Distances and travel times
Times are for a private car in normal traffic. Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons are much slower.
| From | Road distance | Typical time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Chandigarh | About 58 km | 1.5–2 hours |
| Delhi | About 290 km | 6–7 hours |
| Shimla | About 77 km | 2.5–3 hours |
| Kalka railway station | About 40 km | About 1.25 hours |
| Dharampur (toy train) | About 13 km | 30 minutes |
By road
From Chandigarh, the route runs through Zirakpur and Pinjore to Parwanoo, where the hills begin, then up the four-lane highway towards Shimla as far as Dharampur, where you turn off for Kasauli. An alternative turn-off via Garkhal is shorter but narrower. From Delhi, take the NH44 to Ambala and Zirakpur and follow the same road.
A private taxi is the most comfortable option, especially for families, and can take you right to hotels on narrow lanes. Our Chandigarh to Kasauli and Delhi to Kasauli pages show fares by vehicle.
By train
Kalka, at the foot of the hills, is the nearest broad-gauge station, with trains from Delhi including the Shatabdi. From Kalka, take a taxi up (about 1.25 hours), or change to the Kalka–Shimla toy train and get off at Dharampur, about 13 km from Kasauli, then take a taxi. Chandigarh station, about 60 km away, has many more trains and plenty of taxis.
By bus
Buses run from Chandigarh, Delhi and Shimla to Dharampur and Garkhal, and some go on to Kasauli itself. HRTC and private operators serve the route; overnight buses from Delhi to Shimla can drop you at Dharampur. From there, local taxis cover the last stretch. Bus tickets for HRTC services can be booked online.
By air
Chandigarh airport, about 65 km away, is the closest and has frequent flights from across India. A taxi from the airport takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Shimla's small airport is further and has few flights. We meet flights at Chandigarh and Delhi.
Getting around Kasauli
Which way is best for you?
Families and groups usually find a private taxi from Chandigarh or Delhi the easiest, with door-to-door service and stops on the way. Rail fans can take the train to Kalka and the toy train to Dharampur. Travellers flying in should land at Chandigarh and take a taxi. Budget travellers can use buses to Dharampur or Garkhal and a local taxi for the last stretch.
Frequently asked questions
What is the nearest railway station to Kasauli?+
Kalka (broad gauge), about 40 km away, or Dharampur on the toy train line, about 13 km away.
How far is Kasauli from Delhi?+
About 290 km by road, 6 to 7 hours by car.
What is the nearest airport to Kasauli?+
Chandigarh airport, about 65 km away, 1.5 to 2 hours by taxi.
Can we go to Kasauli by car?+
Yes. Roads are good all the way, though parking in town is limited at weekends.
How far is Kasauli from Shimla?+
About 77 km, 2.5 to 3 hours by road.
Is there a direct bus to Kasauli?+
Some buses run to Kasauli itself; many stop at Dharampur or Garkhal, with local taxis for the last few kilometres.
