How much does it cost to travel to Shimla

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 12/1/2024

Sure, let's embark on an exhilarating adventure through the lofty landscapes of Shimla! Let's break down the expenses so that you'll know just how much to save up for. Remember friends, your dream journey is just a piggy bank away!

Is Shimla Expensive?

Well, that's subjective! Shimla offers a delightful spectrum of experiences to suit any budget. Whether you're a scrappy backpacker or a luxury connoisseur, Shimla has something for everyone. Let's delve deeper into the costs, shall we?

Average Costs in Shimla

On a minimal budget, expect to spend around $20-$25 per day, depending on your ability to resist mouthwatering street foods and handcrafted souvenirs! For an economy trip, budget for about $35-$50 per day. For a standard visit to this snow-kissed city, a daily allowance of around $50-$70 would suffice. And if you're planning a luxury escape, well, the sky (or your wallet) is the limit!

Cost of Flights to Shimla

Now, getting there is half the fun! The cost of flights varies greatly based on where you're flying from. If you're a bird flying on a shoestring budget, expect to pay around $150-$200 for a round trip. On an economy fare, flights can range from $250-$400. Meanwhile, standard fliers might be looking at a price range of $450-$600. For those preferring a first-class luxury cruise through the clouds, tickets could go north of $1000.

Cost of Transport in Shimla

Once you're in Shimla, navigating the city's hilly topography could either be a scenic bike ride or a toasty cab drive. Minimalist pedestrians can get around for less than $5 a day. Economy explorers may spend around $10 on shared cabs or scooters. Standard travelers might opt for private taxis, costing about $20-$30 per day. For those seeking a luxury ride, hiring a chauffeur-driven car could be upwards of $50 per day.

Cost of Accommodation in Shimla

For a good night's sleep under the blanket of stars, you could take your pick from cosy hostels, quaint guesthouses, colonial-era hotels, or uber-luxurious resorts. Budget backpackers can expect to pay around $10-$15 per night for dorms or budget guesthouses. Economists might look at mid-range hotels at $20-$30 per night. Standard accommodations could set you back by around $50-$80 per night. For the luxury lovers, suites in premium hotels and resorts might start from $100 onwards.

Cost of Activities in Shimla

From shuffling through history at The Mall Road or gasping at the beauty of the Green Valley, Shimla is a city abuzz with activities! Free walkers can explore lots of places without spending much. For economical souls, adventure activities like ice skating and tour tickets can cost around $10-$20. Standard explorers can spare up to $30-$50 for activities including some lovely guided tours. The luxury adventurers can shell out more than $50 for exclusive experiences such as heli-trekking.

Cost of Restaurants, Food and Wine in Shimla

The culinary scene here is as diverse as its topography. You can munch on sumptuous street foods, dine in cosy cafes, or indulge in gourmet meals. On a minimal budget, you can fill your belly for $5-$10 per day. Economy food tourists would spend about $15-$25 per day. Standard eaters might shell out $30-$50 per day. And luxury diners—well, their costs depend on how lavish their appetite is!

Travel budget planning
A person calculates travel expenses with money, a smartphone, and a map on the desk, symbolizing budget management for a trip.

Remember, the magic of Shimla isn't merely in its cost. It's in the warmth of the locals, the beauty of the landscapes, and a plethora of experiences awaiting you. On that note, let's gear up for the great Shimla adventure!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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