The road trip from Chandigarh, the modern and well-planned city, to Shimla, the charming ‘Queen of Hills’, is a classic Himalayan journey. It’s a favourite getaway for residents of the northern plains seeking respite in the cool mountain air. To plan this scenic trip effectively, it is crucial to know the driving distance and time from Chandigarh to Shimla. This comprehensive 2026 guide provides all the details you need about the best route, travel duration, road conditions, and popular stops along this beautiful mountain road.
Chandigarh to Shimla Drive: Quick Overview
The driving distance from Chandigarh to Shimla is approximately 115 kilometres. As the entire journey is uphill on winding mountain roads, the travel time is longer than what one might expect for this distance. Under normal traffic and weather conditions, the drive can be completed in about 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
The Best and Primary Route: Via NH5
There is essentially one main route that connects Chandigarh to Shimla, which is National Highway 5 (NH5). This road is also known as the Himalayan Expressway for a significant section.
Route Breakdown: Chandigarh -> Panchkula -> Pinjore -> Parwanoo -> Solan -> Shimla
- Chandigarh to Parwanoo: The journey starts by heading towards Panchkula and then Pinjore. From Parwanoo, the uphill climb begins. The section from Parwanoo is part of the new Himalayan Expressway, which is a four-lane highway designed to ease traffic congestion.
- Parwanoo to Solan: This is a winding but wide road that takes you through beautiful pine forests. You will bypass the main town of Kasauli, though it’s a popular detour. The highway bypasses Solan as well, saving time.
- Solan to Shimla: The final stretch of the journey continues the ascent towards Shimla. The road can get narrower in some places as you get closer to the city.
Key Highlights of the Route:
- Excellent Road Conditions: Thanks to recent upgrades and the development of the Himalayan Expressway, the road is wide and well-maintained for most of the journey, making it much safer and faster than before.
- Breathtaking Scenery: The entire drive is incredibly scenic, offering panoramic views of the Shivalik Hills. The views get more spectacular as you gain altitude.
- Numerous Amenities: The highway is dotted with countless restaurants, cafes, and hotels, catering to the heavy tourist traffic.
Analysing the Driving Time from Chandigarh to Shimla
The 3.5-4.5 hour estimate is a good average, but the travel time on this mountain route can be highly variable.
Factors That Influence Your Travel Time:
- Weekend and Holiday Rush: This is a prime weekend destination. Expect very heavy traffic on Friday and Saturday evenings heading towards Shimla, and on Sunday afternoons returning to Chandigarh. This can easily add 2-3 hours to your journey time.
- Weather Conditions: During the monsoon season (July-September), heavy rains can cause landslides, leading to road blockages and long delays. In winter (December-January), snowfall near Shimla can also halt traffic. Always check the weather and road status before travelling.
- Traffic Jams: Bottlenecks can occur at popular tourist spots like Parwanoo and just before entering Shimla, where the roads become congested.
- Breaks and Stops: Most travellers make at least one stop for food or photos, which adds to the total time.
Time Estimation Breakdown:
| Segment | Avg. Time (Weekday) | Avg. Time (Weekend) |
| Chandigarh to Parwanoo | 45 mins – 1 hour | 1 – 1.5 hours |
| Parwanoo to Solan | 1.5 – 2 hours | 2 – 2.5 hours |
| Solan to Shimla | 1 – 1.5 hours | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Total Estimated Time | 3.5 – 4.5 hours | 4.5 – 6 hours |
This route is also a starting point for many treks. For those looking for adventure, check out our guide on weekend treks from Chandigarh.
Toll Charges on the Chandigarh-Shimla Route
The Himalayan Expressway section of the highway is a toll road. There is a main toll plaza located near Parwanoo. As of early 2026, you can expect to pay a one-way toll of approximately ₹70 – ₹80 for a private car. It is advisable to use FASTag for quick and easy payment.
Popular Pit Stops and Attractions En Route
The journey to Shimla is as beautiful as the destination, with many places to stop and enjoy the views.
Recommended Stops:
- Pinjore Gardens (Yadavindra Gardens): Located just before the climb begins, this is a beautiful Mughal-style garden, perfect for a short break.
- Timber Trail, Parwanoo: Famous for its cable car ride that offers stunning views of the valley. A great spot for a thrilling break.
- Kasauli Detour: A charming and quiet colonial-era hill station. This requires a significant detour from the main highway and is better planned as an overnight stop.
- Dhabas at Dharampur: This area is famous for its dhabas. Giani Da Dhaba and Haveli are popular choices for a hearty Punjabi meal.
- Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, Solan: A huge temple complex with impressive architecture, located a short detour from the highway.
For those travelling to Himachal, it’s useful to know the state’s official holiday schedule. You can find the list of bank holidays in Himachal Pradesh to help plan your trip.
Tips for Driving in the Hills
- Drive Slowly and Patiently: Mountain driving requires patience. Do not overtake on blind curves.
- Use the Horn: Honk at sharp turns to alert oncoming traffic.
- Check Your Brakes: Ensure your vehicle’s brakes are in excellent condition before starting the journey.
- Avoid Motion Sickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication beforehand and avoid reading in the car.
- Check Road Status: During monsoon and winter, always check for road closure or landslide updates from reliable sources before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Chandigarh to Shimla by road?
The road distance between Chandigarh and Shimla is approximately 115 kilometres. The entire journey is on winding mountain roads, which makes the travel time longer than on plain terrain.
How is the road from Chandigarh to Shimla?
The road condition is excellent for the most part. The route follows NH5, and a large section is a wide, four-lane highway known as the Himalayan Expressway. This has made the journey much smoother, faster, and safer than before.
How long is the drive from Chandigarh to Shimla?
On a normal weekday, the drive takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours. However, during long weekends, holidays, or in case of bad weather (heavy rain or snow), the travel time can easily extend to 6-7 hours due to heavy traffic and potential roadblocks.
Is it safe to drive to Shimla from Chandigarh?
Yes, it is generally very safe to drive. The roads are well-maintained and wide. However, drivers should be cautious, especially during adverse weather conditions like monsoons and snowfall, and should have some experience with mountain driving.
What are the best places to eat on the way to Shimla?
The area around Dharampur, about halfway to Shimla, is famous for its food stops. Iconic places like Giani Da Dhaba, as well as modern chains like McDonald’s and Cafe Coffee Day, are available, offering plenty of options for travellers.