a unique, scenic experience and have an extra half-day, the train to Kalka followed by the Toy Train is an unforgettable adventure. Book both trains and buses a few days in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred class and avoid last-minute rush.
Frequently asked questions — Delhi → Shimla
The 'best' way depends on your priorities. For a direct, faster, and comfortable journey, an AC Volvo bus (8h–9h, from €6) is ideal. For a unique, scenic experience, take a train to Kalka and then the Kalka-Shimla 'Toy Train' onwards to Shimla. Flights are an option for this specific route, taking 1h15 and starting from €76.
By AC bus, the journey typically takes around 8h–9h, depending on traffic and stops. If you opt for the train-bus combo, it's roughly 6 hours by train to Kalka, plus a 'Toy Train' ride to Shimla, making it an all-day affair (approx. 12-14 hours total including transfers). There are no overnight options for the full journey from Delhi to Shimla; both buses and the Kalka-Shimla train operate during the day. Alternatively, a flight takes 1h15 and starts from €76.
An AC bus ticket usually costs around €14-20. If you choose the train to Kalka, it's about €4-7, plus another €4-7 for the 'Toy Train'. For buses, booking 2-3 days in advance is sufficient. For trains, especially the Kalka-Shimla 'Toy Train' and popular classes from Delhi to Kalka, it's strongly recommended to book at least a week to two weeks ahead, particularly during peak tourist seasons or holidays, to avoid disappointment with waitlists.
For government-run services, Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) is a reliable choice, known for its extensive network and reasonable prices. Private operators like HPTDC (Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation) also offer comfortable AC Volvo coaches. Always check reviews and consider booking through reputable online platforms to ensure a good experience.
Why visit Shimla?
- ✓ Ride the historic Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering breathtaking mountain views.
- ✓ Stroll along The Ridge and Mall Road, the heart of Shimla, for shopping, dining, and colonial architecture.
- ✓ Visit Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, accessible by trek or ropeway, for panoramic city views and monkey encounters.
- ✓ Explore the Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study), a stunning example of British Raj architecture and history.
- ✓ Experience local culture and fresh produce at Lakkar Bazaar, known for its wooden crafts and souvenirs.
When to visit Shimla?
SUBTROPICAL HIGHLAND
March to June and September to November — pleasant weather for sightseeing; avoids monsoon and harsh winter.
What to do in Shimla?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
How long to visit Shimla?
For an independent traveler, 3 to 5 days is ideal to experience Shimla fully. This allows time to explore the Mall Road, Ridge, viceregal Lodge, and enjoy a day trip to Kufri. With only 2 days, focus on the main city attractions; for longer stays, consider trekking or deeper exploration of the surrounding Himachali villages.
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