The Shimla to Dharamshala HRTC bus route offers travelers a scenic and convenient way to explore the beauty of Himachal Pradesh. Operated by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC), this bus route connects the capital city of Shimla to the serene town of Dharamshala, known for its cultural heritage and mountainous landscape. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find essential information on bus types, travel time, amenities, and frequently asked questions about the Shimla to Dharamshala HRTC bus time table for 2025.
Note: Bus timings may change; please confirm the schedule on the official HRTC website before traveling.
Table of Contents
1. Overview of the Shimla to Dharamshala Route
The journey from Shimla to Dharamshala is filled with stunning mountain views and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular route for both locals and tourists. This route covers approximately 240 km and passes through several well-known towns, giving passengers a chance to experience the culture and beauty of Himachal Pradesh. The route is serviced by various types of HRTC buses, each offering a unique level of comfort and amenities.
2. Types of Buses Available
HRTC operates several bus types on the Shimla to Dharamshala route to meet the needs of different travelers:
- ORDINARY Buses: Standard buses ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- HIM DHARA 3X2 AC: Equipped with air conditioning and other comforts, suitable for longer trips.
- HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA: Premium buses with modern amenities, designed for a more luxurious travel experience.
These options allow travelers to select a bus type based on their preferences and budget.
3. Distance and Travel Time
The distance from Shimla to Dharamshala is around 240 kilometers, and travel times vary by bus type and traffic conditions. Generally, HRTC buses take between 8 to 10 hours to cover this distance. Estimated travel times by bus type are:
- ORDINARY Buses: Approximately 10 hours
- HIMDHARA 3X2 AC Buses: Approximately 9.5 hours
- HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA Buses: Around 8.5 to 9 hours
4. Shimla to Dharamshala HRTC Bus Time Table (2025)
Below is the Shimla to Dharamshala HRTC bus time table for 2025, providing essential information about departure and arrival times, major stops, and bus types available. Below data is based on HRTC Shimla Time Table and HRTC Dharamshala Time Table.
Shimla to Dharamshala HRTC Bus Timetable
| No. | Bus Type | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Total Time | Route (with Times) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA 2X2 | 21:30 | 05:50 | 8 Hrs 20 Mins | Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (21:30) → GHAGAS (1:00) → GHUMARWIN (1:40) → BHOTA (2:20) → HAMIRPUR (2:45) → NADAUN (3:15) → JAWALA JI (3:40) → RANITAL (4:20) → KANGRA (5:00) → Dharamshala (5:50) |
| 2 | ORDINARY | 09:40 | 18:20 | 8 Hrs 40 Mins | Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (9:40) → GHAGAS (12:40) → GHUMARWIN (13:00) → BHOTA (14:15) → HAMIRPUR (15:15) → NADAUN (15:50) → JAWALA JI (16:40) → RANITAL (17:20) → KANGRA (17:40) → GAGGAL (18:00) → Dharamshala (18:20) |
| 3 | ORDINARY | 10:12 | 19:55 | 9 Hrs 43 Mins | Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (10:12) → SOLAN (11:23) → KUMAR HATTI (11:41) → DHARAMPUR SOLAN (11:46) → PARWANOO (12:22) → KALKA (12:27) → PINJORE (12:36) → PANCHKULA (12:54) → CHANDIGARH 43 (13:13) → CHANDIGARH BORDER (13:20) → ROPAR (14:22) → ANANDPUR SAHIB (14:59) → NANGAL (15:59) → PB BORDER (16:00) → MEHATPUR (16:07) → UNA (16:24) → JAWALA JI (18:36) → RANITAL (19:03) → KANGRA (19:29) → Dharamshala (19:55) |
