Delhi to Shimla by Road: Exploring the Best Routes

Do you know when you start your Delhi To Shimla By Road ? Initially, when your travel buddies are so excited to get to reach your destination. But after that, slowly you end up getting bored and everyone sleeps one by one. Only those who are handling the staring and at the driving seat can’t fall asleep because of their driving responsibility. It is only happening because you don’t know what exciting things are coming along the way and what will be next. But In this blog, we are sharing one of the top road trips in north India, which is Delhi, to Shimla by road. Also, by this blog piece, you planned your journey because we are sharing every detail.

Why should you take/visit Delhi to Shimla by road?

Delhi to Shimla by road is one of the most popular trips for the Delhi’s. Because for this trip you don’t need to make any special adjustments. 

This trip from Delhi to Shimla by road is the go-to gateway for their long weekend. Not only Delhi to Shimla by the road is a great way for Delhi or NCR workaholics. Delhi to Shimla via road tip gives a sense of humanity in the hustle bustle busy life of the 21st century. 

On The other hand, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh is one of those which is known by the name of the Queen of Hills. Because it gives the experience of the feel of the natural climatic environment which is too far from the cities busy, traffic & Polluted filled life. Even that can be the reason why you should take Delhi to Shimla by road. 

You will experience a lot of adventure and tasty food on the trip from Delhi to Shimla by road. If you want to know more about this read till the end. 

What is the best time to take Delhi to Shimla by road?

The best time to visit Shimla can vary from person to person. Because every person can love some or other weather. 

But as per recommendation, the best time to visit Shimla or you also can say the best month to visit Shimla is from March through June. Especially for the best time to plan Delhi to Shimla by road. 

Shimla during these months is adorned with lush greenery, accompanied by a moderately warm climate and a temperature that hovers around 20°C. 

Now we are suggesting you kindly avoid during the July to September you might find the stones over the road. This means landslides can happen, that’s why real Himachal always suggested avoiding road trips during the monsoon.

Moreover, if you are someone who wants to live in the feel of chilled winters and loves snow. You can choose your journey from Delhi to Shimla by road from December to Jan or Feb. 

Let us now discuss the various routes. 

Best route from Delhi to Shimla by road. 

Delhi to Shimla by road there are 3 major routes available. All these routes are different from other routes. How much you will complete this journey will also change. These routes offer numerous enchanting landscaping sceneries and places to visit along the way from Delhi to Shimla by road. 

But Now in this blog, we share the most taken route which is also common to everyone who is going from Delhi to Shimla via road. It is used by Public transport as well. On this route we follow National Highway 44  on this journey, you can enjoy small breaks for tea, coffee, and snacks break. Some drivers stop for dinner and lunch throughout the journey. 

The route map looks like 

Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra – Ambala – Pinjore – Kasauli – Shimla 

The distance between Delhi and Shimla by road is approximately 486 kilometers. Which can be 8 hours 8-hour-long trip by road. If you follow continuously and don’t take much time on stopovers. It is also the shortest route to Shimla.  

The route starts from the NH44 & NH 152 and then heads to NH 5. 

This Route passes through some of the cities like Delhi, Panipat, Karnal, Kurukshetra, Ambala, Chandigarh, and Solan then ends in Shimla Himachal Pradesh. 

We recommend that you follow Google Maps and rely on GPS.

Attractions Along the Way / Places you can visit via en route Delhi to Shimla by road ?

Traveling from Delhi to Shimla via road. If you decide to come, there are also some places you can visit. While driving from Delhi to Shimla, you’ll come across some attractions. Here you take a stop and relax your muscles. Get crazy and excited about the upcoming few hours of this journey. Here is a list of places along the way from Delhi to Shimla by road.

Purana Quila: This Purana Quila is located at the Panipat. It’s a kind of historical monument where you can just chill in the park and there in it library as well. 

Karnal Lake: Another place to visit the route from Delhi to Shimla by road is Karnal Lake. It is one of the picturesque locations. It is located outside the Karnal city. 

Sheikh Chilli Tomb: It is one of the famous & mausoleums of Sufi Sant in Kurukshetra.

Joytisar: It is located in Kurukshetra. About this, you can find information in the Geta. Where Shree Krishna delivered the Gita discourses during the war of Mahabharata.

Rock Garden: It is one of the most famous among tourist who comes to visit Chandigarh city. It is made of waste. More than 5000 sculptures in it. Rock garden. in Chandigarh cover 40 40-acre area. You should if you are visiting Delhi to Shimla by road.

Sukhna Lake: It is one of the well-maintained, hygienic lakes in Chandigarh. You can go boating here. Sukhna Lake can provide you with a sense of soothing, calmness of fresh natural beauty. 

Le Corbusier Centre: This spot is the gem of this Delhi-Shimla road trip. Here you can find some archival material of Le Corbusier. On the masterpiece in the city. 

Sarkaria Cactus Garden: It unique garden which is situated in Panchkula. Here you can find a variety of cactus plants. 

