Kasauli is a pocket of paradise in the Shivaliks. It is one of the most enjoyable and accebile getaways just 35 minutes away drive from Chandigarh. Developed by the British in the 19th century, the town retains the charm of a colonial cantonment with its quiet cobbled sun-dappled paths lined with cottages, orchards and tall old trees. With a cool fresh mountain breeze tinged with the scent of pines, soothing bird song and quietude, Kasuali is an ideal destination for a rejuvenating holiday and a short weekend trip. At night the plains below morph into a mesmeric sea of twinkling lights.
Chail, just 2-3 hours away from Chandigarh, is a wonderful place, the beauty of which captivates all. Located amidst the clouds and the sprawling greens, Chail is a hideaway for for honeymooners and couples. Its charm will turn you into a poet. The pollution free environment and weather of Chail is amazing throughout the year. Summers are charming with warm days and cool nights. In wintertime, this place is nothing less than a paradise, when the snow covers it. The major attractions of Chail include the beautiful orchards and snow-capped Shivalik peaks.
Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations of India and is just 3 hours away from Chandigarh. It is located at an altitude of 2,159 m in the lower Himalayan range and is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Its lush green woods of pine, cedar, and oak are fascinating and home to the wildlife as well. There is an endless list of places of attraction in Shimla that includes Annandale playground, Chadwick Falls, Tara Devi Temple, Christ Church (St. Michael’s Cathedral), Jakhu Temple, Mahatma Gandhi’s Retreat, Shimla State Museum, etc.
Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station in the state of Uttaranchal and is just 3 hours away from Chandigarh. Like a paradise spread over a vast carpet of greenery coupled with a rich variety of flora and fauna, breathtaking views of the snow capped mountains and a town buzzing with activity, Mussoorie marks a perfect destination for a memorable holiday. The rays of the sun reflecting on the snow-capped peaks, the valleys adorned with vibrant flowers, and the gushing streams are a treat to sore eyes.
4 hours away from Chandigarh, Amritsar is a significant city in the north-western part of India. It is the religious centre for the Sikh religion and has the administrative headquarters of the Amritsar district in the state of Punjab. It is home to the Harmandir Sahib (referred to as the “Golden Temple” in the western media), the spiritual and cultural center for the Sikh religion. This important Sikh shrine attracts more visitors than the Taj Mahal with more than 100,000 visitors on week days alone and is the most popular destination for Non-resident Indians (NRI). The city also houses the Sikh temporal and political authority, Akal Takht, as well as the Sikh Parliament. It is situated adjoining Pakistan with the Wagah border only being 28 km (17.5 mi) to the west with the nearest city Lahore, the second largest city in Pakistan being located just 50 km away.
Dalhousie is yet another beautiful hill station built on five hills, which offers a pleasant trekking experience to toddlers as well as serious trekkers. This picturesque spot, just 7 hours away from Chandigarh, is a tiny hospice, which lies at the base of the Dhauladhar mountain range. This scenic valley offers impressive views of hills concluding in the flurry of mountains and verdant valleys. Its majestic rivers that twirl and spin amidst the lush dense woods of the planes makes for picturesque views.
Manali, known as the queen of valleys, is one of the most beautiful hill stations of the world. Situated in the lower Himalayas, it is closely knitted with the legendary law giver of ancient India, Manu. With sky scraping mountains bounded by blizzards and deep rock spread ravines, Manali presents a distinguished holiday spot for all. A gushy river flowing everywhere along, some amazing water sports, ancient temples, the Russian tourist attraction in old Manali and a lot of beautiful hideaways – make Manali the most sought after must-visit places near Chandigarh.
