Dagshai: Rediscover Solan's Charming Forgotten Past

Introduction

Tucked away in the misty hills of Solan, Dagshai is one of the oldest cantonment towns in India, yet few travelers know about it. With its stone-walled barracks, old churches, colonial jail, and panoramic Himalayan views, Dagshai is a walk back in time — minus the crowds of commercial hill stations.

If you’re a fan of history, photography, or quiet escapes, Dagshai is a treasure trove waiting to be rediscovered.

Where is Dagshai Located?

Detail	Info
District	Solan, Himachal Pradesh
Altitude	~1,734 meters (5,689 ft)
Distance	11 km from Dharampur
Nearest Rail	Kumarhatti or Dharampur (on Kalka–Shimla route)
Access Route	Chandigarh → Kalka → Dharampur → Dagshai

✅ Located just off the NH-22 (Shimla Highway), yet hidden from mainstream tourism.

Historical Significance

Established by the British in 1847 as one of five major cantonments in India
The name “Dagshai” is believed to be derived from “Daag-e-Shahi” — a royal branding mark for prisoners during the Mughal era
Served as a key military base during British rule
Today, the cantonment is maintained by the Indian Army

Dagshai Jail Museum – A Must-Visit

India’s second-oldest jail, turned into a museum

Built in 1849 — held soldiers, revolutionaries, and even Irish prisoners
One of the inmates included Irish rebel James Daly, who was buried here
The jail includes solitary cells, hanging rooms, and graffiti left by prisoners

🧭 Entry is free, and photography is allowed — it’s eerie, educational, and powerful.

Other Things to See

Army Public School Hilltop

Offers 360° panoramic views of Shimla, Chail, and the distant Shivaliks
Perfect sunrise/sunset photography spot

Old British-Era Church

Stone-arched architecture, colonial cemetery nearby
Ideal for history buffs and architecture lovers

Walk the Dagshai Ridge

A peaceful walk through deodar and pine trees
No traffic, just nature and vintage buildings

Local Food & Eateries

While Dagshai doesn’t have commercial restaurants, you can find:

🥘 Small local dhabas on the way to Kumarhatti
☕ Tea stalls and samosa joints run by locals
🧁 Bakery goods at nearby Solan or Dharampur markets
🍛 Recommended: Eat at your homestay or bring packed lunch

✅ For better food options, visit Barog (6 km) or Kasauli (20 km)

Where to Stay

Option	Type	Notes
Army Guest Houses	For defense personnel	With prior permission
Local Homestays	Family-run lodges	Basic but clean, with local meals
Hotels in Barog/Kasauli	Nearby towns	Best for comfort + proximity

✅ Best for travelers looking for offbeat and heritage-style accommodation

Best Time to Visit

Season	Experience
March–June	Pleasant breeze, blooming wildflowers
July–Sept	Misty walks, lush greenery
Oct–Nov	Autumn colours and crisp air
Dec–Feb	Cold weather, sometimes snowfall

✅ Avoid monsoon if driving solo — roads can be slippery.

Photography Hotspots in Dagshai

Spot	What to Capture
Jail Museum	Old jail cells, light-play through bars
Ridge Walk	Pine forests, military barracks
Sunset Point	Mountains bathed in golden light
Church + Cemetery	Gothic architecture + moss-covered stones
Hilltop Viewpoint	Layers of hills fading into the distance

📷 Pro Tip: Go early morning or just before sunset for magical light.

What to Pack for Dagshai

🧥 Light woollens (even in summer)
🧢 Cap, sunscreen, sunglasses
🥾 Walking shoes for uneven trails
🔋 Power bank, torch (some areas lack lighting)
📚 Notebook if you’re inspired to write or sketch

Why Visit Dagshai?

✅ Untouched heritage away from crowds
✅ Learn India’s unsung military & colonial stories
✅ Nature walks + peaceful hilltop views
✅ Ideal for 1-day trips or overnight stays from Chandigarh
✅ Great for history lovers, solo travelers, and photographers

Summary

Dagshai isn’t loud or flashy. It doesn’t promise luxury or adventure. But what it does offer is authenticity — colonial echoes, mist-covered hills, and a hauntingly beautiful jail that tells stories of forgotten revolutions.

Come to Dagshai if you want to feel history breathe and silence speak.

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