If you are living in Mohali and want to visit Shimla, this blog is for you. Shimla is a beautiful hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is famous for its cool weather, green hills, and old buildings. It is a perfect place for a short trip with friends or family.
In this blog, you will learn how to go from Mohali to Shimla using the best travel options. You can go by car, bus, train, or even take the famous toy train from Kalka. We will explain everything in simple steps so even a student can understand.
📍 Where is Shimla?
State: Himachal Pradesh
Height: Around 2,200 meters (7,200 ft) above sea level
Known for: Mall Road, Ridge, Kufri, snowfall, toy train
🛣️ Distance from Mohali to Shimla
Distance: Around 120 km
Time by road: Around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and weather
🚗 Option 1: By Car or Taxi – Best for Family Travel
If you have your own car or hire a taxi, this is the fastest and most comfortable way to go from Mohali to Shimla.
📌 Route
Mohali → Kharar → Kurali → Baddi → Solan → Shimla
🕒 Time
Takes 4 to 5 hours depending on the traffic
💰 Cost
- Own car: Fuel cost ₹800 to ₹1000
- Taxi: Around ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 (one way)
✅ Pros
- You can stop anywhere for tea or snacks
- Best for families and groups
- Scenic drive through hills
❌ Cons
- Sharp turns after Solan
- Needs careful driving in winter (due to snow or fog)
🚌 Option 2: By Bus (Budget-Friendly) – Perfect for Students
This is a good option for solo travelers or students who want to know how to go from Mohali to Shimla on a budget.
🚏 Where to board the bus?
ISBT Sector 43 Chandigarh (near Mohali)
🚌 Bus Types
| Type of Bus | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| HRTC Ordinary | 5–6 hours | ₹200–₹300 |
| HRTC Volvo (AC) | 4.5–5 hours | ₹500–₹700 |
🌐 Booking
Visit HRTC Official Website or go directly to the bus stand.
✅ Pros
- Affordable
- No need to drive yourself
❌ Cons
- Less flexible
- May not stop at tourist spots
🚆 Option 3: By Train + Toy Train – Scenic and Fun
There is no direct train from Mohali to Shimla, but you can go in 2 easy steps:
Step 1: Mohali to Kalka
Take a local train or cab to Kalka (about 1 hour)
Step 2: Kalka to Shimla by Toy Train
This famous UNESCO heritage toy train is a must-try.
🕒 Time
Around 5 to 6 hours (toy train is slow but beautiful)
💰 Cost
₹50 to ₹500 depending on the coach (general, chair car, or first class)
🌐 Booking
Book online at IRCTC Website
✅ Pros
- Amazing views of hills, valleys, and tunnels
- Great for photography
❌ Cons
- Slow journey
- Not suitable if you’re in a hurry
🏨 Where to Stay in Shimla?
There are many hotels in Shimla for all budgets:
| Budget | Price (per night) | Hotel Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Low | ₹500–₹1000 | Dorms, guest houses |
| Medium | ₹1500–₹2500 | Hotel Shingar, Hotel Combermere |
| Luxury | ₹3000+ | Oberoi Cecil, Wildflower Hall |
📝 Tip: Book your hotel in advance, especially during summer or holidays.
🏔️ Best Places to Visit in Shimla
- Mall Road – Main street for shopping and eating
- The Ridge – Open space with great views
- Jakhu Temple – Tall Hanuman statue and panoramic views
- Kufri – Famous for snow and horse rides
- Christ Church – Historic church built in British time
- Green Valley – Great spot for photos
- Scandal Point – Nice walk with history
- Shimla State Museum – Learn about local culture
☀️ Best Time to Visit Shimla
| Season | Months | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | March to June | Cool weather, best for sightseeing |
| Monsoon | July to September | Risk of landslides, not recommended |
| Winter | December to Feb | Snowfall, very cold, carry jackets |
🎒 Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Carry warm clothes – even in summer, it gets cool at night
- Wear sports or trekking shoes for walking on hills
- Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration
- Do not litter – keep the hills clean
- Carry motion sickness tablets if needed
📌 Quick Summary – How to Reach Shimla from Mohali
| Option | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car / Taxi | 4–5 hrs | ₹800–₹3000 | Families, flexible plans |
| Bus | 5–6 hrs | ₹200–₹700 | Students, solo travelers |
| Train + Toy Train | 6–7 hrs | ₹100–₹500 | Scenic lovers, tourists |
🧭 Final Thoughts
How to go from Mohali to Shimla is a common question for tourists and students. Luckily, it’s very easy and affordable. You can travel by car, bus, or the famous toy train and enjoy the beautiful views along the way.
So pack your bags, call your friends or family, and plan a relaxing trip to Shimla – the Queen of Hills!
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