Latest news with #HRTC
Time of India
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
4 injured as boulders hit passenger van in Mandi
Kullu: Four persons were injured when the passenger vehicle they were travelling in was hit by boulders on the Dharampur-Kotli road in Mandi district on Sunday morning. The vehicle, a Tempo Traveller, overturned on the road, injuring the occupants. A large number of locals gathered at the spot to rescue the injured passengers, who were then taken to a nearby govt hospital. A police officer said the vehicle overturned on the road itself. "If it had fallen off the road, it could have led to a major accident," said the officer. The officer mentioned that an HRTC bus also passed by at the same time and narrowly escaped being hit.
Time of India
a day ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
4 persons injured as tempo traveller hit by boulders in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi
Four persons were injured when the Tempo Traveller they were travelling in was hit by boulders on the Dharampur-Kotli road in Mandi district on Sunday morning. The vehicle overturned on the road as the boulders hit it, injuring the occupants. As soon as news of the incident spread, a large number of people gathered at the spot to help extract the injured passengers, who were then taken to a nearby govt hospital. A police officer said that fortunately, the vehicle overturned on the road itself, and if it had fallen off the road, it could have led to a major accident. The officer mentioned that an HRTC bus also passed by at the same time and narrowly escaped being hit.
India.com
a day ago
- India.com
Maximize Your Shimla Experience With These Budget Travel Hacks!
Many people consider Shimla, also known as the 'Queen of Hills,' as a dream vacation. The mountain region offers a refreshing breeze, colonial architecture, and stunning views which makes it ideal for anyone looking to escape from the day to day hustle. But the truth is… traveling to Shimla can be costly if you do not plan your trip right. Hotel costs, food expenses, and sightseeing can shoot past your budget in no time. But don't worry! Smart planning will help you visit Shimla without spending a fortune. Here are a few proven affordable travel tips that will allow you to enjoy this gorgeous hill station without overspending. Smart The first step toward budgeting is selecting the cheapest means of getting to Shimla. Steer clear of flights as those are expensive but rather use budget trains and buses. Train + Toy Train Combo: Make a trip to Kalka by train, then switch to the beautiful Kalka-Shimla toy train. This train ride is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is inexpensive. Plus, you get to take in stunning scenery. Volvo and State Buses: Overnight Himachal Road Transport (HRTC) and private Volvo buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major cities are cheaper than cabs or self-driving. Shared Cabs & Ride Sharing: If you prefer traveling by car, use ride-sharing apps or book a shared taxi from Chandigarh to split costs with fellow travelers. Quick Facts: Kalka-Shimla toy train fare: ₹265-₹600 (general to first class) HRTC bus fare from Delhi: ₹700-₹1000 (Volvo), ₹400-₹600 (Ordinary bus) Shared taxi from Chandigarh: ₹500-₹800 per person in Budget Accommodations Finding budget-friendly accommodations around the Mall Road in Shimla can turn out to be a tad challenging but looking in the right places may provide you with affordable options Guesthouses and Hostels: Options like Zostel and Backpacker's Hostel offer budget stays with dorm beds for as low as ₹300 per night. Homestays: Many locals rent out rooms at affordable prices, and you can also enjoy homemade meals. Stay Away from Mall Road: Hotels in Chhota Shimla, Summer Hill, or near the Old Bus Stand are cheaper than those in prime tourist areas. Quick Facts: Dorm bed at Zostel: ₹300-₹600 per night Budget hotel rooms: ₹800-₹1500 per night Homestays: ₹1000-₹2000 per night (including meals in some cases) Like a Local Simply going to popular restaurants will set you back far too much, so instead try heading over to local eateries and dhabas that provide great food at great prices Sita Ram & Sons: Famous for its chana bhatura, a filling meal here costs just ₹80. Indian Coffee House: Enjoy budget-friendly South Indian meals and strong filter coffee at this old-school spot. Street Food: Try hot momos, bread omelets, and bun samosas from roadside vendors at Lakkar Bazaar and Ridge Road. Quick Facts: Average street food cost: ₹50-₹150 per meal Budget meal at dhabas: ₹100-₹200 per person Fancy café meal: ₹300-₹500 per person Public Transport & Walk More Shimla is a pedestrian's paradise, and fortunately, the primary attractions are easily reachable by foot. However, if you require transportation, local buses or shared taxis are better options than private cabs. City Buses: In Shimla, local buses serve important locations such as Kufri, Summer Hill, and Naldehra for a nominal fare. Shared Taxis: Commonly known as 'HRTC Taxis', these are shared taxis that are significantly cheaper than the private ones. Avoid Mall Road Taxis: Private cabs charge extra for Mall Road drop-offs since vehicles are restricted there. Instead, walk or take the lift from Cart Road to Mall Road. Quick Facts: Shimla Lift (Cart Road to Mall Road): ₹10 per ride Local bus fare: ₹10-₹50 (depending on distance) Shared taxi fare to Kufri: ₹100-₹150 per person Free & Low-Cost Attractions Shimla possesses stunning visuals that can be enjoyed without splurging. Most attractions cost little to nothing to enter. The Ridge & Mall Road: Perfect for leisurely walks, street shopping, and stunning sunset views. Jakhoo Temple: Trek up to this Hanuman temple for amazing city views. Kufri & Green Valley: If