Did you know our charming Mushroom City is 1,467 meters above sea level? If not, you know now. Nestled in the Shivalik range, Solan is surrounded by peaks named Matiul and Karol (the highest peak in the region) to the east and north, respectively. With so much to explore, this small yet charming city is a hidden gem of Himachal Pradesh, offering a perfect opportunity to experience tranquillity and adventure.
Often referred to as the “City of Red Gold” for its ample production of tomatoes, the city is just 46 km from Shimla. Amazing, right? The city is a perfect getaway for people from Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh.
This captivating city has a lot in store for eager travellers like you. You’ll have Karol Tibba to enjoy the scenic trek, the tranquil ambience of Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, Jatoli Shiv Temple, Shoolini Mata Temple, the ancient architecture of Kuthar Fort, and more to explore in Solan. All these places make the charming city of Solan even more beautiful, making it one of the most loved places in Himachal Pradesh.
Each place promises a unique experience. So, let’s dive into the lush greenery and embark on a journey worth the time.
Must-Visit Places in and around Solan, Himachal Pradesh
Prepare to be amazed!
The charming town of Solan is filled with places you can’t forget. The place has a lot to offer. You will encounter breathtaking mountain views, peaceful monasteries, and a lot more in this beautiful city.
So, if you are a nature, history, or photography enthusiast or want a picturesque setting to have a good time, you will not be disappointed with this place.
Check out the top 15 must-visit places in Solan that make this town a true gem!
1. Jatoli Shiv Temple: A Place for Shiv Devotees
2. Mohan Shakti Heritage Park: Where History Comes Alive
3. Karol Tibba: A Trekker’s Paradise
4. Shoolini Mata Temple: A Place of Devotion
5. Bon Monastery: A Perfect Spot for Peace
6. Kuthar Fort: An Ancient Marvel
7. Barog: A Place with Rich History
8. The Dagshai Jail Museum: Solan’s Historic Gem
9. Chail Palace: To Feel the Luxury
10. Kali Ka Tibba Temple: Ideal Place for Photography Freaks
11. Manki Point in Kasauli: A Must-Visit Destination
12. Mall Road: Countless Options for Shopping
13. Shoolini University
14. Riva Waterfall
15. Ashwani Khad
1. Jatoli Shiv Temple: A Place for Shiv Devotees
Our journey begins with the holy Jatoli Shiv Temple, which is one of the most amazing places to visit in Solan. The temple has breathtaking architectural splendour and an atmosphere filled with spirituality. It stands as a symbol of divine grace and holds religious significance, drawing devotees from across the globe.
The temple stands as one of the most loved and ancient temples in the area, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The towering spire, decorated richly with detailed carvings (reflecting timeless craftsmanship), captures attention as soon as we approach it and envelops us in a spiritual atmosphere. The calm atmosphere of this temple produces a highly peaceful setting.
The opening hours of the temple are 4 a.m. to 8 p.m., and during the festival season, you may see a change in timing. The temple is approximately 7.3 km from Solan, taking about 20 minutes via Rajgarh Road.
Read More: 7 Offbeat Places in and Around Shimla that You Must Explore at Least Once
2. Mohan Shakti Heritage Park: Where History Comes Alive
Mohan Shakti Heritage Park is a hidden treasure in Solan that offers an exceptional blend of spirituality, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Once you visit this captivating place, you’ll be ensuring unforgettable experiences and memories for life. The park is a marvel of craftsmanship, with finely constructed statues, temples, and monuments that showcase the rich legacy of our nation’s mythology and art.
The majestic structures that you’ll see in this park and the calm atmosphere make it the perfect place for people to explore when in Solan. What’s more? Upon entering the park, you will see that every corner is a testament to the rich cultural legacy of our nation, making it an enlightening and breathtaking experience.
Now, let us talk about the time we need to get there and the distance from the city. It takes around 31 minutes to reach the park since it is 11.4 km from the city. Also, you can explore it from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
3. Karol Tibba: A Trekker’s Paradise
Do you love trekking? Want to experience nature and its beauty from the top? If yes, Karol Tibba is the right place for you. It is another place for nature exploration in Solan, with scenic trekking trails, good pictures, and more. It’s a place you’ll fall in love with as soon as you reach the top! You’ll find temples, a small pond, and a mysterious cave while you explore the place.
