Is there a direct train from Kerala to Shimla?

No, there is no direct train; you must change at Delhi or Chandigarh.

How far is Chandigarh from Shimla?

It is approximately 115 kilometers by road.

Can I fly directly to Shimla?

Shimla has a small airport at Jubbarhatti, but flights are limited and weather-dependent.

What is the best way to reach Shimla from Delhi?

The Kalka Shatabdi train followed by the toy train or taxi is the most popular route.

Are there buses from Chandigarh to Shimla?

Yes, HRTC and private buses operate frequently from ISBT Sector 43 in Chandigarh.

Koyilandy

Shimla

Train Flight

Koyilandy to Shimla

Updated: 20 May 2026

This journey spans over 3000 kilometers from the Malabar Coast to the Himalayan foothills. You must first travel from Koyilandy to Kozhikode or Kannur to catch a long-distance train to New Delhi. From Delhi, you can take the Kalka Shatabdi Express to Kalka. The final leg involves the historic UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla toy train or a taxi via NH 5. Expect a total travel time of approximately 50 to 60 hours depending on connection efficiency.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3050 km, Air distance 2350 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Calicut to Chandigarh followed by a private taxi, taking roughly 12 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Train via sleeper class, costing approximately 4500 INR, though it requires multiple transfers.

Compare Koyilandy to Shimla Routes

Train

Connecting

Duration

55 hours

Avg Price

4500 - 8000 INR

Operator

Mangala Lakshadweep Express

Route

Koyilandy to Kozhikode, then train to Hazrat Nizamuddin, then Kalka Shatabdi to Kalka.

Book the Kalka-Shimla toy train at least 30 days in advance via IRCTC.

Flight

Connecting

Duration

12 hours

Avg Price

12000 - 22000 INR

Operator

IndiGo

Route

Calicut International Airport to Chandigarh International Airport, then taxi to Shimla.

The taxi from Chandigarh to Shimla takes 3-4 hours via NH 5.

Travel Tips

Train Booking
Use the IRCTC website to book your long-distance train tickets well in advance.
Acclimatization
Shimla is at a high altitude; spend your first day resting to avoid altitude sickness.
Clothing
Carry heavy woolens if traveling between November and February as temperatures drop significantly.
Local Transport
Use the local bus service in Shimla for affordable travel between suburbs.
Connectivity
Ensure you have a reliable mobile network provider as signals can be weak in remote mountain stretches.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
If hiring a taxi, ensure the driver is experienced with steep Himalayan curves.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during the long train journey across India.
Emergency Contacts
Keep local police and hospital numbers saved for both Kerala and Himachal regions.
Valuables
Keep your luggage locked and secure during the long-distance train transit.