Is the road from Nako to Chandigarh safe?

It is generally safe but requires experienced driving due to steep mountain terrain.

Can I take a train from Nako?

No, the nearest railhead is Kalka, which is 3 hours from Chandigarh.

How much does a taxi cost?

Expect to pay between 7000 and 10000 INR for a private cab.

What is the best time to leave Nako?

Start as early as 5 AM to reach Chandigarh by evening.

Nako

Chandigarh

Bus Driving

Nako to Chandigarh

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Nako to Chandigarh covers 350 km, descending from the high Himalayas to the plains of Punjab. You will travel via the Hindustan-Tibet Road (NH 5), passing through Reckong Peo, Rampur, and Shimla. The drive is scenic but demanding, featuring steep gradients and narrow mountain passes. Chandigarh serves as the primary transit hub for onward travel to Delhi or other parts of India.

Total Distance: 350 km by road, 190 km straight-line.

Fastest Way

Private taxi is the fastest, taking 12 hours depending on traffic in Shimla.

Cheapest Way

HRTC bus is the cheapest option, costing around 1200 INR total.

Compare Nako to Chandigarh Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	15 hours	12 hours
Avg Price	1000-1500 INR	7000-10000 INR
Operator	HRTC	Private Taxi
Route	Nako to Shimla (ISBT), then Shimla to Chandigarh (ISBT Sector 43).	Nako-Reckong Peo-Rampur-Shimla-Solan-Chandigarh via NH 5.
Tip	HRTC runs daily buses from Shimla to Chandigarh every 30 minutes.	The stretch between Shimla and Chandigarh is a four-lane highway, making the final leg faster.

Travel Tips

Bus Booking
Use the HRTC website to check bus availability from Shimla to Chandigarh.
Traffic Alerts
Check for traffic jams in Shimla, which can delay your journey by 2 hours.
Stopover
Consider staying overnight in Shimla if you find the 12-hour drive too exhausting.
Food
Eat at local dhabas in Rampur for authentic Himachali cuisine.
Connectivity
Mobile network is intermittent between Nako and Rampur; download offline maps.

Safety Tips

Seatbelts
Always wear seatbelts, especially on the winding mountain roads.
Driver Fatigue
If hiring a taxi, ensure the driver takes regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
Weather Check
Avoid travel during heavy monsoon as the NH 5 is prone to landslides.
Emergency Numbers
Save the numbers for the Chandigarh traffic police and local hospitals.