Vadodara, Gujarat to Shimla, Himachal Pradesh from $18: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• For your train trip from Vadodara to Shimla, you can expect catering services that include a variety of meal options, snacks, and beverages offered by Indian Railways. Depending on the train, you may have options for vegetarian and non-vegetarian meal choices. Check the specific train service's menu ahead of time on the Indian Railways catering page, and consider pre-ordering meals for convenience.

• The train options available for your journey typically include Sleeper Class, AC 3 Tier, and AC 2 Tier. The AC 2 Tier provides more privacy and comfort, with only four berths per compartment, while the AC 3 Tier is more economical but slightly more crowded. Sleeper Class is the most budget-friendly but will not offer air conditioning. Review the seating setup on the official Indian Railways website.

• When you arrive at Shimla Railway Station, it's important to note that the station can be busy, and you may want to leave your luggage at the cloakroom for convenience as you explore. The station has basic restroom facilities but no showers available. To quickly access the city center, you can take a local taxi or Uber, which are readily available outside the station. The fastest transport option is typically about a 30-minute drive.

• Since there are no direct flights from Vadodara to Shimla, be sure to check both IndiGo Airlines and other options like Air India for the quickest one-stop flight to Chandigarh, where you will connect to travel to Shimla.

• Upon arriving at Shimla Airport, be prepared for the smaller airport environment; the facilities are limited, so it's advisable to arrange your transportation in advance, either by pre-booking a taxi or using local taxi services available outside the terminal.

• Expect to pay around INR 1,200 to 1,500 for a taxi ride from Shimla Airport to the city center; make sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.