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The beauty of Solan lies in the combination of the lush green landscapes and the wide range of temples, monasteries and other religious spots. Solan is a tourist-heavy district in Himachal Pradesh that unveils the beauty of the lower Shivaliks. With unique architecture and historical stories, there are several things to do in Solan while exploring the region. It offers diverse experiences to both adventurous and spiritual souls. If you want to immerse yourself in the charm and unfiltered beauty of nature and adventure, planning a trip to Solan is an absolute must.
Top 10 Things To Do In Solan
With the different kinds of attractions and tourist spots, there are a lot of things to do in Solan that appease the travel bug of every visitor.
1. Pay Homage At Shoolini Mata Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The best way to start your Solan exploration is by visiting the famous Shoolini Mata Temple. The temple is dedicated to Shoolina Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, and is believed to be centuries old. One of the highlights of this temple lies in its intricate architecture. According to legends, the temple is currently built on top of another older temple that depicts the history of Solan. The history of this temple is associated with Narasimha who couldn’t control his anger after killing Hiranyakashipu. To calm him down, Lord Shiva manifested as Sharabha and Maa Shoolini also manifested simultaneously.
Location: Anji, Himachal Pradesh 173221
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: NA
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2. Explore Majathal Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Geronimo / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A popular spot among wildlife enthusiasts, Majathal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Solan for nature lovers. It is located around 10 km from Kacha Road and is the perfect spot to get a glimpse into the rich flora and fauna that exists in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district. The sanctuary is especially known for its population of the endangered cheer pheasant and the majestic goral. Beyond embarking on wildlife safaris, you can also take your time to explore the surrounding nature trails, trekking spots and indulge in wildlife photography as well. The sanctuary’s high-altitude location also offers amazing views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Location: Majathal Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh 171103
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50
3. Seek Solace At Menri Monastery
Photo: Nenad Spasojevic / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Another must-visit spot to explore in Solan is Menri Monastery. It is the largest Tibetan refugee monastery in India that was established by His Holiness- the Dalai Lama in 1966. At present, the monastery houses over 300 monks and serves as a vital centre for the preservation of Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Over the last five decades, the monastery has taught 200 Geshes, Tulkus, and Rinpoches and shared a lot about the Bon tradition. The monastery also offers teachings and meditation sessions for those seeking a deeper spiritual connection.
Location: Dolanji, Ganyar, Himachal Pradesh 173223
Timings: 09 AM – 06 PM
Entry Fee: NA
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4. Dig Into History At Nalagarh Fort
Photo: Unpetitprole / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For a dive into the rich history of Solan and its nearby areas, make your way to Nalagarh Fort, which is perched on top of a small hillock. It offers a glimpse into the past of Solan since its origin dates back to the 14th century. The fort was once a formidable stronghold and later served as the summer residence of the former rulers of Nalagarh. Inside the fort, you can find a variety of unique structures and remnants. From the top of the fort, you can witness amazing views of the surrounding Sirsa River and Shivalik River.
Location: Raj Mahal, Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh 174101
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20
5. Explore Colonial Spots At Kasauli
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Located a short drive from Solan, Kasauli is another one of the best spots you can plan a day trip to. Established by the British in 1842, Kasauli retains its colonial legacy in its architecture and ambiance. Here, you can explore Mall Road that is lined with heritage buildings and quaint cafes to help you truly immerse yourself in the colonial vibes. You can also visit the popular Christ Church or explore Monkey Point to witness amazing views of the surrounding hills from there. If you are looking for a laid-back experience, visiting Kasauli is an absolute must.
Distance From Solan: 23 km
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NA
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6. Explore Kuthar Fort
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Kuthar Fort, an ancient fort dating back to around 800 years, exudes the rich history and heritage of Solan. It is a fairly small fort but holds a lot of historical significance. The fort was constructed by the Gurkha kings and initially served as the residence of the royal family of Kuthar. The fort is spread across an area of 52.8 sq.m and is known for the lush green gardens in front. There are ancient temples inside the fort as well.
Location: State Highway 9 Kishangarh, Kuthar, Himachal Pradesh 173206
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50
7. Enjoy The Beauty Of Chail
Photo: Shubhankar Sakalkale / Wikimedia Commons
If you are wondering what to do in Solan, plan a visit to Chail from there. This quaint hill station is known for its serene landscapes and laid-back experiences. Home to the world’s highest cricket ground and the majestic Chail Palace, this town offers a perfect blend of nature and history. Another must-visit spot that’s worth visiting while in Chail is the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary where you can witness a variety of wildlife and go on trekking and hiking expeditions. The hill station was built by the former Maharaja of Patiala and offers a perfect getaway during the summer months.
Location: Sadhupul Himachal Pradesh 173217
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NA
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8. Trek To Karol Tibba
Photo: Kir360 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Karol Tibba is one of the highest peaks in the Solan region, offering spectacular views and adventurous experiences. You can enjoy trekking to Karol Tibba through dense forests, rugged terrains and ancient temples, adding to the thrill of the journey. One of the most popular spots to visit on the way is the Pandava Cave, which has direct associations with the Mahabharata. Once you reach the summit of Karol Tibba, prepare yourself to explore the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the distant snow-capped peaks. This 11 km trek starts from Chambaghat and continues until the Maa Kali temple.
Location: Chambaghat, Himachal Pradesh 173213
Timings: Daylight hours
Entry Fee: NA
9. Visit Dagshai Jail Museum
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
Another experience that you can have here is by visiting the Dagshai Jail Museum, which offers a peek into the colonial era. Originally a British prison, the museum now showcases artefacts, documents, and photographs from the British Raj period. As you enter the museum and explore the surroundings, prepare to be blown away by the solitary cells, gallows, and old barracks, offering a glimpse into the harsh conditions faced by prisoners during that time. Also, the museum is both educational and intriguing where you can dig into the past of the Solan district elaborately.
Location: Dagshai, Himachal Pradesh 173210
Timings: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 3 PM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50
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10. Visit The Solan Railway Station
Photo: Andrew Gray / Wikimedia Commons
Now, you might be thinking, ‘what’s there in a railway station?’ Solan Railway Station is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage— Kalka-Shimla Railway, and is a charming station that reflects the colonial architecture and charm of the British colonial era. The toy train ride from Kalka to Solan is an experience in itself, offering picturesque views of the hills, valleys, and quaint villages. As you step into the station, it helps you cherish the old-world charm, which makes it a great spot for both photographers and leisurely visitors.
Location: Railway Station Rd, Lawi Khurd, Solan, Himachal Pradesh 173212
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NA
There are a plethora of things to do in Solan that cater to nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and people of varying age groups. It offers a peaceful respite from the otherwise hectic schedule of life, enabling you to soak in the views of nature around you. Plan your next big vacation to Himachal Pradesh with TripXL to secure the best deals and discounts as you plan your itinerary and budget your trip.
