Kasauli - its snow clad mountains OR Mohan Meakin Brewery
STATE - HIMACHAL PRADESH
DISTANCE - 77 KM From Shimla, 70 KM From Chandigarh, 325 KM From Delhi
CONNECTION
By Air : The closest airport from Kasauli is in Chandigarh which is 65 km away. From there a cab will bring you to Kasauli.
By Rail : The nearest railhead from Kasauli is in Kalka which is 40 km away.
By Road : Buses, coaches and taxis are quiet frequent from Kasauli to Chandigarh and Delhi. For those driving from Delhi, take NH 1 to Ambala crossing Sonepat and Karnal. From Ambala, take NH 22 for Kasauli. The route will pass Zirakpur, Panchkula, Pinjore, Parwanoo, Dharampur. From Dharampur, a narrow hill road will take you to Kasauli.
ABOUT KASAULI
Kasauli serenely composed hill town situated in Himachal Pradesh, Kasauli was discovered by the British. It is undoubtedly one of the most attractive works of nature as well as one of the best kept secrets. The birth place of Indian Wordsworth Ruskin Bond, charms every visitor looking for quiet break in hilly environs. Serene country lanes laced with old chestnut trees, cool breeze telling romantic stories of colonial days, melodious sound of birds, aged colonial houses thick with memories, tall dark pine trees dotted on the outer edges make it appear like a straight lift from the stories of Ruskin Bond.
The peacefulness, stillness and the freshness of the place effortlessly provide immense relief to the visitors.Explore the quite lanes, go for long walks while humming your favourite song, enjoy the laughter of the birds, wonder at the architectural skills of nature- stunning landscapes and lush greenery. Kasauli is blissful.
PLACES OF INTERESTS IN KASAULI
Monkey Point : This is the highest point in Kasauli and is the same place where Lord Hanumana is believed to have set his feet while on his way to look for the Sanjeevani herb. The point is around 4 km from the Kasauli bus stand and at the top of it is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanumana. The temple lies within the premises of the air force base as such there are a few restrictions involved. You are not allowed to carry either a bag or a camera inside. The hike upto the temple can be a bit taxing for those who are not used to climbing, however, it is worth an effort. The views from atop the hill is simply magnificent if the day is clear. You can watch the brilliant sparkle of Sutlej river as it makes it way through the plains and the pure beauty of the snow capped peaks of the Dhauladhar range.
Sanawar : Sanawar is a meagre six km from the town of Kasauli at an altitude of the 1750 m. The place is home to one of the major tourists attractions of the region - Lawrence School at Sanawar. This school was founded by Sir Henry M. Lawrence and his wife Honoria more than a century and half back. The school was initially started with 14 boys and girls, and is today one of the best schools in the country. In between, in the year 1853, the British Empire awarded it with the Kings Colours. This is an honour that was bestowed upon only six schools worldover by the British Empire.
Dharampur : Dharamapur is situated at a distance of around 15 km from Kasauli and is known for its hospital. This hospital is considered one of the best in the country for the treatment of tuberculosis. The fresh air of Dharamapur is extremely relaxing. Visit it to feel a renewed vigour in your heart and soul.
Dagshai : Once a favourite haunt of the British families, Dagshai is today very less frequented by tourists. Nonetheless, its freshness is still binding. Infact, it gives you a much more of a 'discovering feeling' than Kasauli itself. Walk around the paths and rest under the canopy of oaks and holly forests, the magic of Dagshai will slowly overpower you. Dagshai is just 19 km away from Kasauli.
Sabathu : The main attraction here is the Gurkha fort which was constructed in the 19th century. The town was home to the British soldiers during the erstwhile era.
RELIGIOUS PLACES IN KASAULI
Christ Church : This church, situated close to the bus stand, was constructed by the the British family who founded the town of Kasauli itself. The church is a magnificent structure built in the shape of a cross. Set amidst a grove of chestnut and fir trees, the church is a place of worship for around 30 families. Apart from them, tourists too flock this church in large number. Earlier the church was known by the name of Anglican Church. In the year 1970, the church was brought under the aegis of the CNI (Churches of North India). It is currently managed by the diocese of Amritsar.
