Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is one of the most charming hill stations in India, attracting visitors throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly getaway, a mid-range vacation, or a luxurious retreat, it’s important to estimate your travel costs in advance.
This guide provides a detailed cost breakdown of traveling from Delhi to Shimla, including transportation, accommodation, food, sightseeing, and other expenses. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this guide will help you plan a trip within your budget.
Travel Costs: Delhi to Shimla
Shimla is about 350 km from Delhi, and there are four primary ways to travel: bus, train, private taxi, or flight. Your choice of transport will significantly impact your overall budget.
1. By Bus (Affordable & Convenient)
Buses are the most popular and budget-friendly option for traveling to Shimla. HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) and private operators run regular Volvo, AC, and non-AC buses from Delhi to Shimla.
- Ordinary HRTC Bus: ₹600 – ₹800 per person (8-10 hours).
- AC Volvo Bus: ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 per person (comfortable journey).
- Luxury Sleeper Bus: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per person (best for overnight travel).
Best For: Solo travelers, budget-conscious tourists.
2. By Train (Budget-Friendly & Scenic)
Shimla does not have a direct railway station, so you must take a train to Kalka and then board the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train.
- Delhi to Kalka (by Train): ₹500 – ₹1,500 per person (5 hours).
- Kalka to Shimla (Toy Train): ₹300 – ₹600 per person (5-6 hours).
Best For: Travelers who love scenic routes and a relaxed journey.
Read also: How to Reach Shimla by Train from Delhi
3. By Car (Flexible & Comfortable)
If you prefer privacy and flexibility, you can either rent a car or book a taxi from Delhi to Shimla.
- Self-Drive Car Rental: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per day + fuel costs.
- Private Taxi (One-Way): ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 (Sedan/SUV).
- Private Taxi (Round Trip, 3 Days): ₹10,000 – ₹15,000.
Best For: Families, groups, and travelers who want a private and comfortable journey.
4. By Flight (Fastest but Expensive)
The nearest airport is Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport, 22 km from the city center. However, flights from Delhi to Shimla are limited and can be expensive.
- Flight Cost: ₹3,500 – ₹7,000 per person.
- Taxi from Shimla Airport to City: ₹800 – ₹1,500.
Best For: Luxury travelers or those with limited time.
Check Shimla Itinerary:
- Shimla Kufri Trip – 2 Nights, 3 Days
- Shimla Getaway – 2 Nights, 3 Days
- Shimla & Manali Tour – 6 Days
Accommodation Costs in Shimla
Your choice of stay can significantly impact your budget. Shimla offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
1. Budget Hotels & Hostels (₹500 – ₹1,500 per night)
If you’re traveling on a tight budget, several budget hotels, guesthouses, and hostels offer affordable yet comfortable stays.
- Best Budget Hotels: Hotel Sheel, Hotel Sangeet, Ashiana Clarks Inn.
- Hostels: Zostel Shimla, The Hosteller.
Ideal For: Solo travelers, backpackers, and students.
Read also: How to Book Hotels in India for Budget Travelers
2. Mid-Range Hotels (₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night)
For a comfortable stay with modern amenities, opt for mid-range hotels. Many of these offer beautiful mountain views, Wi-Fi, and room service.
- Best Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Combermere, Radisson Jass, Woodville Palace.
Ideal For: Couples and families looking for a balance between cost and comfort.
3. Luxury Hotels & Resorts (₹6,000 – ₹12,000 per night)
If you want a luxurious experience with premium amenities, Shimla has many 5-star resorts and heritage hotels.
- Best Luxury Resorts: The Oberoi Cecil, Wildflower Hall, Clarke’s Hotel.
Ideal For: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, and those seeking an exclusive experience.
Total Stay Cost (for 3 Days & 2 Nights)
| Hotel Type | Solo Traveler | Couple | Family (2+1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Hotels | ₹1,500 – ₹4,500 | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 | ₹4,500 – ₹9,000 |
| Mid-Range Hotels | ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 | ₹12,000 – ₹18,000 | ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Luxury Hotels | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹30,000 – ₹40,000 | ₹40,000 – ₹50,000 |
Food Costs in Shimla
Shimla offers a mix of budget street food, mid-range cafes, and fine dining experiences. Your food expenses depend on where you eat and your meal preferences.
| Meal Type | Cost Per Meal Per Person | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food | ₹50 – ₹150 | Momos, Chhole Bhature |
| Budget Restaurants | ₹200 – ₹400 | Krishna Bakery, Sita Ram |
| Mid-Range Restaurants | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | Café Sol, Wake & Bake Café |
| Fine Dining | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 | The Oberoi, Eighteen71 |
Total Food Cost (3 Days, Per Person):
- Budget: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000.
- Mid-Range: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000.
- Luxury: ₹6,000 – ₹10,000.
Sightseeing & Activity Costs
Shimla has many free and paid attractions, so your sightseeing expenses will vary based on what you plan to do.
| Attraction | Entry Fee | Other Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Mall Road & Ridge | Free | Shopping: ₹500 – ₹2,000 |
| Kufri & Adventure Parks | ₹300 – ₹800 | Horse Riding: ₹500 |
| Jakhoo Temple | Free | Taxi Fare: ₹300 – ₹500 |
| Toy Train Ride (Kalka-Shimla) | ₹300 – ₹500 | Per Person |
| Ice Skating (Winter Season) | ₹200 – ₹500 | Equipment Rental |
Total Sightseeing Cost: ₹500 – ₹2,500 per person.
Shopping & Miscellaneous Expenses
- Souvenirs: ₹500 – ₹2,000.
- Local Handicrafts: ₹1,000 – ₹3,000.
- Miscellaneous (Tips, Snacks, Transport): ₹1,000 – ₹3,000.
Final Cost Summary (3-Day Trip)
| Budget Type | Solo | Couple | Family (2+1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Trip | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 | ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Mid-Range Trip | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 | ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 | ₹20,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Luxury Trip | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹30,000 – ₹40,000 | ₹40,000 – ₹50,000 |
Now that you know the estimated cost, start planning your Shimla trip! Have questions? Drop them in the comments!
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