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How to Reach Himachal Pradesh by Air, Train & Road

How to Reach Himachal Pradesh by Air, Train & Road How to Reach Himachal Pradesh by Air, Train & Road How to Reach Himachal Pradesh by Air, Train & Road How to Reach Himachal Pradesh by Air, Train & Road

How to Reach Himachal Pradesh by Air, Train & Road

A Complete Travel Guide by INDIA TRAVEL DMC.

Introduction

Himachal Pradesh, which is located in the mighty Himalayas, is one of the most beautiful and picturesque states in India. It is primarily identified by its hill stations, valleys, and adventure getaways. No matter if you want to have a quiet and relaxing stay at Shimla, undergo an adventure in Manali, or take a spiritual trip to Dharamshala—reaching Himachal Pradesh is going to be a very easy and beautiful journey.

There are three ways you can get to the state: by air, train, or car, depending on where you are and which place you want to visit. Regardless of the choice you make, the trip will be full of magnificent views of mountains, rivers, and valleys—thus, turning your travel into a memorable experience.

The travel agency called India Travel DMC is your perfect assistant in planning comfy and well-connected tours to every part of Himachal Pradesh, such as flight bookings, road transfers, and personalized itineraries.

Air Travel to Himachal Pradesh

The state of Himachal Pradesh has three domestic airports that link the major hill towns with Delhi, Chandigarh, and other cities. The quickest and most convenient way to reach Himachal is by flights, particularly for travelers coming from far away.

1. Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport)

  • Location: Close to Bhuntar town, 10 km away from Kullu, and 50 km away from Manali.
  • Connectivity: Alliance Air operates daily flights from Delhi and Chandigarh.
  • Nearby Destinations: Kullu, Manali, Kasol, Tirthan Valley, Naggar.

India Travel DMC Tip: Booking flights to Bhuntar at the last minute may be difficult; hence, early reservation is strongly advised, particularly during the busy seasons (May–June and December–January).

2. Kangra Airport (Gaggal Airport)

  • Location: 13 km from Kangra and 15 km from Dharamshala.
  • Connectivity: The airport has regular flights to and from Delhi and Chandigarh.
  • Nearby Destinations: Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj, Palampur, Bir Billing. 

India Travel DMC Tip: The airport is very convenient for the tourists who want to explore the cultural and spiritual attractions of the Kangra Valley.

3. Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti Airport)

  • Location: Around 22 km from the center of Shimla.
  • Connectivity: The airport has daily flights to and from Delhi and Chandigarh.

Nearby Destinations: Shimla, Kufri, Chail, Narkanda, Mashobra. India Travel DMC Tip: Weather permitting, limited capacity would mean that flights could be a bit unpredictable. It is thus better to combine air travel with a scenic road trip for the best experience.

Nearest Major Airports (Outside Himachal)

In case there are no direct flights to the airports in Himachal, the travelers can fly to the airports of Delhi or Chandigarh and then proceed by road or train.

  • Chandigarh Airport – 120 km from Shimla and 250 km from Manali.
  • Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi)—About 350 km from Shimla and 540 km from Manali. 

India Travel DMC Tip: For the travelers going to central or southern Himachal, Chandigarh Airport is the most suitable gateway.

Getting to Himachal Pradesh by train is an option, among others, as the state houses a few railway lines, two of which are heritage narrow-gauge railways—both are noteworthy as they are not only beautiful but also rich in history.

1. Kalka–Shimla Railway (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

  • Route: Kalka → Solan → Shimla
  • Length: 96 km
  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours
  • Highlights: 102 tunnels, 864 bridges, and stunning mountain views.
  • Nearest Major Station: Kalka (which is well-connected to Delhi, Chandigarh, and Kolkata).

India Travel DMC Tip: The Toy Train ride from Kalka to Shimla is listed as one of the most scenic rides in India—so book tickets through IRCTC early.

2. Pathankot–Joginder Nagar Railway

  • Route: Pathankot → Kangra → Palampur → Joginder Nagar
  • Length: 164 km
  • Travel Time: Around 8 hours
  • Highlights: The landscapes of the Himalayan foothills, river crossings, and the local ambiance.
  • Nearest Major Station: Pathankot (which is connected to Delhi, Amritsar, and Jammu).

India Travel DMC Tip: This route is ideal for travelers going to Dharamshala, Bir Billing, or Palampur.

