Traveling from Dehradun to Shimla is a scenic experience that attracts both tourists and locals year-round. Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates a variety of bus services on this route, offering an affordable and reliable way to journey through the beautiful landscapes of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. In this guide, you’ll find essential information about Dehradun to Shimla HRTC bus timings, bus types, and travel tips to make your trip as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Whether you’re heading to Shimla for leisure, work, or family, HRTC buses offer a convenient way to travel, with comfortable options for both budget-conscious and premium travelers. Read on to learn more about the journey, bus schedules, and important FAQs to help you plan your trip.
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Why Travel from Dehradun to Shimla with HRTC?
There are several reasons why the Dehradun to Shimla HRTC route is popular among travelers:
- Affordability: HRTC buses are highly economical, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Variety of Bus Types: HRTC offers multiple bus types, from Ordinary buses to HIMSUTA AC Volvo buses, catering to different comfort levels and budgets.
- Convenience: With daily departures and reliable schedules, HRTC provides a convenient option to reach Shimla without the hassle of driving through mountainous roads.
- Scenic Journey: The route between Dehradun and Shimla offers beautiful views of hills, valleys, and rivers, making it a delightful journey for nature lovers.
Overview of the Dehradun to Shimla Route
The distance between Dehradun and Shimla is approximately 230 kilometers, which can be covered in around 8 to 10 hours depending on the bus type and traffic conditions. HRTC buses follow the route through key stops such as Paonta Sahib, Nahan, Chandigarh, Solan, and Waknaghat, providing passengers with a glimpse of both urban and rural landscapes.
The journey takes travelers through the lower hills of the Himalayas, with pleasant weather and scenic beauty that makes it a great route to travel by road.
Types of Buses Available on the Dehradun to Shimla Route
HRTC offers different types of buses on the Dehradun to Shimla route, ensuring that passengers can choose a bus type that suits their budget and comfort needs:
- HIMSUTA AC Volvo/Scania: This air-conditioned bus is ideal for passengers who seek a comfortable and premium travel experience. Equipped with reclining seats, spacious legroom, and charging points, these buses are perfect for long journeys.
- HIMDHARA 3×2 AC: The HIMDHARA AC bus provides air-conditioned comfort at a more affordable price, making it a good option for travelers who want both comfort and economy.
- Ordinary Buses: HRTC’s Ordinary buses are budget-friendly and offer standard seating. While they lack the amenities of AC buses, they are ideal for those looking to save on travel costs.
Dehradun to Shimla HRTC Bus Timings
Note: Please refer to the official HRTC website or trusted sources to confirm current bus schedules, as timings may be subject to changes. Below data is based on HRTC Dehradun Time Table and HRTC Shimla Time Table.
Total Buses:- 6
Dehradun to Shimla HRTC Bus Timetable
| No. | Bus Type | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Total Time | Route (with Times) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA 2X2 | 23:00 | 7:00 | 8 Hrs 0 Mins | HARIDWAR (21:00) → Dehradun (23:00) → PAONTA SAHIB (0:15) → NAHAN (1:45) → HP BORDER (1:50) → CHANDIGARH 17 (2:45) → CHANDIGARH 43 (3:00) → MANIMAJRA (3:30) → KALKA (3:45) → PARWANOO (4:30) → SOLAN (6:00) → WAKNAGHAT (6:30) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (7:00) |
| 2 | HIMDHARA 3X2 AC | 18:50 | 5:15 | 10 Hrs 25 Mins | Dehradun (18:50) → PAONTA SAHIB (20:00) → NAHAN (21:30) → CHANDIGARH 43 (1:00) → SOLAN (3:00) → WAKNAGHAT (4:00) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (5:15) |
| 3 | ORDINARY | 6:00 | 15:30 | 9 Hrs 30 Mins | Dehradun (6:00) → PAONTA SAHIB (8:00) → NAHAN (9:30) → KUMAR HATTI (11:50) → SOLAN (13:15) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (15:30) |
| 4 | ORDINARY | 8:00 | 16:30 | 8 Hrs 30 Mins | HARIDWAR (6:15) → RAIWALA (6:20) → Dehradun (8:00) → PREM NAGAR (8:20) → HARBATPUR UK (8:45) → UK BORDER (9:00) → PAONTA SAHIB (10:00) → DHAULA KUAN (10:30) → SHAMBUBALA (11:00) → NAHAN (11:30) → NIHOG (11:40) → SARAHA (11:45) → NAINATIKKER (11:50) → KUMAR HATTI (11:55) → BAROG (11:58) → SOLAN (12:30) → KANDAGHAT (13:00) → WAKNAGHAT (14:00) → SHOGHI (15:00) → TARADEVI (15:30) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (16:30) |
| 5 | ORDINARY | 10:30 | 19:30 | 9 Hrs 0 Mins | HARIDWAR (8:30) → DOIWALA (10:00) → Dehradun (10:30) → HARBATPUR UK (12:00) → PAONTA SAHIB (12:40) → DHAULA KUAN (12:55) → NAHAN (13:30) → SARAHAN (14:00) → NAINATIKKER (14:30) → KUMAR HATTI (14:45) → SOLAN (17:15) → KANDAGHAT (17:45) → SHOGHI (18:30) → TARADEVI (19:00) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (19:30) → LAKKAR BAZAR (20:00) → THEOG (21:00) → CHHAILA (21:30) → GUMMA (22:00) → KOTKHAI (22:15) → KHARAPATHAR (23:00) → JUBBAL (23:15) → ROHRU (23:30) |
| 6 | ORDINARY | 23:55 | 8:30 | 8 Hrs 35 Mins | HARIDWAR (22:30) → RAIWALA (22:45) → Dehradun (23:55) → PREM NAGAR (0:45) → HARBATPUR UK (1:15) → PAONTA SAHIB (2:05) → DHAULA KUAN (2:30) → NAHAN (3:30) → SARAHA (4:45) → NAINATIKKER (5:30) → KUMAR HATTI (6:00) → SOLAN (6:30) → KANDAGHAT (7:30) → WAKNAGHAT (8:00) → SHOGHI (8:15) → TARADEVI (8:20) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (8:30) → KUFRI (9:45) → THEOG (10:15) → NARKANDA (10:45) → KINGAL (11:15) → SAINJ (11:40) → NIRSU (12:30) → RAMPUR (13:00) → JHAKHARI (13:30) → JEOURI (14:15) → SARAHAN (15:00) |
Note: For accurate and updated schedules, please verify with the official HRTC website, as timings are subject to change.
