Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular hill station known for its colonial architecture, pleasant weather, and scenic beauty. For those planning a getaway from the bustling city of Kolkata to the serene hill town of Shimla, there are several travel options available. The journey from Kolkata to Shimla can be long, but it offers a chance to witness diverse landscapes, from the plains of West Bengal to the hilly terrains of Himachal Pradesh.
By Air: The Fastest Route
The quickest way to reach Shimla from Kolkata is by air. While there is no direct flight to Shimla, you can fly to Chandigarh or Delhi, both of which are major cities connected well to Kolkata. From Chandigarh or Delhi, you can take a taxi or a bus to Shimla, which is around 3-4 hours away.
Flight from Kolkata to Chandigarh or Delhi
The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata is well connected to major airports in India. You can take a flight from Kolkata to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi or Chandigarh International Airport. Both these airports offer numerous flights throughout the day, operated by various domestic airlines.
From Chandigarh or Delhi to Shimla
Once you reach Chandigarh or Delhi, you can continue your journey to Shimla by road. If you are flying into Delhi, you can either hire a taxi, board a Volvo bus, or take a train to Shimla. The drive from Delhi to Shimla is approximately 350 kilometers and takes about 7-8 hours. On the other hand, if you are landing in Chandigarh, the drive to Shimla is about 120 kilometers, and it will take roughly 3-4 hours.
By Train: A Scenic Journey
For those who enjoy the scenic beauty of train journeys, traveling by train from Kolkata to Shimla is a great option. While there is no direct train to Shimla, you can take a train to Kalka, which is the nearest broad-gauge railway station to Shimla.
Train from Kolkata to Kalka
From Kolkata’s Howrah or Sealdah railway stations, you can board a train to Kalka, located around 300 kilometers from Shimla. The most popular train options are the Kalka Mail or the Shatabdi Express. The journey from Kolkata to Kalka takes approximately 30-35 hours, depending on the train service you choose.
Kalka to Shimla: The Toy Train Experience
Once you reach Kalka, you can board the famous Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. This narrow-gauge train takes you through the beautiful hills of Himachal Pradesh, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. The Toy Train journey from Kalka to Shimla takes around 5-6 hours and is an experience that should not be missed.
By Road: A Long Yet Rewarding Drive
If you enjoy road trips, traveling by bus or private car is another great option to reach Shimla from Kolkata. Though the journey is long, covering more than 1,400 kilometers, it offers a chance to explore various towns, scenic landscapes, and rural India along the way.
By Bus: Kolkata to Shimla
There are no direct buses from Kolkata to Shimla, but you can take a bus to Delhi or Chandigarh and then transfer to another bus heading towards Shimla. The bus journey from Kolkata to Delhi takes around 24-26 hours, and from Delhi, you can take a state transport or private bus to Shimla, which will take another 7-8 hours.
By Car: Kolkata to Shimla
Traveling by car from Kolkata to Shimla gives you the freedom to explore the journey at your own pace. The road trip takes approximately 25-30 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The most common route is to drive through Delhi, then follow NH 44 and NH 5, which leads directly to Shimla. While this journey might seem long, it offers the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes and take breaks in various towns along the way.
Things to Keep in Mind
While planning your trip from Kolkata to Shimla, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Weather and Clothing: Shimla experiences cold weather throughout the year, so pack accordingly. In winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snowfall is common. Light woolens or heavy woolens are recommended, depending on the season of travel.
2. Accommodation: Shimla offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. It is advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during the tourist season (summer and winter).
3. Travel Time: While air travel is the fastest, the train and road journeys offer unique experiences that allow you to witness the changing landscapes of India. If you’re not in a hurry, opting for a train or road trip can be more rewarding.
4. Travel Insurance: It’s always a good idea to get travel insurance when traveling to hill stations like Shimla. This can help cover unexpected delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies during your trip.
Conclusion
Reaching Shimla from Kolkata may require a bit of time and effort, but the journey itself is an unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer to fly, travel by train, or embark on a road trip, each mode of transportation offers its own set of benefits and adventures. Choose the one that best suits your time, comfort level, and travel preferences. Shimla, with its colonial charm, picturesque landscapes, and peaceful ambiance, awaits your visit.
