Naldehra is a beautiful hill station located in Himachal Pradesh, near the city of Shimla. It is famous for its scenic golf course and serene environment, making it a popular getaway for nature lovers and tourists seeking peace.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Naldehra from nearby cities like Shimla, Delhi, and Chandigarh. You will learn about different transport modes, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Nearby Cities to Naldehra – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for those coming from Delhi, Chandigarh, or Kalka, as it offers a scenic and affordable way to reach the region near Naldehra. However, Naldehra itself does not have a railway station.

• The nearest major railway station is Shimla Railway Station, connected by the famous Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge train, which takes about 5 to 6 hours from Kalka and offers stunning views of the hills.

• From Delhi or Chandigarh, you can take a train to Kalka, which is well connected by regular trains, and then board the toy train to Shimla; fares range from ₹200 to ₹700 depending on class.

• Shimla station is about 22 km from Naldehra, and you will need to arrange road transport from there; taxis and buses are readily available outside the station.

• Train frequency varies, with more trains during tourist seasons; monsoon rains can cause occasional delays on the narrow-gauge track, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses are a common and economical way to reach Naldehra from Shimla, Chandigarh, and other nearby cities. Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular services.

• From Shimla, frequent HRTC buses and private taxis run to Naldehra, covering the 22 km distance in about 45 minutes to 1 hour; fares typically range from ₹30 to ₹100.

• Direct buses from Chandigarh to Shimla are plentiful, taking around 3.5 to 4.5 hours; from Shimla, you can switch to a local bus or taxi to Naldehra.

• During peak tourist seasons and festivals, buses can get crowded, so booking tickets in advance or arriving early at bus stands is advisable.

• Road conditions on NH205 and local roads are generally good but can be slippery during monsoon; buses usually stop at popular roadside dhabas for refreshments.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Naldehra is a flexible and comfortable option, especially if you want to explore the region at your own pace. The roads are scenic but require careful driving.

• From Shimla, the drive to Naldehra is about 22 km via NH205 and local roads, taking roughly 45 minutes; the route passes through forested areas and small villages.

• If coming from Chandigarh or Delhi, you can drive via NH5 and NH205, covering approximately 115 km from Chandigarh and 350 km from Delhi; travel times vary from 3.5 to 8 hours depending on traffic.

• Toll plazas are present on NH5 and NH205; expect toll charges and occasional traffic jams near Shimla during holidays.

• Self-drive vehicles can be rented from Shimla or Chandigarh; ensure your vehicle is suitable for hilly terrain and check weather conditions before starting.

• Parking in Naldehra is limited near the golf course and main attractions; plan to park in designated areas and walk short distances.

Flight

The nearest airport to Naldehra is Shimla Airport, which has limited connectivity. Flights are suitable for travelers from distant cities who want to save time.

• Shimla Airport at Jubbarhatti is about 25 km from Naldehra, reachable by taxi or bus in around 1 hour; taxis are recommended for convenience.

• Flights operate mainly from Delhi to Shimla, with daily services subject to weather conditions; fares range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 one way.

• Monsoon and winter fog can cause flight delays or cancellations, so keep flexible travel plans and check flight status regularly.

• From Shimla Airport, pre-paid taxis and Ola/Uber cabs are available but may be limited; booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Naldehra, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or HRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during holidays and weekends.

• If arriving by train at Shimla, pre-arrange a taxi or check bus timings to Naldehra; taxis offer flexibility but cost more than buses.

• For self-drive, check your vehicle’s condition, carry a physical map or GPS device, and start early to avoid night driving on hilly roads.

• If flying, confirm your flight status on the day of travel and arrange airport transfers in advance to avoid waiting times.

• Pack light but include warm clothes, as hill weather can be chilly even in summer; carry water and snacks for the road.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use pre-paid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Shimla and nearby areas to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Drink bottled water and eat at well-known dhabas or restaurants to avoid stomach issues common with roadside food in hill areas.

• Book tickets for trains and buses online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your seat and avoid long queues.

• Local buses to Naldehra may not run late in the evening; plan your return trip accordingly or book a taxi for late arrivals.

• Carry light luggage with easy-to-carry bags, as some roads and paths near Naldehra are narrow and may require walking short distances.

• During monsoon, landslides can block roads temporarily; check local weather and road conditions before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Naldehra is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Winters can be cold with occasional snowfall.

Monsoon season from July to August brings heavy rains and slippery roads, which may cause travel delays and landslides.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dussehra and Diwali in Shimla, as roads and accommodations get crowded and expensive.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid traffic jams on NH205 and to enjoy daylight driving through the hills.

• Winter fog can reduce visibility on roads near Shimla and Naldehra; avoid night travel during this season.

Arrival at Naldehra & What to Expect

When you arrive in Naldehra, you will find a quiet and green environment with limited public transport. Most visitors rely on taxis or walking to explore the area.

Local commute options include shared taxis and private cabs, but these are not frequent, so pre-booking is helpful. Accommodation options are mostly small hotels and guesthouses near the golf course and main market area.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Naldehra depends on your starting point and travel preferences. For comfort and flexibility, driving or hiring a taxi from Shimla is ideal. Train travel offers a scenic and affordable option but requires additional road transport from Shimla.

Planning ahead by booking tickets, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport will make your journey smooth. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Naldehra and enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings without worry.