Kasauli Travel Guide: My Calm & Cozy Getaway in the Hills of Himachal

After months of city chaos, my friends and I decided we needed a break — something peaceful, green, and full of mountain air. That’s how Kasauli, a quiet hill station in Himachal Pradesh, made it to our list.

We packed our bags, queued up our favorite travel playlist, and drove from Chandigarh to Kasauli one early Friday morning. What followed was three days of pure bliss — misty mornings, colonial charm, and endless laughter over cups of chai with mountain views.

Here’s my full Kasauli Travel Guide, based on our trip — with personal experiences, tips, and the best spots to explore if you’re planning to visit.

How to Reach Kasauli – Getting There Easily

Kasauli is just about 60 km from Chandigarh and 300 km from Delhi, making it one of the most convenient hill getaways in North India.

We took a self-drive car, stopped at dhabas along the way for parathas and chai, and reached Kasauli by afternoon. The journey itself was as refreshing as the destination.

Day 1: Reaching Kasauli – First Impressions

The first thing I noticed about Kasauli was how calm it felt. Unlike overcrowded hill stations, Kasauli has a relaxed, old-world charm — narrow lanes, colonial buildings, and tall pine trees everywhere.

We checked into a cozy hillside hotel near Mall Road that offered a stunning valley view. After a quick fresh-up, we went for an evening stroll. The breeze was cool, and the sound of church bells echoed through the hills.

Places We Explored on Day 1:

• Christ Church: A 19th-century stone church surrounded by deodar trees. Perfect for photography.
• Mall Road: The heart of Kasauli – with small cafes, antique shops, and souvenir stalls.
• Sunset Point: Watching the sun disappear behind the Shivaliks was magical.

We ended the day with hot momos and coffee from a tiny café run by a local family.

Day 2: Exploring Kasauli’s Hidden Gems

The next morning, we woke up early to explore more. The mist had wrapped the entire valley in silver clouds — it looked straight out of a postcard.

Gilbert Trail

One of my favorite spots from the trip, Gilbert Trail, is a peaceful nature walk about 1.5 km long. We saw colorful Himalayan birds, butterflies, and even a few monkeys (so keep snacks hidden!).

Monkey Point

After that, we headed to Monkey Point, the highest point in Kasauli. It’s said to have mythological connections with Lord Hanuman. The Air Force guards this area, so you’ll need to show ID to enter.

From the top, we could see the entire valley — and even Chandigarh’s skyline on a clear day.

Kasauli Brewery

By afternoon, we stopped at the Kasauli Brewery, one of Asia’s oldest distilleries, established in the 1820s. We took a small tour, learned about the brewing process, and yes — tasted some locally made fruit wine!

Evening in Kasauli – Cafés & Chill

Kasauli may be small, but its café culture is surprisingly delightful. We found a few great spots:

We spent the evening just sitting on a rooftop, sipping hot chocolate as the valley lights flickered below — the kind of peace you can’t find anywhere else.

Day 3: Morning Hike & Local Markets

On our last day, we woke up early for a short hike near Lower Mall Road. The air was crisp, and the morning sunlight filtered through the pine trees — it felt like nature’s therapy.

After breakfast, we hit the Tibetan Market, where we found handmade shawls, souvenirs, and silver jewelry. I bought a handwoven muffler that still reminds me of that trip every winter.

Before heading back, we stopped again at Sunset Point, just to soak in that view one last time. It’s funny how the same spot can look completely new depending on the light and your mood.

Where to Stay in Kasauli

We stayed in a mid-range homestay run by a local couple — the hospitality was so warm that it felt like home.

What to Eat in Kasauli

Even though Kasauli is small, the food scene is full of flavor.

Must-Try Local Delicacies:

• Siddu: A steamed Himachali bread filled with walnut paste.
• Maggie & Tea: At every viewpoint – especially Gilbert Trail.
• Bun Samosa: The most popular street snack here.
• Homemade Plum Wine: A Kasauli specialty.

Best Time to Visit Kasauli

We went in March, just before summer began — the perfect balance of cool breezes and clear skies.

Travel Tips for Kasauli

1. Carry warm clothes – Even summers can get chilly at night.
2. Avoid littering – Kasauli is clean and peaceful; let’s keep it that way.
3. Book early – Hotels fill fast during weekends.
4. Try local transport – Walk or hire small cabs; parking can be limited near Mall Road.
5. Respect temple & monastery rules – Silence and photography restrictions may apply.

Best Photo Spots in Kasauli

• Sunset Point – Golden hour magic.
• Christ Church – For vintage architecture lovers.
• Gilbert Trail – Great for nature shots.
• Monkey Point View – Wide-angle valley view.

Final Thoughts – Kasauli Travel Guide

As we drove back down the hills, all four of us were quiet — partly because we didn’t want the trip to end. Kasauli is the kind of place that slows you down in the best way possible.

It’s not about rushing from one tourist spot to another — it’s about sitting by the hills, sipping tea, listening to the wind, and feeling your thoughts untangle.

If you’re planning your next hill escape, skip the crowded towns and choose Kasauli. Trust me, it’ll give you memories warmer than any mountain blanket.