Jal Mahal Pinjore: This Jal Mahal in Pinjore is one of the most popular attractions during the Delhi to Shimla by road. Also known as the famous Rajwadi garden. Here you can just sit and relax in the lawn garden & in between the fountains. The splashing sound of water gives you the feel of a meditative sense. 

Monkey point: To reach a monkey you have to take a little bit trail way. At this spot, you can easily take a view of spectacular views of nature. 

Barog / Barog Railway Station: Brog is one of the beautiful places where you can visit while coming from Delhi to Shimla by road. It is a place where the Kalka Shimla railway tunnel also passed through. Once in lifetime you can must visit at here.

Mohan Shakti Heritage Park: Mohan Shakti Heritage Park is situated in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Which is 20km away from the Shimla. The capital city of Himachal Pradesh. This park serves as the center for spiritual and cultural education. This park is significant for its rich culture of Indian heritage. If you are coming you must have to visit here. 

Tara Devi: Tara Devi temple is one the prominent Hindu temples which is located near the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. The Tara Devi temple offers tranquil surroundings making it an ideal spot for meditation and introspection.

Indian Institute of Advanced Study: It is also located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. Which was built by the Ministry of Education and, the government of India in 1964. 

Jakhu Mandir: Temple which is situated at the Shimla. Which is dedicated to the lord Hanuman. Where you take an experience of the massive statue of adeity. It is one of the famous tourist spots among the travelers. 

Mall Road: The road is a hub for Shimla travelers which serves the colonial architecture. Where you can find market famous shops. This place is restricted to public transport and offers you the soothing beauty of The Queen of Hills Shimla Himachal Pradesh.

By reaching here you also need something to enjoy eating. Because every road trip is incomplete without eating anything at roadside food outlets like famous Dhaba’s and restaurants. We have a list of popular places.

Where can you eat while you are on the road from Delhi to Shimla?

Mannat Murthal: Mannat Murthal located at the murthal located beside the GT Karnal highway. It is famous for its north Indian cuisine. Their popularity lies behind their famous parathas served with a tangy, delicious pickle which is one of the most settled cravings for Punjabis. 

Garam Dharam:It is also one of the popular dhabas beside the Karnal highway where you can taste north Indian cuisine. With indoor seating and beautiful atmosphere. 

Haveli at GT Karnal Road: This is another favorite spot among travelers at the GT Karnal Road at Haveli. It is also famous for its Punjabi cuisine dishes, like Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, and buttermilk. Here you can gain the experience of Punjabi Hospitality. 

Puran Singh Dhaba at Ambala: It’s Ambala that’s why they also have their famous Punjabi menu. Travelers mostly come here to taste their Sarso Da Saag and Makki Di Roti. It is a famous and iconic eatery in Punjabi households. 

Sethi Dhaba Zirakpur: Sethi Dhaba is located at Zirakpur. Visitors rave about their succulent tandoori chicken, buttery naan, and flavorful paneer dishes. This is one stop for all your Punjabi food cravings. 

Pal Dhaba Chandigarh: It is also another popular spot for North Indian cuisine with a feel of farm hospitality. Pal Dhaba is also another iconic destination for travelers for their Punjabi dishes like Dal Makhani and Biryani. 

Modern Dhaba Dharampur: Let’s move to Dharampur. They serve their eateries with a picturesque dining experience. Here you can eat your foot in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains. 

Giani Da Dhaba, Dharampur: Giani Da Dhaba is also famous for its signature popular spicy curries like Rajma Rice and Kadhi Chawal, creamy lassi, and Chole Bhature. Here you can stop for a memorable dining experience. 

Food Mistri Dharampur: It is one of the innovative food spots which is known by the name of Food Mistri. Their innovative dishes like paneer tikka pizza, butter chicken pasta, and tasty creamy smoothies. Here, you can experience the taste of adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. 

Chanakya restaurant Solan: You can spot this place at the Solan. Which serves Himachal cuisine. Now you understand your trip from Delhi to Shimla by road comes to an end. Here you start gaining experience in Himachali culture. Their specialties are in Siddu Chana Madra and Babru. 

The Pinewood Barog: The Pinewood Barog in this list because they offer multi-cuisine dishes on their menu. They serve flavourful tandoori continentals specialists with tasty mouthwatering desserts. 

Mahindra Club:  Club Mahindra Waknaghat is a picturesque resort nestled in the serene hills of Waknaghat, offering comfortable accommodation, exciting recreational activities, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Resort Eutopia, Waknaghat: Resort Eutopia is one of the luxurious spots where you take the fine dining experience. Perfect service and stunning views of the nearby Himalayas make for an unforgettable getaway experience for guests. Gourmet treats made with locally sourced ingredients are served to guests.

Platform 78, Kaithlighat: Platform 78 in Kaithlighat is famous for its unique menu that combines foods from around the world. Food lovers in Himachal Pradesh love this trendy restaurant because it has new dishes, handcrafted drinks, and rich desserts that they can enjoy while taking in the lively atmosphere.

Diamond Best Bakery Sweets, Restaurant & Groceries: It is one of the renowned palaces for bakery goods or detectable sweets in Shimla. Here you can take satisfied mouth-watering pastries, flavored cookies, and deserts of sweet delights. 

