Kasauli: Discover Solan's Charming Colonial Gem

Introduction

Perched quietly at an altitude of 1,927 meters, Kasauli is a timeless colonial hill station tucked within pine and oak forests in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Often overlooked by commercial tourists, Kasauli remains a charming retreat that transports visitors into a bygone era — where cobbled paths, gabled cottages, and British-era churches define the landscape.

With its slow pace, crisp air, and heritage architecture, Kasauli is perfect for writers, romantics, and anyone craving peace away from chaos.

Where Is Kasauli Located?

Detail	Information
District	Solan, Himachal Pradesh
Altitude	~1,927 meters (6,322 ft)
Distance	77 km from Chandigarh
Nearest Rail	Dharampur (Toy Train station)
Accessibility	All-weather roads from Kalka, Chandigarh, Solan

A Peek into Kasauli’s Colonial History

Established in 1842 by the British as a Cantonment Town
Functioned as a summer retreat for East India Company officials
Retains much of its Raj-era architecture, including the Christ Church, old bungalows, and a vintage post office
Surrounded by thick forests of pine, deodar, and horse chestnut

Top Attractions

Christ Church (Mall Road)

Built in 1853 — one of the oldest churches in Himachal
Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and quiet cemetery
Great for photography and meditative visits

Sunset Point

A short walk from Mall Road
Witness breathtaking sunset views over the plains of Haryana
Watch clouds roll below you during monsoon and winters

Gilbert Trail

A 1.5 km nature walk through dense pine forest
Popular for birdwatching, silence, and occasional monkey troops
Great for early morning strolls

Monkey Point (Air Force Station)

Highest point in Kasauli
Said to be the spot where Lord Hanuman stepped while fetching the Sanjeevani herb
Panoramic views of Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Sutlej River

Note: Carry valid ID – it’s inside a secured Air Force area.

Toy Train Ride – Kalka to Dharampur to Kasauli

Hop on the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Toy Train
Nearest station for Kasauli: Dharampur
Ride through tunnels, viaducts, and pine-clad hills

🚆 Bonus Tip: Ride the train during monsoon or winter snow for a magical experience.

Food in Kasauli – Cozy Cafes & Local Eats

Café/Spot	Specialty
Hangout Rooftop Café	Himalayan sunset views, pizzas
Café Mitti	Coffee, momos, forest-side seating
Narinder Sweet Shop	Samosa, jalebi, bun tikki
NH22 Dhaba (near Dharampur)	Chhole Bhature, stuffed parathas

Where to Stay

Type	Options
Luxury Resorts	Baikunth Resort, Amritara The Chateau
Colonial Stays	Alasia Hotel, Ross Common (HPTDC)
Budget Homestays	Airbnb cottages, local guesthouses
Nature Camps	Kasauli Nature Camp, pine forest tents

Best Short Treks & Walks in Kasauli

Gilbert Trail – Nature walk with forest canopy
Sunset Point to Lover’s Lane – Secluded and romantic
Upper Mall to Lower Mall – Colonial bungalow walk
Kasauli to Manki Trail – Extended village walk (~4 km)

Best Time to Visit

Season	Experience
March–June	Pleasant weather, perfect for walks
July–Sept	Lush green, misty monsoons
Oct–Nov	Clear skies, golden light
Dec–Feb	Winter chill, chance of snowfall

✅ Avoid weekends for a more peaceful stay — it gets crowded during public holidays.

Travel Tips

🚗 Parking in Mall Road is limited – prefer walking once inside the town
🧣 Carry warm clothes even in summer evenings – it gets chilly
🧘 Respect the calm — Kasauli thrives on silence and slow travel
📵 Limited network in some areas – disconnect to reconnect
📸 Drones are not allowed near Monkey Point or Air Force zones

Why Visit ?

✅ Short and sweet escape from city noise
✅ Rich in colonial charm and natural beauty
✅ Great for writers, couples, retirees, and photographers
✅ Ideal weekend or 3-day retreat
✅ Offers the flavor of Himachal without the altitude extremes

Summary

Kasauli is a feeling — one of rustling pine leaves, lazy afternoons, and gentle Himalayan breezes. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a forest café or strolling beside century-old bungalows, Kasauli teaches you to slow down and simply be.

Planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh? Don’t miss our other posts on amazing places in the Solan District.