Chandigarh, the well-planned city and capital of Punjab and Haryana, serves as the gateway to many scenic hill stations. Churdhar, located in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular trekking and pilgrimage destination known for its panoramic views and the revered Churdhar Peak temple.

This route is favored by nature lovers, trekkers, and weekend travelers seeking a refreshing mountain escape from the plains. In this guide, you will find detailed options to reach Churdhar from Chandigarh, including train, bus, car, and taxi travel, along with practical tips to plan your journey efficiently.

Getting from Chandigarh to Churdhar – Main Options

By Train

While there is no direct train to Churdhar, rail travel can be part of your journey to reach nearby towns before switching to road transport. Trains from Chandigarh connect to railway stations closer to Sirmaur district, facilitating onward travel by bus or taxi.

• Nearest railway stations:

  Ambala Cantt and Kalka are the closest major stations to Churdhar. Ambala is about 90 km from Churdhar, while Kalka is approximately 70 km away. Both stations are well connected to Chandigarh by frequent trains.

• Train duration and cost:

  Chandigarh to Ambala takes around 1 hour by train, with ticket prices ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on class. To Kalka, trains take about 1.5 hours with similar fare ranges.

• Frequency and convenience:

  Multiple trains run daily between Chandigarh and these stations, including passenger and express trains. Booking via IRCTC in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Ambala or Kalka, you will need to hire a taxi or catch a bus to reach Churdhar base villages like Nohradhar. Public buses may be infrequent, so pre-booked taxis or shared cabs are more reliable.

• Seasonal tips:

  During winter, fog can delay trains on this route, so plan for buffer time. Summer months offer smoother travel and clearer views en route.

By Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical way to reach Churdhar from Chandigarh, especially for budget travelers. State-run and private buses connect Chandigarh to towns near Churdhar, with onward local transport options.

• Bus routes:

  Direct buses to Nohradhar or Rajgarh, the base towns for Churdhar treks, are limited. Most travelers take buses to Nahan or Rajgarh from Chandigarh and then switch to local buses or taxis.

• Duration and fares:

  Chandigarh to Nahan by bus takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, covering roughly 90 km. Ticket prices range from ₹100 to ₹200 depending on bus type (ordinary or deluxe).

• Bus types and frequency:

  Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular buses from Chandigarh ISBT to Nahan and Rajgarh. Deluxe and Volvo buses are available but less frequent.

• Local transport from base towns:

  From Nahan or Rajgarh, shared taxis or local buses head towards Nohradhar and Churdhar base. These vehicles may be crowded, so early morning travel is advisable.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid traveling late in the evening due to limited bus services and hilly road conditions. Booking tickets at Chandigarh ISBT in advance during peak season is recommended.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Chandigarh to Churdhar offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views along the route. The road journey covers approximately 90 to 100 km depending on the chosen route.

• Route details:

  The most common route is Chandigarh – Panchkula – Nahan – Rajgarh – Nohradhar – Churdhar. This route mainly follows NH7 and state highways, with well-maintained roads up to Rajgarh.

• Travel time and distance:

  The drive typically takes 3 to 4 hours, covering around 100 km. Mountain roads beyond Rajgarh are narrower and require cautious driving.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  National and state highways are generally in good condition, but the last stretch towards Nohradhar involves winding hilly roads. There are no tolls on this route.

• Parking and stops:

  Parking is available at Nohradhar village near the Churdhar trek starting point. Several dhabas and cafes along the way offer refreshments and rest stops.

• Driving tips:

  Start early to avoid traffic near Chandigarh and Panchkula. Avoid night driving in the hills due to limited street lighting and occasional wildlife crossings.

By Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Chandigarh to Churdhar is a convenient option for those who prefer comfort and door-to-door service. This is especially popular among groups and families.

• Taxi availability:

  Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available in Chandigarh. For a trip to Churdhar, it is best to book a private cab or hire a taxi from local operators specializing in hill station tours.

• Cost and duration:

  Taxi fares range from ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 for a round trip, depending on vehicle type and negotiation. The journey time is approximately 3 to 4 hours one way.

• Convenience and flexibility:

  Taxis provide the flexibility to stop en route for sightseeing or meals. Drivers familiar with the hilly terrain ensure safer travel on narrow roads.

• Booking tips:

  Confirm the total fare and return trip details upfront. Booking through trusted local travel agents or apps helps avoid overcharging.

• Seasonal considerations:

  During peak trekking season (April to June and September to November), taxi availability may be limited, so book in advance.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Chandigarh to Churdhar, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether traveling by train or bus, book your tickets through IRCTC or HRTC websites at least a week in advance, especially on weekends.

• Start early from Chandigarh:

  Begin your journey by 6–7 AM to avoid city traffic and reach base towns with daylight for onward travel.

• Reach Nahan or Rajgarh:

  Take a bus or train to these towns, which serve as transit points for Churdhar. Confirm local transport options before arrival.

• Hire local transport to Nohradhar:

  From Nahan or Rajgarh, catch a shared taxi or local bus to Nohradhar village, the starting point of the Churdhar trek.

• Prepare for the trek:

  Carry water, snacks, and trekking essentials. Local guides are available at Nohradhar if you prefer guided trekking.

• Plan your return:

  Arrange your return transport in advance, especially if relying on local buses or taxis, to avoid last-minute hassles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on hilly roads:

  Drive cautiously on narrow mountain roads, especially during monsoon when landslides are possible. Avoid night travel in the hills.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as eateries are limited beyond Rajgarh. Try local Himachali cuisine in Nahan for an authentic experience.

• Booking strategies:

  Use official IRCTC and HRTC portals for train and bus bookings to avoid scams. For taxis, prefer prepaid counters or reputed operators.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate mainly in Chandigarh and Panchkula. For hill towns, rely on shared taxis or local drivers.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light for the trek. Secure your belongings in waterproof bags during monsoon season.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Winters bring heavy fog and cold temperatures; carry warm clothing. Monsoon may cause roadblocks; check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Chandigarh to Churdhar is during the spring and autumn months when weather conditions are pleasant and roads are clear. Summers offer cool mountain air, while winters can be harsh and foggy.

Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to slippery roads and possible landslides. Early morning departures help beat traffic and enjoy daylight trekking.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Chandigarh (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) to reduce delays.

• Steer clear of major festival weekends like Diwali and Holi when transport is crowded.

• Summer (April to June) and post-monsoon (September to November) are ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

• Winter months (December to February) require warm gear and caution due to fog and cold.

Arrival at Churdhar & What to Expect

Upon reaching Nohradhar village, the base for Churdhar, travelers experience a serene mountain atmosphere surrounded by dense forests and panoramic views. The village offers basic amenities and serves as the starting point for the trek to Churdhar Peak.

Local transport options are limited beyond Nohradhar, so most visitors proceed on foot. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses in Nohradhar to homestays in nearby villages. Prepaid taxis or shared cabs can be arranged for return journeys. Nearby attractions include the historic Sirmaur forts and Himachal’s natural parks.

Conclusion

Among the travel options, driving by car or hiring a taxi from Chandigarh to Churdhar offers the most convenience, flexibility, and comfort, especially for groups or families. This mode allows travelers to enjoy scenic stops and manage their schedule effectively.

For budget travelers, combining train or bus travel with local taxis is a practical choice, though it requires more planning. With the detailed guidance provided here, you can confidently plan your trip from Chandigarh to Churdhar and immerse yourself in the breathtaking Himalayan experience.