Route guide
From the Baspa Valley through Kinnaur and Shimla to the plains.
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At a glance
• Distance: 345–370 km
• Road time: 10.5–13 hours
Nearest rail: Shimla and Kalka stations.
Route 1 · Recommended
Rakchham → Sangla → Karcham → Rampur Bushahr → Narkanda → Kufri → Shimla → Solan → Chandigarh
345–349 km · 10.5–12 hours
Taxi fare starts around ₹7,317.
Other routes
• Via Basantpur: ~370 km · 11.5–13 hrs; winter backup
• Via Theog: ~350 km · 11–12 hrs; skips Shimla traffic
• Via Kufri: ~355 km · 11–12.5 hrs; most scenic
By bus
• Local bus or taxi to Karcham first
• Total time: 14–15 hours
• Fare: about ₹700–₹1,200
Expect 1–2 transfers on the way.
Heritage option
• Rakchham to Shimla: 8–9 hours
• Toy train to Kalka: 5–6 hours
• Kalka to Chandigarh: 1 hour
Flying via Shimla is not practical here.
Before you go
• Start early in the morning
• Avoid night driving near Karcham
• Keep the tank above half full
Best months: April–June and September–November.
Plan your trip
All four routes, buses, toy train, stops and FAQs.
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