How to Reach Shimla from Kolkata: A Complete Travel Guide
The recommended way to reach Shimla from Kolkata is by Flight, Bus Via Chandigarh which would take approximately 6 hours. The fastest way to reach Shimla.....

India's iconic hill station Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and is popular for its colonial charm, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant weather. There are several ways to reach Shimla from Kolkata like you can travel by flight, train, bus, or you can plan a road trip. This article will discuss the most preferred modes of transport to travel between Kolkata and Shimla.
Distance Between Kolkata and Shimla
Kolkata to Shimla distance: 1800 km ( approx. ) Shimla is not directly connected with Kolkata so one will need to take combined flight, train, and road transport to reach Shimla.
Best Ways to Reach Shimla from Kolkata
By Flight (Fastest and Most Convenient Option)
The quickest option of travelling from Kolkata to Shimla is via air. Although there is no direct flight between Metro Country in Kolkata (CCU) and Shimla Airport (SLV)) from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. Instead, you will have to fly into Chandigarh or Delhi and drive or take the train to Shimla.
Option 1: Kolkata to Chandigarh to Shimla
Flight: Take a direct flight from Kolkata to Chandigarh Airport (IXC). The flight duration is around 2.5 to 3 hours.
By Road: From Chandigarh, you can reach Shimla via taxi, bus, or private vehicle. The distance is 114 km, and the journey takes approximately 3-4 hours by road.
By Train: Alternatively, you can take a train from Chandigarh to Kalka and then board the famous Kalka-Shimla Toy Train.
Option 2: Kolkata to Delhi to Shimla
Flight: Take a direct flight from Kolkata to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), New Delhi. The flight duration is 2.5 hours.
By Road: From Delhi, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Shimla, which is 342 km away and takes around 7-8 hours.
By Train: Another option is to take a train from Delhi to Kalka, followed by the toy train or a taxi to Shimla.
By Train (Budget-Friendly Option)
Although there is no direct train from Kolkata to Shimla, you can travel via Kalka or Chandigarh. Here’s how:
Option 1: Kolkata to Kalka to Shimla
Step 1: Take a train from Howrah Junction (HWH) or Sealdah (SDAH) to Kalka (KLK). The recommended train is Netaji Express (12311), which takes around 27-28 hours.
Step 2: From Kalka, board the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway, offering scenic views of the Himalayas. The journey takes 5-6 hours.
Option 2: Kolkata to Chandigarh to Shimla
Step 1: Take a train from Howrah or Sealdah to Chandigarh (CDG). Recommended trains include:
Howrah - Chandigarh Express (12325) (Approx. 25 hours)
Step 2: From Chandigarh, travel by road or train to Shimla.
By Road (For Adventure Enthusiasts)
If you enjoy long drives, you can embark on a road trip from Kolkata to Shimla. However, it’s a long and tiring journey of around 30-35 hours, covering a distance of approximately 1,800 km.
Best Route:
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Kolkata – Varanasi – Lucknow – Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla
You can either drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi. It is advisable to take halts at major cities like Varanasi, Lucknow, or Delhi for rest.
By Bus (Economical Option)
Although there are no direct buses from Kolkata to Shimla, you can travel in the following way:
Step 1: Take a bus or train from Kolkata to Delhi or Chandigarh.
Step 2: Board a Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) Volvo or private bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla.
Step 3: The bus journey from Chandigarh to Shimla takes 3-4 hours, while from Delhi, it takes around 8 hours.
Best Time to Travel to Shimla
Shimla is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the type of experience you seek:
Summer (March to June): Ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities.
Monsoon (July to September): Offers lush greenery but has a risk of landslides.
Winter (October to February): Perfect for snowfall and winter sports.
Travel Tips for Kolkata to Shimla Trip
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Book flights and trains in advance, especially during peak seasons.
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If traveling by road, carry necessary supplies and be prepared for long driving hours.
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The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train requires advance booking due to high demand.
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Shimla has a cool climate, so pack accordingly.
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If opting for buses, prefer HRTC Volvos for comfort.
Conclusion
Reaching Shimla from Kolkata requires careful planning, as there are no direct travel options. The best way depends on your preference, time, and budget. Flights to Chandigarh or Delhi followed by a road or train journey is the fastest option. Trains are budget-friendly, while road trips offer an adventurous experience. No matter how you travel, the journey to Shimla promises breathtaking views and a memorable experience.
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