Things to do in Solan
Solan has many sightseeing and shopping options, while for the more avid adventurer, the area offers hidden pockets of nature where one can trek to, relax and enjoy nature of the lower Himalayan hills.
Visit to Barog
Once a mere stop-over on the Shimla-Kalka highway, Barog has fashioned into a sought-after destinations. Nestled in the lap of pine forests on a mountain pass with a clear view of the snow clad Churdhar Peak, Barog is only 7 kms from Solan. There are several campsites and lodges here to accommodate vacationers.
Given the places popularity, Himachal Tourism operates Hotel Pinewood here that has become a go to venue for corporate off site conferences.
Drive to Chail
Chail, 45 km from Solan, was developed as summer retreat by the Maharaja of Patiala. It still retains the old charm of a laid back township and is ideal for those wanting to escape the monotony and restlessness of city life. With a commanding view of Shimla by night, Chail boasts of having one of the highest cricket grounds in the world. A walk through the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary or a trek to the secluded Kali Tibba capped by the pious Kali Devi temple, are some activities to indulge in.
Trip to Mohan National Heritage Park
A road branching from Salogara on the Shimla-Kalka highway, 7 kms into to the Ashwini Khud valley, gets to Hart Village where the fine Mohan National Heritage Park has been developed. The theme park sets out to educate younger generations about Vedic sciences and Indian culture. The park has expansive gardens and some amazing idols of god and goddess cast from different metals which are a sight to behold.
Visit the Shoolini Devi Temple
About 2 km from the Solan city center, the Shoolini Devi temple is located on the old court road. The temple is a highly revered one in the region. A visit during the three-day annual Shoolini fair, held in June, is a good time to witness the culture and shop for local merchandise.
Mohan Meakin Brewery, A Connoisseurs Delight
Easily one of the most interesting places in Solan, the Solan Brewery, now Mohan Meakin Brewery was started in 1855 by Edward Abraham Dyer. Earlier it was known as the Dyer Meakin Brewery and Colonel Dyer responsible for the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre was from the Dyer family that owned this brewery. Counted among the oldest breweries in India, the brewery is now a distillery that makes some of the finest single Malt whiskeys in the country.
Visit to the Bon Monastery at Dolanji
Bon is a religion that predates the passage of Buddhism in Tibet. Perched on a hilltop, the fabulous Bon Monastery at Dolanji, 18 kms from Solan, is one of the few institutions of Bon religion that exist outside of Tibet. Founded by Abbott Lungtok Tenpai Nyima and built in 1969, the monastery is run by Yungdrung Bon Monastic Center.
This institution is a grand spectacle, featuring well-manicured gardens with architecture and motifs drawn from Tibetan heritage. In fact it is recognized as an offshoot of Tibet’s Menri Monastery. Researchers and followers from far and wide do visit and live here with the resident Bon community. Many young men and women undergo religious training, which shares much of its principles with Tibetan Buddhism. Entry into the monastery is free for people of all religions.
