The distance from Chandigarh Airport to Shimla is approximately 150 km. The roads are well maintained, and the journey usually takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The most common route is via NH5, which offers a scenic drive through the hills. However, during the monsoon season in Himachal Pradesh, extra caution is required as landslides can occasionally occur on NH5.
There are two major and recommended road routes from Chandigarh Airport to Shimla:
Most popular and recommended route
Route: Chandigarh Airport → Panchkula → Kalka → Solan → Shimla
Fastest route during off-peak hours
I personally recommend the NH5 route as I have traveled from Shimla to Chandigarh Airport multiple times. It is one of my favorite routes due to its smooth and well-maintained roads.
If you are traveling from Chandigarh Airport to Shimla, you can choose from the following transport options: by road, by train, or by air.
Hiring a taxi from Chandigarh Airport is the most comfortable option.
Prepaid taxis and online cab services are available at the airport.
First, take a local cab from Chandigarh Airport to Chandigarh ISBT (Sector 43).
There is no direct train from Chandigarh Airport to Shimla. First, take a cab or bus to Chandigarh Railway Station, approximately 20 km away. From there, travel by train to Kalka, where you can board the famous Shimla Toy Train. The toy train journey takes around 6–7 hours.
Second Option:
You can directly book a cab from Chandigarh Railway Station
to Kalka or take a bus from
Sector 17 or Sector 43 to Kalka Railway Station. From Kalka, book your Shimla Toy Train.
This route is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy breathtaking views of the Shivalik Hills, forests, tunnels, and bridges—scenery you won’t experience by road.
The best time to travel is from March to June, when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. If you wish to experience snowfall, December to February is ideal, although travel may be slower due to cold weather and occasional road disruptions.