Kasauli has been the well-kept secret of a few Dilliwallas who are jealously possessive of this lazy paradise in the Shivaliks. Kasauliwallas, even more protective of their town, have set up a Society for Protection of Kasauli that has indeed succeeded in keeping at bay the hideous over-development that has ruined Shimla.

Strolling down the town’s quiet lanes lined with aged chestnut trees will help you rid your mind of its clutter and your body of its lassitude.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Kasauli is designed for those who love to do nothing. If you do, however, want to get some exercise, you can trudge up the surrounding hills. You could also stroll through the town, from the Lower Mall to the Upper Mall, and around the Sanatorium. Different points along the stretch offer magnificent views of the Himalayan peaks in the distance.

Kasauli, the perfect getaway for those seeking peace and rejuvenation
Kasauli, the perfect getaway for those seeking peace and rejuvenation
Bharat Aggarwal

Walks and Vistas

The 4-km hike to the Shri Baba Balak Nath Temple is a bit strenuous, so take it easy if you are out of practice. The view is worth it. Kasauli also offers stunning sights of the snow-clad Dhauladhar Range and in the northeast, the Choor Chandni Peak.

Birdwatching and Picnics

Kasauli is the perfect place to stalk flycatchers, minivets and magpies, among other exotic birds. You might even get lucky and spot a deer or hyena loping through the undergrowth. The townsfolk say there are leopards too, but sightings are rare.

WHERE TO STAY

Among the hotels right in town, Alasia (Tel: 01792-272008; Tariff: ₹4,000–6,000) is a lovely option. HPTDC’s Hotel Ros Common (Tel: 272005; Tariff: ₹2,200–3,700) is a former Colonial bungalow. R Maidens (Tel: 272128; Tariff: ₹1,200–4,000) is affordable. The popular Kasauli Resort (Tel: 273651/ 54; Tariff: ₹5,800–9,000) has a restaurant, TV, lawn, table tennis and billiards. Baikunth Resorts (Cell: 09857166230; Tariff: ₹8,000–9,500), has aesthetically designed cottages with balconies.

To ride the ropeway (return fare: ₹770 per adult; ₹650 per child, daily; Timings: 9.00am–5.30pm), break journey at the Timber Trail Resort (Tel: 01792-232340/ 43; Tariff: ₹4,900–6,000) on the highway at Parwanoo, and ride up to the Timber Trail Heights Resort (Tel: 232340-43; Tariff: ₹6,000–8,000). Both places have a restaurant and bar. There are some budget hotels near the bus stop and on the way to the Upper Mall, including the reasonably priced Anchal Hotel (Tel: 272701; Tariff: ₹600–1,200) and Gian Hotel (Tel: 272244; Tariff: ₹800–1,100).

WHERE TO EAT

Eating options in Kasauli are largely limited to the restaurants in the hotels. Alasia’s restaurant has traditionally been the best choice for meals. Baikunth Restaurant has excellent food. The little stall-market near the cinema hall is a great place for bun-samosa and chai.

THE INFORMATION

WHEN TO GO All year round

Tourist Office

HPTDC, Hotel Ross Common, Kasauli, Tel: 01792-272005, STD code 01792

GETTING THERE

Air Nearest airport: Chandigarh (60km/ 1hr). Taxi to Kasauli costs ₹2,000

Rail Nearest railhead: Kalka (34km/ 1hr) Taxi is ₹1,150–1,350

Road Kasauli is just 10 km off NH22.Drive from Delhi till Dharampur Bus Ordinary and deluxe buses ply from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Shimla. Take a local connection to reach Kasauli