Kufri is a small hill station located about 16 kilometers from Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. Known for its scenic views and adventure activities, Kufri attracts many tourists year-round. This route from Shimla to Kufri is popular among travelers looking for a quick getaway into the mountains.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kufri from Shimla by different transport modes. You will get practical advice on travel times, fares, road conditions, and local tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Shimla to Kufri – Main Options

Bus

Taking a bus from Shimla to Kufri is a budget-friendly and commonly used option, especially for local travelers and backpackers. Buses run frequently but can be crowded during peak seasons.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses from Shimla ISBT to Kufri bus stand, covering 16 km in about 45 minutes with fares ranging from ₹30 to ₹50 per person.

• Buses run every 30 to 60 minutes from early morning till evening, but frequency reduces after 6 pm, so plan accordingly to avoid waiting in cold weather.

• The road is hilly with sharp turns, so buses may be slow during monsoon due to slippery conditions and occasional landslides; check weather updates before traveling.

• Seats can be crowded during weekends and holidays; it is advisable to arrive early at the bus stand to secure a seat and avoid standing for long.

• There are small food stalls near the Shimla bus stand offering local snacks and tea to grab before boarding the bus for the short journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shimla to Kufri is convenient and offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. The road is well-maintained but requires careful driving due to mountain curves.

• The distance is approximately 16 km via NH205 and Kufri Road, taking around 40 to 50 minutes depending on traffic and weather conditions.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Shimla, with daily rates typically between ₹1500 to ₹2500 depending on the vehicle type and season.

• Toll plazas are not present on this route, but parking in Kufri can be limited during peak tourist seasons, so plan to arrive early.

• Driving during winter requires caution due to possible ice and snow on the roads; ensure your vehicle has proper tires and carry chains if necessary.

• Stops at scenic viewpoints and local eateries along the way are easy when you have your own vehicle, enhancing the travel experience.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab from Shimla to Kufri is a comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for groups or travelers with luggage.

• Ola and Uber services operate in Shimla and can be booked for a one-way trip to Kufri with fares typically ranging from ₹600 to ₹900 depending on the car type and time of day.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Shimla railway station and bus stand; negotiate or confirm the fare before starting the journey to avoid surprises.

• The journey time is around 40 to 50 minutes, but traffic jams near Shimla city center can add extra time during peak hours.

• Taxi drivers often wait for you in Kufri and can be hired for return trips or local sightseeing, but confirm rates and timings in advance.

• During winter and monsoon, taxis are preferred over buses due to better comfort and safety on slippery roads.

Train

There is no direct train connectivity between Shimla and Kufri as Kufri does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is Shimla itself, which connects to other cities.

• Shimla Railway Station is the closest railhead, served by the famous Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge train, a UNESCO World Heritage route.

• From Shimla station, you need to use road transport such as bus, taxi, or car to reach Kufri, which is about 16 km away.

• Train timings to Shimla vary, and the journey from Kalka takes about 5 to 6 hours, so plan your onward travel to Kufri accordingly.

• Booking train tickets through IRCTC is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during tourist seasons.

• Once at Shimla station, prepaid taxis and buses are easily available outside the station for the onward journey to Kufri.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Shimla to Kufri, helping you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train ticket to Shimla in advance via IRCTC or authorized agents to secure your seat and avoid rush during peak seasons.

• Upon arrival at Shimla railway station or bus stand, decide your onward transport based on your budget and comfort preference; taxis are faster but costlier than buses.

• If taking a bus, reach the Shimla ISBT early to get a seat and avoid standing during the short but winding journey to Kufri.

• For taxi or self-drive, check weather and road conditions, especially in winter or monsoon, and confirm fare or rental terms before starting.

• Carry light luggage and warm clothing as temperatures in Kufri can be significantly cooler, especially in early mornings and evenings.

• Plan your return trip timing to avoid traveling after dark, as public transport frequency reduces and roads can be challenging at night.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and snacks, as food options on the road between Shimla and Kufri are limited and may close early in the evening.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging; avoid unlicensed taxis which may charge exorbitantly.

• During monsoon, check local weather and road status updates from Himachal Tourism or local news to avoid landslide-affected routes.

• Keep your mobile phone charged and have offline maps downloaded, as network coverage can be patchy in hilly areas.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry a small first-aid kit, as the terrain in Kufri involves walking on uneven paths and slopes.

• Respect local customs and environment; avoid littering and use designated parking and rest areas to keep the region clean and safe.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Shimla to Kufri depends on your weather preference and activities planned. Summer offers pleasant weather, while winter brings snow and skiing opportunities.

Monsoon season can cause roadblocks and slippery conditions, so travel cautiously or avoid during heavy rains.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dussehra and Diwali in Shimla, as roads and transport get crowded and accommodation prices rise.

• Winter months (December to February) bring snow but also icy roads; early morning fog can reduce visibility, so plan daytime travel.

• Summer (April to June) offers clear roads and comfortable temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

• Depart early in the morning to avoid afternoon traffic jams and to enjoy daylight travel with better road visibility and safety.

Arrival at Kufri & What to Expect

When you arrive in Kufri, you will find a small town with limited but sufficient local transport options. Most visitors explore Kufri on foot or hire local taxis for nearby sightseeing.

Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels near the main market area. Prepaid taxis and Ola/Uber are not common in Kufri, so arrange your return transport in advance or rely on local cabs.

The main bus stand and taxi points are close to the town center, making it easy to reach your hotel or adventure spots. Local shops and eateries offer Himachali cuisine and refreshments.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kufri from Shimla depends on your budget and comfort needs. For budget travelers, the HRTC bus is reliable and economical, while taxis or self-drive cars offer flexibility and comfort for groups or families.

Plan your trip by booking train tickets to Shimla early, checking weather conditions, and choosing your onward transport wisely. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and scenic journey to Kufri and make the most of your mountain getaway.