Want to visit somewhere peaceful? Want to enjoy yourself being in the midst of snow? Then Shimla is a place for you. Yes, Shimla is one of the most famous tourist destinations in India. Shimla is not only blessed with the natural bounty, but it is also renowned for its culture as well. Shimla is popularly known by the epithet The Queen of Hills due to its unmatched exquisite bounty. Hence, today we are here to explore how to reach Shimla from Chandigarh.
Best Time to Visit Shimla
The most suitable and preferable time to visit Shimla is between the months from May to June as well as December to January. During this time, the climate is absolutely ideal for having unlimited fun and exploration. The weather is relaxed, which makes it enjoyable to do outdoor activities. This is a peak season when Shimla is packed with the bulk of tourists.
Famous Routes to Take to Reach Shimla From Chandigarh
Route 1: Through NH 5
Chandigarh – Panchkula – Saproon – Mansar – Kashmari – Shimla
This is one of the fastest, shortest, and most common routes taken by tourists to reach Chandigarh to Shimla. The condition of the roads is excellent. Hence, it provides a smooth driving experience and has few or no traffic issues.
Route 2: Through SH 16
Chandigarh – Siswan – Barotiwala – Kunihar – Shimla
It is another alternative route that can be taken from Chandigarh to Shimla. While passing through this route, you can experience scenic sights and beautiful attractions as well.
Best Places to Eat Along the Route From Chandigarh to Shimla
1. Raja Dhaba, Chandigarh Road: It is one of the most famous places to enjoy delicious dishes of Punjabi cuisine in a traditional setting.
2. Almakrand Restaurant, Khanna: It is another famous place to have a wholesome meal with your family along the route from Chandigarh to Shimla.
3. Coco Taucan, Baith Saida: Here is another well-known place to have mouthwatering cakes, sweets, pastries, and chocolates as well at reasonable rates.
4. Hangout, Kasauli: This is another place offering lip-smacking food. It is particularly recognised for its peaceful setting on the rooftop with panoramic views.
Best Places to Visit Along the Route From Chandigarh to Shimla
1. Gurudwara Sheesh Mahal Sahib, Chandigarh : It is one of the most famous tourist destinations along the route from Chandigarh to Shimla. This opulent Gurudwara is renowned for its architectural design and natural bounty.
Image Credit: Just Dial
2. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, Panchkula: Here is another worth visiting place packed with natural beauty. This place is particularly renowned for the wide variety of fauna, and it has the highest variety of Sambar clusters as well.
Image Credit: Travel Setu
3. Sunset Point, Kasauli: This is one of the most famous and loved tourist attractions along the way. This place is known for stunning sunset views, which are absolutely breathtaking.
Image Credit: Pinterest
4. Gorton Castle, Shimla: It is another incredible tourist spot that is particularly recognised for its magical vibes. This castle is encased in the bounty of deodar trees, and it offers exquisite and breathtaking views.
Image Credit: Clear Holidays
Where to Eat in Shimla?
1. Hills Edge Restaurant
Location: In Marina Hotel, Mall Rd., Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
2. Chopsticks
Location: 57/1, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
3. Goofa Ashiana Restaurant
Location: Ridge, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
4. Himachali Rasoi
Location: 54, Mall Rd., Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
Where to Stay in Shimla?
1. Shimla Nature Ville
Location: V P O Chailly, to Boileauganj to Summer Hill, Summer Hill, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171005
Booking Link: https://staybook.in/hotels/staybook-shimla-nature-ville-shimla/rooms
2. Shimla Vibes B & B
Location: 34VX+FWV New Bus Stand, ISBT, Tutikandi, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171004
Booking Link: https://www.agoda.com/en-au/search?campaignid=&searchdatetype=default<=
3. Singhs Bed and Breakfast
Location: CPRI Road, Bemloi, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
Booking Link: https://www.agoda.com/en-au/search?campaignid=&searchdatetype=default<=
4. Abuzz Oxford Caps Shimla
Location: Tutikandi Rd., Tutikandi, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171004
Booking Link : https://www.hostelworld.com/pwa/wds/hosteldetails.php/Abuzz-OC/Shimla/310862
FAQs About Road Trip From Chandigarh to Shimla;
Q.1: What is the distance between Chandigarh and Shimla? How much time will it take to cover this distance?
Ans. The distance between Chandigarh and Shimla is around 111.1 km, and it takes almost 3 hours to cover this distance and reach Shimla from Chandigarh.
Q.2: What are the other means of transport to reach Shimla from Chandigarh?
Ans. Apart from a car, you can also opt for a bus or book a cab to reach Shimla from Chandigarh. Besides this, other means of travelling from Chandigarh to Shimla are:
By Train: You can easily reach the nearest railway station of Shimla, which is Kalka Railway Station, directly from Chandigarh.
By Flight: You can easily reach Shimla from Chandigarh via flight, but the thing to be noted is that the Shimla airport doesn’t operate throughout the year.
Q.3: What is the most special food to enjoy in Shimla?
Ans. The most famous and mouthwatering dishes in Shimla comprise Madra, Chicken Anardana, Dhaam, Babru, etc.