Details about Harder Kulm Parking
Nearest Harder Kulm Parking
P+R Interlaken OST is one of the most popular parking areas for Harder Kulm visitors. This parking lot is located right next to the Interlaken OST train station, and it offers 235 parking spaces. This makes it convenient to park your vehicle on regular days as well as during peak travel months. The parking fee for a day is CHF 10 which is around INR 1000 and there is also the option of hourly charges.
During the peak tourist seasons of summer and autumn, it is best to arrive early to find a parking spot. Disabled parking is also available here that ensures accessibility and convenience for everyone. From the parking, the Harderbahn funicular station is only a short walk of 300 metres away, making it the top choice for visitors.
The Parkplatz is near Interlaken West and provides a convenient parking spot for drivers heading for Harder Kulm. This parking lot is slightly smaller than the P+R Ost, but it still has a fair number of spaces available for parking vehicles. The fee is charged by the hour, and you can easily park your vehicle here for longer durations.
This parking lot also fills up quickly during peak season, so make sure to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot. Disabled parking is available here, and the walk to the Harderbahn funicular is around 1 km, which is a manageable distance on foot.
Another practical option for parking cars while visiting Harder Kulm is this parking lot in the Congress Centre. This lot offers a mix of short-term and long-term parking at the standard Interlaken rate of 1 CHF that is INR 100. It is around 1.2 KM from the funicular, which can be reached by a comfortable walk.
The Congress Centre is a place that holds a lot of events inside it, so during peak season, parking may be limited due to event traffic as well as the tourist influx. There is also a dedicated parking space for the disabled, which ensures comfort and accessibility to all.
This Harder Kulm car parking is in the city centre of Interlaken and is perfect for those who want to mix city sightseeing with a visit to Harder Kulm. The charges here vary depending on the time of the day. From 8 AM to 7 PM it is CHF 1 (INR 100) for the first 30 minutes and then CHF 0.50 (INR 50) for every additional 15 minutes.
The maximum daily charge is CHF 25 (INR 2700). The parking lot is smaller and slightly expensive in comparison to others, but it offers direct access to Interlaken's central shops and cafes, making it convenient for combining sightseeing with your Harder Kulm trip. There is parking for the disabled available here, and it takes about 10-12 minutes by walk to reach the Harderbahn, as it is only 2 km away.
Things to Consider if You’re Planning to Drive to Harder Kulm
A. Payment: Most parking areas in Interlaken operate with automated machines or mobile apps that make the payment process easy and quick. It is always helpful to carry some Swiss Francs incase the machines don't accept cards. Some lots allow only card or app-based payment, so it is better to check for all these before you park your car. Make sure to always keep your ticket handy, as inspectors regularly check cars.
B. Crowds: As Harder Kulm is one of the top tourist attractions, parking can become difficult during the summer and weekends. To increase your chance at finding a space, it is advisable to reach the parking lot before 10 AM. If you plan to visit during afternoon hours, expect the parking lots to be nearly full. During big local events, parking lots like the Congress Centrum and the City Zentrum are especially busy, so P+R OST remains the safest option.
C. Accessibility: Interlaken’s parking lots are well-equipped for disabled travellers. Each of the mentioned parking lots offer dedicated spaces for the disabled that are located close to exits or main paths. The Harderbahn funicular is wheelchair-accessible, which makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the journey. However, note that uphill hikes may not be suitable for all mobility levels, so choosing the funicular is the most inclusive option.
Route After Parking at Harder Kulm
1. Walk to the Funicular Station: After you park your vehicle in one of these parking lots, you can comfortably walk to the Hardenbahn funicular station. All these parking lots are easily accessible by a short walk of 5 to 12 minutes, as they are within the distance of 2 KM. The paths to the Harder Kulm from these parking lots are pedestrian-friendly and well-signposted for easy navigation. Along the way, you’ll also pass shops and cafes, from where you can buy souvenirs or halt for a quick snack and coffee.
2. Funicular Ride Details: The Harderbahn funicular is the main way to reach the top of the Harder Kulm. It takes about 10 minutes to climb the distance of nearly 800 metres to the viewpoint. There is a train every 30 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station. Even before you reach the top you can see the beautiful views of the valley from the funicular ride.
3. Park and Hike Option: For travellers who like a little adventure and prefer the active option to climb a mountain, then they can combine the parking with a hike to Harder Kulm. It will take about 2-2.5 hours to reach the top from the Harderbahn station. The trail is steep but well-marked and passes through lush forests. If you park at P+R OST, you’re closest to the starting point, making it the most convenient lot for hikers.
4. Alternative Public Transport: There are other excellent public transport options too if you are unwilling to drive. Trains to Interlaken OST connect with buses and taxis that drop you near the funicular station. Many visitors even choose to stay in nearby hotels and walk directly. This option reduces stress during high season when lots fill up quickly.
Harder Kulm Parking FAQ's
Where to park to go to Harder Kulm?
There is no official parking lot for Harder Kulm at the funicular, but there are several parking lots in Interlaken that also provide easy access to Harderbahn. The most convenient options include P+R Interlaken OST, Parkplatz, Parkplatz Congress Centrum, and City Zentrum Parking. All are within walking distance of the Harderbahn funicular, making them ideal for visitors.
How much time is needed for a Harder Kulm?
A typical trip to Harder Kulm takes about 2–3 hours. The funicular ride itself is only 10 minutes each way, but you’ll likely spend an hour or two at the top enjoying the panoramic views, dining at the restaurant, and exploring the viewpoint trails. You will need extra time in your itinerary if you are planning to hike to the top.
Where to start the Harder Kulm hike?
The Harder Kulm hike usually starts from near the Harderbahn funicular station in Interlaken. From there, the trail winds steeply uphill through forested paths and takes about 2–2.5 hours one way. The closest parking lot to the Harderbahn is the P+R OST, so if you are planning to hike, park here.
What are the nearest parking options at Harder Kulm?
P+R Interlaken OST, Parkplatz, Parkplatz Congress Centrum, and City Zentrum Parking are the nearest parking options at Harder Kulm. Each offers hourly or daily rates, disabled access, and easy walking distance to the Harderbahn station. P+R Interlaken OST is the most popular because of its size and proximity.
What is the nearest station to Harder Kulm?
The nearest station to Harder Kulm is Interlaken OST. It takes about 10 minutes to reach the Harderbahn funicular station by walking from this station. Interlaken OST is well connected by train to other Swiss cities, making it the easiest gateway for visitors.