🌟The Perfect Start at Hotel Aerocity Purple Orchid, Delhi Airport🌟
Before heading to the hills of Himachal, consider spending the night at Hotel Aerocity Purple Orchid — a hidden gem near Delhi Airport (IGI Terminal 3). For international travellers or anyone catching an early morning departure, this is the ideal stopover before heading to Shimla.
The hotel is quiet, spotless, and comfortable, with everything a tired traveller could need after a flight — soft beds, hot showers, and 24×7 airport transfers. The staff can also help plan your morning route to the hills through the in-house travel desk.
If you’re arriving in Delhi from abroad or other Indian cities, staying one night here saves hours the next morning. Instead of rushing through traffic or worrying about connections, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to begin your mountain adventure.
🗓️Day 1 – The Toy Train to the Clouds & The Magic of Mall Road
🚗 From Delhi to Shimla – 4 Scenic Options
- Private Taxi (via Chandigarh)
- Arrange this easily with the Hotel Travel Desk.
- Ideal if you prefer a direct, flexible journey.
- The drive takes roughly 7–8 hours with a few scenic tea breaks along the way.
- Self-Drive (via NH44 → NH5)
- Perfect if you love flexibility and scenic pit-stops — you control the pace and where you stop for photos or chai.
- Typical drive time: 7–9 hours depending on traffic and stops (approx. 350–370 km via NH44/NH5).
- Route notes: leave early to avoid Delhi traffic, follow NH44 to Ambala/Chandigarh and then NH5/Kalka road toward the hills; watch for winding mountain stretches as you approach Shimla.
- Car hire options: popular self-drive platforms include Zoomcar and MyChoize — both offer short-term and multi-day rentals with varied vehicle choices (sedans, SUVs).
- Parking & driving in Shimla: book hotels with parking if you plan to keep the car; many central spots (Mall Road / The Ridge) are pedestrianised — you’ll park at designated lots and walk in.
- Volvo Bus from Delhi ISBT to Shimla
- Budget-friendly and surprisingly comfortable.
- Several overnight or early-morning HRTC and private Volvos operate daily.
- Perfect for travellers who enjoy a smooth highway ride.
- The Legendary Kalka–Shimla Toy Train (52455 Himalayan Queen)
- A memorable choice for most travellers.
- This UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge railway winds through 103 tunnels, 864 bridges, and endless pine-covered slopes.
- To catch the train, plan to drive from Aerocity to Kalka Station (about 4.5 hours via NH44). Reach Kalka Railway Station by 9 AM to board the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train (52455 — Himalayan Queen). As the Himalayan Queen chugs slowly up the mountains, every bend reveals a postcard view — misty valleys, pine forests, and toy-town villages. It’s easy to see why this route remains one of the most romantic train journeys in India.
🌟 Arrival at Shimla 🌟
By afternoon you’ll arrive in Shimla, check into a cozy hillside hotel and head straight to Mall Road. The pedestrian street feels like a time capsule — British-era architecture, the neo-Gothic Christ Church, and busy bazaars lined with shops selling handicrafts, woollens, and tea-stalls.
The Ridge is a perfect sunset spot. Picture standing on this open space as the sun sets behind the Shivalik mountains, Christ Church silhouetted against an orange-pink sky, and a cool breeze carrying the scent of pine — goosebumps guaranteed. This is where Shimla's heart truly beats.
End your first day at Scandal Point (yes, it has a romantic backstory) then grab dinner at one of the cafes overlooking the hills. The vibe is unbeatable.
Food Stops You Can’t Miss 🍴
- Sitaram and Sons (Lakkar Bazaar): Iconic chole bhature — soft, spiced perfection.
- Krishna Bakery (since 1928): Famous for Swiss Rolls and steamed momos.
- Himachali Rasoi: Try the authentic Dhaam Thali — a soulful Himachali meal without onion or garlic.
- Wake & Bake Café: Great hummus, herbal tea, and dreamy valley views.
- Embassy Restaurant: Their ice-cream sundae deserves its fan following.
Overnight Stay in Shimla — Book by WhatsApp
We’ll match you with Shimla hotels according to your budget — Budget, Mid-range or Luxury — all arranged via Hotel Aerocity Purple Orchid’s travel desk. Replace [DATE] with your travel date.
