Solan Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally stunning Solan, Himachal Pradesh with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Solan

Nestled in the southern region of Himachal Pradesh, Solan is a quaint town that boasts of stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by picturesque hills and valleys, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Solan is also known as the “Mushroom City of India” due to the large-scale production of mushrooms in the region. It is home to some of the most renowned educational institutions in the state, including the Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry and the Jaypee University of Information Technology.

List of Places to Visit in Solan

Whether you are a history buff or an adventure seeker, Solan has something to offer everyone. Here is a list of the must-visit places in Solan:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Karol Tibba Temple: Located atop a hill, the Karol Tibba Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

  • The Solan Brewery: Established in 1855, the Solan Brewery is one of the oldest breweries in India and offers a guided tour of its premises.

  • The Shoolini Mata Temple: Dedicated to the local deity, Shoolini Mata, this temple is located in the heart of Solan and is a popular pilgrimage site.

Natural Attractions of Solan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Barog: Located on the Kalka-Shimla highway, Barog is a stunning hill station that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

  • Mohan Shakti Heritage Park: Spread over 40 acres of land, this park is an ode to India’s ancient culture and features a replica of the famous Konark Sun Temple.

  • Jatoli Shiv Temple: Surrounded by lush greenery, this temple is known for its unique architecture and serene ambiance.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Solan

Solan is surrounded by numerous hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Barog to Choor Chandni Trek
  • The Kali Mata Temple Trek
  • The Karol Tibba Trek

Best Things to Do in Solan: Activities and Tours

From exploring the local markets to indulging in adventure sports, Solan has a lot to offer in terms of things to do. Here are some of the best activities and tours in Solan:

  • Go on a sightseeing tour of Solan and explore its rich cultural heritage.
  • Try your hand at adventure sports such as trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling.
  • Indulge in a shopping spree at the local markets and bring home some souvenirs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Solan

Here is a week-long itinerary for Solan that covers all the must-visit places in the region:

Day Plan
Day 1 Explore the local markets and indulge in some shopping.
Day 2 Visit the Mohan Shakti Heritage Park and the Jatoli Shiv Temple.
Day 3 Trek to the Karol Tibba Temple and enjoy the stunning views en route.
Day 4 Visit the Solan Brewery and learn about the history of brewing in India.
Day 5 Explore the Barog hill station and soak in the scenic views.
Day 6 Try your hand at adventure sports such as trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling.
Day 7 Visit the Shoolini Mata Temple and Bid farewell to Solan.

Food and Drink Scene of Solan

Solan is known for its delicious local cuisine that is a blend of Himachali and Punjabi flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in Solan:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chana Madra: A delicious vegetarian dish that is made with chickpeas and yogurt.

  • Dhaam: A traditional Himachali meal that is served on special occasions and includes rice, dal, rajma, and a few local delicacies.

Local Beverages

  • Thumba: A local alcoholic beverage that is made using fermented rice and wheat.

  • Masala Chai: A popular Indian tea that is made with milk, tea leaves, and a blend of spices.

Where to Stay in Solan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Solan offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Solan:

  • Mayur Hotel & Restaurant
  • Hotel Paragon Palace
  • Hotel Himanis Resorts

What to Buy in Solan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Solan is known for its handicrafts, handmade items, and local produce. Here are some of the best products to buy in Solan:

  • Hand-woven shawls and blankets
  • Wooden artifacts and handicrafts
  • Local jams, pickles, and honey

Local Culture and Customs of Solan

Solan has a rich cultural heritage that is influenced by the Himachali and Punjabi cultures. Here are some of the local customs and traditions:

  • People in Solan are known for their hospitality and warm nature.
  • The Kali Puja festival is celebrated with great fervor in Solan.
  • The local language spoken in Solan is Pahari, which is a dialect of Hindi.

Best Time to Visit Solan

The best time to visit Solan is from March to June and from September to November. The weather during these months is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Solan

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of Solan:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the town on foot and soak in its natural beauty.
  • Carry warm clothes, especially if traveling during the winter months.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or pollute the environment.
  • Do not take photographs without seeking permission.
  • Do not disturb the local flora and fauna.

Safety and Health

Safety in Solan

Solan is a safe town, but it is always advisable to take precautions while traveling. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be careful while trekking or engaging in adventure sports.
  • Do not share your personal details with strangers.
  • Carry a first aid kit while traveling.

Health in Solan

Solan has a well-equipped healthcare system, but visitors must take necessary precautions to avoid falling sick. Here are some health tips:

  • Drink only bottled water.
  • Avoid eating street food.
  • Carry necessary medication while traveling.

Getting to Solan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Solan is well-connected to the rest of the country via air, rail, and road.

Airports Near Solan

The nearest airport to Solan is the Chandigarh International Airport, which is around 50 km away.

Bus Stations Near Solan

Solan has a bus station that is well-connected to the neighboring towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or take a private car to reach Solan.

How to Get Around in Solan

Solan is a small town, and the best way to explore it is on foot. Visitors can also hire a taxi or take a local bus to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Solan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Solan include:

  • Shimla
  • Chail
  • Kasauli

Conclusion

Solan is a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh that offers a lot to explore and experience. From its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, Solan is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves to explore offbeat places. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the beauty of Solan!

Solan railway station Solan railway station Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park Mall Road Mall Road