Is there a direct train to Shimla?

No, you must reach Kalka by train and then take the Kalka-Shimla toy train.

Which is the best airport for Shimla?

Shimla Airport at Jubbarhatti is the nearest, but Chandigarh Airport offers more connectivity.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, there are multiple toll plazas on the highway between Ludhiana and Shimla.

Is the road safe for beginners?

The highway is well-maintained, but mountain driving requires experience with gear shifts.

Can I take a bus from Pohir?

You must take a local bus to Ludhiana first to catch an inter-state bus to Shimla.

Shimla

Bus Driving

Pohir to Shimla

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Pohir to Shimla covers approximately 210 kilometers. You will first travel to Ludhiana and then proceed towards Chandigarh via NH 44. From Chandigarh, you take the scenic NH 5 which climbs into the Shivalik range. The total travel time is roughly 6 hours depending on traffic at the Himalayan Expressway. This route offers a transition from the plains of Punjab to the pine-covered hills of Himachal.

Total Distance: 210 km driving distance, 165 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi, taking 6 hours via the Himalayan Expressway.

Cheapest Way

Bus via Ludhiana, costing approximately 600 INR for a standard ticket.

Compare Pohir to Shimla Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	6 hours
Avg Price	600-1200 INR	3500-5000 INR
Operator	HRTC/PRTC	Self-drive or Private Taxi
Route	Pohir to Ludhiana Bus Stand, then Volvo to Shimla ISBT	Pohir - Ludhiana - Chandigarh - Solan - Shimla
Tip	Book your HRTC Volvo seat online to ensure comfort on the winding mountain roads.	Start early from Pohir to avoid heavy traffic near the Zirakpur flyover.

Travel Tips

Carry Motion Sickness Pills
The final leg from Solan to Shimla involves sharp hairpin bends that can cause nausea.
Check Weather Updates
During monsoon, landslides are common on NH 5, so check local reports before departing.
Woolen Clothing
Even in summer, evenings in Shimla can get chilly, so keep a light jacket handy.
Parking in Shimla
Private vehicles are restricted in the city center; use the Lift parking near Cart Road.
Local Transport
Use the public lift to reach Mall Road from the lower Cart Road area efficiently.

Safety Tips

Drive Carefully
Avoid overtaking on blind curves while driving through the mountain sections.
Emergency Contacts
Save the numbers for local police and medical services in Solan and Shimla.
Stay Hydrated
High altitude can cause dehydration; drink plenty of water during the ascent.
Night Driving
Avoid driving on the mountain roads after sunset due to fog and limited visibility.