Kasauli

77-km from Shimla and 35-km from Kalka, at 1,927m, Kasauli is a quaint little town that seems to exist in a time warp of an era that reminds one of the 19th century. Its colonial ambience is reinforced by cobbled paths, quaint shops, gabled houses with charming facades and scores of neat little gardens and orchards. Mixed forests of chir-pine, Himalayan oak and huge horse chestnuts surround Kasauli. Its narrow road slither up and down the hillsides and offer some magnificent vistas. 

 A gorgeous hill station, Kasauli is renowned for its picture perfect environs and graceful Victorian mansions. This appealing hill resort denotes serenity, embedded in the magnetism of evergreen trees like oaks, willows and firs. Paved boulevards that are lined with stunning oak, chestnut and pine forests, once acted as a sanatorium for the British. Kasauli owes much to the illustrious English for its crowning glory. 

Sightseeing in Kasauli -

Monkey Point: The highest point in Kasauli called Monkey point is just 4-km from the Kasauli bus stand. The Monkey Point commands an excellent view of the distant plains of Chandigarh region and the river Satluj, tracing a silvery trail through the scene. A small temple is also situated on the top of the hill, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. According to a legend, at the end of Ramayana when Lord Hanuman was returning from the Himalayas after obtaining Sanjivany Booty or the Magical Herb, his foot touched the hill and thus the top of hill is in a foot shape. On a clear and starry night the gorgeous view of Chandigarh can be seen from the Monkey Point.

Timber Trail: This trail is referred to the valley that lies between the two adjacent hills of the Shivalik range. Connected by a cable car, the trail is a popular holiday stopover. The view of the Kaushalya River flowing below is a mesmerizing sight. 

Upper & Lower Mall: This is the main point of the town and is also a popular shopping hub. The mall is divided in two parts – Upper Mall and Lower Mall and both the areas are good for enjoying long walks. The cool and peaceful ambiance of the mall makes it an ideal tourist place to visit in Kasauli.

The Baptist Church: The Baptist church of Kasauli was built in the year 1923 by the British. It is a major attraction in the town. The mix of Gothic and Indian style of architecture makes this church a truly delightful place to see.

Christ Church: Christ Church is the most imposing monument in the town. Reminiscent of the British era, this church was constructed in 1884 and reflects the classical Gothic style of architecture. The church, also known as Anglican Church, is the most prominent structure in Kasauli and an inevitable place for the tourists to visit. Situated on the Lower Mall, near main bus stand one can easily reach on foot.

Shri Baba Balak Nath Temple: This is one of the most popular pilgrim center in Himachal Pradesh. Dedicated to Baba Balak Nath, an ardent follower of Lord Shiva, this cave temple is located just 3 km from the main road on Graner hill, which is accessible by bus or taxi. Legends believed that if childless couples visits and pray here, they are blessed with children. The first ceremonies of the children are also conducted here.

Trekking: Kasauli is blessed with many trekking routes that reveal some of the most exotic hideouts and offers panoramic views of the natural surroundings. Some of the most popular trekking routes in the area are Kalka – Kasauli, Jabli – Kasauli and Garkhal – Kasauli. 

Sanawar: Just 6-km from Kasauli, Sanawar houses one of the best schools in the country. The Lawrence school is almost one hundred years old and a major attraction of the town.

Dharampur: Just 15-km from Kasauli on the National Highway No.22, Dharampur is situated. Amidst the healthy air of the fragrant pines, Dharampur has one of the best hospitals in India for the cure of tuberculosis. It is also connected by Kalka-Shimla railway line.

Sabathu: A little cantonment town has a Gurkha fort built in the early years of the 19th century, situated at an altitude of 1,437m. This cantonment town quartered the British soldiers at the time of British Empire. A diversion road from Dharampur 15-km away leads to the Sabathu town.

Dagshai: Another little cantonment at an altitude of 1,925m just 19-km from Kasauli, it is accessible by a link road, which diverts from Dhrampur. Dagshai is perched on a small hill and comprises of a military public school and numerous military barracks.

How to reach -

By Air: From Kasauli the nearest airport is Chandigarh.

By Train:  Nearest railhead is Kalka in Haryana, which is 40-km from Kasauli and 44-km from Solan. Solan is also connected with narrow gauge railway line from Kalka. 

By Road: Kasauli is well connected by road buses, coaches and taxis are also easily available from Chandigarh and Delhi.