Snow-clad mountain peaks and the quiet streets of a cantonment area make for ideal ingredients of a rebound road trip, and Himachal Pradesh’s Kasauli serves this by the gallon. Replete with gothic architecture, an old-world charm, and countless tree-lined avenues coupled with the faint sounds of chirruping birds, this colonial hill station awaits to welcome travellers once again. And for that, we’ve curated a handy road trip guide to Kasauli from Delhi to help you get started. By Bayar Jain
Located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, Kausali dates back to 1842 when the British chose it as their colonial hill station. And justifiably so! Dotted with Victorian mansions under the shadow of snow-clad mountains and towering timbers, this hill station offers postcard-worthy views, seamlessly. When here, the sounds of gurgling rivers echo through the alpine meadows, while melodious birds sing merrily.
Road Trip To Kasauli from Delhi – A full guide
What to see?
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Begin your paradisiacal holiday by walking through Gilbert Trail at the crack of dawn. The one-and-a-half kilometre long stoned walkway echoes with birdsongs and gentle cool breeze meanders its way through the lush trees. At the end of the trail, a panoramic view of the hill station awaits. Time your trek with the sunrise as the Sunrise Point here lends itself to mesmerising hues. Next, head to Manki trail—a popular spot for sighting mischievous monkeys. Naughty animals aside, the trail is also famous for getting a peek of the town’s Air Force Station; gazing at the plains below accentuated by Sutlej River; marvelling at the distant Choor Chandni peak; and housing a Hanuman Temple at the top.
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The Kasauli Brewery, founded in the 1820s, is another favourite spot among tourists. This hub for scotch whisky is often regarded as the oldest distillery—still in existence—in all of Asia. When here, sip on its fine liquors and rediscover the town’s aristocratic heritage. On the other hand, teetotallers can learn about the production involved in making the beverage.
Spiritual travellers visiting Kasauli from Delhi can visit the Baptist Church, a slice of colonial architecture dating back to 1923; the Gothic-style Christ Church; Krishna Bhawan Mandir, a shrine—built on the principles of Vastu shastra—dedicated to Hindu deity Krishna; and a Sikh site of pilgrimage, Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji. Other notable attractions of Kasauli include taking a toy train ride through narrow gauges, exploring Gurkha Fort, splurging at Mall Road, and marvelling at the Central Research Institute.
Where To Eat?
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As Kasauli sees tourists aplenty, there is no dearth of restaurants and cuisine options here. For instance, The Hangout Rooftop Bar and Café serves delectable vegetarian and vegan-friendly options with music and stellar views of the Himalayas. The Old Town Coffee Cafe, on the other hand, is famous for its Italian offerings paired with cappuccinos and lattes. Cafe Mantra serves pizzas with Reggae music; Rudra Café cooks up Chinese dishes; and Narinder Sweet House is ideal for mithai lovers.
How To Reach?
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Kausali is 302 kilometres away from New Delhi, making it a six-and-a-half-hour-long road journey. However, being a hill station with narrow winding roads, the time taken could increase depending upon traffic and season. Irrespective, it is easily accessible by road, both by private cars and state-owned buses.
Where To Stay?
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This town has stay options catering to all kinds of travellers. Take Ramada by Wyndham Kasauli, for instance. Equipped with an outdoor pool and soothing spa treatments, this valley-facing hilltop property is designed for luxurious comforts. When here, expect a nature-infused holiday married with fun, courtesy breathtaking valley views, an on-site fitness centre, café, and a nightclub.
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Tucked away amid pine forests, Jungle Homestay is ideal for backpackers yearning for a comfortable stay. Built in an Anglo-Himachali style, this Himalayan retreat has a range of board games, curated books, and rooms that open to pine vistas and sun-kissed mountains.
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Fortune Select Forest Hill is another option here. Radiating with a fairytale charm, the quaint hotel offers a relaxing disconnect from the tourist hubs, allowing every guest to unwind in peace. Bringing forth a fusion of classical, colonial and contemporary architecture, the mountain-facing getaway doubles as a great spot for a family vacation.
Related: Through The Lens: The Ancient Village Of Malana, Himachal Pradesh