🗓️Day 2 – Kufri: Snow, Adventure & Pure Joy
Take a day trip to Kufri, about 16 km from Shimla — a must for adventure and scenic beauty. Even without snow (October visits often lack it), the landscape is stunning. The pine forests, the winding mountain roads, and the crisp Himalayan air make the journey itself worthwhile. Stop at Green Valley viewpoint for photos that’ll look great on your wallpaper.
In Kufri you can go horse riding (approx. ₹500 for a decent ride), try zip-lining at the adventure park, and attempt valley crossing for an adrenaline kick. If you visit in winter (December–January), Kufri turns into a snow wonderland with skiing and snow activities, plus the famous Snow Kingdom.
Also check out Mahasu Peak — the panoramic views from the top are worth the climb (or pony ride if you prefer).
Hidden Gems & Quick Visits
- Lakkar Bazaar: A short walk from The Ridge — great for wooden souvenirs, walking sticks and local handicrafts.
- Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study): A magnificent colonial building with sprawling lawns; a guided tour (approx. ₹100) is recommended.
- Kali Bari Temple: A peaceful spiritual stop — some believe this temple is the source of Shimla’s name.
🗓️Day 3 – Jakhu Temple, Ropeway Views & Local Food Heaven and Back to Delhi
On the final day, head up (or ride) to Jakhu Temple, the highest point in Shimla. Take the Jakhu Ropeway (approx. ₹650–900 round trip) — a short 10-minute ride with breathtaking views over the town.
At the temple you’ll see Hanuman’s 108-foot statue and likely meet a troop of mischievous monkeys. Keep sunglasses and snacks secure — the monkeys are fast! Despite that, the temple is peaceful and spiritual: cool mountain wind, ringing bells, and prasad make for a memorable visit.
After descending, enjoy a last stroll through Mall Road and pick up any final souvenirs before heading back to Delhi. Consider returning via Bus or private taxi booked through the hotel travel desk — comfortable and timed for an evening arrival back at Aerocity.
🌟Budget & Practical Info 💸
Here’s an approximate cost breakdown to help you plan. Prices are indicative and can vary by season and availability.
- Accommodation: 💸 Budget 🏨 Mid-range 👑 Luxury
- Food: ₹300–500/day
- Transport: Kufri shared taxi ₹300–400; local cab ₹150–500
- Activities: Ropeway ₹650 | Adventure activities ₹500–1,000
- Approx. 3-day total: ₹10,000–12,500 (excluding Delhi–Shimla travel). Budget travellers can do it in ₹7,000–8,500 using hostels and shared rides.
🌟Weather, Packing & Travel Tips
- Best time: March–June or October–February (October visits are crisp; December–January for snow).
- What to pack: Comfortable shoes, a light jacket for October, heavy layers and gloves for December–January, sunglasses, and a power bank.
- Walking: Shimla = slopes. Be ready for stairs, inclines, and lots of photo breaks!
- Safety: Shimla is generally safe for solo travellers — use common sense after dark and keep an eye on personal items, especially at busy markets and around monkeys.
- Book in advance: Toy train, hotels, and Kufri rides fill up fast during holidays—plan ahead.
🌟The Shimla Effect 🌲
Shimla isn’t just a hill station — it’s a feeling. The scent of pine in the air, the hum of the toy train, the laughter on The Ridge — everything slows you down in the best way possible. You’ll return with a camera full of photos, a mind full of calm, and a heart that already wants to come back.
So if you’ve been thinking about it — go. Book a stay at Hotel Aerocity Purple Orchid the night before, pack your sweater, and catch that first ray of Himalayan sunrise. You’ll come back lighter — that’s a promise.
🌟Ready to Book?
Arrange your stay and transfers with Hotel Aerocity Purple Orchid. We help with Kalka transfers, toy train planning, taxi bookings, and local tips to make your trip seamless.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is three days enough for Shimla?
Yes — three days let you enjoy Shimla’s main attractions at a relaxed pace: Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, Kufri, and nearby viewpoints.
How do I book the Kalka–Shimla toy train?
Book toy train tickets on IRCTC well in advance, especially during holidays—seats sell out quickly. Alternatively, ask the hotel travel desk to help with reservations.
Is Shimla safe for solo travelers?
Shimla is generally safe; use normal travel precautions, especially at night, and secure belongings from monkeys at Jakhu Temple.
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