Chapter 21: Value Addition Information of the City - Solan
1. About Solan
Solan, often referred to as the “Mushroom City of India” and “City of Red Gold” (for its tomato production), is a serene hill town nestled in the lower ranges of Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 1,600 meters (5,200 feet), Solan lies between Kalka and Shimla on National Highway 5. Named after Goddess Shoolini, the presiding deity of the region, Solan is a blend of scenic landscapes, educational excellence, horticulture, and industrial development. It enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year, making it a peaceful retreat away from the crowded tourist destinations.
2. Importance of Solan
Solan holds importance on various fronts:
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Agricultural Significance: A leading producer of mushrooms and tomatoes, with the Directorate of Mushroom Research located here.
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Educational Hub: Home to several premier institutions such as Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry and Shoolini University.
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Industrial Growth: Hosts a number of pharmaceutical and food processing units, making it one of Himachal’s growing industrial towns.
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Cultural Heritage: Rooted in traditions and local festivals, including the vibrant Shoolini Fair.
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Connectivity Advantage: Strategically located between Chandigarh and Shimla, Solan serves as a gateway to upper Himachal.
3. How to Reach Solan
By Air
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Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 67 km). Taxis and buses are readily available from the airport to Solan.
By Train
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Solan Railway Station is part of the Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge heritage railway. Trains from Kalka (a broad gauge junction) connect Solan with other major cities.
By Road
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Well-connected by NH-5 to Chandigarh (approx. 68 km), Kalka (approx. 45 km), and Shimla (approx. 45 km).
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Regular HRTC and private buses, along with taxi services, make it easily accessible.
4. Staying Facility in Solan
Solan offers various options for staying that suit all types of travelers:
Luxury Hotels
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The Fern Surya Resort
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Deventure Shimla Hills (near Solan)
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WelcomHeritage Glenview (in Kasauli nearby)
Mid-Range Hotels
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Hotel Paragon Palace
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Mayur Hotel
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Hotel Solan View
Budget Hotels and Guest Houses
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Hotel City Heights
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Various guest houses near Solan Bazaar and Chambaghat
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Homestays and local lodges offering comfortable amenities at affordable rates
University Guesthouses
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Visitors attending academic conferences or programs at universities can avail guest accommodations on-campus.
5. Tourist Attractions and Their Briefing
1. Shoolini Mata Temple
Dedicated to the presiding goddess Shoolini Devi, the temple is spiritually significant and the center of the annual Shoolini Fair, which sees a mix of tradition, devotion, and cultural displays.
The Shoolini Mata Temple is dedicated to Shoolini Mata-an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The shrine is one of the prime attractions of Solan. It is also believed that the town of Solon was named after Shoolini Mata, who is the presiding deity of the temple. As per legends, the temple was once the abode of Shoolini Mata.
The shrine attracts huge crowd during festival days, especially during the Shoolini fair. The temple looks beautiful in the night when it is completely illuminated and is crowded on holidays and festivals. Other highlights of the fair are activities like dancing, singing and wrestling .The fair attracts traders, sweet sellers, general merchants and shopkeepers from the neighbouring town.
Address: Jaunaji Road, Nauni, Solan, 173212, Himachal Pradesh
2. Jatoli Shiv Temple
Located about 6 km from Solan, this is one of the highest Shiva temples in Asia. Built in the South Indian architectural style, it is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views.
Jatoli gets its name from the long Jata (hair) that Lord Shiva has. Considered as Asia's highest Shiv temple, this shrine is indeed an architectural marvel. Jatoli Shiv Temple is one of the famous holy destinations of Solan which attract a large number of pilgrims and is only 6 Kms from the city.
Multiple fables and stories are associated with the history of Jatoli Shiv Temple. It is one of the oldest temples of Lord Shiv where an ancient linga is the also placed since a long time. It is believed that the temple was once the resting place of Lord Shiva.
The temple is made in typical Southern-Dravidian style architecture and is made of three consecutive pyramids. On the first pyramid, one can see the image of Lord Ganesha while on second pyramid there is a sculpture of Shesh Naag. Jatoli Shiv Temple holds the tag of being the highest temple in Asia; it took 39 years to complete the construction of the temple.
On the northeast corner of the temple, there is a water tank called 'Jal Kund' which is considered as pious as the holy river Ganga. The water of this tank is said to have some medicinal qualities that can treat skin diseases. There is a cave inside the temple where Swami Krishnananda Paramhans Ji resided. This ancient temple is famous for its annual fair, which is conducted during the festival of Mahashivratri. A number of devotees gather in the temple to offer prayers.
3. Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park
A unique spiritual and cultural park located on the banks of the River Ashwani. It showcases ancient Indian wisdom through large idols, temples, and mythological structures.
Mohan Shakti Heritage Park is North India's first ever ancient heritage park. National Heritage Park is located at Shakti Sthal on NH 22 between Kalka and Shimla. The picturesque park is supplemented with many unique structures. The park is still under construction and is believed to be the largest heritage park in Himachal Pradesh. Here, tourist can enjoy exploring a heritage park, pass through grasslands, indulge in bird watching, catch glimpses of archaeological sites, and gorgeous landscapes of peaks, clouds and sunshine.
Within the huge periphery of the park, there is a beautiful shrine, Kali Ka Tibba temple. The shrine seems like an emerald amidst the wilderness. The entire complex of Heritage Park is dotted with multiple statues, sculptures and statuettes. Huge statues of Indian Gods and Goddesses can be seen here. Unique animals made of plaster of Paris (POP) are the main attractions of the park.
Inside the complex of Heritage Park, there are herbal therapy centres, community kitchens, theme parks, residential blocks, temples, study centres, open theatres and ropeway trolleys. This heritage park was built with the purpose to promote Vedic Sciences as a topic of interest for the younger generation and also to preach them about Indian culture. Mohan Shakti Heritage Park is the profound creation of Mr Kapil Mohan, Brigadier General of the Indian army by profession. He (Kapil Mohan) made this heritage site with a vision to nurture the Vedic Sciences as a subject.
Located in the midst of great mountains, Mohan Shakti Heritage Park is an exceptional place. The park is an amazing initiative to revive the Vedic lifestyle.
Address: Mandir Road, Hart Village, Himachal Pradesh 173214
4. Kasauli (Nearby)
Just 25 km away, Kasauli is a quaint hill station with attractions like the Christ Church, Monkey Point, and Gilbert Trail. Ideal for a short detour from Solan.
Kasauli is situated in the Solan district 77 KM away from Shimla. This beautiful hill town is famous among honeymoon couples for its natural beauty, stunning viewpoints, Gothic-style historic churches and year-round pleasant climate.
Nestled amidst dense forests of pine & cedar trees, Kasauli is home to rich diversity of flora and fauna which add charm to the beauty of this place like Cherry on top. The surrounding lush greenery is a treat to the eyes and the viewpoints are just perfect to get a glimpse of the wide Himalayan range.
Situated at an elevation of 1800m, Kasauli’s weather stays pleasant throughout the year while the best time to visit Kasauli depends on the purpose to visit. So let’s discuss the best time to visit Kasauli and its year-round temperature:
| Season | Months | Temperature |
| Summer | March To June | 15 to 30 degree Celsius |
| Monsoon | July To September | 20 to 26 degree Celsius |
| Winter | October To February | 5 to 15 degree Celsius |
Top things to do in Kasauli
- Enjoy a glass of classic malt whisky at Kasauli brewery
- Trek along with Gilbert trail
- Enjoy splendid sunset at sunset point
- Enjoy amazing scenery from monkey point
- Explore the nearby villages by Toy train ride
- Seek blessing of Lord Hanuman at Sanjeevni Hanuman Temple
- Plan a romantic dinner date at Hangout rooftop bar
- Taste delicious Tibetan food
5. Karol Tibba Trek
This scenic trek starts from Chambaghat in Solan and leads to a historic cave associated with the Pandavas. It is a popular destination among hikers and nature lovers.
Karol Tibba is situated at an altitude of 2240 m above sea level within the Shivalik or lower range Himalayas, it is the highest peak of the Solan region. It is the highest peak of the town of Solan. Karol Tibba trek starts from Chambaghat and reaches the sacred Karol Temple.
