Delhi to Shimla trains

Added by NITYIN on November 30, 2008. | November 30, 2008 |

Delhi to Shimla by train is the most sought after train journey in the North Indian hills. While there is no direct train between Delhi to Shimla, one has to change trains at Kalka for Shimla. The broad gauge rail track from Delhi ends at Kalka. From Kalka to Shimla it is a narrow gauge track.

Trains from Delhi leave from Sarai Rohala, New Delhi and Old Delhi railway stations. Himalayan Queen (Train no. 14095) starts from Sarai Rohala station at 05.45 am and reaches Kalka at 11.10 am. Shatabdi Express (Train no. 12011) leaves from New Delhi station at 07.40 am and reaches Kalka at 11.45 am. This is the best train on this route. The fare in Shatabdi till Kalka is Rs. 485/ in AC chair car. Both these trains make convenient connection for the Kalka – Shimla; Himalayan Queen toy train which departs at 12.10 pm from Kalka.

The Howrah Kalka Mail is an overnight train leaving from Delhi station (popularly known as Old Delhi station) at 09.25 pm and reaches Kalka the next morning at 04.30 am. This train connects the Rail Motor Car and Shiwalik Deluxe Express train to Shimla.

The best Kalka Shimla train I believe is the Shiwalik Deluxe Express (Train no. 52451) departing Kalka at 05.30 am. Breakfast is served en route at Barog station and is included in the fare. Kalka – Shimla track is included in the UNESCO world heritage rail sites.

Journey by Kalka – Shimla toy train takes longer time than by road since the track is narrow gauge and the route is entirely hilly. This is a scenic journey and is recommended as long as you are not rushing into the hills. Reservations on the internet can be made on the IRCTC site or through any railway booking counter across India.

More information on the trains is available on the Indian Railways site. In case one wants to taxi up from Kalka to Shimla, taxis charges are from Rs. 1400- 2200 for a drop depending on the type of vehicle. There is a taxi stand just outside the Kalka Station.

Starting point of toy trains is the same where the trains from Delhi stops at Kalka. So just relax! Toy trains from Kalka wait for the connecting trains from Delhi. Don’t get worried if your train is running a little late to Kalka.

Shimla is listed as Simla on the Indian Railways site. Don’t be disheartened if the system says no trains for Shimla. Try Simla instead.

Here is a video of Kalka Shimla toy train journey by Rail Car.

Following is a chart of trains on Kalka – Shimla route. FC, CC, 2S means First Class, Chair Car and Second class. Chair cars and First Class have comfortable sitting options. There are no AC coaches on these trains. As you travel into the hills AC is not required as nature provides the best air conditioning!

Trains between Kalka to Shimla

Trains between Shimla to Kalka

Disclaimer: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and timings directly with the Railways before planning your trip. Updated on February 28, 2013