Kandaghat is a small town located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the scenic Shivalik hills. It is a popular gateway for travelers heading towards the famous hill station of Shimla and nearby attractions like Chail and Kufri. Many tourists pass through Kandaghat while exploring Himachal’s natural beauty and peaceful environment.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kandaghat from major cities and nearby hubs. You will learn about train, bus, and car travel options, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Major Cities to Kandaghat – Main Options

Train

Traveling to Kandaghat by train is popular for those coming from Delhi or Chandigarh. The town has a small railway station on the Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge line, which offers a scenic and unique experience.

• Kandaghat railway station is on the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla railway route, connecting to Kalka station on the broad gauge network, about 25 km away from Kandaghat.

• From Kalka, narrow-gauge trains to Kandaghat take around 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through beautiful hills and forests, with fares typically between ₹100 and ₹200.

• Trains on this route run several times a day but can be crowded during peak tourist seasons like summer and holidays, so booking tickets via IRCTC or at Kalka station in advance is advisable.

• Delays can occur during monsoon due to landslides or fog in winter mornings, so plan accordingly and check weather updates before traveling.

• At Kandaghat station, local taxis and buses are available for onward travel to Shimla or nearby tourist spots, making it a convenient arrival point.

Bus

Buses are a common and economical way to reach Kandaghat from nearby cities like Chandigarh, Shimla, and Solan. State transport and private operators run frequent services.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular buses from Chandigarh and Shimla to Kandaghat, with journey times ranging from 2 to 4 hours depending on the starting point.

• Buses depart from major bus stands such as Chandigarh ISBT and Shimla New Bus Stand, with fares generally between ₹100 and ₹300 depending on distance and bus type.

• Volvo and deluxe buses are available on some routes, offering more comfort, especially during summer tourist season when demand is high.

• During monsoon, roads on NH5 and connecting highways can be slippery and prone to landslides, causing delays; travelers should check weather and road conditions before departure.

• Local buses and shared taxis from Kandaghat bus stand provide easy access to nearby attractions and hotels, but they can be crowded during festivals and weekends.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Kandaghat is a flexible option for those who prefer comfort and want to explore the region at their own pace. The town is well connected by road to major cities.

• Kandaghat lies on National Highway 5 (NH5), connecting Chandigarh to Shimla, making it accessible by car from both cities within 2 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The distance from Chandigarh to Kandaghat is approximately 110 km, and from Shimla to Kandaghat about 25 km, with toll plazas on NH5 requiring small fees.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be booked via popular Indian platforms like Ola Outstation, Uber Intercity, or local travel agencies, with fares varying widely based on vehicle type and season.

• Roads are generally in good condition, but during monsoon, landslides and narrow stretches require cautious driving, especially for those unfamiliar with hilly terrain.

• Several roadside dhabas and eateries along NH5 provide rest stops and local Himachali food, which is convenient for long drives.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Kandaghat, helping you prepare and navigate the journey smoothly.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or HRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

• If traveling by train, reach Kalka station early to board the narrow-gauge train to Kandaghat, as seats can fill up quickly and the platform can be crowded.

• For bus travelers, arrive at the main bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to secure a good seat and confirm the bus type and route with the conductor.

• If driving, check your vehicle’s condition and GPS route before starting, and keep emergency numbers handy for roadside assistance in hilly areas.

• Carry some local cash for tolls, small purchases, and local transport, as digital payments may not always be accepted in remote areas.

• On arrival at Kandaghat, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and reliable local travel, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly, especially at crowded stations and bus stands, to prevent petty theft.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your journey and carry some snacks, as food options on narrow-gauge trains and buses may be limited or of variable quality.

• Book tickets online early during summer and holiday seasons to avoid sold-out situations, as Kandaghat is a transit point for many tourists heading to Shimla.

• Use local shared taxis or auto-rickshaws for short distances within Kandaghat; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based services where available.

• Pack light but include warm clothing if traveling in winter, as temperatures can drop significantly in the hills, especially during early mornings and nights.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts regularly, as landslides can disrupt road and rail services unexpectedly.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kandaghat is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Summers attract many tourists, making transport options busy but lively.

Winter brings cold temperatures and occasional fog, which can delay trains and buses. Monsoon season requires caution due to heavy rains and possible landslides on hill roads.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and New Year when roads and trains are crowded, and accommodation prices rise sharply.

• Monsoon months from July to September can cause landslides and slippery roads on NH5, leading to travel delays and cancellations.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid fog-related delays in winter and heavy traffic during daytime in summer.

• Plan your return trips during daylight hours, as hilly roads can be challenging and less safe to drive after dark.

Arrival at Kandaghat & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Kandaghat railway station or bus stand, you will find basic facilities and local transport options. The town is small but well connected to nearby tourist spots and Shimla.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in the area, providing safe and convenient rides. Local buses and shared taxis are also available but can be crowded and less comfortable.

Accommodation options are limited in Kandaghat itself, so many travelers prefer to stay in nearby towns like Solan or Shimla. However, small guesthouses and homestays are available for those wanting a quiet hill experience.

Conclusion

Traveling to Kandaghat is straightforward with multiple options including train, bus, and car. The narrow-gauge train from Kalka offers a scenic and unique experience, while buses and cars provide flexible and economical alternatives. Planning ahead and booking tickets early will help you avoid common travel hassles.

By following the practical tips and step-by-step plan in this guide, you can confidently reach Kandaghat and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Whether you are passing through on your way to Shimla or exploring local attractions, Kandaghat offers a peaceful and convenient stop in Himachal Pradesh’s hills.