Published by May 20th, 2026

Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in India that is renowned for its colonial style, its beauty and the peaceful mountain views. If you are travelling and looking for how to get to Shimla on train, then you can plan your journey easily with this detailed Travel Guide.

Rail journey to Shimla is a magical experience, particularly the Kalka Shimla railway route. This guide will help you not only understand the closest railway station to Shimla, but also make bookings for the toy train journey from Kalka to Shimla, food arrangements at railway station, and more.

How to Reach Shimla by Train

Nearest railway station to Shimla (Kalka) as it is easy and convenient.

For this, you first need to take a train from Delhi to Kalka. Kalka is the closest railhead to Shimla, with direct broad-gauge trains.

Here are some popular trains between Delhi and Kalka:

  • Kalka Shatabdi Express
  • Himalayan Queen
  • Paschim Express
  • Howrah Kalka Mail

This is an approximately 4-5 hour drive.

Once you have arrived at Kalka, board the Kalka to Shimla toy train, which is one of the most scenic train rides in India.

Kalka Shimla Railway – A UNESCO Heritage Journey

The historic Kalka Shimla Railway is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful train rides in India.

In 1903 this railway line was built and travels for 96 kilometres through magnificent mountain scenery, tunnels, valleys and forests.

The journey includes:

  • A total of 102 tunnels including the famous Barog Tunnel, the longest tunnel on the route.
  • 800+ bridges constructed in a special multi-arched colonial architecture.
  • Sharp curves, 900+ of them, providing amazing views of the mountains.
  • Stations are beautiful such as Dharampur, Solan, Kandaghat, Barog and Summer Hill.
  • Stunningly beautiful terrain of the lower Himalayan ranges

Running at a leisurely pace, the Kalka Shimla toy train allows the travellers to experience nature in its best form. The toy train operates at a leisurely speed, typically between 20 and 25 km per hour, enabling passengers to savor every aspect of the ride. The big windows have great photography opportunities and it’s a cool mountain breeze that makes for a great and memorable ride.

The Kalka to Shimla toy train ride is like a time travel. These old trains, old stations and old country all contribute to a magical experience of the travel and thousands of tourists a year visit them.

Best Kalka to Shimla Toy Train Options

The best options for toy trains from Kalka to Shimla are given below.

There are a number of trains running on this line.

  • Shivalik Deluxe Express: Ideal for both comfort and luxury.
  • Himalayan Queen: A popular and budget-friendly option.
  • Rail Motor Car: Ideal for a unique heritage experience.
  • Kalka Shimla Express: Best for nature photo enthusiasts.

It is advisable to book the Kalka to Shimla toy train tickets in advance.

Before and after your train, enjoy a food delivery straight to the railway station.

Food Delivery at Railway Station During Your Journey

Rather than eating meals out of the box from the restaurant, passengers can now get freshly prepared restaurant meals in their train seat.

You can order:

  • North Indian meals
  • South Indian food
  • Chinese dishes
  • Jain meals
  • Snacks and beverages
  • Desserts

This will make it easier for families, single guests and seniors to travel by train.

How to Order Food at Railway Station

Now you can easily place orders for food while travelling on a train in a railway station.

Just provide:

  • Your PNR number
  • Train number
  • Delivery station

Your coach takes your fresh meals to the stations.

These services are provided from the following major stations:

  • New Delhi
  • Ambala Cantt
  • Chandigarh
  • Kalka
  • Solan

Traveler Food  has Delivery in Train

Traveler Food expanded its menu for train food delivery to some railway stations.

Benefits include:

  • Freshly prepared meals
  • Live order tracking
  • Hygienic packaging
  • Multiple restaurant choices
  • Easy online payment

From Delhi to Kalka or beyond, you can enjoy a yummy journey by Traveler Food and order from their website or app; however, you can also order using Zomato food delivery in train.

Best Places to Visit in Shimla

After completing your beautiful Kalka Shimla Railway journey, explore Shimla’s top attractions.

  • Mall Road: Ideal for shopping, cafes and local sightseeing.
  • The Ridge: Provides a vista of the Himalayas from all directions.
  • Jakhoo Temple: A serene place of peace and serenity with the giant Hanuman statue.
  • Kufri: Famous for the snow and adventure activities.
  • Christ Church: Beautiful Colonial Monument.
  • Green Valley: Best for nature photographers.
  • Summer Hill: A quiet place for rest from people.

Best Time to Visit Shimla

Shimla is a beautiful place all the year round.

  • July-August: Hot weather
  • September to May: Red landscapes
  • October-December-February: Snowfall months

Snow is a good thing for snow lovers.

Conclusion

A train ride to Shimla is one of the most beautiful and memorable train rides in India. The journey from Delhi to the nearest rail station to Shimla, and then through the spectacular Kalka Shimla Railway is magical.

For a hassle-free and comfortable journey, opt for quality meals from time to time, provided by the railway station’s food services, and savour the freshness of the offerings.

You can talk to Traveller Food, 7004841409 or 7827998877 and enjoy restaurant style food straight to your seat. Make your trip a pleasant, tasty and hassle-free one by ordering food on train from Traveller Food while enjoying the scenic beauty of the ride to Shimla.

This summer, plan your trip with family and thanks Traveler Food later.

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