by La pinekonez kasauli | Jan 20, 2018 | KASAULI BLOG
Places to drop by in kasauli
Kasauli is one of the spic and span hill stations in north india. Kasauli is a small hill town and is located between 30/54’ north latitude and 76/78’ east longitude. Overlooking the plains, it is about 6000 feet above sea level and is known for its cleanliness and beautiful panorama. Kasauli, enjoying proximity to the plains draws a large number of weekend tourists, reminds one of the bygone British Raj.
Surrounded with green hills, old cottages,with a breathtaking view of the snowcapped Himalayas on the horizon and a fresh air to breathe. The town is famous for its landmarks and for its favourable climate all year round. Kasauli charm includes everything from nature walks , quaint cobbled street,heritage buildings, and of course, scenic views at every step.
Distance
From New Delhi- 290.6 kms via NH 44
From Chandigarh – 65 kms
Duration of journey – 6 hrs 40 min
Weather In Kasauli
Winters – Max: 15degrees Min 2 degrees.
Summers – Max : 30 degrees Min 15 degrees.
Kasauli is known for its pleasant climate conditions. It’s being easily approachable from the plains makes it an ideal getaway for the tourists. It isn’t heavily crowded by the tourists so one can enjoy clean pollution free air .
How to travel in and around kasauli
There is a saying ” In hills its a fashion to walk than to ride in a car “. It would be a wise option to take local mode of transportation either by taxi or local bus . There is a frequent bus service to kasauli after every half an hour. Lately free electric taxis are available from mall road to monkey point.
Clothes to wear in Kasauli
DECEMBER TO MARCH : One must carry heavy woolens as the weather can change any moment.
APRIL TO JULY : One must carry light jacket or a shawl and t-shirts.
JULY TO SEPTEMBER: An umbrella is a must as it’s rainy season. Light jacket and shawl would be recommended.
MONKEY POINT
Monkey Point is the highest point of the town of Kasauli equivalent to shimla and is among the the attractions in kasauli and is very popular places to visit in kasauli. From here one can get a complete panoramic view of the plains of Chandigarh region and the river kaushalya flowing through the valleys. One can also spot a snow covered peak of chur dhar which is the highest peak of the surrounding region.A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is also situated at the Monkey Point. Lord Hanuman set his foot on this peak while returning from Himalayas with Sanjeevani booti. The top of hill is in a foot shape and the temple is said to be engraved with footmarks of the Hanuman.
SUNSET POINT
Sunset point is one of the most popular viewpoints in Kasauli. This place gets thronged by tourists at the time of sunset. Enjoy the site of orange-coloured sun setting in the plains. Serene surrounding and a pleasant climate with whistling pines makes the experience even more memorable. Treat your eyes to the picturesque views of the plains, villages and green valleys while the sun is setting down. This area is popular among the tourists and one can enjoy the sunset and a quiet nature walk with an amazing scenery. It offers a bird eye view of the plains.
GILBERT TRAIL
A little ahead of the sunset point is the gilbert trail.For lovers of natural beauty can enjoy long walks admits the pine trees and capture some breathtaking sceneries .The route is well-marked as is one of the most popular hikes in the area.this unique experience is especially good if you’re hiking as a family. The kids will love watching the wild animals roaming around.
THE HERITAGE MARKET
The Heritage market in kasauli does not posses any ornamental facade to announce its presence, but the heritage market is no less important in its historical value. One can enjoy a walk down the cobbled pathway into the heritage market which has witnessed well known personalities from writers to film directors taking a stroll here. One can get many eating options here. You must try the famous bun samosas of kasauli at the local tannu halwais shop.You can shop for souvenirs from various shops in the market.
SHARMA PHOTO STUDIO
The Sharma photo studio situated in the jakki mull building. Its more of a heritage shop than a photo studio with rare photographs of British raj. One gets to see Viceroys, Army Generals, Famous writers and Film stars. The fading pictures on the display cases are worth admiring.
Khushwant singh , sanjay dutt, protima bedi, pooja bedi from right to left.
CHURCH OF ENGLAND
Adjoining to the Sharma photo studio is the church of England. It was set up as a retreat for the British army men and their families. It was previously known as the Anglican church. With a picturesque location admist Chestnut and fir trees surrounding this 159-year-old structure.Built in the shape of a cross, the church was built by the British families who also laid the foundation of Kasauli town in 1842. About 30 families, belonging to the Protestant Christians, worshiped here besides the tourists visiting the town.
