Kasauli and Shimla are two beautiful hill stations located in Himachal Pradesh, India. Shimla is the state capital and a popular tourist destination, while Kasauli is a quiet, serene town known for its colonial charm. Many travelers visit both places to enjoy the scenic beauty and pleasant weather.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Shimla to Kasauli. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, routes, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Shimla to Kasauli – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train between Shimla and Kasauli is limited due to the hilly terrain. The nearest railway access involves narrow-gauge lines and connecting road travel, making train travel less popular but scenic.

• The Kalka-Shimla toy train is a famous narrow-gauge route ending at Shimla Railway Station, but there is no direct train to Kasauli, so you must take road transport from Shimla.

• From Shimla Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kasauli, which is about 60 km away and takes around 2 to 3 hours by road.

• Train travel offers scenic views of the hills, but the lack of direct rail connectivity means you should plan for combined train and road travel.

• During winter, fog and landslides can affect train schedules on the Kalka-Shimla route, so check IRCTC updates before planning.

Bus

Buses are a common and affordable way to travel from Shimla to Kasauli. Both government and private buses operate on this route, offering regular services.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular buses from Shimla ISBT to Kasauli, with journey times of about 2.5 to 3 hours covering around 60 km.

• Private buses and shared taxis also operate frequently, departing from Shimla’s Old Bus Stand, providing flexible timings and slightly faster travel.

• Buses are economical, with fares typically ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the type of bus and service.

• During monsoon season, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides, causing delays; it is best to check weather conditions before traveling by bus.

• Seats can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance or arriving early at the bus stand is advisable.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shimla to Kasauli is a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but involves hilly roads requiring careful driving.

• The distance between Shimla and Kasauli is approximately 60 km via NH205 and NH707, taking around 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Self-drive cars or rental vehicles are available in Shimla, with popular providers offering cars suitable for hill driving, such as SUVs or compact sedans.

• The route passes through towns like Solan, where you can stop for refreshments and fuel; several toll plazas are on the way, so keep cash handy.

• Driving during early morning or late afternoon avoids heavy traffic and offers pleasant weather, but avoid night driving due to narrow roads and limited street lighting.

• Monsoon season brings slippery roads and occasional landslides, so check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your drive.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi from Shimla to Kasauli is convenient and comfortable, especially if you prefer a direct and hassle-free journey without driving yourself.

• Prepaid and app-based taxis like Ola and Uber may be available in Shimla, but for Kasauli trips, it is better to book local taxi operators offering fixed rates for hill station transfers.

• The taxi fare for Shimla to Kasauli usually ranges between ₹1500 and ₹2500 depending on the vehicle type and negotiation.

• Taxis provide door-to-door service, allowing stops along the way for sightseeing or meals, making the journey flexible and enjoyable.

• Booking taxis in advance during peak tourist seasons ensures availability and better rates, as last-minute hires can be expensive or hard to find.

• Ensure the taxi driver is experienced with hilly terrain and ask for vehicle condition details to avoid discomfort or delays during the trip.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Shimla to Kasauli for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common issues.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. For a scenic and flexible trip, consider a taxi or self-drive car.

• Step 2: Book your transport in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Use IRCTC for train tickets or HRTC online portals for bus tickets.

• Step 3: Pack light and carry essential items like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, as some routes have limited food stops.

• Step 4: Start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and enjoy daylight driving through the hills.

• Step 5: Keep cash handy for tolls, parking, and small purchases, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere on the route.

• Step 6: On arrival in Kasauli, use local taxis or walk to your accommodation, as the town is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always check weather forecasts before traveling, as heavy rain or fog can delay or disrupt road transport between Shimla and Kasauli.

• Drink bottled water and eat from clean, well-reviewed eateries during stops to avoid stomach issues common in hill travel.

• Book bus or taxi tickets online or through official counters to avoid scams or overcharging, especially during festival seasons.

• Use local shared taxis or auto-rickshaws for short travel within Kasauli, as they are affordable and readily available.

• Carry a small backpack instead of heavy luggage, as some roads and accommodations may have limited vehicle access.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry a light jacket, as hill weather can change quickly, especially in early mornings and evenings.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Shimla to Kasauli is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Winters can be cold with occasional snowfall, while monsoon brings heavy rains and slippery roads.

Traveling during festivals or long weekends can lead to crowded buses and higher taxi fares, so plan accordingly to avoid peak rush.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of July and August due to landslide risks and road closures on NH205 and NH707.

• Winter months from December to February can have fog and icy roads, causing slower travel and occasional delays.

• Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal departure times to avoid traffic jams and enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Festivals like Dussehra and Diwali see increased tourist traffic in Shimla and Kasauli, so book transport and accommodation well in advance.

Arrival at Kasauli & What to Expect

When you arrive in Kasauli, you will find a small, peaceful town with narrow roads and colonial-era buildings. The main bus stand and taxi drop points are close to the town center, making it easy to reach your hotel or guesthouse.

Local transport options include shared taxis, auto-rickshaws, and walking, as Kasauli is compact and best explored on foot. Prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs may not be common, so confirm fares before boarding any vehicle.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Shimla to Kasauli depends on your preferences. For comfort and flexibility, hiring a taxi or self-driving is recommended. Buses offer an economical option but may take longer and be crowded during peak times.

Plan your trip by booking transport early, checking weather conditions, and starting your journey during daylight hours. With careful preparation, you can enjoy a scenic and hassle-free trip between these two charming hill stations in Himachal Pradesh.