Solan – The Beautiful Hill Town
Solan, which is renowned for its beautiful scenery, pleasant weather, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, is tucked away in the verdant hills of Himachal Pradesh. Every June, the town, which bears the name of Goddess Shoolini Devi, comes alive with a vibrant three-day fair. Known as the “Mushroom City of India” and the “City of Red Gold”, Solan is celebrated for its mushrooms and tomatoes, reflecting its rich agricultural heritage.
Shoolini Mata Temple, Mohan Shakti Park, and Kuthar Fort are just a few of the historic temples, colonial buildings, parks, and forts that Solan has to offer. Its cultural charm is enhanced by the fact that locals speak Punjabi, Hindi, English, and Pahari. Warm woolen clothing is necessary in the winter to enjoy the crisp mountain air, while light cotton clothing is ideal in the summer. For tourists looking for tranquility, culture, and nature in one place, Solan is ideal.
Famous Tourist Attractions in Solan , Himachal Pradesh
Shoolini Mata Temple
- Located in Solan town
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
Mohan Shakti Heritage Park
offers a glimpse into Indian mythology, exquisitely designed gardens, and enormous statues of Hindu deities.
- Located in Kotla
- Best Time to Visit: September to November
Kuthar Fort
Historic fort with impressive Himachali architecture, offering panoramic views of surrounding valleys.
- Located in Solan
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
Jatoli Shiv Mandir
Situated in picturesque hills close to Solan, Himachal Pradesh, this is one of Asia’s tallest Shiva temples (~111 feet) with a rare crystal Shivling.
- Located in Village Jatoli, near Solan
- Best Time to Visit: : October–March
Bon Monastery
Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Upper Solan, ideal for spiritual education, meditation, and cultural discovery.
- Located in Upper Solan
- Best Time to Visit: September to November
Solan Brewery
One of the oldest breweries in India, providing tours and an insight into the region’s brewing heritage.
- Located in Solan town
- Best Time to Visit: January- March
How to Reach Solan
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By Air:
The nearest airports are Shimla (Jubbarhatti) and Chandigarh. From both places, taxis and buses are easily available to reach Solan. -
By Train:
Solan lies on the scenic Kalka–Shimla toy train route, a narrow-gauge railway known for its beautiful views. You can reach Kalka by major trains and then take the toy train to Solan. -
By Road:
Solan is well-connected by NH-5. Regular buses and taxis run from Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, and Kalka, making road travel easy and comfortable.
Activities to Do in Solan
Solan is more than just a place for peaceful reflection because it offers a range of activities for all types of travelers
Trekking & Nature Walks
- Explore Shoolini Hills and surrounding forests.
- Enjoy scenic views of valleys and pine trees.
Photography
- Capture landscapes, temples, and colonial architecture.
- Ideal during sunrise or sunset for golden-hour shots.
Adventure Sports
- Rock climbing and rappelling in nearby trails.
- Explore small trekking routes with a thrill factor.
Local Shopping
- Buy Himachali handicrafts, woolens, and spices.
- Explore small markets in Solan town.
Spiritual Visits
- Visit Shoolini Mata Temple or Bon Monastery.
- Participate in local rituals and meditation.
Historical Exploration
- Visit Kuthar Fort and Mohan Shakti Heritage Park.
- Learn about local history and architecture.
Delicious Foods You Must Try in Solan
- Sidu: A traditional Himachali stuffed bread, soft inside and crisp outside—best enjoyed with ghee or chutney.
- Momos: Solan is known for flavorful steamed or fried momos served with spicy red chutney.
- Thukpa: A warm, comforting noodle soup perfect for Solan’s cool weather.
- Bhey (Lotus Stem Dish): A popular Himachali delicacy made with lotus stems, spices, and gram flour.
- Chana Madra: A creamy yogurt-based dish made with chickpeas, rich in authentic Himachali flavors.
- Babru: The Himachali version of kachori, stuffed with black gram and served with tamarind chutney.
- Aktori: A sweet pancake-style dish made during festivals, prepared using buckwheat or wheat flour
- Local Trout Fish: Freshly cooked trout from nearby streams—light, flavorful, and healthy.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Solan
Experience the best time to visit Solan with an overview of its seasonal weather:
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant and warm, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Monsoon (July to September): Heavy rainfall; landslides may occur in hilly areas. Temperatures range 18°C to 25°C.
- Winter (October to February): Cold and crisp, temperatures drop to 2°C–15°C; occasional fog in mornings. Best for enjoying clear skies and snow in nearby areas.
Best Time to Visit:
- March to June: Ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and exploring temples and heritage sites.
- September to November: Pleasant weather, lush green surroundings post-monsoon, and less crowded tourist spots.