Once you reach the top, be ready to feel the connection with nature. It is a highly recommended place for everyone who enjoys the outdoors and history and wants to ensure an unforgettable trip.
How long will it take to complete the 11-kilometre Karol Tibba Trek? Around 4 to 6 hours. One can ascend and descend on the same day, so you can easily schedule your trek.
Read More: 10 Breathtaking Places to Hike in and Around Shimla
4. Shoolini Mata Temple: A Place of Devotion
Shoolini Mata Temple is a must-see temple in Solan for Hindu devotees. This temple becomes the centre of activity during the colourful Shoolini fair when people assemble to offer prayers to Shoolini Mata, the revered reincarnation of Durga Mata. Upon entering the temple premises, you’ll hear calming chants and be greeted by devotees lighting candles and placing floral offerings at the goddess’ feet.
Do you know what is the best time to visit the Shoolini Mata Temple? It’s during the Shoolini fair when you can feel the greatness of Maa Shoolini.
So, now let’s talk about the distance and visiting hours. The temple is 1.5 km from the city centre via Rajgarh Road and takes around 6 minutes. You can reach the temple by taking another alternative route, the Mall Road route, 1.2 km long and takes around 9 minutes to travel. The visiting hours of the temple are from 7 am to 6 pm.
5. Bon Monastery: A Peaceful Spot
Bon Monastery is a perfect and peaceful place in Solan if you want to restore your mind and spirit. This monastery is just 12 kilometres away from the city centre, so you can experience a serene ambience and rich Tibetan culture. This peaceful and beautifully designed monastery offers a unique glimpse into ancient Tibetan beliefs and traditions.
As you enter the monastery premises, you will be greeted with colourful prayer flags, majestic paintings, and stunning architecture, as well as ensuring that they take you to the world of spirituality and ancient wisdom.
Bon Monastery is 14.6 km from Solan and will take around 41 minutes to reach the place via Rajgarh Road. You can explore the monastery from 9 am to 5 pm.
Read More: 11 Popular Sightseeing and Tourist Attractions in Shimla
6. Kuthar Fort: An Ancient Marvel
Kuthar Fort is another and most ancient marvel among other attractions in Solan. Approximately 800 years ago, this ancient effort was constructed by the Gorkha Kings, which is now a place where tourists come to see the intricate artwork, fortified towers, and natural springs within the historic expanse of the Kuthar Fort.
So, if you are to explore Solan anytime soon, don’t miss out on visiting this beauty. It’s 33.8 km from the city and is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for all travellers.
7. Barog: A Place with Rich History
One of the other famous places in Solan is Barog. The beauty of this place entices tourists from all over the country with its glorious past and beauty.
Do you know why Barog is popular? It’s popular because of the climate and lush greenery, the Barog tunnel, and the calm the place offers, making it an ideal place to visit in Solan. Discover old streets, take leisurely walks around pine trees with your loved ones, or relax.
Just 7.9 km of travel, and you’re ready to explore Barog.
Some facts about the Barog tunnel
- It is one of the highlights of Barog and is a feat of engineering built during the British era.
- With a length of 1,144 metres, this tunnel is the longest of the other 103 tunnels operating on the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla railway.
- It is also rumoured that the tunnel is haunted.
8. The Dagshai Jail Museum: A Historic Gem in Solan
The Dagshai Jail Museum is one of Solan’s historical treasures and an essential stop for history buffs. The buzz about this place is that Mahatma Gandhi willingly spent a day in this historic British prison to demonstrate his support for Irish independence from the United Kingdom.
We can practically feel the stories inscribed into its walls and the echoes of the past as we walk through the museum hallways. Not only that, this jail is the first to be converted into a museum following the country’s independence from British dominance in India.
To explore our nation’s rich history and the sacrifices made in pursuit of freedom, you need to travel 17.3 km (which takes around 31 minutes to reach), and its visiting hours are 10 a.m.–12.30 p.m. and 2.30 p.m.–5 p.m.
Read More: Best Homestays in Shimla: 10 Short Breaks from the City
9. Chail Palace: Feel the Luxury
The Chail Palace (sometimes called Maharaja Palace) is another place among the popular Solan attractions that you shouldn’t miss. Once you enter the 19th-century palace, constructed by the Maharaja of Patiala, you can experience luxury and royalty.