| 4 | ORDINARY | 10:30 | 18:30 | 8 Hrs 0 Mins | ROHRU (4:30) → KHARAPATHAR (5:40) → THEOG (7:00) → SHIMLA OLD BUS STAND (8:00) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (10:30) → SHALAGHAT (11:30) → DARLAGHAT (12:30) → CHAMAKHRIPUL (13:00) → BHARARIGHAT (13:30) → GAGAS (14:30) → GHUMARWIN (15:30) → BHOTA (16:00) → HAMIRPUR (16:40) → NADAUN (17:00) → JAWALA JI (17:30) → SAPPRI (17:40) → RANITAL (17:50) → KANGRA (18:00) → MATOUR (18:10) → SHEELA CHOWK (18:20) → Dharamshala (18:30) |
| 5 | ORDINARY | 11:16 | 20:20 | 9 Hrs 4 Mins | Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (11:16) → DARLAGHAT (12:22) → BHRARIGHAT (12:42) → NAMHOL (12:50) → BRAMPUKHAR (14:00) → BILASPUR (14:35) → KANDROUR (15:00) → GHUMARWIN (15:20) → BHOTA (16:16) → HAMIRPUR (17:00) → NADAUN (17:20) → JAWALA JI (18:50) → RANITAL (19:30) → DAULATPUR KANGRA (19:50) → KANGRA (20:00) → Dharamshala (20:20) |
| 6 | ORDINARY | 14:30 | 21:35 | 7 Hrs 5 Mins | Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (14:30) → GHAGAS (16:42) → GHUMARWIN (17:08) → BHOTA (17:53) → HAMIRPUR (18:55) → NADAUN (19:30) → JAWALA JI (19:50) → RANITAL (20:30) → DAULATPUR KANGRA (20:50) → KANGRA (21:15) → Dharamshala (21:35) |
| 7 | ORDINARY | 18:40 | 05:00 | 10 Hrs 20 Mins | RAMPUR (12:30) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (18:40) → DARLAGHAT (19:50) → BARAMPUKHAR (20:50) → JUKHALA (21:10) → KANDROUR (22:00) → GHUMARWIN (22:50) → BHOTA (23:25) → HAMIRPUR (00:05) → SUJANPUR HP (01:00) → ALAMPUR (01:10) → PARAGE DA GALU (01:30) → BAIRGHATA (02:00) → THURAL (02:20) → MUNDHI (02:40) → PURBA (03:10) → SULAH (03:20) → PALAMPUR (03:30) → NAGRI (03:50) → CHAMUNDA (04:20) → YOL CANTT (04:40) → Dharamshala (05:00) |
| 8 | ORDINARY | 20:00 | 04:40 | 8 Hrs 40 Mins | RECONGPEO (8:35) → TAPRI (10:05) → BHAWANAGAR (10:45) → JEOURI (12:15) → JHAKHARI (12:45) → RAMPUR (13:35) → SAINJ (14:35) → NARKANDA (16:10) → THEOG (17:10) → Shimla ISBT TUTIKANDI (20:00) → DARLAGHAT (21:45) → BILASPUR (23:30) → GHUMARWIN (00:15) → BHOTA (01:10) → HAMIRPUR (01:30) → NADAUN (02:10) → JAWALA JI (02:30) → KANGRA (03:35) → GAGGAL (04:05) → Dharamshala (04:40) |
5. Ticket Booking and Fares
HRTC offers a convenient ticket booking system for the Shimla to Dharamshala route, which can be accessed both online and at the ISBT counters. Fares vary depending on the bus type:
- ORDINARY Buses: Fares are approximately INR 400-500.
- HIMDHARA 3X2 AC: Ticket prices generally range from INR 600-700.
- HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA: Premium fare, typically between INR 800-1000.
For accurate fares and the latest booking details, visit the HRTC online booking portal.
6. Facilities Available on HRTC Buses
Each bus type on the Shimla to Dharamshala route offers different facilities to make the journey comfortable:
- ORDINARY Buses: Basic seating, perfect for shorter or budget-friendly travel.
- HIMDHARA 3X2 AC: Air-conditioned with comfortable seating and ample luggage space.
- HIMSUTA AC VOLVO / SCANIA: These buses come with reclining seats, air conditioning, charging ports, and increased legroom for a premium travel experience.
7. Tips for a Comfortable Journey
Here are some useful travel tips to ensure a smooth journey from Shimla to Dharamshala:
- Book Early: This route can be busy, especially during tourist seasons. Booking in advance can help you secure a preferred seat and avoid last-minute rushes.
