Solan

Shimla (also spelt as 'Simla') derives its name from goddess 'Shayamla Devi', which is another manifestation of Goddess Kali. The capital of Himachal Pradesh came into light when the British discovered it in 1819. Till then, it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla.

Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations.

Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old buildings, among them are the stately Viceregal Lodge, charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the centre of attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala's escapades, offers a view of distant snowclad peaks.

Kasauli
25 kms from Solan, Kasauli is a beautiful tourist spot. In summer one sees endless greenery of deodar and pine trees and in winter, snow covered earth. The Mall Road and Monkey Point are well known here. One can find a number of good hotels to stay here.

Sanavar
21 kms from Solan, this attractive tourist spot is famous for its 150-year old public school and a church.

Parks and Mini Zoo
Close to the town of Solan are the Children's park, Jawahar park and Mohan Park. In the Children's park is a mini zoo, where one can find deer, wild cats and some rare birds.

Yashwant Nagar
This picnic spot is 20 kms from Solan. The river Giri flows along its sides.

Karol Caves
5 km from the town, this cave is located at an altitude of 7000 ft . Karol Mountain is clearly visible from Solan. This is known as Himalaya's most ancient and longest cave. It reaches Pinjor Gardens.

Dagshahi
This is famous for its jail. A number of freedom fighters, German and Irish revolutionaries have spent time here. 15km from Solan are two English schools.

Badog
It is most famous for its pine trees and the longest tunnel on the Shimla-Kalka railway line. It is 5 kms from Solan.

Fort of the Gurkha
Situated on the 7000 ft high Dhar Mountain, this 300-year old fort was built by the attacking Gurkhas of Nepal. The view from here of Shimla, Kasauli, Chail, and Karol is breathtaking.

By Air
The Jubbarhatti airport is 68-km from Shimla and major domestic airlines cater their services from here to Shimla. One can catch direct flights from Delhi.

By Rail
The nearest broad gauge railway station is at Kalka and nearest narrow gauge railway station is at Solan, which are connected by regular bus services.

By Road
Solan is approachable by road from Shimla and Chandigarh.