The palace’s opulent furnishings and stunning architecture are sure to please every visitor. This charming palace takes you back in time and offers an opportunity to witness regal majesty amidst Solan’s calm beauty.
To reach the palace, around 36.8 km from Solan, take the Shilli route and reach Chail Palace in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
10. Kali Ka Tibba Temple: Ideal Place for Photography Freaks
Kali Ka Tibba Temple in Chail is another place in Solan you must visit for a fantastic day trip. For amazing views and great photography, this is the right place. This temple is a lovely place and made even more charming by the crisp sunlight and refreshing afternoon breeze.
The spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking views of Kali Ka Tibba Temple make it an ideal and one of the top places to visit in Solan, making your visit worthwhile.
Kali Ka Tibba is 33.5 km from the city and takes around 1 hour 46 minutes to reach via Shilli Road. The opening hours of Kali Ka Tibba are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Read More: Best Places for Destinations Weddings in Himachal
11. Manki or Monkey Point in Kasauli: A Must-Visit Destination
The place provides stunning views of the lowlands and the Sutlej River. Manki Point is known to be the highest point in Kasauli. So, if you aren’t afraid of heights, consider visiting this place. It is also home to a sacred Hanuman shrine and is rich in mythology. It is rumoured that Lord Hanuman touched this peak with his foot while on his way to the Sanjeevani herb.
Kasauli’s Monkey Point, located 28.4 km from Solan, is about a 1 hour and 6-minute drive away. Managed by the Indian Air Force, tourists must carry valid ID proof. You can visit between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Apart from Manki Point, Gilbert Trail and Christ Church add more to your trip to Kasauli.
12. Mall Road: Countless Options for Shopping
“Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping.” Bo Derek
Well, that’s true! If you have money and know where to go shopping, you can find happiness by buying something. Solan’s Mall Road is another place you must visit. The place has shopping complexes like V2, Anand Complex, Vishal Megamart, and more, where you can buy almost anything. You can buy clothes, showpieces, and jewellery, and that’s just the beginning.
Don’t you think that shopping doesn’t need to end with only a few complexes? If you’d like, you can explore Lakkar Bazaar, Upper Bazar, etc., where you can find and buy some traditional items.
Solan’s Mall Road is in the city centre, and the time to shop is from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Read More: Delhi to Leh Bus Service: The Ultimate Guide to HRTC’s Scenic Bus Journey
13. Shoolini University
Another place to visit in Solan is Shoolini University, one of the best and cleanest campuses in India (certified by the Swatch Bharat Survey). Its multi-award-winning architectural marvel and the five-story Yogananda Library are a must-see if you are in Solan. Situated amidst lush green forests, this university is the perfect spot to take good pictures.
The university is 14.55 km from Solan and takes around 31 minutes to reach via Rajgarh Road. Opening hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
14. Riva Waterfall
Looking for waterfalls in Solan? Look no further! We’ve got you covered. Solan has majestic waterfalls, and one of those, Riva Waterfall, is a secret gem for anyone seeking peace. It is just a 37-minute drive away via Shilli Road. Hidden in the peaceful Tikar area, around 11 kilometres from Solan, this charming spot is one of the best places to explore near Solan. With stunning scenery all along the route, the drive to the waterfall is every bit as magnificent as the waterfall itself.
Read More: Take a Look at These 9 Unexplored Waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh
15. Ashwani Khad Waterfall
Ashwani Khad waterfall is another place you must not miss when you are in Solan on vacation. Just a scenic 15-kilometre drive will take you to Ashwani Khad Waterfall, which attracts visitors year-round. Want to know the best thing about this waterfall? It is surrounded by the forest and becomes more alluring during the monsoon season. So, don’t miss out on this waterfall, which is undoubtedly one of the best places to explore in Solan.
Winding Up!
Those seeking comfort, adventure, and spiritual enlightenment will discover a wide range of experiences in Solan, a blend of scenic beauty and cultural depths. You’ll have much to explore in this captivating town, from places like Shoolini Mata temple to Jatoli Shiv temple, picturesque trek like Karol Tibba, and much more, which leaves a lasting effect on everybody who visits.
So, pack your bags since now is the right time for a thrilling adventure, a lifelong trip where you will enjoy every moment and ensure lifelong memories.
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