Idyllic and brimming with colonial charm, Kasauli is a tourist magnet in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district. Established by the British in 1842, this picture-perfect cantonment town lies between Kalka and Shimla. Cobblestone paths, colourful shops, cottages, and dense pine and oak forests make Kasauli a great vacation spot. The mild climate, lively gardens and Gothic architecture add to the appeal.
There are plenty of things to do in Kasauli, from paragliding and camping to nature walks and shopping. Moreover, reaching this charming hill town is easy as well. The nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport, from where you can take a taxi to reach Kasauli, which is 70 km away. Located around 40 km from Kasauli, Kalka is the nearest railhead if you want to take the train. You can easily reach from places such as Delhi, Shimla, Chandigarh and Ambala by road.
So, if you are ready to plan an amazing holiday now, here is a list of the best things to do in Kasauli, which you should keep handy.
1. Seek adventure along the Timber Trail
Adventure along the timber trail | #1 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
The timber trail provides a great escape from the hustle-bustle of the main town. It’s a little outside the town centre, but not too far. Bird’s-eye views of deep gorges and majestic hills offer a truly breath-taking experience. You can take the ropeway here to travel from one side to another in 10 minutes. If it’s cloudy, you will feel as if you are in heaven. Pine trees and conifers line the trail on both sides. The cable car ride gives you a thrilling rush of adrenaline. While it is free to start on the trail, you need to buy tickets to ride the cable car.
- Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 1250 for adults and INR 1000 for children
2. Try Tibetan food
Tibetan Food | #2 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
Foodies will have a wonderful time sampling Tibetan cuisine in this cosy hill town. It is in fact among the best things to do in Kasauli. The town is home to many Tibetan residents, which makes it easy to find authentic Tibetan food, particularly momos, thukpas, dumplings and broths. The famed Mall Road is peppered with many Tibetan food stalls showcasing mouth-watering dishes. Apart from Tibetan cuisine, you can also dig into hot bun samosas, jalebis, and aloo tikkis. To keep the cold at bay, sip on healthy teas like Green Ginger Tea that enchants you with its soothing aroma. Try lesser-known dishes like poppy seed halwa and Sidu as well.
- Location: Mall Road, Kasauli
- Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM
3. Enjoy a toy train ride
Toy Train Ride | #3 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
If you are looking to explore the region’s beauty at a leisurely pace and without spending a lot of energy, taking a toy train ride is highly recommended. A train ride to Kasauli begins at Dharampur, 12 km away. There is a return trip to Barog from here. Barog has a long tunnel that takes three minutes to cross. UNESCO has listed it as one of the World Heritage Sites as well. Every turn that the train takes will bring you face to face with an exciting aspect of nature. The trip will take you through oak and pine forests, tunnels, valleys, and quaint hamlets.
- Location: Dharampur Railway Station, Himachal Pradesh
- Timings: Changes
- Charges: Ticket price depends on how much you want to travel
4. Indulge in retail therapy on Mall Road
Mall Road Kasauli | #4 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
Shopping is one of the best things to do in Kasauli, whether you want something for yourself or want to carry back souvenirs. Mall Road here is home to a variety of shops offering a diverse range of goods. From exquisitely and locally handcrafted products like woollen shawls and carpets, to silver jewellery, wooden and metal crafts, you will find everything you want. Mall Road is also dotted with many bookstores, restaurants, and cafes. The shops that line Lower Mall Road sell everything from clothes, fruits, to organic produce and gifts for family and friends.
- Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM
5. Trek to Monkey Point
Monkey Point Trekking | #5 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
Monkey Point takes your breath away with a sweeping view of the Kasauli valley from its highest point. As the place teems with monkeys, it has gained attention as Monkey Point. While on the trek, you will come across cheeky monkeys, tranquil forests, and the musical ringing of many religious bells. A small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman will add a spiritual touch to your trek. Monkey Point also offers a bird’s eye view of many nearby cities, being the highest point. Sutlej River flows through the gorge below, and in the winter, the surrounding mountains are capped with snow. Interestingly, this is said to be where Lord Hanuman set his feet on his way to search for the herb Sanjeevani.
- Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
6. Go for a thrilling walk along Gilbert Trail
Walking in Gilbert Trail | #6 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
If connecting with nature is on your agenda, visiting the Gilbert Trail must be a part of your Kasauli things to do list. A 1.5-km wild pathway from Lovers’ Lane winds around narrow cliffs, to make this trail an adventurous one. The trail is extremely slippery too, which means you need to be extra cautious. Gilbert Nature Trail is ideal for bird watchers, nature-buffs and photographers. Apart from the walk, Gilbert trail has thickets of trees flanking both its sides, and the vibe is almost magical. The best time to explore this trail is at sunrise and sunset.
- Timings: Open all days from sunrise to sunset
7. Have a good time at Hangout Bar
Hangout Bar | #7 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
Up for a lively evening, with good food and music thrown in? Then Hangout Bar is the place for you. The open terrace of this bar offers a spectacular view of the hills around. Elegant furniture, intriguing neon lights, relaxing music, and great hospitality all work together to give this bar an awesome ambiance. These activities last until about 10 at night, after which the Headphone party begins. The restaurant serves delicious Indian and continental cuisines, a sumptuous breakfast spread, and even an array of dishes that will tempt your taste buds.
- Location: Hotel Kasauli Regency
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 1:30 AM
8. Visit Gurkha Fort for history and amazing photos
Gurkha Fort
One of the best things to do in Kasauli is to find out about the history of this pretty town. And a visit to Gurkha Fort can meet the purpose. It stands tall as a symbol of the Gurkhas’ courage and strength. This fort is known for housing cannons that were used in battle 180 years ago. Built in 1900 AD, by Gurkha army chief Amar Singh Thapa, the fort currently serves as a training centre for the Gurkha regiment of the Indian Army. Situated around 16 km from Parwanoo, on a hillock in Subathu, the fort offers a sweeping view of the nearby mountains. This heritage spot is surrounded by dense vegetation, which makes it camera-worthy from every angle. The valleys surrounding the fort offer trekking opportunities.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
9. Get your spirits high at Kasauli Brewery
Kasauli Brewery | #9 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
Counted among the oldest functioning distilleries for Scotch whisky in Asia, Kasauli Brewery must feature in your itinerary if you want to lift your “spirits”. Its location on the edge of the town allows the brewery to offer stunning views of the valley. The brewery was started by Edward Dyer, who sourced all the equipment from Britain. Here you can enjoy some classic malt whiskey or Indian pale ale that has a unique taste. You can have a great time observing the entire process of whiskey production as well. In fact, it is one of the top things to do in Kasauli for couples.
- Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
- Ticket: No Entry Ticket
10. Seek blessings at Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji
Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji | #10 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
Anyone seeking spiritual bliss in Kasauli should visit this serene Gurudwara. A sacred place for Sikhs on the outskirts of Kasauli, it offers accommodation and food to pilgrims from far and wide. The site is the perfect place for those who wish to relax and meditate in a tranquil atmosphere.
- Location: Arhat Bazaar, Kasauli
- Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
11. Admire the colonial beauty of Christ Church
Christ Church | #11 of 11 Awesome Things to Do in Kasauli
This church is eye-catching due to its quaint, colonial-style architecture. Nestled amidst pines, it has a peaceful aura and a pretty green roof. Established during the British era, in 1923, Christ Church is perfect for peace seekers, history buffs and tourists who love to click Insta-worthy photographs. The cobbled pathway leading to the church adds a hint of old-world charm to the place.
- Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
Monsoons are the ideal time to visit Kasauli and explore its green beauty, with rain clouds painting a dramatic picture over the rolling hills. Flowers are in generous bloom during the rainy season, adding to the magic. Summers are pleasant as well, while winters are a little chilly. So, plan your trip as per your unique preference and convenience. No matter which season you choose, you will always have memorable things to do in Kasauli. Just make sure you book your accommodation and flight or train tickets in advance, so that you don’t end up spending money unnecessarily.
Suggested Read : Places to visit in Kasauli.
