Around Solan

Barog (8 kms):

Beautiful Barog is perched at a height of 1600 metres on the Kalka-Shimla highway. It affords a splendid view of the sno2w clad Churadhar peak, Dagshai hill and surrounding areas. The Scottish styled Barog railway station set in a valley is the most important stop on the famous Shimla-Kalka marrow gauge railway line. The longest tunnel on the Shimla-Kalka rail route is also located here.

Dolanji Non Monastery (12 kms):

It lies near ochhghat village on Solan-Rajgarh road. Sacred Non dances (Cham) are performed here.

Yashwant Nagar (20 kms):

Popular picnic site on the banks of river Giri.

Nauni (14 kms):

It is located on the Solan-Rajgarh highway and is famous for the Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry. The institute is only one of its kind in entire Asia.

Solan Brewery (4.8 kms):

The famous Dyer-Meakin Brewery was set up in 1835. It was later renamed as Mohan-Meakin.

Jatoli (14 kms):

It is known for an ancient Vishal Shiva temple. A fair is held here on Mahashivratri.

Karol or Sidh Baba Goofa (8 kms):

The cave on Karol Tibba is said to be the longest in Himalayas. There are temples of Goddess Kali, Lord Hanumanji and Thakurji. The steep trek to Karol from Dedhgharat is wonderful.

Arki:

It was the capital of the princely state of Baghal and is 52 kms. from Shimla. The palace here has ‘Ast Nayika’ frescoes in the Arki Kalam style. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel. The Jakholi temple is noted for its architectural beauty.

Chail:

The tiny hill resort amidst virgin forests is 43 kms. from Shimla via Kufri and 45 kms. from Solan via Kandaghat. In 1891, Lord Kitchner banned the entry of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala to Shimla. Thus, the Maharaja decided to built a new resort, which would be better than Shimla. Chail sprawls over three hills – atop the Rajgarh Hill is the Palace; Old Residency ‘ Snow view’ on the Pandava Hill and Siddh Tibba is known for the temple of Baba Sidhnath.

The Palace:

The magnificent green-roofed palace amidst thick deodar trees was built in 1891. It has now been converted into a premium Heritage hotel.

Cricket Ground:

It was built atop a hill in 1893, at an elevation of 2444 meters and is the highest cricket and polo ground in the world.

Chail Wildlife Sanctuary:

Key fauna-ghoral, barking deer, sambar, red jungle fowl, khalij and cheer pheasants.

Sadhupul (15 Kms):

The beautiful village near Ashwani stream is a fine picnic and excursion site.

Kasuli:

Captivating Kasauli, nestled at a height of 1927 metres is noted for its colonial charm, lush tranquil surroundings full of deodar and pine trees, scenic views and cleanliness. Kasauli was founded by the British forces in 1841. It developed as a cantonment sanatorium. The Pasture Institute established here in 1900, is the oldest of its kind in the country. It produces anti-rabies by mad also treats the patients bitten by mad dogs. The prestigious Central Research Institute Produces vaccines against typhoid, cholera, small pox and snake bite.

Christ church:

The church located near the bus stand is surrounded by chestnut and fir trees. It was built by the British families at the time of foundation of Kasauli. The impressive Gothic structure is built in the shape of a cross and is a prominent landmark of the town.

Monkey Point:

This highest point of Kasauli is 4 kms. from the bus stand. Atop the peak is a small temple of Lord Hanuman. It is believed that the foot of Lord Hanuman touched the peak while he was returning to Lanka with Sanjivani booty, a panoramic view of the plains below and Chandigarh city on one side and beautiful hills on the other side.

Around Kasauli:

Baba Balak Nathji Temple, Garkhai (3 kms):

he sacred shrine of Baba Balak Nathji is set atop the Graner hill. A large number of devotees, especially childless couples from far off places visit the shrine for the blessings of Baba ji.
Another important shrine at Garkhal is dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba ji.

Dagshai (16 kms):

The sleepy picturesque hamlet perched atop a hill was an important cantonment of the Britishers. A large jail was built here herein 1846. Freedom fighters, mutineers and law breakers served rigorous imprisonment here. It is believed that the town got its name from ‘Daage-Shahi’ (marked by royalty), as the convicts of the jail were permanently branded or tattooed. Dagshai has two old churches and an Army Public School.

Sanawar (5 kms):

Lawrence School, one of the most prestigious public schools of India is located here. The school was founded by Sir Hnery M. Lawrence and his wife Honoria on 17th April 1847. Within the large school complex is a fine cathedral.

Sabathu (27 kms):

Small cantonment town and 19th century Gurkha fort.

Nalagarh:

It is famous for the fortified palace adorned with fine frescoes. The palace has now been converted into a hotel.

HOW TO REACH

By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti and Chandigarh.

By Rail: Solan lies on Shimla-Kalka railway line.

By Road: Well connected by road.