Other Significant Railway Stations Close to Himachal

  • Chandigarh Railway Station: The best starting point for Shimla and Solan.
  • Ambala Cantt Railway Station: An entrance for Shimla, Kasauli, and Sirmaur.
  • Una Railway Station: Links the southern regions of Himachal with Punjab and Delhi.

India Travel DMC Tip: For a comfortable journey into the hilly areas, combine a scenic train ride with a private cab or bus transfer.

How to Reach Himachal Pradesh by Road

Himachal Pradesh is connected by national highways and state roads with all the major North Indian cities. The road trip is then to roll through winding mountain tracks, through forests, and along rivers.

By Bus

  • Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and private companies have bus services every day from Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, and Jaipur.
  • Deluxe, semi-sleeper, and Volvo buses are there for going to places like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Kullu, and Dalhousie.

Important Bus Stations in Himachal:

Shimla ISBT | Manali | Dharamshala | Mandi | Chamba | Kullu

India Travel DMC Tip: The overnight Volvo buses from Delhi to Manali or Shimla are the best choice since they are very comfortable and save time.

By Car or Taxi

Taking the road gives the advantages of flexibility and magnificent views. Highways like NH 3, NH 5, and NH 154 are the ones that offer wonderful connectivity.

Common Routes for Driving:

  • Delhi → Shimla: 350 km via NH 44 & NH 5 (8–9 hrs)
  • Delhi → Manali: 540 km via NH 44 & NH 3 (11–12 hrs)
  • Chandigarh → Dharamshala: 250 km via NH 503 (6–7 hrs)
  • Amritsar → Dalhousie: 200 km via NH 54 (5–6 hrs)

India Travel DMC Tip: Rent a private car with a local driver for your convenience and security, particularly during winter or monsoon.

Best Way to Reach Popular Destinations in Himachal Pradesh

Destination

Nearest Airport

Nearest Railway Station

Road Distance from Delhi

Shimla

Jubbarhatti (22 km)

Kalka (96 km)

350 km

Manali

Bhuntar (50 km)

Chandigarh (310 km)

540 km

Dharamshala/McLeod Ganj

Gaggal (15 km)

Pathankot (90 km)

480 km

Dalhousie

Pathankot (80 km)

Pathankot (80 km)

560 km

Kullu

Bhuntar (10 km)

Chandigarh (270 km)

500 km

Chamba

Pathankot (120 km)

Pathankot (120 km)

580 km

Spiti Valley

Kullu (260 km)

Shimla (420 km)

750 km

Travel Tips for Visiting Himachal Pradesh

  • Replace the warm dresses every year—the weather in the mountains is unpredictable and changes quickly.
  • Always make sure to know the road and weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.
  • Have motion-sickness pills available for the winding drives through the hills.
  • Make reservations for taxis and hotels in advance during the busiest times.
  • Use cash—some far-off places have only a limited number of ATMs available.

Why Book Your Himachal Journey with India Travel DMC?

  • Fighting-free bookings for flights, trains, and taxis
  • Nice journeys with local drivers who are certified
  • Special-made schedules for lone, couple, or group tours
  • Help on the ground and emergency support
  • Nice and cozy hotels plus guided tours

At India Travel DMC, your adventure starts when you make the plan. We take care of everything—the details—so that you can concentrate on discovering the splendidness of Himachal Pradesh.

FAQs About Reaching Himachal Pradesh

Q1. What is the nearest airport for reaching Himachal Pradesh?
The airports are Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali), Gaggal (Dharamshala), and Jubbarhatti (Shimla).

Q2. Is it possible to go to Himachal by train?
Yes, via beautiful routes like the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train and Pathankot–Joginder Nagar line.

Q3. Which road is better from Delhi to Manali?
Through NH 44 & NH 3, going by Chandigarh, Bilaspur, and Mandi.

Q4. Is it safe to drive on the roads in Himachal?
Yes, but it’s better to drive carefully—some parts of the road are turny and steep.

Q5. Why choose India Travel DMC for planning your trip?
We provide uninterrupted and seamless movement, the most comfortable and luxurious transfers, and personalized services all over the major destinations in Himachal.

Conclusion

The trip to Himachal Pradesh is as unforgettable as its discovery. The perfect introduction to the Himalayas is given by the journey, which includes either flying over mountain ranges, riding through beautiful railways, or driving on twisted hill roads.

Traveling to Himachal Pradesh with India Travel DMC makes your experience in this place smooth, secure, and full of amazing moments—right from the beginning to the very end of your trip.

Himachal Pradesh is a place where every path leads to stunning nature, tranquility, and fun activities.