By Amanpreet Singh | Travel Expert at Clog the Blog
When you are planning a trip to a place like Himachal Pradesh, the “how” is just as important as the “where.” You can have the best hotel booked in Manali, but if your transport falls through on those winding mountain roads, the experience quickly turns stressful.
During my travels, I’ve often come across Shyam Travels. Whether it’s their extensive bus network or their specialized car rental services in hubs like Shimla and Zirakpur, they have become a household name for North Indian logistics. In this guide, I’ll break down how to use their services to make your next trip smooth and affordable.
1. Who are Shyam Travels?
Shyam Travels is a versatile transport operator with a presence across several states, but they are particularly vital for travelers heading from Chandigarh, Delhi, and Gujarat toward the Himalayas.
They offer two primary services:
- Inter-city Bus Services: Comfortable Volvo and Sleeper buses connecting major cities to hill stations.
- Car Rental & Taxi Services: Chauffeur-driven vehicles ranging from hatchbacks to luxury SUVs, specifically tailored for the rugged terrain of Himachal.
2. Bus Services: The Most Economic Way to Reach the Hills
If you’re traveling on a budget or prefer the convenience of an overnight journey, Shyam Travels’ bus fleet is a reliable option.
Key Features of Shyam Travels Buses:
- Diverse Fleet: They operate everything from AC Volvo Semi-Sleepers (2+2) to Ashok Leyland AC Sleepers.
- Amenities: Most of their luxury buses come equipped with charging points, reading lights, water bottles, and central TV systems.
- Real-Time Tracking: For those of us who hate waiting at a bus stop in the cold, their live tracking feature (available on apps like AbhiBus and Paytm) is a lifesaver.
Popular Routes for Himachal Travelers:
- Ahmedabad/Rajkot to Delhi: A common leg for travelers from Gujarat heading North.
- Delhi to Shimla/Manali: High-frequency routes with professional drivers experienced in night-time hill driving.
3. Car Rentals: Freedom on the Road
For the readers of Clog the Blog who prefer a private experience, Shyam Travels offers specialized car rental services. Based out of locations like Dhalli (near Shimla) and Zirakpur (near Chandigarh), they provide the perfect “base” to start your Himachal road trip.
Why book a car with them?
- Local Expertise: Driving in the mountains isn’t like driving on the plains. Their drivers are “Pahadis” who know how to navigate the steep curves and narrow passes of Kinnaur and Lahaul.
- Wide Range of Vehicles: * Sedans (Swift Dzire/Etios): Great for couples and airport transfers.
- SUVs (Innova Crysta/Ertiga): The gold standard for family trips to the mountains.
- Tempo Travellers: Ideal for that “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara” trip with your group of friends.
4. Aman’s Review: What to Expect
As someone who values punctuality and hygiene, here is my honest take on using Shyam Travels:
The Pros:
- Punctuality: They are generally known for sticking to their schedules, which is crucial if you have a connecting flight or train.
- Professional Staff: The drivers are polite and often act as unofficial guides, pointing out the best “dhaba” for parathas along the way.
- Hassle-free Booking: You can book through almost every major portal (Paytm, RedBus, AbhiBus), making it easy to manage your tickets digitally.
The Cons:
- Mountain Delays: Like any operator in the North, they are subject to weather conditions. Always have that “buffer day” I mentioned in my previous guide!
5. Booking Tips for Your Trip
- Book in Advance: During peak seasons (May-June and December), their Volvo buses and Innovas sell out weeks in advance.
- Check the Office Location: If you are renting a car in Shimla, their office is conveniently located near the SBI ATM in Dhalli, making it easy to find after you get off your bus.
- Verify the Vehicle: If you are booking a long-term rental for a Spiti or Leh circuit, ensure you request a vehicle with high ground clearance.
6. Conclusion
Transport is the backbone of any great trip. Whether you’re hopping on a Shyam Travels bus from the plains or hiring a private taxi for a deep-valley exploration, knowing your options helps you travel with confidence.
At Clog the Blog, my goal is to make sure you spend less time worrying about the “how” and more time enjoying the “wow” moments of your journey.
Stay Bold, Stay Traveling, Amanpreet Singh
