Toll Free Customer Care
+(1) 123 456 7890Need live support?
support@hectindia.comFollow us on social media
Old Bus Stand Shimla is one of the most iconic landmarks in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. A hub for local and intercity travel, it holds historical significance and offers easy access to some of Shimla’s most popular attractions. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Old Bus Stand Shimla provides a convenient and strategic starting point for exploring Shimla and its nearby areas, including Manali, Kullu, and Kufri.
This article provides a detailed overview of Old Bus Stand Shimla, covering its location, connectivity, nearby attractions, food options, public transport services, and more, to help you plan your visit.
Old Bus Stand Shimla is located in the heart of Shimla, just a short distance from Mall Road, The Ridge, and other major attractions. Its central location makes it a convenient transport hub for tourists and locals alike. Over the years, it has become an integral part of Shimla's transport system, catering to buses and taxis traveling to and from various destinations in Himachal Pradesh, as well as major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Kullu.
Unlike the newer ISBT Shimla (New Bus Stand), the Old Bus Stand Shimla retains much of its colonial-era charm and offers a nostalgic glimpse into Shimla's past. It is well-positioned to access some of the best places to visit in Shimla, making it a popular spot for travelers looking to explore the hill station.
Old Bus Stand Shimla is well connected to various parts of Shimla and neighboring towns. From this central location, you can easily catch local buses, taxis, or auto-rickshaws to major attractions in Shimla like Mall Road, The Ridge, and Jakhoo Temple.
If you want to explore nearby places, like Kufri, Chail, or Tattapani, you can find several local buses and taxis departing from the Old Bus Stand Shimla. Many local taxis also operate from here, providing a comfortable and convenient option for tourists who wish to explore Shimla at their own pace.
From Delhi: Shimla is about 350 kilometers from Delhi, and it takes around 8-10 hours to travel by road. Buses from Delhi to Shimla regularly depart from the ISBT Kashmere Gate bus terminal, and many of them stop at Old Bus Stand Shimla.
From Chandigarh: Chandigarh is approximately 120 kilometers from Shimla, and it takes around 4-5 hours by road. You can catch regular buses from the Sector 17 Bus Stand in Chandigarh, which also stop at Old Bus Stand Shimla.
From Manali: The distance from Manali to Shimla is about 250 kilometers (approximately 8-9 hours by road). Several state-run buses operate along this route and pass through the Old Bus Stand Shimla.
From Kullu: Kullu is around 230 kilometers from Shimla, and the travel time is about 7-8 hours by road. You can easily find buses and taxis from Kullu to Old Bus Stand Shimla.
For international travelers, the nearest major airports are Chandigarh International Airport (120 kilometers away) and Jubbarhatti Airport (23 kilometers from Shimla). From both airports, taxis or buses are available to reach Old Bus Stand Shimla.
Shimla is a city known for its natural beauty, colonial architecture, and pleasant weather. From Old Bus Stand Shimla, several must-see attractions are within walking distance or a short drive away.
Located just 1-2 kilometers from Old Bus Stand Shimla, Mall Road is one of the most famous attractions in Shimla. A pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, it’s the ideal place for a leisurely stroll, shopping, and people-watching. Popular attractions like Scandal Point and Gaiety Theatre are also located along Mall Road.
The Ridge is a large open space that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is located just 1 kilometer from Old Bus Stand Shimla and is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography. The Christ Church and Town Hall are also located on The Ridge, making it an important historical landmark in Shimla.
A short distance (about 2 kilometers) from Old Bus Stand Shimla, Jakhoo Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is situated on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla. The temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the town below. You can either hike up to the temple or take a taxi.
Kufri is located about 16 kilometers from Shimla and is famous for its adventure sports, including skiing, tobogganing, and snowboarding. Kufri also offers a Himalayan Nature Park where visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of the region. Local buses and taxis from Old Bus Stand Shimla operate to Kufri.
The Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, is an important colonial-era landmark. It is situated on Observatory Hill, about 2 kilometers from the bus stand, and offers historical insights as well as stunning views of Shimla. Visitors can explore the museum inside the lodge and take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the British Raj.
The Old Bus Stand Shimla is well-connected to several major cities in North India, making it an easy stop for travelers exploring Himachal Pradesh.
There are plenty of food options near Old Bus Stand Shimla, ranging from quick snacks to full-course meals. Here are some of the popular eateries:
Located near Mall Road, the Indian Coffee House offers a nostalgic experience with its vintage décor. The café serves simple, affordable Indian snacks such as bread butter, cutlets, and samosas along with coffee and tea.
Located a little further from the bus stand, Cafe Simla Times is a trendy café offering a variety of continental and Indian dishes. Known for its cozy ambiance, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal after a long day of sightseeing.
This charming café is a favorite among both locals and tourists. It offers an array of dishes, including pizzas, sandwiches, and hearty breakfast options. It is located near the Mall Road, just a short walk from the bus stand.
Located near Mall Road, Ashiana Restaurant offers a wide variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. It’s a great spot for a quick meal or a relaxing dinner, especially after a day of exploring Shimla’s attractions.
Old Bus Stand Shimla is well-served by local transport options, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses. If you want to explore Shimla’s local attractions, you can easily catch a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the bus stand. Many local buses also operate to nearby destinations like Kufri, Chail, and Tattapani.
The best time to visit Old Bus Stand Shimla largely depends on the type of experience you want:
A visit to Old Bus Stand Shimla itself will likely take about 30 minutes to 1 hour, especially if you are simply passing through or catching a bus. However, if you want to explore nearby attractions like Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, or The Ridge, you should allocate at least a few hours or even a full day.
For inquiries related to Old Bus Stand Shimla, you can contact the following:
