Solan is among India’s most famous tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh. The little town is nestled in the Shivaliks, and the serene ambience makes it a great deal to unwind in the lap of nature. The place is called the Mushroom City of India owing to the extensive mushroom culture over here. Also, the Directorate of Mushroom Research (DMR) is situated at Chambaghat. Solan is often called the ‘Red Gold City’ as beautiful red tomatoes are produced in bulk here. This place is blessed with unrealistic natural beauty, and there are numerous places to visit in Solan where you can plan your vacation and experience the beautiful culture and natural beauty of this place.
Solan is famous for its scenic beauty and panoramic mountain tops in the backdrop. This place is great for unofficial getaways to relax and chill outdoors. Many people believe that the city is named after Mother Goddess Shoolini Mata, literally referring to Maa Durga, who wields a spear as one of her weapons.
Best Places to visit in Solan, Himachal Pradesh
There are some beautiful tourist spots in Solan and some of the popular hill stations of Himachal Pradesh nearby. People visiting Solan can also plan a trip to these wonderful places. We have tried to cover some of the places; let’s have a glance at some of the best tourist places in and around Solan, Himachal Pradesh.
1. Shoolini Mata Mandir
This famous temple in Solan is considered the oldest and the mightiest of all Devi temples. The presiding deity is Devi Shoolini, the one who is armed with a spear. Solan is believed to be named after her. Every year an annual fair is organised to celebrate her glory with great enthusiasm and devotion in June. The fair attracts a huge number of tourists as well as craftsmen, traders and merchants. The entire atmosphere of the place becomes heavenly and vibrant when the colours of Bhakti blend with lots of fun.
2. Kuthar Fort
This place might be interesting if you are into architecture and history. The Kuthar fort is the oldest historical monument standing upright in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. This famous tourist spot in Solan is believed to be around 800 years old. With an extensive land coverage of 52.8 sq km, this place has some freshwater springs, a garden and an ancient temple. The picturesque fort was once the residence of the Kuthar family, and today, a part of it has been converted into a luxurious resort. The fort’s architecture is truly a manifestation of Rajasthani architecture, and the breathtaking carvings of the arches, pillars, and gateways ascertain it.
3. Jatoli Temple
The next on our list is one of Solan’s oldest, holiest and most famous Shiva temples. The Jatoli Shiva temple on the hilltop is an artistic marvel with an atypical South Indian- Dravidian Style of architecture. The temple is believed to be the resting place of Lord Shiva and even got its name as Shiva has long locks of ‘Jata’, that is, hair. An annual fair is organised to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, whose grandeur is worth witnessing. A fun fact about the temple is that it is regarded as one of the highest temples in Asia. It is located around 6 km from the Solan.
4. Mohan Shakti Heritage Park
Tourists flocking to Solan would love this ultimate place. Founded by Brigadier General Mr. Kapil Mohan, the Mohan Shakti Heritage Park will take you back to the past. Several beautiful statues and sculptures of Gods, Goddesses, and Animals surround the famous tourist spot in Solan. You can catch a glimpse of ancient monuments and panoramic views of mountains and clouds and try bird watching. The famous temple Kali ka Tibba is also located within the fringe of the heritage park. You will also see herbal therapy centres, community kitchens, theme parks, residential blocks, temples, study centres, open theatres and ropeway trolleys. The main aim behind establishing the park was to preach, preserve and revive the Indian culture and the Vedic Sciences.
5. Krishna Bhavan Mandir
This temple in Solan is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is another exemplary example of architectural beauty. The temple was built in 1926 and is located at the heart of Solan. The temple is built following the disciplines of the Vastu-Shastra, the Vedic knowledge of architecture. However, owing to an intricate mélange of Indo- European style of making, the temple resembles the structure similar to of a church. The temple is open on all days from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm.
6. Bon Monastery
Founded in 1969 by Abbopt Lungtog Tenpai Nyima, This famous tourist spot in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, is regarded as the second oldest Monastery in the world. The Monastery is revered by the Bon community, which is older than the Buddhist Community however, the principles and the sole purpose remain the same. The Monastery is home to a beautiful statue of Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche. It is also dotted with spectacular views of the snow-covered mountains and panoramic views of landscapes and the town.
7. Dagshai Jail Museum
Around 160 years old, this historical tourist spot in Solan was formerly a prison but has now been converted into a museum. It is the second jail museum in India, apart from the Cellular Museum in the Andaman. The cells in the museum have no ventilation and not even a single escape through which light enters. The place’s ambience is a little spine-chilling and reminds me of the time it was working. Mahatma Gandhi also stayed here fort about a year and the Gurkha rebels of the 1857 revolt were brought here. It is believed that not even a single prisoner escaped the tight security of the jail.
8. Nalagarh Palace
The Nalagarh Palace was built in the year 1421, and today is it converted into a heritage hotel. With all the luxuries and a laidback setting amid the lush greenery, this tourist spot in Solan has become an ideal destination for a getaway. The place boasts Mughal architecture and is easily accessible from all the hill stations in Himachal Pradesh.
9. Darlaghat
This wildlife sanctuary can be your favourite tourist spot if you are a nature lover. Darlaghat is home to many black bears, Sambhar, barking deers and leopards. Also, it is a place ideal for trekking. It is located at around 36 km from Shimla.
10. Kasauli
One of the most popular places to visit in Solan and a famous hill station in Himachal Pradesh, this town is close to Solan. If you ever happen to visit Solan, don’t forget to take some time for a trip to Kasauli to unwind in the serene setting of this untouched beauty in the hills and mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Easily accessible from the major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh, Kasauli is all about the mesmerizing Victorian buildings from the British Era. Some famous places include Sunset Point, Monkey Temple, Christ Church, etc. The famous writer Ruskin Bond was born here. It is also popular for its hiking trails.
11. Chail
Another one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Solan, in Himachal Pradesh, Chail, is located at a distance of 44 km from Shimla and around 45 km from Solan. It takes only 2 hours from the Mall road to reach this quaint town full of reimbursed beauty. It is a great deal for thrill-seekers as well as peace-seekers. You can try camping along the riverside, trekking, or relaxing here. Tourists can also visit the wildlife Sanctuary located here.
Final Words
The peaceful yet exciting land of Solan has a lot to be explored. In a nutshell, there are various places to visit in Solan that would satisfy the tourists who flock with great expectations. Solan is calm and a perfect destination to relax in the offbeat vibe among the raw nature, but also it brings several fun elements to the venture of the people visiting it. Himachal Pradesh is full of hill stations and mesmerizing meadows and adventures. It is known for its untouched beauty, and Solan is a perfect offbeat vacation trip destination.