Kasauli at a glance
Kasauli is in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, in north India, close to the border with Haryana and Punjab. It's much smaller and calmer than Shimla, with a population of only a few thousand, and much of the town lies within the cantonment.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| State and district | Himachal Pradesh, Solan district |
| Altitude | About 1,800 m |
| Founded | 1842, as a British cantonment |
| From Chandigarh | About 58 km, 1.5–2 hours |
| From Delhi | About 290 km, 6–7 hours |
| From Shimla | About 77 km, 2.5–3 hours |
| Nearest railway | Kalka (broad gauge) or Dharampur (toy train) |
| Nearest airport | Chandigarh |
Why people go
Kasauli suits travellers who want a slow, green weekend rather than a busy sightseeing trip: forest walks, colonial architecture, cafés, sunsets over the plains and quiet nights. It's also a common first or last stop on a longer Shimla or Chail trip, and a favourite of families from Chandigarh, Delhi and Punjab.
What to see
Our places to visit in Kasauli guide covers each in detail.
- Christ Church: a stone Anglican church whose foundation was laid in 1844, first used for services in 1853, with a restored 1880s tower clock.
- The Mall and the Lower Mall: short, walkable streets of old shops, bakeries and bungalows.
- Monkey Point: the town's highest point, with a Hanuman temple, inside an Air Force station with access rules.
- Sunset Point: a viewpoint over the plains, busy in the evening.
- Gilbert Trail: a cliffside forest walk with wide views.
- Nahri temple and its old step well, and the Garkhal gurdwara.
- Nearby: Dagshai's jail museum, Sanawar, Barog and the toy train.
Getting there
Most visitors come by road from Chandigarh, climbing past Parwanoo to Dharampur and turning off for Kasauli, or from Delhi via Chandigarh in about 6 to 7 hours. The nearest railheads are Kalka, on the plains, and Dharampur on the toy train line, about 13 km away. Chandigarh airport is the closest. Our how to reach Kasauli guide has all the options.
When to go
March to June and September to November are the best months: mild, clear and green. July and August bring monsoon rain and mist. Winters are cold, with occasional light snow, and roads usually stay open. Weekends are much busier than weekdays all year. Our weather guide goes month by month.
How many days and where to stay
One night is enough for the main sights, and two nights make a relaxed weekend. Stays range from heritage bungalows and boutique homestays in town to resorts along the roads below. Our where-to-stay guide compares the areas, and our itinerary guide has weekend plans.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Kasauli located?+
In Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, about 58 km from Chandigarh and 77 km from Shimla.
What is the altitude of Kasauli?+
About 1,800 m above sea level.
What is Kasauli famous for?+
Its colonial calm, Christ Church, forest walks like the Gilbert Trail, Monkey Point and sunset views over the plains.
Is Kasauli worth visiting?+
Yes, for a quiet, short break from Chandigarh or Delhi. It's small, so don't expect lots of sights.
How far is Kasauli from Chandigarh?+
About 58 km by road, 1.5 to 2 hours by car.
Is Kasauli better than Shimla?+
Kasauli is quieter, smaller and closer to Chandigarh; Shimla has more to see. Many trips include both.
Are Kasauli and Kasol the same place?+
No. Kasauli is a colonial hill town near Chandigarh in Solan district; Kasol is a riverside village in the Parvati valley near Manali, about 300 km away.
Is Kasauli higher than Shimla?+
No. Kasauli is about 1,800 m; Shimla is about 2,200 m, so Shimla is higher and usually colder.