Just Baked by Tripti Shimla: It is one of the popular baked spots in Shimla. They offer cakes and pastries with attention to love and details. 

Taste Buds Panthaghati: It is located at the Panthaghati of Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. Taste Buds offers one of the places where you can buy the best bakery items like cookies, cakes, and sweets. 

General Tips while your are on Delhi to Shimla by road?

Diesel Petrol: Delhi to Shimla by road on this trip there is no need to worry about the diesel and petrol. It is one of the popular routes for travelers and has diesel & petrol pumps and many fuel stations. Where you can refuel your vehicle without being worried about that. We suggest you to keep fuel fill might be possible it will not be available at night  time in Shimla or at solan. 

Overnight halts: On This journey here you can easily find overnight halts and many grates to stay and eat. 

Mobile connectivity: Mobile connectivity and internet can be tricky to find in the hills. There are some specific places where you can find issues related to that. We suggest you have one of the permanently connected network devices that will be available on your whole road trip.

ATM: To Shimla, you can easily find an ATM but if you want to experience every local delicacy you have some amount of cash in your pocket. Because where you not be able to use credit and debit cards. We Real Himachal recommend keeping cash. (RECOMMENDED TO CARRY CASH)

Mechanics: There are mechanics available all away the long journey to Shimla. but we still recommend you carry a car- jack, wrenches, and spare tire for the long road trip. Also sure that your vehicle is serviced properly. Possibly it cannot be available at night. 

Tools kit: A travel kit is one of the most important things to bring on road trips. A first aid kit, two sets of tools, duct tape, scissors, an air pressure gauge for tires (these are small and useful), and screwdrivers are some of the things you should bring. If you get a flat tire, you should be able to use the extra tire right away. Along the highway, some workers carry a tool kit even though they already have everything they need to fix something.

Some alternative routes are also available to reach Shimla. 

Route 2 : Delhi to Shimla via Yamuna highway 

This is the Delhi to Shimla road trip alternative route you can choose. It takes more time to reach Shimla as compared to above mentioned route. It takes 11 hours to complete this Delhi to Shimla by road. This route follows NH44 to 5 highway. The route will look like this.

Route 3 : Delhi to Shimla via Dehradun

Of course, Delhi to Shimla by road by this route can make you feel lethargic. Because it takes 12 hours to complete this journey. The Delhi to Shimla by Dehradun route looks like covers distance via Uttar Pradesh. By strolling on the roads of NH 334 & 7.

 Ghaziabad, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Dehradun, Kolar, Barog, and finally Shimla, via NH 334 and 7.

After making a list of everything you are at your destination with the Delhi to Shimla road trip comes to an end here. 

Places to visit in Shimla. 

But after reaching at your destination you definitely find some places to visit in Shimla. So here is the list that comes for you. 

• Jahku Temple 
• Christ Chrurch 
• Gaiety threater
• Lakkar Bazar 
• Kali Bari
• Annandale 
• Chadwick Falls 
• Kufri 
• Naldhera 
• Mashobra
• Chail

To know about these places to visit in Shimla details you can read here.

How to reach Shimla?

By Air 

If you planning to come to Shimla by air. Daily flights are running from major cities to Shimla airport which is known by the Jubbarhati. Which is 16 km far from the city. After reaching the airport you have to take a cab or rental car for your trip. 

Operating and functional flights can vary on the weather conditions 

Via Road

Shimla is well connected to the major cities in India by road. So, if you want to come by road, many transportation options are available private cabs, personal vehicles, HRTC buses Volvo which run daily.

By Train 

If you are planning to come to Shimla by train you have to come to the Kalka shimla railway station. which is approx 95 km away from Shimla city. 

We real Himachal is the well-wisher for your Delhi to Shimla road trip. But still, if you have someone you directly contact through our website we are available to help you 24X7 with our assistance. 

If you now reached Shimla you want to know more information about that place. You can read more about Shimla. 

Happy and safe journey. 

F&Q’s Delhi To Shimla By Road

Q.1. Is it safe to drive from Delhi to Shimla by car?

Ans: Yes, it’s generally safe to drive from Delhi to Shimla by car. You can reach Shimla from Delhi by road via NH44. The best route typically involves taking NH44 via Ambala and Chandigarh. If possible Avoid night travel

Q.2. How can I go to Shimla from Delhi by road?

Ans: To reach Shimla from Delhi by road, you can take the NH44 route via Ambala and Chandigarh. The journey takes around 7-8 hours covering approximately 350 kilometers, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Q.3. Which route is best for Shimla?

Ans: The best route for Shimla is typically via NH44, passing through Ambala and Chandigarh. This route offers well-maintained roads and scenic views, making it popular among travelers heading to Shimla from Delhi.

Q. 4. Is Shimla closer to Delhi or Chandigarh?

Ans: Shimla is closer to Chandigarh than Delhi. It is approximately 120 kilometers away from Chandigarh, while the distance from Delhi to Shimla is around 350 kilometers.