Salutations to all fellow nomads! Come along with me, Pranav Gautam, for an enchanted tour to the little-known town of Solan, which is tucked away in the middle of Himachal Pradesh. Just 65 kilometres from Chandigarh, this hidden gem reveals a tapestry of natural wonders that enthralled my spirit on a recent three-day solo excursion.
The Trip Starts: A Beautiful Drive to Solan
I decided to take a beautiful route that would pass through verdant valleys and up into the magnificent Himalayan foothills to begin my experience. I chose to pay 1800 rupees for a car rental so that the trip would be an exciting adventure. As an alternative, the reasonably priced HRTC bus, which costs between 150 and 250 rupees, is a good choice.
Unveiled: A Town of Calm Enchantment
Solan, dubbed the “Mushroom City of India” because of its prolific mushroom farming, greeted me warmly. Nestled within the lower Shivalik hills, this hamlet exuded a calm elegance and pristine beauty everywhere it looked.
Discovering the Treasures of Solan: A Day-by-Day Journey
Day 1: Dolangi Monastery and Barog Railway Station
Barog Railway Station (5 km from Solan): This charming station was a photographer’s dream come true with its picture-perfect surroundings and jaw-dropping mountain views.
Dolangi Monastery (17 km from Solan): Tucked away on the Rajgarh road, this peaceful haven surrounded by breathtaking scenery astounded me.
Day 2: Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park and Jatoli Temple
Jatoli Temple (10 km from Solan): This temple’s elaborate sculptures and ethereal atmosphere made it a must-visit, bearing witness to the area’s rich cultural legacy.
Mohan Shakti National legacy Park (18 km from Solan): I arrived at this park, a living museum exhibiting the rich legacy of Himachal Pradesh, after travelling through Chambaghat and Salogra.
Day 3: Beyond Solan, Karol Trek, and Chail
Chail (41 km from Solan): A beautiful journey down NH-5 revealed the realm of regal splendour, featuring the palace of the Maharaja of Patiala and the expansive vistas from the Goddess Kali temple.
Karol Trek: For adventure enthusiasts, the Karol trek immersed me in the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas, traversing lush forests, meadows, and crystal-clear streams.
Getting Around: Chandigarh to Solan and Other Places
The Pinjore, Kalka, Parwanoo, Sanwara, Dharampur, Kumarhatti, Barog, Deonghat, and Dohridwal are among the towns along the route that winds from Chandigarh to Solan. Dohridwal is immediately accessible from Kumarhatti by a handy diversion route. Beyond Solan, NH-5 lays out the route to Shimla, passing through Shoghi, Chambaghat, Salogra, and Kandaghat.
A Calm Haven: The Pinewood Hotel Barog
I suggest Pinewood Hotel Barog for a cosy stay amidst the picturesque surroundings of Solan. After a day of exploration, this government-owned resort, which costs between 2500 and 3500 rupees, promises a fantastic way to unwind with green surroundings and a calm setting.
When Is the Best to Visit and How Much Does Solan Exploration Cost?
To visit Solan, any season is great (save during the monsoon). A well-thought-out trip that costs between 10,000 and 15,000 rupees will enable you to relish every second of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Concluding Remarks: Accept the Wild Beauty
To sum up, Solan extends an invitation for you to experience the wild beauty of nature and allow it to revitalise your spirit. Please get in touch if you need advice before embarking on your own Solan adventure. Happy journeys!
