Only 12 kilometres from Shimla, Kasauli can be a much favoured alternative to staying in noisy Shimla. Forested hillsides add to the charm of the place. There are some lovely walks around here, specially the ones to Sanawar-- another hill town and to Monkey Point-- thankfully there is plentiful of scenery but no monkey. Obtain permission from the Air Force office at the head of the trail before starting for Monkey Point.

BASICS

STD Code: 01793.
How to go: On the Shimla-Kulu Road, Kasauli is connected to Shimla by regular, local buses. Travelling by rail between Shimla and Kalka, get off at Dharampuri and then take a bus ride.

Best time: Pleasant round the year, except for the monsoons, between July and early September. Winter is cold.

Accommodation: Himachal Pradesh Tourism's Hotel Ros Common (Tel: 72005) and few private ones-- Alasia Hotel (Tel: 72008), Maurice Hotel (Tel: 72074), Anchal Guest House (Tel: 72052).

Local transport: Not quite necessary. Own transport necessary if you intend to explore the nearby tourist attractions.

Contact: Himachal Pradesh tourist office at Shimla (Tel: 0177)