Learn about the Shimla trip cost, budget tips, and travel packages to help you plan a scenic and affordable holiday.
Planning a trip to Shimla? This guide breaks down the cost of the trip to Shimla and travels within the location in a clear and simple way—mirroring the layout from our Darjeeling Trip Cost page.
A journey to the 'Queen of Hills' can fit various budgets depending on duration, group size, and comfort. Here are the costs that typically ensue:
A 3‑day solo or couple trip may cost around ₹10,000–₹20,000 (INR), encompassing travel, stay, meals, and sightseeing.
A family of four can expect ₹20,000–₹40,000, offering a balanced travel experience.
These figures reflect the average cost of a trip to Shimla but actual shimla travel cost varies based on preferences like hotel type or guided tours.
Transport to Shimla
By train: Toy train from Kalka costs around ₹300–₹600 one way.
By bus or taxi from major cities like Delhi or Chandigarh, fares are typically ₹500–₹1,500 each way depending on service.
Basic guesthouses or homestays: ₹800–₹1,500 per night.
Mid‑range hotels: ₹2,000–₹4,000 per night.
Premium stays like boutique hotels (e.g. The Cecil), start from over ₹5,000 per night.
Food & Local Travel
Meals in local cafés: ₹200–₹400 per person per meal.
Auto‑rickshaws, taxis, or buses for local sightseeing: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per day.
Refer the following table
Item |
Cost (INR) |
---|---|
Transport (round‑trip) |
₹1,500–₹3,000 |
3 nights’ stay |
₹3,000–₹6,000 |
Food (3 days) |
₹1,800–₹3,600 |
Local travel & sights |
₹1,500–₹2,500 |
Estimated total per person |
₹7,800–₹15,100 |
For couples or solo travellers, this gives a solid picture of the cost of a trip to Shimla—simple, clear, and adaptable to travel style.
Major tour providers (MakeMyTrip, Yatra, Veena World, Expedia) offer curated shimla travel packages, including transport, stays, meals, and sightseeing.
These shimla trip package prices vary by season, style, and inclusions like luxury hotels or guided tours.
Solo or budget traveller
3-night package: ₹6,500–₹8,000 per person.
Standard family/couple
5-night stay with transit & sightseeing: ₹15,000–₹20,000 per person.
Premium / Extended tour
6–7 nights including Manali or Kasol: ₹25,000–₹35,000 per person.
Peak Season (May–June; Dec–Feb during snowfall): Prices rise 20–40%.
Off‑season (July–Aug, monsoon): Discounts available, but landslip risks remain.
Booking during spring or autumn offers pleasant weather and moderate rates.
Group Travel: Split taxi fares from Delhi/Chandigarh.
Stay Smart: Choose homestays or guesthouses instead of premium hotels.
Meal Choices: Eat locally; street food is tasty and affordable.
Local Buses (HRTC): Comfortable and around ₹50–₹150 a ride.
Book Early: Secure cheap train/bus tickets and use early-bird hotel discounts.
Choosing between pre-booked travel packages and planning your own Shimla trip depends on convenience, cost, and flexibility.
Here’s how the two options compare in terms of expenses and experience:
Feature |
Package Tour |
Self-Planned Trip |
---|---|---|
Bookings & Itineraries |
Included & arranged |
Your own responsibility |
Travel Cost to Shimla |
Pre‑booked transport |
Variable, may need research |
Sightseeing Included |
Often included (Kufri, Jakhu) |
You pay separately |
Flexibility |
Fixed itinerary |
High flexibility |
Overall Shimla Trip Cost |
₹6,500–₹35,000+ per person |
Starting ₹8,000 for 3 nights |
A typical Shimla trip package covers:
Return transport from Delhi/Chandigarh
Accommodation for the number of nights specified
Daily breakfast (some include lunch/dinner)
Local sightseeing (e.g. Kufri, Jakhu Temple)
Transfer between attractions by coach or cab
Extras like shimla tour cost for private guides, adventure sports, or premium meals are usually add-ons.
One‑stop planning
Group rates & discounts
Convenience and ease
Limited flexibility
Additional personal expenses
Sometimes package price ~10–20% higher than self‑planned
The cost of visit to Shimla can range from ₹8,000 for a simple solo escape, through ₹15,000–₹20,000 for couples or small groups, up to ₹35,000+ for extended or luxury stays. Expect shimla trip package prices to vary depending on season and inclusions.
Plan according to your travel style—whether a packaged holiday offering convenience or a self-curated trip for flexibility, this guide ensures you're ready with realistic cost to visit Shimla expectations. Enjoy your Himalayan getaway!
Expect around ₹8,000–₹10,000 for a 3-night stay, including transport, mid-range lodging, meals, and sightseeing.
Roughly ₹20,000–₹40,000 total for 3 nights, varying with accommodation standards and travel season.
Basic 3‑night packages begin at ₹6,500–₹8,000 per person, covering hotels and some sightseeing. Longer budgets fall into higher tiers .
Overall, it's affordable compared to major tourist spots. Shimla travel cost depends on choices—budget-friendly options are available with local homestays and public buses.
Book 4–6 weeks in advance or in early off-season (March or October) for better rates and availability.
Extras include souvenirs, ice‑skating in Kufri, private guides, and adventure sports—budget extra ₹2,000–₹5,000 for a fuller experience.
Yes—sharing taxis, using Himachal Road Transport buses (₹50–₹150), walking between close attractions, and booking buses or trains early all help lower costs.