For a seven hills Shimla airport transfer, Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport to Shimla, while Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar is another possible arrival point. The drive from Chandigarh to Shimla takes about 3 hours 30 minutes by car. The Kullu-to-Shimla drive estimate starts in Kullu town, not at the airport.
- Chandigarh Airport is about 120 km from Shimla.
- Chandigarh to Shimla by road: 119 km, with approximate bus and car journeys of 4 hours and 3 hours 30 minutes, respectively.
- Kullu to Shimla by road: 235 km, with an approximate car journey of 6 hours 30 minutes.
- Kalka–Shimla rail journey: around 6 hours.
Times checked November 2026.
Which airport serves your itinerary?
Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport to Shimla, about 120 km away. Kullu-Manali Airport is at Bhuntar, but the Kullu-to-Shimla drive estimate starts from Kullu town, so it is not a direct airport-to-city transfer time.
Shimla also has Jubbarhatti Airport, 23 km from the city. It has limited functioning depending on seasonal and weather conditions, so check the official site before you go.
How do you travel from Chandigarh Airport to Shimla?
The road from Chandigarh to Shimla is 119 km. The approximate journey takes 3 hours 30 minutes by car or 4 hours by bus. Driving habits and weather can affect journey times.
Radio taxis and car rental are available at Chandigarh Airport. For airport timings, the Airports Authority of India directs passengers to airline schedules.
Buses from Chandigarh to Shimla are frequently available at half-hour intervals, and Volvo coaches run from Chandigarh to major tourist destinations including Shimla. The guide to Shimla to Chandigarh bus and train options covers the wider connection.
What should you know about Kullu-Manali Airport transfers?
Kullu-Manali Airport is at Bhuntar, while the Kullu-to-Shimla road distance is 235 km. The approximate car journey from Kullu takes 6 hours 30 minutes; this is a Kullu-to-Shimla estimate, not a direct airport transfer.
Confirm the route and journey time with your transport provider when arranging a pickup. Weather and driving habits can affect the journey.
How should you confirm pickups and timings?
Confirm your pickup point, destination and expected journey with the transport provider before setting out. For flights arriving at Chandigarh, use the Airports Authority of India’s airport information and airline schedules to check flight timings.
A prepaid taxi service operates in Shimla, and the Kalka Shimla Taxi Union is at the Main Bus Stand. For a room at the end of your journey, you can review the hotel's room options.
What are the alternatives to an airport road transfer?
Kalka is 96 km from Shimla, and the meter-gauge rail journey takes around 6 hours. There are 3–4 trains daily between Kalka and Shimla in each direction. The guide to Shimla Railway Station and the Kalka–Shimla heritage train explains the railway connection.
HPTDC operates a daily luxury coach service between New Delhi and Shimla in both directions. You can compare this option with your arrival plans when choosing how to complete the journey.
FAQs
Which airport is nearest to Shimla?
Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport to Shimla, about 120 km away.
Is the Kullu-to-Shimla journey estimate an airport transfer time?
No. The estimate begins in Kullu town, not at Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar.
Are there buses from Chandigarh to Shimla?
Yes. Buses are frequently available at half-hour intervals, and Volvo coaches also serve Shimla from Chandigarh.