Delhi to Shimla 5‑Day Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Departure & Arrival in Shimla

Morning: Board the early‑morning Kalka‑Shimla Railway from Delhi, enjoying scenic views of the foothills as the train ascends toward the Himalayas. The journey lasts about 7‑8 hours with a comfortable lunch on board.

Afternoon: Arrive in Shimla and check into your hotel on Mall Road. Take a short walk to stretch your legs and sip tea at a local café while overlooking the pine‑laden streets.

Evening: Stroll along Mall Road to familiarize yourself with the colonial charm, browse souvenir shops, and dine on Himachali specialties like siddu and trout at a rooftop restaurant.

Day 2: Shimla City Exploration

Morning: Visit the historic Viceregal Lodge, exploring its Tudor‑style architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens while learning about British India’s legacy.

Afternoon: Head to the sacred Jakhu Temple, perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the valley; enjoy the playful monkeys and the giant statue of Lord Hanuman.

Evening: Return to the city center for a relaxed dinner at a heritage‑styled eatery, followed by a leisurely walk through Christ Church illuminated against the night sky.

Day 3: Kufri Adventure

Morning: Drive to Kufri, a picturesque hill station 16 km from Shimla, and start with a rope‑way ride to the top for breathtaking vistas of snow‑capped peaks.

Afternoon: Engage in adventure activities such as horse riding, skiing (season‑dependent), or a guided trek to the Mahasu Peak for avid hikers.

Evening: Enjoy a cozy meal at a local chalet, sampling hot Himachali butter tea before returning to Shimla for a restful night.

Day 4: Chail and Surroundings

Morning: Journey to Chail, famed for its serene atmosphere and the world’s highest cricket ground; explore the majestic Chail Palace and its surrounding pine forest.

Afternoon: Visit the Chail Temple (Baba Balak Nath) perched on a hill, then take a gentle hike to the Thodo Pahadi viewpoint for sweeping mountain panoramas.

Evening: Return to Shimla, enjoy a light dinner, and consider a cultural show or folk music performance at a local community hall.

Day 5: Return to Delhi

Morning: Check out of the hotel and embark on the scenic train ride back to Delhi, stopping for a quick breakfast at Kalka station.

Afternoon: Arrive in Delhi, where you can unwind with a leisurely lunch at a café near your accommodation or explore a nearby market if time permits.

Evening: Conclude the trip with a reflective walk in India Gate Gardens, reminiscing about the Himalayan memories before heading home.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Delhi–Shimla Train (Kalka‑Shimla Railway) – 8 hours – ₹2,200 per person
• Mall Road (exploration & meals) – 3 hours – ₹1,200 per person
• Viceregal Lodge – 2 hours – ₹300 entry per person
• Jakhu Temple – 2 hours – Free (₹100 donation)
• Kufri Rope‑way & Activities – 4 hours – ₹1,500 per person
• Horse Riding / Skiing in Kufri – 2 hours – ₹800 per person
• Chail Palace – 2 hours – ₹250 entry per person
• Chail Cricket Ground & Thodo Pahadi – 3 hours – Free
• Return Train to Delhi – 8 hours – ₹2,200 per person
• Meals (average) – 5 days – ₹2,500 total per person
• Accommodation (4 nights) – ₹4,000 per night – ₹16,000 total per person
• Local Transportation (taxi/jeep) – ₹3,000 total per person
• Miscellaneous (tips, souvenirs) – ₹1,200 per person
• Total Estimated Cost: ₹31,550 per person

Tips

To extend the trip, add a day in Manali or a visit to the nearby Kinnaur Valley for deeper Himalayan immersion. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the day trip to Chail and spend that time enjoying Shimla’s local markets or relaxing at a spa.