Kasauli – A Quiet Vacation
The first image of Kasauli that flashes in my mind is of beautiful, lush green pine trees. Serene Blue Mountains are seen afar through the bushes and trees. There’s a strange, mellow quietness about Kasauli, which I don’t think I found anywhere else. It just envelops you in its own haven of tranquillity. It is laziness personified – if you are one of those people who love to lounge, eat and wander aimlessly, Kasauli is waiting for you!
“I am losing precious days. I am degenerating into a machine for making money. I am learning nothing in this trivial world of men. I must break away and get out into the mountains to learn the news” ― John Muir
Perhaps this is the best time to learn a few lessons and get back to the modest things of life that give real joy – the joy of experiencing the hills, the morning glow of sunlight, nature walks, peace in the heart and pure air to breathe in.
My slow travel guide to Kasauli
Savour the colonial legacy – Churches and schools.
Besides nestling in the nature’s abode, you have quite a few things to take back home- the town’s colonial legacy and history. Kasauli came into being in the 18th century with the reign of the British Raj. It is renowned to have some of the classic colonial buildings – schools and churches.
Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India, accentuates the remarkable colonial architecture. It has colourful Italian-Spanish stained-glass windows depicting biblical characters.
I even had a chance to have a quick chat with the church’s pastor, who stays in the same premises. He was a simple guy, quite keen on sharing insights on Kasauli and the churches of Himachal Pradesh.
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Enjoy the peace. Get away from your city-life.
Kasauli is not just a getaway for a regular tourist, but a perfect rejuvenation for a traveller who’s seeking solitude. If you are tired of your city life, such a place can help you forget your worries and re-energise your mind.
The good thing about the hill station is that it’s free from rush and noise, the very feeling of which relaxes you, and allows you to chew on each moment.
Also read: The Pleasures Of Slow Travel At Bob’s Place
It’s a perfect writer’s abode and a reader’s paradise.
Are you a writer? You must plan a slow travel in Kasauli and take in the quiet vibe. Well, a place where Ruskin Bond was born is sure going to stir up your writer’s mind. I’m sure you will pen down your heart’s finest expressions.
Besides, a vacation like this is also a great excuse to finish those unfinished books. Get your reading stock, find yourself a comfy space, brew some coffee and immerse yourself into the world of books!
Explore the backyards and orchards.
Although there’s upper mall and lower mall to explore, I particularly enjoyed rambling through the residential area, which was something unaccustomed for a townie like me. A stroll through the beautifully built houses with pretty backyards and orchards amidst untamed, rustic natural vicinity is an inviting bargain.
I hadn’t come across a hill station with so many dwelling options. I mean, a typical hill station is bustling with hotels, restaurants and shops; Kasauli has that too, however, it is still a quiet town.
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You can visit the highest spot of Kasauli – The Monkey Point.
As the name suggests, there are monkeys to annoy you a bit, but as long as you ignore them, they don’t pester. There are quite a few stories behind the place ‘Monkey Point’, which our cabby narrated to us – It is called Monkey Point because if you visit it, apparently your heart’s desires come true. I don’t know how true that is, but that’s the highest peak of Kasauli. Thus, it’s a sought-after spot for panoramic views of the town.
There is a small temple on top of the hill, which is seen from afar. Although we did not visit the temple, we could comprehend the thrill of ascending to the top for beautiful views.
I envy such places for their ‘ignorance’ that remains unperturbed. A town like Kasauli is barely aware of the fast-paced, busy and crowded world that we live in. I am grateful that we still have some glimpses of sleepy quietude to glance at once in a while.
Also read: My favourite Places For Slow Travel
Where to stay in Kasauli?
Well, I’m sure there are many hotels and guest houses in Kasauli. However, I’d like to recommend Ros Common, a Himachal Govt. tourist guest house, for your stay. It’s a simple, modest and a charming place to stay in Kasauli.
We stayed in a suite at Ros Common, which was quite huge and spacious. There were large glass windows, which allow you to have a constant view of the mountains.
Besides, I simply loved the food and chai served at Ros Common. They have a lovely lawn in the front yard, where you can sit through the day, soak sun, have tea and gaze the mountains.
How to reach Kasauli?
Take a Shatabdi from New Delhi to Kalka. Kasauli is 35 km away from Kalka Station. Thus, it’s an easy reach from Delhi.
Responsible Travel tips for Kasauli
Well, if you are curious, you can discover quite a few interesting things to do in Kasauli. However, be a responsible traveller. Make sustainable travel choices, such as minimise the use of plastic, dispose garbage correctly, use water and electricity wisely, and choose to walk wherever possible.
Our hill stations are bearing the brunt of over-tourism. Let’s resolve to limit our activities as a traveller in a quiet place like Kasauli and preserve its modesty.
Have you been to Kasauli?
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