In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, the prospect of a one-day escape to lesser-known destinations offers a tantalizing promise—an opportunity to explore, discover, and immerse ourselves in places that often evade the spotlight. Step away from the familiar and dive into the uncharted territories waiting just beyond the horizon. Himachal Pradesh, a place is better known for its scenic landscapes, striking mountains and prudent atmosphere. A place which never disappoints and always has something new to offer. A place with abundant hidden gems from which much is yet to be unveiled. A lot of unexplored places are still mediating like a sacred monk in the deep heart of the mountains. Here are a few offbeat destinations perfect for a day trip that promise a world of wonder in a mere 24 hours.
Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple
Bhureshwar Mahadev temple is a religious and tourist destination in Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh. This temple is just 70-75 km away from Chandigarh. A very calm and peaceful place situated on a peak nearer to Sarahan on the Nahan – Solan state highway. From here Mata Parvati and Lord Shiva saw the Kurukshetra War. Road to the temple starts from Panwa, the trek is not long, almost 2 km. Day trip for backpackers from chandigarh, solan, shimla belt. This temple is just 70-75 km away from Chandigarh.
Ashwani Khad
Ashwani khad is a place where you can experience peace in Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, scenic views of the river and the captivating essence of waterfalls . Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park, also referred to as the Solan Heritage Park, is a modern-era Indian heritage complex near Solan, Himachal Pradesh. It is about 40 kilometres south of Shimla, about 15 kilometres north of Solan, and 85 kilometres northeast of Chandigarh. After leaving the Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, take some off-roading and find yourself in the middle of the beautiful river Asni. Ashwani Khad waterfalls, 68 Km from Chandigarh is a beautiful hidden waterfall nearby Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park. It’s a refreshing place where you can step into the water and take a bath.
Jatoli Temple
Jatoli, a place near Solan, 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 attracts a large number of pilgrims and is only 75 Kms from Chandigarh. 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 also placed for a long time. It is believed that the temple was once the resting place of Lord Shiva. Grand and Spectacular Jatoli Shiv temple has marvellous architectural design which is the main attraction for tourists. Jal Kund, on the northeast corner and cave inside the temple, binds you to the destination.
Menri Monastery
Also known as Dolanji Bon Monastery, is situated in Dolanji, Solan. This beautiful monastery has an interesting history. Secluded from the city, the Menri monastery overlooks the valley and is a hub for religious learning and rituals. Monastery is full of medicinal plants and medicinal springs and Menri gets its name from this, meaning “medicine mountain”. Just 75-80 Kms from Chandigarh this is the one of the best places to visit on lazy weekends. The peaceful vibe of the monastery is beyond expectations. Not only inside the monastery but outside view of mountains binds you with this place for a while.
Barog
Just 60 kms from Chandigarh on the Kalka-Shimla highway, Barog is a beautiful hill station in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Barog is famous for its breathtaking scenic views, beautiful railway station and horrific tunnels. Graveyard Of Barog is now a famous tourist destination. It is a small grave of an engineer named Barog who was given the responsibility of building a tunnel. It is believed that he committed suicide as he failed to construct. The tunnel that was planned was supposed to be the longest in the world. You can enjoy a mild snowfall in winters.
Amazing Places To Visit In Barog –
- Choor Chandni Peak: Picturesque Location
- Barog Camping Grounds: Camping Amidst Nature
- Graveyard Of Barog: Relive History
- Suketi Fossil Park: Witness The Fossils
- Dharampur: Astounding Retreat
- Spencer Restaurant: Satiate Hunger Pangs
- Pine Hill Eco Camp: Stay Under The Sky Full Of Stars
Chail
Set in the foothills of the Himalayas, Chail is a quaint hill station built by the former Maharaja of Patiala is situated only 100 kms away from the Tricity. It was another of those Thursday evenings when you have a long weekend ahead after a hectic work-week and you want to go out somewhere. Breathtaking views of surrounding valleys, high altitude trekking trails and vast architectural wealth make Chail the perfect holiday getaway.
Places to view in Chail :
- Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
- Chail Gurudwara Sahib
- Sidh Baba Ka Mandir
- Kali Ka Tibba
- Chail Trek
- Chail Cricket Ground
Karol Tibba
Satiating the inner soul of the adventure enthusiasts, sitting as the highest peak in Solan, Karol Tibba is a heaven on earth for those who are seeking to escape the bustling and blaring sounds of the city. Emerging as one of the top destinations for day trips or short-term thrill, Karol Tibba blankets deep, dense forests and an enchanting cave that is nothing less than a cherry on top. This magnificent mountain peak, acting as a crown for Solan district, forms a surreal backdrop for the small village of Basal. Trek starts from a little town named Chambaghat, which is 5 kms from Solan and roughly 70 kms from Chandigarh. It’s an easy hike of 6 kms till the top. Trail passes through the famous Pandava cave which is 4 kms from Chambaghat. It is believed to be the oldest and longest (28 kms) cave in the Indian Himalayas. Locals believe that mythological characters, Pandavas built this cave and stayed here during their exile. Best part of this trek is that it can be completed within a single day from Chandigarh. So, if you are searching for treks near Chandigarh, Karol Tibba trek is an apt location.
Dagshai
Dagshai, also known as Daagh-e-Shahi, is one of the oldest cantonment towns in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Just 54 kms from Chandigarh, Dagshai’s superior cold breeze not only infuses one’s lungs with opulent oxygen but also matters of its rich historic presence.It transports the visitor to a life where time has stopped. The name Dagshai, according to a popular local legend, was derived from Daagh-e-Shahi. Dagshai is a very old cantonment town of India, and a supposedly haunted one at that. You can witness mild snowfall at Dagshai during winter.
- Army Public School (ranked 9th among top boarding schools).
- The Dagshai Jail and Museum.
- Dagshai Graveyard
- Church of England
- Roman Catholic Church
Shiv Dhank
If you are around Chandigarh and looking for a quick day hike then Shiv Dhank Trek is one of the best options available near Solan. There is a Shivling at the temple cave. Right above the Shivling you will see a white rock and if you tap it will sound like a pellet drum. From the top of the cave, water seeps down inside, drop by drop. Such a phenomenon is looked at as a miracle of nature, otherwise, there is absolutely no trace of water on the rock in the hill. Shiv Dhank trek distance – Approx 3 kms. Min. days required – Can be done in a single day. Distance from Chandigarh – 70 kms