you love nature, take a budget-friendly day trip to these scenic spots. State Museum & Viceregal Lodge: Learn about Shimla's colonial past for a small entry fee. Quick Facts: Jakhoo Ropeway: ₹250 (one way) Viceregal Lodge Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indian), ₹100 (Foreigner) Kufri Entry Fee: Free (but adventure activities cost extra) Smart at Local Markets Shopping in Shimla can be expensive if you buy from high-end stores, but local markets offer great deals. Lakkar Bazaar: Best for wooden souvenirs, walking sticks, and handicrafts. Tibetan Market: Affordable winter clothing and woolen shawls. Lower Bazaar: A great place for budget-friendly local snacks like dry fruits, pickles, and sweets. Quick Facts: Hand-carved wooden souvenirs: ₹100-₹500 Woolen shawls: ₹300-₹1000 Tibetan Market jackets: ₹500-₹2000 in Off-Season for Maximum Savings If you want to avoid high prices and unwanted crowds, do not visit Shimla during the peak season which is from April to June and December to January. Instead, visit in the months of February to March or July to September when the surroundings are calm and picturesque. Cheaper Hotels: Room prices drop by 30-50%. Discounted Transport: Train and bus tickets are easier to book and cheaper. Fewer Crowds: You can explore peacefully without the tourist rush. Quick Facts: Off-season hotel discount: 30%-50% Cheaper bus/train fares: 10%-20% lower than peak season Monsoon perks: Lush green landscapes and misty hills for amazing photography Final Thoughts Traveling to Shimla does not have to be expensive, instead, it can be quite the economical trip with some smart allocation of funds. Getting around with public transport, eating at the local food stalls, and visiting the free sites can help a lot. Now, all that is left is for you to pack your bags and place the Queen of Hills on your travel list!
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Time of India
Kalka-Shimla toy trains to operate till Tara Devi for 14 days amid bridge work
1 2 3 Chandigarh: The iconic Kalka-Shimla toy trains will temporarily run only up to Tara Devi station for a period of 14 days (from May 30 to June 12), due to essential infrastructure work on the railway line. According to the Ambala division of Northern Railway, this decision has been taken in view of the removal and re-installation of a bridge located between Jatog and Summer Hill stations on the Kalka-Shimla rail section. The move is aimed at strengthening and securing the railway infrastructure for long-term safety and efficiency. During this period, four trains will operate between Kalka and Tara Devi, ensuring continued connectivity while keeping passenger safety a top priority. To minimize inconvenience, the railway administration, in coordination with the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC), has arranged two special bus services between Tara Devi and Shimla. These buses will operate in sync with the toy train schedule, with a fare of just Rs 22 per passenger. Passengers can board these buses from the National Highway near Lara Devi station, with drop-off at ISBT Shimla. Passengers affected by the temporary change in the train's terminal station have been informed via SMS to their PNR-registered mobile numbers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The four trains which will be affected are Kalka-Shimla Express (52457) departs Kalka at 3.30 am and will reach Tara Devi at 8.04 am; Kalka-Shimla Express (52459) departs Kalka at 7 am and will reach Tara Devi at 11.20 am; Himalayan Queen Express (52455) departs Kalka at 11.55 am and will reach Tara Devi at 4.35 pm and Shivalik Deluxe Express (52451) departs Kalka at 5.45 am and will reach Tara Devi at 10.03 am. The state transport buses will be made available for passengers to reach Shimla at the arrival time of the each train at Tara Devi. For the return journey, Kalka-Shimla Express (52458) departs Tara Devi at 11.33 am and will reach Kalka at 4.15 pm; Shivalik Deluxe Express (52452) departs Tara Devi at 5.57 pm and will reach Kalka at 10.15 pm; Shimla Kalka Express (52460) departs Tara Devi at 3.55 pm and will reach Kalka at 8.50 pm and Himalayan Queen Express (52456) departs Tara Devi at 7.12 pm and will reach Kalka at 11.30 pm.
United News of India
10-05-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
40 Himachali students studying in J&K being brought back safely: Kewal Singh Pathania
Dharamshala, May 10 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Whip, Kewal Singh Pathania, today informed that nearly 40 Himachali students studying in Jammu & Kashmir were being brought back home safely. Among these students, 17 are from Kangra district, four from Mandi, five from Hamirpur, four from Sirmaur, one each from Kullu, Lahaul, and Una, two each from Bilaspur and Solan. Pathania stated that these students reached Jammu by Saturday evening and will be transported to their respective destinations in Himachal Pradesh by Sunday morning. He further mentioned that he had met Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and urged him to ensure the safe return of students studying in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in Srinagar. Pathania expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for understanding the concerns of parents who were anxious about their children's safety. He lauded the swift and effective steps taken by the state government to bring the students back safely. 'The safety and well-being of our students is a top priority for the state government,' Pathania emphasised, assuring that the government will take every possible measure in this regard. He also informed that all students are traveling in an HRTC bus bearing registration number HP-38H-1295. The conductor of the bus, Jatin, can be reached at 9906816445. UNI AR RN