KASAULI CLUB
It was established in 1880 with a joint effort of civilans and service personnel as the kasauli reading cum assembly room. It was named kasauli club Ltd in 1898 when a limited company was established. There is a dress code to be followed by the members and current waiting period is 25 yrs to become its member.Kasauli club is situated on the upper mall in a very scenic location. The cool breeze of the deodar and the pine trees greets one with affection.
Toy Train Ride
The toy train in kasauli is one of the three such trains still functioning in India , the other two in ooty and darjeeling . It is said a local holy man guided the british surveyers where to lay the rail track.You can travel by taxi to Dharampur bus stand below which is the Dharampur railway station true for you through the dense pine forests and tunnels and the heritage Barog tunnel.
Toy Train
Birding in kasauli
Birdwatching involves a lot of auditory component, as many bird species of birds are more easily detected and identified by ear than by eye. Kasauli may be a small hill station, but it is varied land and has much more to offer than its famous Bun samosa’s and momo’s. Kasauli has stunning landscapes. If you like to combine the thrill of birding with a little gentle walking and appreciation of the nature, Kasauli is for you. Have you ever thought about bird watching on your kasauli vacation as a family activity? It would an excellent means of getting children out of the hotel room and engage in the environment and outdoor activities.
Nature Walks in Kasauli
Rest a while in the sunshine and savour the wonderful scenery. Mighty hills, deep-green pine forests, picturesque valleys, Kasauli is a paradise for nature-lovers. Discover the pristine nature, flora and fauna and seek inspiration in places of tranquillity and energy.Your local guide brings everything to life, and helps you spot the birds and animals that make kasauli jungles their home .Explore the beauty of our trails with a local guide to lead you through the diverse ecology of kasauli. Come with weather appropriate clothes and shoes for moderate levels of walking – inclines or uneven ground may be encountered on this walk. We take you for nature walks in kasauli, away from the noise and pollution of major roads and off beaten tourist tracks giving you insights into the rural way of life in local himachali villages around kasauli. Our walks take you out into a rural setting for experiencing the traditions and customs associated with local villages.
Mohan Meakins Wine Distillery
Situated in a picturesque location of snow covered mountains with fresh spring water made Edward Dyer Father of Col dyer responsible for the Jaillian wala bagh masacre) to set up the first brewery in kasauli. This later came to be known as Dyer Breweries in the year 1820s. Kasauli Brewery is supposed to be the world’s highest distillery the Himalayas and happens to be the first distillery for Scotch Wiskey in Asia. The entire equipment for the unit was imported from England and Scotland and still being used in the distillery . Since fresh spring water was available in Kussowlie so Edward decided to set up his unit here. Primary reason for setting up the Brewrey unit was the climatic condition similar to scotland and a market sponsored by the British and civilians and the nearby consumer market. In the begining India Pale Ale and malt whisky were the first brands of the distillery. With the increase in population and lack of spring water supply the brewery to be shifted to Solan.
Black Retriever in Kasauli.
Kasauli is a beautiful little town facing the himalayan ranges that the Britishers established way back in the year 1842. This heritage town has numerous buildings, some preserved while others are in a bad state.
However, this sculptor of a black dog guarding the ‘English Wine Shop’ of Kalyan Hotel would definetly catch your eye.Similar to the story about the Japanese dog, Hachiko (the faithful), whose bronze statue at Shibuya train station in Tokyo is a reminder of dog’s affection and loyalty for its owner. Indeed it is a memorial to a true friend, and a ‘hero’ of Kasauli. This old building on the ‘Y’ junction on the mall road which was earlier a chemist and druggist store known as “B.Kalicharan & Sons” owned by Mr Kalicharan who was a richest landlord of his time in the town who had a large clout and influence in the area. The DC of Kasauli, who was a representative of the British Queen, would walk behind him when Seth Kalicharan took a walk on the Kasauli mall.Since drug stores at that time, were also the licensed wine shops, used to have lots of cash, and one day, some thieves broke into the shop and robbed it off imported wines and trinkets and cash. While the robbery was in progress, the Black Retriever of Sethji attacked the robbers who fled from the scene. Our ‘Hero’ immediately woke up the owner, and led the police to the robbers who were caught sharing the booty.His fame grew and an Englishman photographed the dog, and sent the picture to a bronze foundry in North Devon in England, where the statue was built and shipped back to India. It was installed outside the Sethji’s shop as a memorial to, what Daarji also says, “Man’s Best Friend”.So next time, you are in Kasauli, do stop by and appreciate this sculptor.
ANTIQUE STEPHEN INK THERMOMETRE
On the lower mall in kasauli in Alasia Hotel a large advertising Stephens Inks Thermometer made in 1890, carrying old chips and blemishes from the carriage of time. Still in working condition and a genuine piece of vintage advertising.
