Things To Do
in Solan
Solan is a charming hill town in Himachal Pradesh, perched at about 1,500 meters above sea level. It blends colonial-era architecture with pine-clad streets and easy access to forested trails. The town is known for its mushroom farming heritage, a thriving local market, and views over the Sutlej valley.
It serves as a gateway to Shimla and other hill stations, offering a relaxed pace and scenic day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing walk through the lush pine forests surrounding Solan, where the crisp mountain air invigorates your senses. Stop by the famous Shoolini Temple, an ancient site nestled amidst serene landscapes, to soak in the spiritual ambiance. Enjoy a traditional Himachali breakfast at a local café, savoring dishes like 'Siddu' and 'Chana Madra'.
After breakfast, head to the Solan Brewery, one of the oldest breweries in India, for a guided tour that showcases the brewing process and the history of beer in the region. Post-tour, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying out local delicacies and refreshing beverages. Spend your afternoon exploring the local markets, where you can shop for handmade crafts and delicious local produce.
As the sun sets, take a gentle stroll along the picturesque streets of Solan, perhaps stopping at a viewpoint to admire the stunning mountain vistas. Indulge in a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant that offers panoramic views of the valley, featuring regional specialties. Conclude your day by relaxing at a local café, sipping chai while listening to the sounds of nature.
Kickstart your adventure with an early morning drive to the Great Himalayan National Park, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Engage in a guided nature walk where you can spot endemic flora and fauna while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the mountains. Don't forget to pack a hearty breakfast to savor amidst nature’s grandeur.
Post-lunch, embark on a thrilling trek through the park, taking in stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Engage with local guides who will share fascinating stories about the park's ecosystem and the vibrant culture of the indigenous tribes. Take a moment to pause at scenic spots for photography, capturing the essence of the Himalayas.
As evening falls, return to Solan, where you can unwind at a cozy guesthouse or homestay, enjoying the warmth of local hospitality. Relish a hearty dinner featuring traditional Himachali dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Spend some time stargazing from your accommodation, as the clear mountain skies offer a mesmerizing celestial view.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (budget) | $25-60 |
| 🚍Local transportation (bus ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🛍Souvenirs and local crafts | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic hill town with proximity to Shimla and Chandigarh
- Rich cultural heritage and mushroom farming heritage
- Pleasant climate for most of the year
- Relaxed pace and easy day trips to surrounding valleys
- Limited nightlife and some roads can be challenging to navigate during the monsoon
- Smaller town amenities compared to major cities
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Yeh kitna hai?" - How much is this?
- "Mujhe Solan jaana hai" - I want to go to Solan.
Places to Visit in Solan
Visit one of these nice places.
Temple complex with views over Solan and the surrounding hills; ideal at sunrise for soft light.
A 19th-century Gothic church featuring stained glass and colonial architectural details.
Ruin overlooking the town; provides wide-angle vistas of the valley and townscape.
Hilltop temple complex reached via a forested path, offering greenery and city views.
Heritage station along the Kalka–Shimla toy train line with colonial-era elements.
Food in Solan
Solan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A yogurt-based curry, typically made with lamb or chicken, slow-cooked and finished with spices; pairs well with rice or chapati.
Must-Try!
Steamed wheat flour breads, soft on the inside and typically enjoyed with curries or madra.
A Himachali version of a stuffed fried bread, usually filled with ground gram flour and spices, crispy on the outside.
A festive thali featuring rice, madra, churma, kadhi, and vegetables; often served in traditional settings and during special occasions.
Dishes that showcase fresh local mushrooms—curries, stir-fries, and soups are common in season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling lanes with fruit stalls, chaat carts, fried snacks, and seasonal produce.
A sequence of stalls offering vegetables, fruits, nuts, and quick bites; great for tasting local street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; remove shoes as required; ask before taking photos in religious spaces.
A respectful Namaste with palms joined; address elders formally.
Seek permission before photographing people, especially in markets and homes.
Safety
Tipping in Solan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 5–10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips for guides and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many hotels and larger shops accept cards. UPI/phone-based payments (e.g., Paytm, Google Pay) are commonly used in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; temperatures typically range from 20–28°C. Pack light clothing plus a light jacket for nights.
Reliably wet, with misty mornings and possible landslides on hill roads July–September. Carry a sturdy rain jacket, waterproof footwear, and be prepared for travel delays.
Cold nights and cool days; temperatures can dip near freezing in the hills, with occasional frost. Layered clothing and a good coat are recommended.
Solan at Night
Hiking in Solan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail culminating at a hilltop temple, offering fresh air and city views.
A scenic ascent to Tara Devi Temple with panoramic valley scenery.
Moderate hike along ridge lines with evergreen forests and sweeping valley vistas.
Airports
How to reach Solan by plane.
Major nearby international gateway about 100–120 km from Solan; good road and rail connections exist.
Domestic airport serving the region; closer to Solan but with limited flights and weather sensitivity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Himachali communities, farmers, small business owners, and shopkeepers.
Solan hosts educational institutions and workplaces that bring a student and professional crowd to town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; casual games are common in parks and school grounds.
Popular in local grounds and during school events; informal matches frequently seen.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Solan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Himachali cuisine has many vegetarian options; look for subzi, dal, and chhaas. Request no ghee if needed.