Kalka to Shimla

Where to Stay

The Himalayan Queen(Train No. 52455) offers a scenic journey from Kalka to Shimla, traversing the picturesque landscapes of the Shivalik Hills. Here's how you can plan your trip:

Train Schedule:

Departure:Kalka (KLK) at 11:55 AM
Arrival:Shimla (SML) at 4:45 PM
Duration:Approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes
Frequency:Daily

Route and Major Halts:The train covers a distance of 94 kilometers, passing through several stations. Notable halts include:

Dharampur
Barog
Kandaghat

These stops provide glimpses of charming hill stations and lush greenery along the route.

Ticket Pricing:

First Class (FC):₹470 for adults; ₹235 for children (ages 5-11)
AC Chair Car (CC):₹260 for adults; ₹110 for children

Senior citizens may be eligible for concessions, with fares approximately ₹175 for males and ₹150 for females in AC Chair Car.

Booking Tickets:Tickets can be booked through the IRCTC website or at railway reservation counters. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure seat availability.

Additional Tips:

Seating Classes:Choose between First Class for a more private experience and AC Chair Car for standard comfort.
Scenic Views:Sit on the right side when traveling from Kalka to Shimla for the best views of the valleys and mountains.
Weather Preparedness:Carry light woolens, as temperatures can be cooler in the hills, even during summers.

State:Haryana
Located in:Panchkula district, at the foothills of the Himalayas.
Known for:Being the starting point of the Kalka–Shimla toy train and its proximity to Chandigarh.
Name origin:Derived from the Hindu goddess Kali, with a prominent Kali Mata Temple in town.
Significance:
Kalka serves as a railhead for travelers heading to Himachal Pradesh.
It's a quiet town, but a crucial connection point for tourists.

State:Himachal Pradesh
Located in:The mid-Himalayas at about 2,200 meters elevation.
Known for:Colonial charm, scenic views, and cool weather year-round.
Former Summer Capital:During British rule, Shimla was the summer capital of British India.
Highlights:
The Ridge & Mall Road– Popular walking streets with shops, eateries, and mountain views.
Jakhoo Temple– Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perched atop a hill.
Christ Church– One of the oldest churches in North India.
Scandal Point, Kufri, and Chadwick Falls– Great for sightseeing and adventure.

The Himalayan Queen leaves Kalka every day at 11:55 AM and reaches Shimla by 4:45 PM, taking approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes to complete the trip. The train stops at important stations on its itinerary, such as Dharampur Himachal, Barog, and Shimla. Notably, the Barog station is well-known for both its longest tunnel and its picturesque surroundings.

Chair Car (CC) and First Class (FC) are the two seating classes available on the train. According to the most recent data, the prices are as follows:

Route and Schedule:

Departure:Kalka (KLK) at 11:55 AM

Arrival:Shimla (SML) at 4:45 PM

Duration:Approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes

Distance Covered:Approximately 96 kilometers

Stops:The train halts at several stations, including Dharampur Himachal (DMP) and Barog (BOF).

Extra Details:

A unique experience is provided by the train's passage through multiple tunnels and across scenic bridges, which offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a well-liked option for travelers who want to take in the allure of the Kalka-Shimla heritage railway.

Travel and Flights

·Kalka Devi Temple

A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located at the foothills. It's a peaceful place with spiritual significance.

·Pinjore Gardens (Yadavindra Gardens)

Located about 10 km from Kalka, these Mughal-style gardens are great for a serene walk amidst fountains and pavilions.

·Manki Point (Monkey Point)– Near Kalka in Kasauli

Although technically in Himachal, it's close to Kalka and offers stunning views of the Sutlej River and even Chandigarh on a clear day.

·Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)

The crown jewel of Himachal tourism — colonial charm, scenic beauty, and adventure all rolled into one.

·The Ridge

The central hub of Shimla — offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset. It connects to various tourist attractions.

·Mall Road

Perfect for shopping, cafés, local food, and a stroll in the cool mountain breeze.

·Jakhoo Temple

Situated on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers panoramic views.

·Christ Church

A beautiful neo-Gothic structure built in 1857, it's one of the oldest churches in North India.

· Kufri

Located 16 km from Shimla, Kufri is a winter sports hub, especially popular for snow activities and its zoo.

·Indian Institute of Advanced Study

Housed in the former Viceregal Lodge, this place is a blend of architecture, history, and stunning gardens.

· Tara Devi Temple

A little outside Shimla, it's a peaceful hilltop temple with panoramic views and spiritual vibes.

Kalka to Shimla

Where to Stay