Mend your soul, feel the sun’s rays in the hills, leave behind the concrete jungle and move ahead to conquer the mountains. Every youngster who is born in a metropolis is fascinated by the mountains and the serenity that surrounds their valleys. However, the mountains remain a mystery and no matter how well you know them, they will still manage to surprise you. It’s no game, it’s a matter of belief and an urge to be there at any cost, whenever the mountains call. And I never say no.
Kasauli is called the Queen of Hills. It lies at a height of 1,927 metres (6,322) ft. This town in the Solan district of Indian state Himachal Pradesh serves as a cantonment since the British era. Established by the British Raj in 1842 as a colonial hill station, 77 km from Shimla, 65 km from Chandigarh and 26 km from Kalka (Haryana), it is very well connected by public transport and accessible through driving as well. Escaping the chaos and fast paced life in a metro city, one can be assured of a relaxing yet refreshing time in Kasauli.
Entrance to the Heritage Market, a pedestrian area off the main road (called Mall all across Himachal Pradesh). It has shops selling toys, linens, woollens and flip flops at good prices. Many eateries offer delicious snacks like jalebis, momos, samosas and coffee. Watch out for the monkeys and keep all eatables hidden in your bags!
It’s a beautiful market down the road. Shops on the left and a wall on the right makes it a beautiful corridor. You’ll feel as if you’re walking in some European town as the roads and the shops have the lush green mountains as their background. One would be reminded of this town’s colonial history.
Established as a retreat for the British armymen and their families in 1842, this cantonment town houses some of the most tastefully done buildings, reminiscent of the erstwhile English architecture.
There is statue of legendary hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand at the end of the first market. From there a second market starts with more eateries and shops.
One thing about the hills is that vegetables and fruit shops are quite organised and clean. They also offers a wide variety of products, hard to find even in the metros.
Entry gate to the Kasauli Military Station. Being a cantonment area you’ll find military and air force station along with the retired officers’ bungalows.
Cafe Mantra is a small heaven in the hills. Located in the main market, this cafe has the most creative ambience, laidback seating, delicious food and amazing music which makes it a must visit.
Bed covers sell like hot cakes in the market of Kasauli.
This man was setting up his plastic toys shop. Kids passing by can’t resist checking out the toys.
