A 2024 Handy Delhi To Shimla Trains Guide For First Time Visitors To North India

3 Nov 2021

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It’s not hard to see why Shimla is Himachal Pradesh’s most popular hill stations. Previously the summer capital of British India, Shimla’s bustling bazaars, iconic attractions, and long winding streets make for a scenic train ride. If you plan to take the Delhi to Shimla trains in a couple of weeks, here are some things, like the Delhi to Shimla train schedule, that you should know beforehand to make your train journey hassle-free. Don’t worry about the budget, since the Delhi to Shimla train fare is easy on the pocket.

Delhi To Shimla Train Route

Delhi to Shimla by train is the most sought-after journey in the hills of North India. The Delhi to Shimla train distance is 342 km. There is no direct train between Delhi to Shimla as per the Delhi to Shimla train schedule; one has to switch trains at Kalka to go to Shimla.

The New Delhi to Shimla trains that run from Delhi to Kalka is a broad gauge train while the New Delhi to Shimla trains that run between Kalka and Shimla is a narrow-gauge train. Toy trains run over the latter track.

The important intermediate stations between Delhi to Shimla are Sonepat, Panipat, Karnal, Ambala, Chandigarh, and finally, Kalka. The longest tunnel, which stretches for over 1 km, is near Barog. The ghost of Colonel Barog, the tunnel engineer after whom the station was named, is said to linger here in the night. From Barog onwards, the scenery changes. The sun rays play hide and seek with the pine and oak trees that encircle the station.

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Kalka To Shimla Train Names

There are primarily three trains that run between Kalka and Shimla. Our Delhi Shimla train guide will acquaint you with the Delhi to Shimla train names:

Shivalik Deluxe Express: This is a premium express train that comes with large glass windows, cushioned seats, carpeted floors, and ambient music. The trains between New Delhi to Shimla can accommodate only 120 passengers. You will get sumptuous food on the train.
Himalayan Queen: This train is suitable for those who want to get off at certain stations and take pictures of the beautiful scenery. Food isn’t provided on the train, but it can be purchased at one of the nine stops.
Rail Motor Car: Resembling a bus, this chair car accommodates only 14 passengers. It has a transparent roof stops at Barog. It can be difficult to get tickets, so make sure to book them in advance. They provide delicious Indo-Western food on the train.

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Kalka to Shimla Train Timetable

Train Number	Train Name	Class	Time Of Departure	Time Of Arrival	Operational Days	Fare (in INR)
72451	Rail Motor	First Class	5:10 AM	9:50 AM	365	305
52457	Kalka Shimla Pass	First Class	4:00 AM	9:20 AM	365	240
52451	Shiwalik Deluxe	Chair Car	5:30 AM	10:15 AM	365	375
52453	Kalka Shimla Express	First Class	6:00 AM	11:10 AM	365	280
52453	Kalka Shimla Express	Second Class	6:00 AM	11:10 AM	365	60
52455	Himalayan Queen	Chair Car	12:10 PM	5:20 PM	365	245

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Shimla to Kalka Train Timetable

Train Number	Train Name	Class	Time Of Departure	Time Of Arrival	Operational Days	Fare (in INR)
52456	Himalayan Queen	Chair Car	10:30 AM	4:10 PM	365	245
52458	Shimla Kalka Pass	First Class	2:25 PM	8:10 PM	365	240
72452	Rail Motor	First Class	4:25 PM	9:35 PM	365	305
52454	Shimla Kalka Express	First Class	6:15 PM	11:15 PM	365	280
52454	Shimla Kalka Express	Second Class	6:15 PM	11:20 PM	365	60
52452	Shiwalik Deluxe	Chair Car	5:40 PM	10:25 PM	365	465

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Hop-On-Hop-Off Train

A new hop-on-hop-off train was introduced in the year 2018 on the Kalka-Shimla track, which is a UNESCO declared World Heritage site. Under this service, passengers can board or deboard from any coach on any station. Getting train tickets is a tough ordeal, which is subject to availability of seats.

At the time of booking, you have to submit a photo ID proof along with a photocopy. The Delhi to Shimla train distance can be easily covered within 8.5 hours in the hop-on-hop-off train.

Ticket fare for 1 day (for adults): INR 500
Ticket fare for 1 day (for kids): INR 250
Ticket fare for 2 days (for adults): INR 800
Ticket fare for 2 days (for kids): INR 400
Ticket fare for 3 days (for adults): INR 1000
Ticket fare for 3 days (for kids): INR 500

Picturesque Views From Kalka-Shimla Track

The train ride from Delhi to Kalka takes roughly 5 hours, and from Shimla to Kalka near around 6 hours. The Kalka-Shimla train journey covers 109 tunnels, 20 railway stations, and 969 bridges. It is famous for its picturesque views of snow-laden peaks, rugged cliffs, lush green-terraced farms, and roaring streams. Sit back, relax and watch the beautiful countryside go by as you travel through the charming towns and villages of Himachal.

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How To Make Reservations Online

You can go from Delhi to Shimla by train Shatabdi. Make sure to check Delhi to Shimla train seat availability online on the official Indian Railways Train website. This is one of the best ways to get up-to-date booking information and check seat availability in real-time.

The Delhi to Shimla distance can be covered by the trains and the timetable can alternatively be checked at major stations where a PNR stats checking counter is available. The Delhi to Shimla train ticket price is equivalent to the cost of a branded dress. By this, we mean that the Delhi to Shimla by train fare is pretty affordable.

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The Delhi to Shimla trains is one of the best train journeys for tourists operated by Indian Railways. The train passes through beautiful valleys and hills – the sight of which will certainly take your breath away. This journey will go down as one of the most memorable experiences of your life. Book a trip to Himachal to catch these sights in person and behold the beauty of the Himalayas.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Delhi to Shimla Trains

How is the road from Delhi to Shimla?

The road from Delhi to Shimla is very well maintained. Travelers can easily commute through that without encountering any kind of hassles. There are many buses and taxis available from Delhi to Shimla.

Is there any direct train from Delhi to Shimla?

No, there is no direct train from Delhi to Shimla. Bus journeys are recommended if you are traveling with your family, as they are direct and easy-going. Still if you won’t wish to travel via road, then trains are available to the Shimla-Kalka line.

How many days are sufficient for Shimla?

Usually, 3 to 4 days are sufficient for a vacation in Shimla. But if you are a hardcore traveler then spare a week at least to explore the authenticity & cultural diversity of this gorgeous destination.

Which is the best time to visit Shimla?

The best time to visit Shimla is from November to February. During these months you might as well experience snow. But if you aren’t very fond of snow or winters in general then visit Shimla post-April.

Is it safe to travel to Shimla in August?

The weather during the month of August wavers between mildly summery and cold. Your travel plans may get hindered by unpredictable bouts of rain, but you will score great deals on airfare and accommodation.