1. Introduction to Kasauli Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh has always been known for its natural beauty and cultural richness. But whenever we talk about hill stations, people usually name Shimla and Manali. Between these popular destinations lies a place that is comparatively small but is special for its simplicity and calmness — Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh.
This hill station, located in Solan district, is known for its colonial heritage, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful landscapes. If you want a place away from hustle-bustle where you can experience real Himachali charm, then this Kasauli travel guide is perfect for you.
Kasauli is just 58 km from Chandigarh, which is why people from Chandigarh and Panchkula frequently visit on weekends. It is also a perfect stopover on the way to Shimla. Here you won’t just explore Kasauli tourist places, but you’ll also feel a unique old-world charm which isn’t easily found in other Himachali hill stations.
Narrow winding roads, tall deodar and pine trees, and a clean environment make this hill station even more special. So if you are planning your next trip to Himachal, this Kasauli Himachal Pradesh blog will give you every detail — from places to visit in Kasauli, its history, and things to do in Kasauli.
2. History of Kasauli
Every place has its own story, and the history of Kasauli is quite fascinating. Unlike typical Himachali villages that developed naturally, Kasauli was actually developed by the Britishers for themselves.
In 1842, the British established Kasauli as a cantonment town. They wanted a summer retreat and a location from where they could control both Shimla (their summer capital at the time) and the plains. Kasauli’s geographical position was perfect — not as high as Shimla, not as low as Kalka.
During the British period, Kasauli developed rapidly:
- Christ Church (1853) was built, which still stands as an iconic landmark.
- Many colonial-style cottages and bungalows were constructed, most of which are still preserved.
- The Army Cantonment was very important and is still maintained by the Indian Army.
Kasauli has also been a place of inspiration for many writers and thinkers. Famous Indian author Ruskin Bond spent his childhood here. The mountain vibes you feel in his stories are heavily influenced by Kasauli and Shimla.
Even after the British period ended, Kasauli never lost its charm. A heritage walk here makes you feel as if you have stepped into the 19th century. Stone walls, pathways, and old cottages give the entire town a “living museum” feel.
This is why when people search for a Kasauli travel blog, the main reason is to experience its stories and heritage charm firsthand.
3. Top Places to Visit in Kasauli
Now let’s talk about the top Kasauli tourist places that make it a unique destination. These attractions are not only historically important but are also loved for nature and leisure.
3.1 Mall Road & Heritage Walk 🛍️
Kasauli’s Mall Road is smaller than Shimla’s but is equally charming for its peaceful vibe. In the evening, when the lights glow, the area becomes lively.
- Shops offer handicrafts, woolens, and Himachali souvenirs.
- Small cafes and bakeries enhance the charm.
- Walking here feels like a heritage walk, surrounded by British-era buildings and old stone houses.
3.2 Christ Church ⛪
Built in 1853, Christ Church is one of the oldest structures in Kasauli. It is an excellent example of Neo-Gothic architecture. The stained glass windows shining under sunlight create a magical effect.
It’s a place that gives peace and spiritual vibes, and is often listed among the best things to do in Kasauli.
3.3 Monkey Point (Manki Point) 🐒
This is the highest point of Kasauli with a Hanuman Temple at the top. Local belief is that Lord Hanuman’s foot touched this spot while carrying the Sanjeevani herb.
From here, you get panoramic views of Chandigarh and Sutlej River Valley. The night view with city lights is truly breathtaking.
3.4 Gilbert Trail 🌲
A narrow trail through dense forests, Gilbert Trail is ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. Many travelers describe it as a therapeutic experience, making it one of the must-visit attractions in Kasauli.
3.5 Sunset Point & Sunrise Point 🌄
- Sunset Point offers stunning golden-orange skies in the evening.
- Sunrise Point is equally beautiful for early risers.
Both are favorite spots for couples and photographers.
3.6 Kasauli Brewery 🍻
Established in the 1820s, this is one of Asia’s oldest distilleries. It offers a mix of heritage and unique experiences, making it a must-visit for those who love history and beverages.
3.7 Gurkha Fort, Subathu 🏰
Located in Subathu village near Kasauli, this Gurkha Fort adds to Kasauli’s historical importance. It’s an offbeat destination that attracts both history enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
4. Best Cafes & Food in Kasauli 🍴☕
Kasauli is not only about peace and natural beauty, but also about its cafes and food culture. Even though it’s a small hill station, the cafes in Kasauli are lively and full of unique experiences.
- Café Rudra – Located in the Heritage Market, this café is a favorite among youth and travelers. Its hot coffee and cheese maggi are iconic. If you want a lively ambience, this is the best spot.