Baba Balak Nath Temple : 3 km On the Graner Hill top is a famous temple of Sidh Baba Balak Nathji. It is believed that Baba Balak Nath ji one night appeared told in dreams of a local resident named Vijay Kumar and him to built a temple at the place, where the present temple is located.
Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir : Built in 1989 by Sai Sudha trust us a famous temple located half km. away from Garkhal. The idol of Sai Baba was built a Jaipur and the burning flame in this temple signifies the devine power of Saibabaji of Shiridi.
WHEN TO GO KASAULI
Kasauli's at its best between April and November, when the weather's pleasant and not too cold. Deep winter (January-February) has temperatures hovering between 10 and 20°C, while peak summer- May and June- sees the mercury hit as high as 32°C.
WEATHER FORECAST
Summer is ideal for traveling to Kasauli, as the weather is pleasing and romantic. Days are little warm and nights are mainly cool. Most of the tourism takes place during this season, as the place gives respite from scorching heat of the Indian plains. Summer starts from the month of April and lasts till June. Light cotton clothes are ideal for travelers in this season.
Monsoon in Kasuali starts in the month of June and lasts till the month of September. Most of the rain takes place in the month of July and August. During this season, the weather becomes very romantic and the whole valley looks extremely picturesque. It is the perfect time for honeymoon couples, who are looking forward to develop an everlasting bond.
Winter in Kasauli last from November to February and are chilly. Rare snowing during winters makes the place even more attractive. Climatic condition during winter is not unbearable also, but definitely much more cold than the plains. Heavy woolen clothes are recommended, as temperature can dip down to freezing point also.
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS IN KASAULI
Important festivals in Kasauli are winter carnival show in February, Mandi Shivaratri in March and Manimahesh fair in August. These are the festivals celebrated with great gaiety and fervor.
FOOD AND RESTURANTS IN KASAULI
Delicious Cuisines of Kasauli: Maadra: Maadra is one of the popular recipes of Himachal Pradesh. It is made up of chickpea, curd and ghee. Other ingredients used for the preparation are black currants, chuarey, tej patta and spices. Kadhi:Kadhi is most favorite dish of Kasauli. It is prepared in all the regions of Himachal Pradesh. It is a besan and curd based cuisine and great in taste. Cloves, methi seeds, salt, asafetida, onion, chili, haldi and coriander paste are also added for enhancing the taste. Poppy Seeds Halwa:Poppy seeds halva is well liked sweet dish of Himachal Pradesh. It is made up of poppy seeds, sugar and milk. Other important constituents used for cooking the halva are dry coconut, butter, cardamom, ghee and dry fruits. It is prepared on medium flames and garnished with dry fruits. Green Ginger Tea:It is popular refreshing tea of Himachal Pradesh. People of Kasauli well like this tea. For the preparation of salubrious green tea major ingredients used are ground cinnamon, ginger, green tea bags, spices, brown sugar, water and milk. Dham: Dham is well recognized traditional recipe of Himachal Pradesh. Generally it is prepared during the special events and religious festivals. The dish is prepared with rice, moong dal and spices. It is cooked with Rajma in Yoghurt. The recipe is great in taste. Tandoori Roti: People of Kasauli are fond of Tandoori roti. The recipe is prepared from wheat flour, baking powder, yogurt, maida, milk and ghee. The breads are cooked in special tandoor device. These breads are very delicious and can be served with veg or non veg curry. Maa-ki-dal: Maa ki dal is also known as daal makhani. This is black gram dal based recipe. Tomatoes and ginger, rajma, coriander, onions, garlic, cloves, curd, cream, garam masala, dhania powder and chilies are the major constituents used for the preparation. It is one of the lipsmacking dishes.