Travel Tips for a Comfortable Journey
To make your trip from Dehradun to Shimla as enjoyable and smooth as possible, here are some essential travel tips:
- Book Tickets in Advance: Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, ensures you get your preferred seat and bus type.
- Arrive Early at the Departure Point: It’s recommended to reach the bus stand at least 15 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute stress and secure your seat.
- Dress in Layers: Since the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, it’s advisable to dress in layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
- Carry Essentials: Bring water, light snacks, and a neck pillow for added comfort during the journey. Although there are stops along the way, having these essentials can enhance your travel experience.
- Respect Local Customs: When stopping in small towns along the way, remember to respect local customs and traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To address common queries about the Dehradun to Shimla route, here is a list of frequently asked questions to help you plan your journey effectively.
1. What is the earliest bus departure from Dehradun to Shimla?
The earliest HRTC bus typically departs from Dehradun at around 6:00 AM. Please refer to the official schedule for the latest timings.
2. Which bus is the most comfortable for the journey from Dehradun to Shimla?
The HIMSUTA AC Volvo/Scania buses offer the most comfortable experience, featuring air conditioning, reclining seats, and ample legroom, making them ideal for a long journey.
3. Are there any direct buses from Dehradun to Shimla?
Yes, HRTC operates direct buses from Dehradun to Shimla. The route includes several stops along the way but does not require a bus change.
4. How long does the journey from Dehradun to Shimla take by HRTC bus?
The journey typically takes between 8 and 10 hours, depending on traffic, bus type, and weather conditions.
5. Can I book tickets online for HRTC buses?
Yes, HRTC offers online booking through their official website and other online ticketing platforms, making it convenient for travelers to secure their seats in advance.
6. Do HRTC buses on this route have charging points?
Charging points are available on select AC buses, such as HIMSUTA Volvo buses. Passengers are advised to charge their devices before departure as a precaution.
7. Are there regular stops along the way for refreshments?
Yes, HRTC buses make regular stops at key points such as Paonta Sahib, Nahan, and Solan for refreshments and rest breaks.
8. What are the major stops on the Dehradun to Shimla route?
Some major stops include Paonta Sahib, Nahan, Chandigarh, Solan, and Waknaghat. These stops allow travelers to take breaks and enjoy the scenic route.
9. Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?
While not strictly necessary, it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends, as buses may fill up quickly.
10. Are pets allowed on HRTC buses?
Generally, pets are not permitted on HRTC buses. For any specific queries regarding pet travel, it’s best to check with HRTC’s customer service.
Internal Links
How to Book HRTC Bus Tickets Online: Step-by-Step Guide – Learn the easiest way to book your HRTC bus tickets online.
Top 5 Reasons to Choose HRTC for Your Next Trip – Understand why HRTC is the best choice for reliable and comfortable travel across Himachal Pradesh.
HRTC Bus Timings from Shimla to Chandigarh: 2025 Guide – If you’re planning a journey from Shimla, here’s a detailed guide for Shimla to Chandigarh bus timings.
HRTC Volvo Services: Comfort and Luxury on Himachal Roads – Discover the benefits of traveling by HIMSUTA Volvo/Scania for a comfortable journey in Himachal Pradesh.
Eco-Friendly Travel with HRTC: Himachal’s Move to Green Mobility – Explore how HRTC is contributing to sustainable travel with electric buses.
External Links
For additional useful travel information, you can refer to the following external resources:
Himachal Pradesh Tourism Official Site – Plan your stay and get more information about tourist spots in Mandi and other destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
Official HRTC Website for Ticket Booking and Timings – Book tickets and check live bus timings directly from HRTC’s official platform.
RedBus – Book HRTC Bus Tickets Online – Another trusted platform to book HRTC bus tickets with real-time seat availability.
AbhiBus – HRTC Bus Booking – Another reliable bus booking service for HRTC buses acro
Final Thoughts
The Dehradun to Shimla HRTC bus timings make it easy for travelers to plan their journey between these two beautiful cities. With affordable pricing, multiple bus types, and reliable schedules, HRTC provides a convenient option for a scenic road trip to Shimla. Whether you’re a tourist exploring the hills or a local on a routine commute, this guide gives you all the details needed for a pleasant journey.
Make sure to check the latest schedule on the HRTC website before you start your trip, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Himachal Pradesh as you travel from Dehradun to Shimla!
