Most road trip junkies would agree that Delhi to Shimla is one of the coolest trips in India. Shimla is a hill station that is straight out of a Pinterest board. Epic landscapes, cozy cottages, and therapy level food – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Ruskin Bond novel. And if you’re considering renting a car for the trip, this guide will help you get everything sorted—no stress.
So let’s talk about everything you need to know about Delhi to Shimla car rental. From the best routes and car options to costs, tips, and stuff you might forget—it’s all here, explained the way a friend would tell you. No fluff, just what you need.
You could take a bus, sure. Or maybe hop on a train part of the way. But honestly, nothing beats the comfort, freedom, and fun of your own ride. When you think of car hire Delhi to Shimla, what you achieve is control—leave when you want, stop where you like, take detours, click pictures, grab chai at roadside dhabas, and drive at your own pace. Plus, Shimla has a bunch of scenic spots around it that are easier to explore when you have your own vehicle.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, there’s a rental car to match your style and budget. From hatchbacks to SUVs, self-drive to chauffeur-driven, you’ve got options.
Car rental from Delhi to Shimla is honestly the ideal option as the distance between Delhi and Shimla is roughly 350 kilometers. It usually takes around 8 to 10 hours to get there, depending on traffic, weather, and how often you stop. The roads are pretty decent for the most part, especially with the new highway sections that have come up. But even though the conditions are favourable, you should avoid the wear and tear of your own car by going in for a rental instead.
The most common route people take is:
Delhi → Panipat → Karnal → Kurukshetra → Ambala → Zirakpur → Kalka → Solan → Shimla
When you’ve decided on a car rental from Delhi, you can focus on the journey itself. This route is scenic, well-marked, and has plenty of food stops, fuel stations, and places to stretch your legs.
When deciding on booking a car rental from Delhi to Shimla, your choice of car depends on how many people are traveling and how comfortable you want to be.
Make sure the car has good ground clearance, working AC and heating (Shimla can get chilly), and that the tires are in top shape.
This depends on your comfort level and how much you enjoy driving.
Prices vary a lot based on the type of car, the duration, and the rental company. But here’s a rough idea:
Some car rentals in Delhi charge per kilometer (like ₹10–₹15/km), while others give you a flat rate for a certain number of kilometers per day. Always check what’s included—fuel, tolls, taxes, etc.—and what’s not.
If you’re going for a self-drive rental, carry:
Also, check if the car has all its papers—RC, insurance, pollution certificate, and permit for Himachal (if needed).
Early morning is the best time to leave Delhi. Around 5 to 6 am works well. You’ll avoid city traffic and have a smoother run till Chandigarh. Plus, you’ll reach Shimla by late afternoon, giving you time to settle in before nightfall.
Avoid driving at night, especially in the hills. It’s harder to see; there may be fog, and emergency services can be limited.
You’ll find plenty of petrol pumps on the way—just make sure to tank up before you hit the hilly stretch after Kalka. It’s always good to keep the tank at least half full in the hills.
For food, you can stop at Murthal (famous for parathas), Karnal (Haveli or Neelkanth), or around Chandigarh. Pack some snacks and water, especially if you’re traveling with kids or elderly folks.
Most central areas in Shimla have limited parking. If your hotel offers parking, great. Otherwise, be ready to park a bit away and walk. Mall Road, for instance, is a no-vehicle zone. There are a few paid parking spots around town—ask locals or your hotel for the best option.
A Delhi to Shimla road trip is honestly one of those experiences that stays with you. The drive, the food stops, the changing scenery, and finally reaching those cool mountain vibes -it all adds up to something special. Renting a car just makes it easier and more fun.
Renting a car from Revv can be a really smart move for your Delhi to Shimla car rental plan. Get your ride delivered at your doorstep, and you can pick from a wide range—hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, even premium models. If you’re on a budget, Revv should be your go-to solution, with options for daily or longer rentals. You can go for fuel-included or without-fuel plans, and there are unlimited kilometre options too. If you’ve been racking your brains about a car rental in Delhi that’s convenient, affordable, and stress-free, Revv is a solid choice for a smooth, comfy drive to Shimla.
Some cities grow on you over time. Hyderabad just needs one good drive. The City…
There’s never a bad time to go on a road trip. Especially when you’re heading…
Let's get real—from time to time, we all need a break from the daily grind.…
Pune is one of those cities that just grows on you. It's more than a…
If you’ve been racking your brains about where to head to for a fun weekend,…
Airport transfers in Bangalore? They don’t have to be a pain. For most Bangaloreans, Bengaluru’s…