Karol Temple is a sacred Hindu temple that is dedicated to Hindu Goddess Kali. During this trek, you will also witness Pandav Cave which is believed that it is the longest cave in the mighty Himalayas. This trekking trail takes you to lush green forest, grassland and offers you the beautiful panoramic view of Churdhar ranges, Solan, and Shimla.
6. Dagshai Jail Museum
Dagshai, about 15 km from Solan, is one of the oldest British cantonments. The jail museum is a window into colonial-era prison life and the town's historical legacy.
Pertinent to mention that Dagshai is one of the oldest Army Cantonments in India. A small, pretty hill station it is situated at a height of about 2000 metres on a strategic hill astride the Kalka - Shimla highway (NH-22). It was founded in 1847 by the British after securing free of cost five villages. The name, according to popular legend, derives from'Daag e Shahi* meaning a 'Royal Mark' which supposedly was impaled on the forehead of criminals who were then sent on to live in Dagshai village.
The DAGSHAI JAIL MUSEUM is unique. It is only the second jail museum in India, the other being the Andaman Island Cellular Jail. The establishment of the museum in 2011 was due to the great vision and drive of the Kasauli headquartered Brigade Commander, Brig. Ananth Narayanan and the tireless efforts put in by Col. Anoop Kutty the Commanding Officer and his brother Officers of the resident Battalion. The museum has exhibits, militaria etc., related to its extraordinary history.
7. Mall Road, Solan
Solan’s main shopping area where one can explore local handicrafts, woollens, and enjoy local cuisine.
Situated at an altitude of 1620 metres, Solan is known for its Mall Road. This bustling street is full of shops, restaurants and cafes and offers an opportunity to experience the local culture and taste delicacies of the area.
The Mall Road is popular amongst locals as well as travellers who visit Solan to explore the hill station. It provides an interesting insight into the local culture and is a great place to go shopping.
The street includes many shops selling local artefacts, handicrafts, handmade items, clothing, local specialities like pickles, papads and jams. Not just that, there are multiple options for food, including cafes, dhabas and restaurants.
8. Central Research Institute (CRI), Kasauli
Though located in nearby Kasauli, it has historical significance for vaccine development and can be visited with prior permission.
Central Research Institute (CRI) was established on 3rd May 1905 as Pasteur Institute for North India. It is a subordinate office of the Directorate General of Health Services, under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India.
This unique institute which is located at the entrance to the Upper Mall in Kasauli was established in 1905 by Dr. David Sample to develop vaccines. It is said that the first rabies tissue vaccine was developed by the doctor here. The institute performs large-scale production of bacterial and viral vaccines and serum. It has developed various vaccines including DPT, tetanus, cholera and typhoid vaccines. It is the only producer of the rabies vaccine.
7. Chail ( Nearby) , Solan District
Set in the foothills of the Himalayas, Chail is a quaint hill station built by the former Maharaja of Patiala. Breathtaking views of surrounding valleys, high altitude trekking trails and vast architectural wealth make Chail the perfect holiday getaway.
Chail is known for its scenic beauty, particularly the Chail Palace, which was built as a summer retreat for the Maharaja of Patiala. It's a popular spot for trekking, with trails offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Chail also boasts the world's highest cricket ground.
Chail tourism is a flawless choice for those who need an escape from the everyday hassles of life and who are looking for vacation ideas. Soothing Chail weather, dining at Chail lake restaurant, walking on the highest cricket ground, watching the wildlife, and Chail trek, there are various things to do in Chail hill station.
Places to Visit in Chail
6. Conclusion
Solan may not always make the headlines like Shimla or Manali, but its quiet charm, cultural heritage, educational institutions, and natural beauty make it a hidden gem of Himachal Pradesh. Its strategic location, agricultural prominence, and developmental outlook contribute immensely to the state's economy and cultural preservation. For tourists looking for an offbeat yet enriching hill experience, Solan offers the perfect blend of spirituality, science, and serenity. As a city that bridges tradition with transformation, Solan continues to emerge as a significant destination on both tourist and academic maps.
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