Kasauli: Where Time Stands Still in the Hills

Sometimes, the best hill stations are the ones that don’t yell for attention. Kasauli, in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, is one such whispering wonder; small, green, peaceful, and charmingly old-fashioned. With British-era cottages, winding pine-scented lanes, and postcard views of snowy Shivalik peaks, Kasauli is ideal for travellers seeking calm more than crowds. Its old-world feel, short travel distance from Chandigarh, and mix of nature and nostalgia make it a favourite weekend retreat for North Indians.

Chandigarh to Kasauli Distance and Scenic Route

The Chandigarh to Kasauli distance is roughly 60–65 kilometres, making it one of the easiest hill station getaways from the plains. A two-hour drive via NH5 winds through picturesque roads dotted with pine forests and quaint villages. The smooth highway, fresh mountain air, and quick pitstops at small tea stalls turn the journey itself into part of the adventure.

If you don’t have a car, you can take a bus till Dharampur; from there, local cabs or shared jeeps cover the last 12–14 kms to Kasauli. The nearest railway station is Kalka (25 kms), while Chandigarh airport is the closest air hub for those ﬂying in.

What Makes Kasauli Different from Other Hill Stations

Kasauli doesn’t dazzle with fancy malls or theme parks; and that’s its magic. The town retains a slower rhythm, set against colonial charm and Himachali simplicity. Unlike Shimla or Manali, Kasauli values peace and privacy. Here you’ll find pine forests whispering in the wind, British-era churches frozen in time, and countless quiet corners where you can just… be. It’s less about “doing” and more about “feeling”. It is the perfect destination for staycations for writers, couples, and anyone seeking less chaos and more sky.

Best Time to Visit Kasauli

Spring to summer (March to June) is the best time to visit Kasauli when days are cool, skies are clear, and nature is at its greenest. Autumn (September to November) is equally beautiful, with misty mornings and crisp evenings. Winters offer snowy charm for oЫeat travellers (temperatures can drop to 3–4°C), while monsoon (July–August) wraps the hills in lush green but can limit outdoor movement as there can be landslides.

So whether you love sunny strolls or foggy dreamscapes, Kasauli is an all-rounder hill town.

Must-See Places to Visit in Kasauli

Monkey Point (Manki Point): The highest spot in town, home to a Hanuman Temple and panoramic views across the plains of Haryana and Punjab. Legend says Lord Hanuman rested here during his search for the Sanjeevani herb. The climb is a bit steep but the aerial view of Chandigarh is worth it.

Gilbert Trail: A 1.5 km walking path starting near Kasauli Club, this trail glides through thick pine forests full of bird calls and mountain breeze. It’s one of the most peaceful things to do in Kasauli; ideal for early mornings.

Christ Church: Built in 1853, this neo-Gothic gem near the Mall Road stands out with its stained-glass windows and serene atmosphere. It’s simple, old, and lovely, which looks just like a postcard straight from colonial India.

Christ Church

Sunset and Lover’s Point: Perfect for evening strolls, these are Kasauli’s most romantic spots where you can watch crimson sunsets spill over the valleys. Go early to find a quiet perch and enjoy some peaceful time surrounded by nature.

The Mall Road: Lined with bakeries, local craft shops, and steaming momos, this colonial-style street embodies Kasauli’s easygoing charm.

Gurkha Fort: Located in the village of Subathu (15 kms away), this lesser-known fort is a 19th-century wonder surrounded by pine forests; a quiet oЫeat spot rarely crowded.

Kasauli Brewery: One of Asia’s oldest distilleries, founded in the 1820s. It still produces old-style whiskey and offers brewery tours. It is a fun stop for history and spirits lovers.

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Kasauli

Kasauli’s stays range from plush resorts to homely hillside retreats:

WelcomHeritage Santa Roza & Glenview Resort: Upscale stays with valley views, cozy rooms, and heritage interiors.
The Fern Surya Resort & Kasauli Hills Resort: Ideal for families; serene views and good food.
7 Pines, Kasauli Regency, Baikunth Resort: Popular for luxury blends with scenic isolation.
Seclude Kasauli & Woodside Villas: Perfect boutique options for couples or small groups seeking privacy.
Budget travellers can try Arnisa Kasauli or The Hosteller, which combine comfort and affordability.

Pro tip: Choose properties near Mall Road or Manki Point for easy sightseeing but quieter ends of town for serenity.

Lesser-Known and OЫeat Attractions

If you’ve time, go beyond the postcard places:

Dagshai Village (15 kms): One of India’s oldest cantonments, complete with a vintage church and a centuries-old British-era jail museum.
Bon Monastery, Solan: A peaceful Buddhist monastery on your way back to Chandigarh.
Timber Trail: Cable car rides near Parwanoo offering panoramic valley views.
Krishna Bhavan Mandir: A colonial-era temple that blends European architecture with devotion.
Lower Mall Road Markets: Authentic local shopping and Himachali snacks without tourist crowds.

Packing and Preparation Tips

Kasauli’s weather changes quickly, so layer smartly. Cotton clothes in summer, woollens and jackets in winter, and a raincoat during monsoon. Sturdy shoes are a must for walks on hilly or cobbled paths. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and motion sickness tablets if you’re sensitive to curvy roads. Nights can get chilly; even in June; so carry a light sweater just in case.

For local travel, rent a cab or walk; Kasauli is compact enough to explore on foot. Most roads are safe, but evenings turn quiet after 9 pm.

Food You Can’t Miss

Kasauli cafés have something for every palate; fresh buns and tea at Café Rudra, momos and noodle bowls near Mall Road, and the unique Bun Gulab Jamun (yes, as delicious as it sounds) cannot be missed. If you love Himachali cuisine, order siddu, madra, or home-style dal-chawal from small roadside dhabas.

Detours and Day Trips

For added adventure, extend your trip to nearby Barog, Parwanoo, or the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train experience. Each is less than 40 kms away and adds rustic hill-town ﬂavours and colonial nostalgia to your Kasauli stay.

Final Word

Kasauli isn’t a hill station that shouts; it hums softly, like rustling pines or gentle rain on glass roofs. Whether it’s the serenity of Gilbert Trail, the stories of Christ Church, or chai with a view from Mall Road, Kasauli wraps you in grace and stillness. It’s Himachal, but slower, sweeter, and straight from the heart.

By: Anushka Singhal