- Hangout Rooftop Café – Known for its rooftop location and live music nights. Watching the sunset here with coffee is an unforgettable experience.
- Old Heritage Bakeries – Kasauli is famous for its British-era bakeries. Plum cakes, apple pies, muffins, and biscuits served here still carry that colonial touch.
- Tibetan Food Stalls – Local Tibetan stalls serve momos and thukpa at budget-friendly prices. For a foodie, these are a must-try.
- Himachali Siddu & Rajma Chawal – Local dhabas serve authentic Himachali food. Siddu (steamed bread stuffed with walnut paste) and rajma chawal are always in demand.
👉 For food lovers, Kasauli is a rewarding destination. The cafes and bakeries provide a unique mountain vibe that you may miss in bigger hill stations.
5. Best Time to Visit Kasauli
The experience of your Kasauli trip depends largely on the season you choose:
- Summer (March–June) 🌞 – Pleasant weather (15°C–28°C). Perfect for sightseeing, nature walks, and family trips.
- Monsoon (July–September) 🌧️ – Kasauli becomes lush green and dreamy with mist and clouds. Roads can be slippery but this is the best time for photography and nature lovers.
- Winter (October–February) ❄️ – Cold season (5°C–15°C) with occasional snowfall. Perfect for honeymoon couples and peace seekers.
👉 If you want clear sightseeing and outdoor activities, summer is the best. For greenery and misty views, monsoon is ideal. For snowfall and cozy vibes, winter is perfect.
6. How to Reach Kasauli
Kasauli is one of the most easily accessible hill stations, which makes it perfect for weekend getaways.
- By Air ✈️ – Nearest airport: Chandigarh International Airport (69 km). Taxis are easily available, taking about 1.5–2 hours.
- By Train 🚂 – Nearest railway station: Kalka (25 km). From Kalka, take a cab or local bus. You can also experience the Kalka–Shimla toy train till Solan and then take a taxi to Kasauli.
- By Road 🚗 – Chandigarh, Panchkula, Solan, and Shimla have regular buses and taxis. Driving on NH-22 is scenic with mountain views and winding roads.
👉 The most popular way is Kasauli trip from Chandigarh by road – fast, convenient, and scenic.
7. Our Experience in Kasauli
For me, Kasauli Himachal Pradesh is not just another hill station, but a place where I truly find peace and energy. Since I often travel from Solan to Chandigarh and back, stopping at Kasauli has become a natural part of my routine. Every trip here adds a new story to my travel diary.
I have stayed in different homestays in Kasauli and even in a few heritage properties, each offering something unique. Once, I stayed with a warm Himachali family and listened to their local tales, while another time I spent the night in a heritage hotel in Kasauli, where the colonial-era charm made me feel like I had traveled back in time.
One of my favorite places to visit in Kasauli is the Gilbert Trail 🌲. Walking through the dense forest feels like therapy — a soulful connection with nature. For birdwatching in Kasauli and photography lovers, this trail is nothing less than heaven.
Evenings at Mall Road Kasauli 🛍️ are always lively. The mix of tourists, local vendors, and small cafés creates a beautiful vibe. I personally love Kausali Cafés, especially for its coffee and the authentic Himachali dish, siddu. Sitting with hot siddu and coffee while watching the hills is the true flavor of Kasauli.
Another highlight of my trips has been dining at Ross Common, where I once tried the famous Himachali thali – madra, rajma, and kadi. The flavors were so authentic that it felt like enjoying home-cooked food, giving me a real taste of Himachali culture.
At Sunset Point 🌄, watching the sky turn golden as the sun disappears behind the mountains feels like standing inside a painting. It is one of the most romantic spots in Kasauli for couples, while solo travelers like me find deep peace and reflection here.
And of course, Monkey Point Kasauli 🐒 remains unforgettable. From here, the panoramic view of Chandigarh and Sutlej Valley, especially at night, feels magical — like gazing at a sky filled with sparkling stars.
👉 For me, Kasauli means nature, silence, heritage, and food. Each visit feels like a short escape from the chaos of daily life. If you’re searching for a less crowded hill station near Chandigarh that still preserves its colonial charm and authentic Himachali vibes, then Kasauli is the perfect answer.
8. Nearby Attractions from Kasauli
Kasauli is not only beautiful in itself but also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions that make your trip even more exciting. Within a short drive, you can explore heritage towns, forts, temples, and natural picnic spots.
🏞️ Barog (18 km)
Barog is a peaceful town surrounded by pine forests and is famous for the Barog Tunnel, one of the longest tunnels on the Kalka–Shimla toy train route. It is a great picnic spot where you can enjoy nature, photography, and a quiet break on your journey.
