Tucked away in the embrace of the Shivalik Range, Kasauli is a hidden gem that seems to have slipped through the cracks of time. Imagine a place where the past waltzes with the present, where every cobblestone path and every cottage tells a story of a bygone British era. This quaint hill station, a midpoint between Kalka and Shimla, feels like a page from a vintage travel journal come to life.
The moment you set foot in Kasauli, it’s as if you’ve stepped into a living painting. The air is crisp and tinged with the scent of pine and oak, and the colourful shops that line the streets seem to burst with tales and trinkets from a more whimsical age. The forests around are like a green, whispering mystery, inviting you to lose yourself in their serene depths.
Getting to Kasauli is like embarking on a mini-adventure. Fly into Chandigarh, and you’ll soon find yourself on a charming road trip through the hills, with every turn revealing new vistas. Or take the train to Kalka, where the journey itself is an invitation to pause and savor the beauty of the journey. The drive from Kalka to Kasauli is a delightful prelude to your stay, with winding roads and panoramic views.
In Kasauli, time does seem to stand still, but that’s part of its magic. It’s a place where you can find joy in the simplest moments—an afternoon picnic overlooking the rolling hills, an exploratory walk through the cobbled streets, or just sitting quietly, letting the charm of the hill station seep into your soul. Whether you’re in search of adventure or tranquility, Kasauli offers a slice of heaven where life’s little pleasures come to the forefront.
Enchanting Adventures in Kasauli
1. Secret Wonders in Barog
Just a short drive from Kasauli, Barog feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Embark on a short drive to uncover its charms: the serene Dolanji Bon Monastery with its tranquil aura, the Saketi Fossil Park where ancient stories lie embedded in stone, and Choor Chandni Peak, where the views stretch endlessly like a forgotten canvas.
2. Stroll Through Nature on Gilbert Trail
Imagine waking up to the soft whispers of the forest as you tread the Gilbert Trail, a 1.5-kilometer stone path that meanders through a verdant tapestry of pine and oak. At dawn, the trail is awash in golden light, and from Sunrise Point, the panoramic views unfold like a slow-motion dream. The melody of chirping birds and the occasional glimpse of rare migratory species make each step a serene adventure.
3. Skyward Journey on the Parwanoo Ropeway
Soar above the Shivalik mountains on the Parwanoo Ropeway, where a 1.8-kilometer roundtrip ride offers a panoramic view that feels like a scene from a fantasy film. As you glide across the valley, the clouds below make it seem as if you’re floating in a celestial realm—a perfect escape from the everyday hustle.
4. Mall Road Magic
Dive into the heart of Kasauli on Mall Road, where every step feels like a page from a quaint novel. Wander through colorful shops bursting with handcrafted treasures, from woolen shawls to silver jewelry. Sample the town’s local flavors, from spicy Tibetan momos to sweet, syrupy jalebis. The vibrant energy of the street, mingled with the charm of traditional crafts and locally-made fruit wines, creates a lively tapestry of Kasauli’s essence.
5. Whimsical Toy Train Ride
Transform your Kasauli visit into a whimsical adventure with a ride on the heritage toy train. Journey from Kasauli to Dharampur and then aboard the toy train to Barog. As the train chugs through tunnels and lush forests, each twist and turn reveals a new slice of hill station magic, turning your ride into a nostalgic fairy tale.
6. Culinary Delights
For food lovers, Kasauli is a culinary treasure trove. Delight in authentic Tibetan fare, from savory momos to hearty thukpas, crafted by the town’s Tibetan residents. Treat yourself to local snacks like hot bun samosas and aloo tikkis, and sip on fragrant teas that warm you from within. Don’t miss regional specialties like poppy seed halwa and sidu, which add a sweet touch to your hill station feast.
7. Timeless Toast at Kasauli Brewery
Raise a glass at the Kasauli Brewery, an age-old distillery that’s older than the town itself. Here, history flows as smoothly as the single malt whiskey. Tour the historic production process, savor a glass of fine whiskey, and let the stories of India’s past enrich your senses. This unique experience blends history and flavor in a way that’s truly unforgettable.
Most Beloved Spots
1. Sunset Point
Once affectionately called Hawa Ghar, Sunset Point is Kasauli’s secret haven for unforgettable vistas. A brisk hike from the Lower Mall leads you to this cherished spot, where the cool, perpetual breezes make it a year-round delight. As the sun sets, watch the hills blush with twilight hues or gaze at the twinkling lights of the city below—a view that captures the heart of every visitor.
2. Gurkha Fort
Perched like a sentinel on a hillock in Subathu, just 16 kilometers from Parwanoo, Gurkha Fort is a timeless relic shrouded in history and forest. Elevated 4,500 feet above sea level, it offers stunning vistas perfect for photography. Wander through the surrounding woods or take a trek to nearby tranquil villages, each step revealing a story of its storied past.
3. Christ Church
In the heart of Kasauli’s Upper Mall Road, Christ Church stands as a grand testament to colonial elegance. Built in 1853, its gothic spires and intricate stained-glass windows evoke a bygone era. The tall ceilings and antique furnishings transport visitors back in time, making each visit feel like a journey through history.
4. Monkey Point
Monkey Point, the highest peak in Kasauli, is a treasure trove of stunning panoramic views. The playful monkeys that roam the area add a lively touch to your trek through lush forests. As you reach the top, a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman invites spiritual reflection. Below, the Sutlej River weaves through the gorge, and in winter, the mountains don a snowy cloak, creating a landscape straight out of a fairytale.
5. Baba Balak Nath Temple
Set on Graner Hill, the Baba Balak Nath Temple is a serene retreat reached by ascending 250 steps. The temple’s lofty position and its sculptures of Lord Shiva, along with a majestic trishul, offer a tranquil escape. The climb and the divine atmosphere combine to create a sacred and uplifting experience.
6. Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji
On the peaceful outskirts of Kasauli, Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji is more than just a place of worship—it’s a sanctuary of serenity. Here, you can seek blessings, enjoy simple, hearty meals, and immerse yourself in the calming presence of the Guru Granth Sahib. The peaceful aura and welcoming hospitality make it a spiritual haven for all who visit.
Getting to Kasauli:
By Air:
Fly to Chandigarh: Land in Chandigarh, your gateway to Kasauli. From here, a scenic drive of about 60 km awaits you. Choose a taxi or bus and soak in the views of hills and forests as you travel for 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Train:
Train to Kalka: Arrive at Kalka, about 40 km from Kasauli. This historic railway station is the start of your scenic journey. From Kalka, hire a taxi or hop on a local bus for a delightful 1-hour drive to Kasauli.
By Road:
- From Delhi: A 6-7 hour drive takes you from Delhi to Kasauli. Enjoy the winding roads and beautiful landscapes along the way.
- From Shimla: Just 1.5 hours by road from Shimla, the drive is a quick and scenic route to Kasauli’s serene beauty.
As you leave Kasauli, the echoes of its serene landscapes and charming streets will linger in your heart. This hill station, with its timeless beauty and gentle pace, offers a refreshing escape from the everyday. Whether you’ve marvelled at its historic sites, savored its local delights, or simply basked in its tranquil ambiance, Kasauli promises to stay with you long after you’ve gone. Each visit is a chapter in a story of peaceful retreats and delightful discoveries, making it a place you’ll always look forward to returning to. Plan your visit soon to experience the magic of Kasauli for yourself.
