Shimla to Dehradun Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Shimla to Dehradun? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 230km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Shimla to Dehradun
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 6h 00m | ₹2,197 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹209 – ₹637 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹328 – ₹2,539 |
How to Travel: Shimla to Dehradun
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
lightbulb Our Recommendation
At 230km, both driving (6h 00m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.
Before You Leave Shimla
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Chana Madra - Chickpea curry cooked in yogurt and spices (try at local restaurants)
- local_dining Thukpa - Tibetan noodle soup (try at Tibetan restaurants on Mall Road)
- local_dining Momos - Tibetan dumplings (try at street food stalls)
Indian Coffee House • Mall Road
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Shimla to Dehradun route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Rishikesh
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is renowned as the 'Yoga Capital of the World'. The holy Ganges River flows through it, making it a significant spiritual hub. It's also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.
attractions Top Attractions
Lakshman Jhula
Lakshman Jhula is an iconic iron suspension bridge across the Ganges. It connects Tapovan to Jonk. Legend says that Lord Lakshmana crossed the Ganges here on a jute rope.
Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is another suspension bridge across the Ganges, located a few kilometers downstream from Lakshman Jhula. It connects Shivananda Ashram to Swarg Ashram.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat on the banks of the Ganges. It's believed to be the confluence of three holy rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chole Bhature - A popular North Indian dish of spicy chickpeas and fried bread (try at any local restaurant).
Kufri
Mussoorie
Mussoorie, often called the "Queen of Hills," is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, India. It's known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. The town is a gateway to several other Himalayan destinations and is easily accessible from Dehradun.
attractions Top Attractions
Kempty Falls
Kempty Falls is a popular waterfall located a short drive from Mussoorie. The falls cascade down several tiers, creating a refreshing pool at the bottom. It's a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
Gun Hill
Gun Hill is the second highest point in Mussoorie, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range. A cannon was fired from this location at noon during the British Raj to signal the time.
Lal Tibba
Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It's located in Landour, a quieter and more charming part of Mussoorie.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Momos - try them at Kalsang Friends Corner
Chail
Chail is a quiet hill station in Himachal Pradesh, known for its serene environment and the historic Chail Palace. It was once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Patiala. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
attractions Top Attractions
Chail Palace
Chail Palace is a historic building that was once the summer residence of the Maharaja of Patiala. It's known for its architecture and regal ambiance.
Chail Cricket Ground
The Chail Cricket Ground is known as the world's highest cricket ground. It was built in 1893 and is situated at an altitude of 2,444 meters.
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir is a temple dedicated to a local saint. It is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Madra - A traditional dish made with chickpeas in yogurt gravy (try at Himachali restaurants)
Chakrata
Explore Dehradun
Dehradun offers a unique travel experience. For detailed information about local attractions, dining options, accommodations, and insider tips, visit our comprehensive destination guide.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shimla to Dehradun
Related Routes from Shimla
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Shimla:
Other Routes to Dehradun
Traveling to Dehradun from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
Explore More of India
Discover comprehensive travel guides, hidden gems, and local insights for cities across India. Plan your perfect journey with our detailed destination guides.