- Verify Timings: HRTC schedules are generally reliable, but it’s wise to check the timetable closer to your travel date on the official HRTC website or at the ISBT.
- Carry Essentials: While buses are comfortable, it’s helpful to bring your own water, snacks, and any required medications.
- Be Aware of Road Conditions: Mountainous routes can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during monsoon season, so stay informed.
8: Related Travel Guides on HRTC Routes
Explore More HRTC Bus Routes:
- Shimla to Katra HRTC Bus Time Table
- Delhi to Dharamshala HRTC Bus Schedule
- Shimla to Manali HRTC Bus Timing
- Chandigarh to Mandi HRTC Bus Timings
- Book HRTC Bus Ticket Online
Popular Routes and Destinations:
- Delhi to Kullu HRTC Bus Time Table
- Delhi to Solan HRTC Bus Schedule
- HRTC Buses for Trekking Destinations
Additional Resources for Your Travel
Recommended External Links:
- Alternative Travel Options from Shimla to Dharamshala: Rome2Rio provides a variety of options, including bus, taxi, and car rentals, which may be suitable for those seeking flexibility or faster alternatives. Rome2Rio – Travel from Shimla to Dharamshala
- Bus Ticket Booking and Fare Information: Bookaway details fare ranges, booking availability, and bus types on the Shimla-Dharamshala route, helping travelers compare options. Bookaway – Shimla to Dharamshala Bus Tickets
- Top Attractions in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj: Discover popular sites such as the Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Naddi Village. Ideal for travelers who plan to explore more after arriving in Dharamshala. Budget Wayfarers – Dharamshala Attractions
- Food and Dining Guide for Dharamshala: Get insights into top eateries, including local dhabas and Tibetan cafes in McLeod Ganj, with signature dishes such as Thukpa and momos. Holidify – Best Eateries in Dharamshala
- Essential Travel Tips for Dharamshala Visitors: Holidify offers valuable information on road conditions, stopovers, and travel time. It also includes popular places to visit on the way from Shimla to Dharamshala. Holidify – Shimla to Dharamshala Travel Tips
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the departure time of the first bus from Shimla to Dharamshala?
The first bus departs from Shimla ISBT Tutikandi at 09:40 AM.
2. What is the total travel time for the quickest bus from Shimla to Dharamshala?
The quickest travel time is 7 hours and 5 minutes, with the bus departing at 14:30 and arriving at 21:35.
3. Are there any AC buses available on the Shimla to Dharamshala route?
Yes, the HIMSUTA AC Volvo/Scania departs at 21:30 and arrives at 05:50, providing an air-conditioned option.
4. What is the latest bus departure from Shimla to Dharamshala?
The latest bus departs at 20:00 and arrives in Dharamshala at 04:40.
5. Which bus has the longest travel time from Shimla to Dharamshala?
The longest travel time is 10 hours and 20 minutes, with the bus departing at 18:40 and arriving at 05:00.
6. Where is the starting point for HRTC buses in Shimla?
All buses on this route depart from Shimla ISBT Tutikandi.
7. What are some major stops en route for the HIMSUTA AC Volvo/Scania?
Major stops include Shimla ISBT, Ghagas, Ghumarwin, Bhota, Hamirpur, Nadaun, Jawala Ji, and Kangra before reaching Dharamshala.
8. Do any buses stop in Kangra before arriving in Dharamshala?
Yes, multiple buses stop in Kangra, including those departing at 09:40, 10:12, and 20:00.
9. What time does the Ordinary bus arriving in Dharamshala at 18:30 depart from Shimla?
This bus departs from Shimla ISBT at 10:30 AM.
10. How many HRTC buses operate daily from Shimla to Dharamshala?
There are 8 HRTC buses running daily from Shimla to Dharamshala.
This guide provides all the essential details for traveling on the Shimla to Dharamshala HRTC bus time table in 2025, helping you plan your trip efficiently. Remember to check the HRTC website or contact the ISBT for the most up-to-date information, and enjoy your journey through the scenic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh.
