Kasauli is a small yet beautiful hill station located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Situated just 70 KM from Shimla, Kasauli is home to lots of colonial-era buildings that were built in the British era. The serene natural beauty, majestic mountains, adventurous trekking trails, lively markets, dense pine & oak forest and wide range of accommodation makes it a perfect holiday destination. The proximity to famous tourist attractions like Shimla (70 KM), Kalka (22 KM), Chandigarh (57 KM), Delhi (287 KM) and Ambala (88 KM), makes the connectivity of Kasauli lot easier. So if you’re ready to plan a holiday to Kasauli then check out our handpicked list of the 9 best things to do in Kasauli that make sure you’ll get the most out of this town.
Best Things To Do In Kasauli
1. Take A Walk Along Gilbert Trail
With mountains on one side and deep gorges on the other, the walk along the Gilbert trail is one of the best things to do in Kasauli. It is a small trek (1.5 KM) from Lover’s Lane traversing through the woods and beautiful views of the valley. The refreshing breeze through the pine trees ruffling your hair while walking is beautiful. On a clear day, you will get some great views of the valley even you can spot the cities far below. The end of this trail is a Gilbert point from where you can enjoy beautiful views. During monsoon, the trail can be slippery too so be cautious and don’t forget to carry your trekking shoes. It is must visit place for photographers and nature lovers.
2. Visit Christ Church
Located near the mall road, Christ Church is the historical landmark of Kasauli. It is the oldest church in Himachal Pradesh that was built in 1923. The current structure of the church was built in Gothic-style architecture with magnificent mirror work. The stained glasses were imported from England. It is one of the rarest churches where you can find the clock tower with sundial in the front. Photography is not allowed inside the church. Overall, it is a great place to visit for history lovers, peace seekers and art lovers.
3. Trekking
Dense forest, steep hills, snow-clad mountains, cool & comfortable weather and not so crowded surroundings of Kasauli makes it one of the best spot for trekking. There are various viewpoints where you can capture some instagrammable pictures. Kasauli is best to explore on foot so it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
Best trekking spots in Kasauli
Monkey Point – It is the highest point of Kasauli so it is easy to imagine that there you’ll get the most wonderful views of Kasauli and other nearby cities like Chandigarh and Kalka. The 4 KM trek starts from the bus stand. The first 3 KM is for reaching the Air Force base from where you need to take stairs to cover the remaining 1KM to reach the point.
There is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman that adds spiritual vibes to the trek. Be aware of monkeys as this place is flocked with lots of playful monkeys. Usually, these monkeys are harmless but still need to be careful. Overall, it is half an hour trek but worth every bit of effort because views from the top are stunning and soul satisfying.
- Timings – 7 AM to 6 PM
Sunset Point – When the sun is about to sets, tourists in Kasauli start walking towards the sunset point to enjoy mesmerizing sunset over the horizon of valleys. This place is not only about sunset but the surrounding nature and a short walk leading to the point. The road is well maintained for trekking. It is located in the upper mall road region. Vehicles are not allowed after military check post point so you’ve to trek to reach the point from where you can capture some amazing pictures of sunset, nature and valleys.
4. Take A Toy Train Ride
The Toy train ride at Kasauli is the best way to enjoy the serene beauty of this region. The ride starts from the Dharampur station that is located around 10 KM from the Kasauli. And end in Barog village then returns. This 4-hour ride traverse through the mountains, lush green jungles, and lots of tunnels. The complete journey of this toy train will feel like you’re watching a scene of a fantasy movie. The Shimla Kalka toy train ride is listed as the UNESCO world heritage site. For timings and tickets price please check the official website of IRCTC.
You will easily get bus or cab to reach Dharampur.