🛕 Dagshai (14 km)
Dagshai is among the oldest cantonments in India. Known for its Dagshai Jail Museum, colonial-era churches, and peaceful environment, this place takes you back in time. Its hilltop location also offers breathtaking panoramic views, making it a favorite for history lovers.
🏔️ Timber Trail, Parwanoo (20 km)
Just a short drive from Kasauli, Timber Trail is famous for its ropeway ride that connects two hilltops. The aerial view of mountains, valleys, and forests from the ropeway is unforgettable. Families and couples often choose this spot for adventure and leisure.
🌸 Solan City (25 km)
Solan, also called the “Mushroom City of India” and the “City of Red Gold (Tomatoes)”, is a vibrant destination near Kasauli.
- Shoolini Mata Temple: The spiritual center of Solan, where the annual Shoolini Fair attracts thousands.
- Mohan Shakti Heritage Park: One of India’s largest heritage parks, featuring temples, gardens, and sculptures.
- Jatoli Shiv Mandir: Asia’s tallest Shiv temple, known for its breathtaking architecture.
- Solan Mall Road: Perfect for shopping, cafés, and Himachali food.
👉 Solan is a complete cultural and spiritual hub that adds depth to your Kasauli trip.
🛡️ Subathu (25 km) – Gurkha Fort & Cantonment
Subathu is a historic cantonment town near Kasauli.
- Gurkha Fort: Built in the 19th century, it still showcases the legacy of the Anglo-Gorkha wars.
- Colonial Heritage: The active cantonment, old churches, and stone houses preserve its British charm.
- Valley Views: The fort’s hilltop location offers scenic views of the surrounding valleys.
👉 Subathu is an offbeat yet rewarding destination for those who love history and culture.
9. Kasauli Location, Photos & Videos
📸 Kasauli Photos & Reels
We have shared the stunning views of Kasauli and its amazing food experiences on Instagram.
👉 Check out and follow: @official_kksb
▶️ Kasauli YouTube Video
If you want to feel the real vibe of Kasauli, don’t miss our detailed vlog:
👉 KKSB Vlogs – Kasauli
Here you’ll experience:
A peaceful Gilbert Trail walk
The breathtaking panoramic view from Monkey Point
The beauty of Sunset Point
📍 Google Maps Location
Click here to see the exact location of Kasauli.
Google Maps makes your Kasauli hill station trip easier as you can directly get driving directions – whether you are coming from Chandigarh, Solan, or Shimla.
10. FAQs About Kasauli
Why is Kasauli famous?
Kasauli Himachal Pradesh is famous for its colonial heritage, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic views. Attractions like Monkey Point, Gilbert Trail, Christ Church, and Sunset Point make it a unique destination compared to crowded hill stations like Shimla.
What are the top places to visit in Kasauli?
The best places to visit in Kasauli include Mall Road, Christ Church, Gilbert Trail, Monkey Point, Sunset Point, and Kasauli Brewery. Each spot offers a different experience – from history and spirituality to nature walks and food.
How far is Kasauli from Chandigarh?
Kasauli is about 60 km from Chandigarh and takes nearly 1.5–2 hours by road. This easy connectivity makes it a perfect choice for weekend trips and short getaways from Chandigarh, Panchkula, and nearby cities.
What food is Kasauli famous for?
Kasauli is famous for Siddu, Rajma Chawal, and Himachali Thali. Cafes like Rudra Café and bakeries serving plum cakes and apple pies are very popular. Street food like momos and thukpa also attract foodies here.
What is the best time to visit Kasauli?
The best time to visit Kasauli is March–June for sightseeing and pleasant weather. July–September is perfect for misty views and greenery, while October–February offers a peaceful winter vibe and occasional snowfall.
How can I reach Kasauli?
You can reach Kasauli by road from Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Solan. The nearest airport is Chandigarh (58 km) and the nearest railway station is Kalka (25 km). A toy train ride from Kalka to Solan is also a heritage experience.
How many days are enough to explore Kasauli?
A 1–2 day trip is enough to explore the major Kasauli tourist places like Christ Church, Mall Road, Monkey Point, and Gilbert Trail. If you want to relax in homestays or explore nearby attractions like Solan and Barog, then 2–3 days are ideal.
Is Kasauli less crowded than Shimla?
Yes, Kasauli is much less crowded compared to Shimla. Its calm environment, heritage touch, and peaceful trails make it an ideal destination for solo travelers, couples, and families who want a quiet hill station experience.
