Located halfway between Kalka and Shimla, Kasauli is a small hill station nestled among the Shivalik Range. The cantonment town, established during British Era, is now a favorite destination for weekend trips and small retreats. But there is a lot more to the quaint hill station than just scenic views. For those who wish to visit this peaceful getaway soon, here are our recommendations for the most awesome things to do in Kasauli. You will have the time of your life here and will not be disappointed by anything that Kasauli has to offer you.
Monsoon is the best season to visit Kasauli. During the months of July, August, and September, tourists flock-in in large numbers to try the some adventurous activities to do in Kasauli. The summers and winters, however, are equally pleasant. And so, it is a year-round weekend getaway from Delhi and Chandigarh.
Here are the fun things to do in Kasauli. Read further to know all about the various activities that this beautiful town in Himachal has to offer. Take a look:
1. Trekking Tours
Jaw dropping vistas, sharp and mesmerizing winding hilly tracks, cool and comfortable weather, and not so crowded surroundings make trekking tours one of the most fascinating things to do in Kasauli. Trek along the Lower Mall Road up to the picture-perfect attractions in Kasauli – such as Manki, Jabli, and Sunset Point – is relaxing as well as revivifying. Do not forget your walking shoes and tracksuits. It is one of the best things to do in Kasauli Himachal Pradesh.
2. Nature Walks
This is one of the top things to do in Kasauli. Kasauli has romance in its air, and that’s why nature walk amidst the most picture-perfect environs is one of the amazing things to do in Kasauli. Enjoy the weekend holiday with your spouse by strolling from Lower Mall up to Kimmughat & Sunset point and around the Sanatorium, the Lover’s Lane, and the cantonment area. The walk is serene and refreshing and offers the best panoramic views of Himalayan peaks in the distance.
3. Gilbert Trail
For all those wondering what to do in Kasauli, taking the Gilbert Trail is among the best things to do in Kasauli. The 1.5 km kachha walkway from Lovers’ Lane, along the narrow winding paths of rocky cliffs, is very slippery. It is, thus, advised to be extra cautious while strolling along this trail. Make sure that you walk very carefully on this trail and wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Also, stay on the lookout for prickly bushes.
4. Toy Train Ride
Make your vacations in Kasauli a little unique and mesmerizing by taking the heritage toy train ride between the two stations of proximity. From Kasauli, one can travel up to Dharampur (about 10 km) and take the train up to Barog and return. The journey through the hills tunnels, oak & pine forests, gorges, and small hilly hamlets is a dreamy affair.
The toy train – a World Heritage as declared by UNESCO – is definitely a joy ride and one of the mesmerizing tourist attractions in Kasauli. One can even experience the longest tunnel at Barog, which is 3 minutes’ travel, during this trip. Do not forget to carry your camera.
5. Kasauli Tibetan Market
The lower Mall road is dotted with numerous local Tibetan shops selling small handicrafts, woolens, hand-woven shawls, stoles, and scarves. The fruit markets sell fresh seasonal fruits like apricots, plums, and peaches picked from the orchards. Also, there is a wide variety of jams and marmalades to choose from. Among the popular tourist attractions in Kasauli are the two souvenir shops – Pinkonez and Mug Studio on the Mall Road – that offer large varieties of gift items. Kasauli is also famous for its large assortment of locally produced and reasonably priced fruit wines. Some of the popular savors are apple wine, plum wine, sherry wine, peach wine, and black grape wine.
6. Tibetan Food
Savoring Tibetan food is among the best things to do in Kasauli for foodies. A range of dumpling and thukpa varieties are available at the local Tibetan food stalls lined up in lower Mall area. One can also try the local bread called Sidu, poppy seeds Halwa, and Madara. One can also relish the invigorating and healthy teas like Green Ginger Tea. Kasauli is also famous for Band Samosa – a stuffed bun served with chutney and chhole. Utterly delicious! Along with local Tibetan food outlets, NH22 Dhaba and Narinder Sweet House are quite popular among tourists.
7. Hangout Bar
Those staying over for the night at Kasauli can’t afford to miss Hangout: The Rooftop Bar of Kasauli Regency. It is terrace set up – well decorated with cane and smart looking furniture, neon illuminated bar counter, and hammock – that serves a wide range of refreshing beverages and sumptuous food. The most interesting and highlighting element of Hangout is Live DJ performances on weekend nights. The music varies from Bollywood classics to latest peppy numbers, retro Hollywood to hip-hop, and from rock & roll to the classic jazz.
The ambiance of Rooftop Bar is mesmerizing. It overlooks the lofty hills, foggy valleys, and thick pine forests. You need not be a resident of Kasauli Regency to enjoy the musical gigs, lovely breakfast spread, or finger licking lunch comprising of Indian and Continental cuisines. The staff, as well as the bartender, are extremely polite and courteous and the hotel manager himself stays up and active to look after the guests every evening.
8. Gurkha Fort
This is an old historical place located in Parwanoo in Himachal Pradesh. Perched on a hillock in Subathu, the Gurkha Fort is around 16 km away from Parwanoo. It is easily accessible by road. This heritage fort is located at the corner of the town and surrounded by a dense forest. Perched at 4500 feet above sea level, this is an amazing spot for photography. One can also trek to the nearby villages which are quite serene and beautiful. In fact, trekking is among the best things to do near Kasauli for adventure seekers.
9. Christ Church
Located on Mall Road, this is one of the most visited tourist places in Kasauli. Constructed by the British in 1853, the church is surrounded by the beautiful pine and deodar trees. The serene ambiance and the scenic environs make it one of the top places to visit in Kasauli. Head here to view the stunning architecture of the church. It also makes for a great background to click some amazing pictures.
10. Timber Trail
If you are looking for fun things to do in Kasauli, then head to Timber Trail. This is one of the best activities to enjoy in Kasauli with children. The ropeway here is the perfect way to enjoy the views of the majestic mountains and green valleys of Himachal. Enjoy the Timber Trail cable car which is a 1.8 km ropeway. Also, do not forget to carry your camera, as the views here are just stunning.