5. Enjoy Delicious Tibetan Food
Food in Kasauli is highly influenced by the Tibetan dishes, Nepalese and Garwhal culture. Being a famous hill station, there you’ll get various types of dishes including non-veg, veg Momos, veg noodles, chole bhature, pau bhaji and other north Indian cuisines. Apart from general food items, Kasauli has some special dishes which every food lover craves like Bun Samosa, Himachali Pulao, Jalebi, Alu Tikki and Aloo triangles. The combo of Bun Samosa and Gulab Jamun is something you must try in Kasauli. Narinder Sweets on Mall road is one of the famous spots to try Bun Samosa in Kasauli. Apart there are lots of authentic shops located at mall road where you can enjoy the delicious Tibetan food of Kasauli at affordable rates.
- Bun Samosa price – Starts from 10 INR
6. Enjoy Classic Malt Whiskey At Kasauli Brewery
Trying classic whiskey in the oldest functional brewery and distillery not only in India but in Asia is one of the most fascinating things to do in Kasauli. Apart from the oldest, it is the highest distillery and brewery in the world. They still use the old age methodology to manufacture one of the finest malt Whiskey in the world. There you can try various famous liquor brands including Old Monk Rum, Diplomat Deluxe, Golden Eagle, Top Brass, Summer Hall, Colonel’s Special and Black Knight. There you can also observe the entire process behind the manufacturing of Whiskey.
- Timing – 7 AM to 7 PM
- How to reach – It is located at walking distance from the bus stand.
7. Partying in Hangout Bar
Hangout Bar is the perfect place for those who looking for a lively place in Kasauli. Amazing ambiance, outdoor seating, delicious food, great music and good wine makes it a great place to visit in Kasauli especially for couples. The rooftop seating offers amazing views of the town. Overall, it is a great place to have great food and party till late at night, especially on Saturday night.
- Average Price – 500 INR
- Location – Hotel Kasauli Regency
8. Enjoy The Cable Car Ride At Timber Trail
Timber trail is the best place to do adventurous things in Kasauli. Located just 27 KM from the Kasauli, it is a great place to enjoy the stunning views of snow-kissed mountains and deep valleys. The timber trail cable car ride is one of the best activities to do in Kasauli. At of height of 5000 feet above sea level, this 1.8 KM ropeway takes you from one side of the valley to another side with amazing views of majestic mountains and deep gorges. It is the perfect place for outings with family and kids in Kasauli.
There are some luxurious resorts and hotels in Parwanoo especially for honeymoon couples.
- Timings – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Tickets – 1200 INR for Adults and 1000 INR for Children.
9. Shopping in Kasauli
Like every other destination, Kasauli has various places where you’ll love to go Shopping. The markets of Kasauli are filled with various shopping items including handicrafts, Tibetan carpets, textile, souvenirs, arts & crafts, silver jewellery, wooden artworks, garments and woolens.
Best places for shopping in Kasauli
- The Mall Road – For Handicrafts, Jewellery and Shawls
- Kasauli Upper Mall – For Clothing and Shoe Shops
- Tibetan Market – For Clothing Items
- Kasauli Lower Mall – Mostly accommodation and restaurants
- Pinekonez – A Gift Shop at Major District road 10, Garkhal (3 KM from Mall Road)
FAQ’s About Kasauli
What are the best things to do in Kasauli with kids?
There are various things you can enjoy with kids Kasauli –
- Go for shopping
- Enjoy cable car ride
- Ride in toy train
- Take a nature walk at Gilbert Trail
Which are the best trekking spots in Kasauli?
Monkey Point, Gilbert Point, Sunrise point and Sunset point are some of the well known trekking trails in Kasauli.
What are the best things to do in Kasauli for couples?
Here are some of the romantic things to do in Kasauli as couples-
- Romantic nature walk at Gilbert Trail
- Enjoy rooftop dinner at Hangout bar
- Toy train ride
- Trekking to monkey point
- Witness beautiful sunset from sunset point
- Visit Christ Church
- Cable car ride
- Staying in luxurious resorts
What are the best place to do shopping in Kasauli?
Top shopping places in Kasauli are –
- Mall Road
- Upper Mall
- Lower Mall
- Tibetan Market
- Pinekonez