The Ghulatis On The Go family embarked on a winter road trip from Chandigarh to Shimla, providing a comprehensive guide for fellow travelers. The journey, undertaken in their Kia Carens, started from Chandigarh's ISBT Sector 43 and aimed to conclude at Shimla's ISBT. The chosen route primarily followed NH5, passing through Panchkula, Kalka, and Solan. This trip offered insights into road conditions, scenic views, and practical tips for navigating the mountainous terrain during the winter season.
The family's journey began at 8:40 AM from Chandigarh, a city known for its planned infrastructure and abundant greenery, earning it the moniker 'City Beautiful.' The initial stretch of the drive showcased Chandigarh's well-maintained roads and lush mango tree-lined green belts. The route quickly transitioned from the urban landscape of Chandigarh to the more rural and eventually mountainous regions of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. The family highlighted the importance of being prepared for varying road conditions and traffic, especially during peak travel times.
Departure from Chandigarh and Initial Route
The road trip commenced from the International Society for Business and Technology (ISBT) in Sector 43, Chandigarh. The initial segment of the journey involved navigating through Chandigarh's organized sectors, characterized by wide roads and extensive greenery. The family noted the presence of numerous mango trees lining the roads, contributing to the city's aesthetic appeal. After traversing Chandigarh, the route led them towards Panchkula, a city in Haryana, before merging onto National Highway 5 (NH5).
The transition to NH5 marked the beginning of the longer stretch towards Shimla. The family emphasized that NH5 would be their primary route for the entire journey, connecting them through various towns and eventually to the 'Queen of Hills.' The early morning start ensured relatively lighter traffic, allowing for a smooth departure from the city. The initial drive provided a sense of anticipation for the scenic beauty and challenging terrain that lay ahead in the Himalayan foothills.
Navigating Panchkula and the Dappar Toll Plaza
Upon leaving Chandigarh, the family crossed into Panchkula, Haryana. The drive through Panchkula was relatively straightforward, with well-maintained roads. Shortly after Panchkula, they encountered the Dappar Toll Plaza at Gholumajra, the first toll barrier on their route. The family noted that the toll for a car was ₹50 for a single trip and ₹75 for a return journey. They also observed some congestion at the toll plaza due to a lane being non-operational, causing delays for other vehicles.
After successfully navigating the toll plaza, the journey continued on NH5. The road conditions remained generally good, although some patchworks were visible, likely due to monsoon damage. The family appreciated the broadness of the highway, featuring two lanes for each direction, which made the drive feel less like a hill climb and more like a regular highway experience. This section of the journey provided a smooth transition from the plains to the initial inclines of the hills.
Entering the Hills and Key Landmarks
As the journey progressed, the landscape gradually transformed into the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh. The family noted the start of the inclined roads and the increasing presence of mountainous views. Approximately 40 minutes after the hills began, they reached a point where Solan was indicated to be 41 kilometers away. This marked a significant entry into the higher elevations and more winding roads characteristic of hill stations.
Along this stretch, several notable landmarks and towns were encountered. The route passed by the Timber Trail Resort in Parwanoo, a popular picnic spot accessible via ropeways, offering panoramic views. Further along, they crossed Koti, a town with various food joints, making it a convenient stop for travelers. Dharampur, another significant town, was highlighted for its famous railway station, part of the Kalka-Shimla toy train route, offering an alternative and scenic way to reach Shimla.
The Sanwara Toll Plaza and Kanda Ghat
The second major toll plaza on the route was the Sanwara Toll Plaza. Here, the toll charges were ₹70 for a single trip and ₹135 for a double trip. Unlike the Dappar Toll Plaza, the Sanwara Toll Plaza was less congested, allowing for a quick passage. Shortly after this, the family approached Kanda Ghat, a significant point on the journey. Kanda Ghat is known for its old market and a railway line that passes over the road, adding to the scenic charm.
At Kanda Ghat, a right turn leads to Chail, a beautiful hill station located 25 kilometers away. Chail was once the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala, known for its serene environment and historical significance. The family also pointed out the ongoing construction of a flyover at Kanda Ghat, which, once completed, is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in the old market area. This infrastructure development signifies continuous efforts to improve connectivity and travel efficiency in the region.
Approaching Shimla and Journey's End
The final leg of the journey brought the family closer to Shimla. They passed by the Club Mahindra Resort in Kandaghat, a prominent property offering accommodation and amenities. The family, being Club Mahindra members, expressed their intention to create an exclusive video about the resort in the future. As they continued, the road led them through Shoghi, a small town that serves as a gateway to Shimla.
Finally, at 12:30 PM, after approximately three hours and ten minutes of travel (including a 40-minute break), the family officially entered Shimla. The entrance was marked by a prominent gate, signaling their arrival at the 'Queen of Hills.' The journey concluded at Shimla's ISBT, as planned. The family promised a second part of their video series, which would cover the sightseeing attractions within Shimla, offering viewers a complete travel experience of the destination.
Practical Takeaways for Travelers
- Route Choice: NH5 (Chandigarh – Panchkula – Kalka – Solan – Shimla) is the recommended route for its efficiency and good road conditions, even in winter.
- Road Conditions: While generally broad and well-maintained, expect some patchworks due to monsoon damage. The mountainous sections are well-engineered, making the hill drive feel less strenuous.
- Traffic and Delays: Toll plazas can cause minor delays, especially if lanes are not fully operational. Be prepared for potential stops due to road construction or blasting activities in the hilly regions.
- Food and Amenities: Numerous food joints and restaurants are available along the route, particularly in towns like Koti and Solan, offering convenient stops for meals and bio-breaks.
- Scenic Stops: The journey offers beautiful views of the hills and valleys. Landmarks like the Timber Trail Resort in Parwanoo and the Dharampur railway station provide opportunities for short breaks and sightseeing.
- Alternative Travel: For those preferring not to drive, options like the Kalka-Shimla toy train from Dharampur or Volvo buses from Chandigarh and Delhi are available.
- Toll and Entry Fees: Be aware of toll charges at Dappar Toll Plaza and Sanwara Toll Plaza. Additionally, there is an entry tax for Himachal Pradesh, which is payable in cash and is valid throughout the state for the duration of your stay.
Watch the Original Journey
This article is connected to the original Ghulatis On The Go video below. Watch it for the complete visual experience and conversations from the road.