In the Solan district of the state of Himachal Pradesh, lies a cantonment and town, named Kasauli. Established by the British Raj in 1842 as a colonial hill-station, this town is a health resort with a spirit of camaraderie in the moderate climate, simple people, and exotic landmarks. Read on to explore what makes Kasauli the ultimate tourist’s heavenly abode.
The Central Research Institute, originally the Pasteur Institute of India; works as a World Health Organisation collaborating centre, hence attracting dignitaries from all over the world.
The Baptist church, a 1923 brick and wood building, is a unique example of the colonial architecture of the British era.
The Christ church is an Anglican Church which contains Spanish and Italian imported stained glass windows depicting Christ, Mary, Saint Barnabas and Saint Francis.
Kasauli club was established as the Kasauli Reading and Assembly rooms for the exclusive use of the British Raj to hold meetings, tea and dinner dances, and galas; it is currently located within Indian Army premises.
The Gilbert trail is home to many wildlife species, including the Sambar deer.
Nahri temple thought to have constructed around 150 years ago, is renowned for its festive celebrations of Dussehra and Shivratri. There is a century-old ‘bauri’ that still offers potable water.
Manki Point is situated in the ‘Air Force Station’. According to the Ramayana myth, when Lord Hanuman was returning from the Himalayas after acquiring the “Sanjivany Booty,” one of his feet touched the hill; that is why the top of the hill is in the shape of a foot. On starry and clear nights, one can see a stunning view of Chandigarh from Manki Point.
Beja State is one of the 18 Shimla Hill States, situated just below Kasauli, bordered by Mahlog, Patiala, Kuthar and the Bharauli tract of Shimla District.
You can eat at the NH22 Dhaba, pray at Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak, and shop at the Garkhal Bazaar.
Kasauli Brewery and distillery is the oldest extant distillery for ‘scotch whisky’ in Asia. Need I say more?