Narkanda is a beautiful hill station located in Himachal Pradesh, about 60 kilometers from Shimla. Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular gateway for travelers heading to the scenic mountains of Narkanda. This route is commonly traveled by tourists seeking peaceful nature, apple orchards, and winter sports.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Shimla to Narkanda. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival in Narkanda.

Getting from Shimla to Narkanda – Main Options

Bus

Traveling by bus is a popular and affordable way to reach Narkanda from Shimla. Buses run frequently and offer a chance to enjoy scenic mountain views along the way.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses from Shimla ISBT to Narkanda, covering about 60 km in 2 to 3 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹50 to ₹150, making it a budget-friendly option for most travelers, with frequent departures throughout the day.

• The route follows NH205, passing through small towns like Theog and Hatu, with several stops for refreshments and rest, ideal for a relaxed journey.

• During monsoon season, landslides can cause delays, so check weather updates before traveling and allow extra time for your trip.

• Buses can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so arriving early at the bus stand in Shimla is recommended to secure a seat.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shimla to Narkanda offers flexibility and comfort, allowing you to stop at scenic spots and travel at your own pace.

• The drive covers approximately 60 km via NH205, usually taking around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Shimla, with daily rates ranging from ₹1500 to ₹3000 depending on the vehicle type and season.

• The route includes winding mountain roads with sharp turns; driving carefully is essential, especially during foggy or rainy weather.

• There are several toll plazas along NH205, so keep some cash handy for toll payments during the journey.

• Fuel stations and small eateries are available en route, especially near Theog, making it convenient for breaks and refreshments.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab is a convenient and comfortable way to travel from Shimla to Narkanda, especially for groups or families.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Shimla bus stand and railway station, with fares typically between ₹2000 and ₹3000 for a one-way trip to Narkanda.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Shimla but may have limited availability for long-distance trips to Narkanda; booking in advance is advisable.

• The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours via NH205, with drivers often knowledgeable about local stops and scenic viewpoints.

• Taxi services offer door-to-door convenience, reducing the hassle of finding local transport upon arrival in Narkanda.

• During peak tourist seasons, taxi fares may increase due to demand, so confirm prices before starting your trip.

Train

There is no direct train service between Shimla and Narkanda. The nearest railway option is the famous Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge line, which ends at Shimla.

• Shimla railway station is well connected to Kalka and other major cities, but from Shimla to Narkanda, road transport is necessary.

• Travelers can take a train to Shimla and then use bus, taxi, or car to reach Narkanda, as the rail network does not extend beyond Shimla towards Narkanda.

• The Kalka-Shimla train journey is scenic and popular, but plan your onward travel by road from Shimla to Narkanda accordingly.

• Booking train tickets through IRCTC or at stations is recommended well in advance during peak seasons to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Shimla to Narkanda for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you prepare and travel smoothly.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Buses are economical, taxis offer convenience, and self-drive gives flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets or vehicle in advance. Use IRCTC for train tickets to Shimla, HRTC counters or apps for bus tickets, and online platforms for car rentals or taxis.

• Step 3: Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and warm clothes, as weather in Narkanda can be cooler than Shimla, especially in winter.

• Step 4: Reach the departure point early. For buses, arrive at Shimla ISBT at least 30 minutes before departure to get good seats and avoid rush.

• Step 5: During the journey, keep your phone charged and have offline maps ready, as network coverage may be patchy in hilly areas.

• Step 6: Upon arrival in Narkanda, use local taxis or shared cabs to reach your accommodation, as public transport options within the town are limited.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water to prevent stomach issues common in hill travel.

• Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothes, as roads can be slippery and temperatures drop in the evening.

• Book bus or taxi tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons like winter holidays and summer vacations to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs to avoid overcharging and ensure safety during your journey.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as buses and taxis have limited space and roads can be bumpy.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, especially during monsoon, as landslides and roadblocks can cause delays or cancellations.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Shimla to Narkanda depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. Summer months offer pleasant weather, while winter is ideal for snow lovers.

Monsoon season brings heavy rain and possible landslides, so it is advisable to avoid traveling during July and August unless necessary.

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

• Winter months from December to February can have fog and icy roads, so start early in the day to avoid poor visibility and slippery conditions.

• Summer months from April to June offer clear roads and comfortable temperatures, making it the most popular travel season.

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic jams and allow you to reach Narkanda with daylight for easier navigation.

Arrival at Narkanda & What to Expect

When you arrive in Narkanda, you will find a small town with limited public transport but friendly locals ready to assist travelers. The main bus stand and taxi points are close to the town center.

Local transport options include shared taxis and private cabs that can take you to nearby attractions or your hotel. Many accommodations offer pick-up services, so confirm this while booking.

Popular areas to stay include the town center and nearby apple orchards, offering peaceful surroundings and easy access to shops and restaurants. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola may be limited, so plan your local travel accordingly.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Shimla to Narkanda depends on your priorities. For budget travelers, HRTC buses provide frequent and affordable service. If you prefer comfort and flexibility, hiring a taxi or self-driving is recommended.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for mountain road travel will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and experience the natural beauty of Narkanda without stress.