THE PARADISE OF THE LOWER HIMALAYAS

The sylvan surroundings of tranquil KASAULI make it the ideal make it the ideal gateway from the tensions and pollution of modern day life so characteristic of our cities and industrial towns. Most of the other hill stations in Himachal have become ecological disasters due to faulty planning, overexposure and over commercialization. Fortunately, KASAULI set amidst the conifers has been saved from these ravages thereby ensuring a peaceful pollution free and relaxed atmosphere alongwith, the privacy or rambles amidst the woods thereby rejuvenating the visitor’s body and soul. Kasauli is a cantonment set at a height of 7236 ft above sea level.

In the old days KASAULI was known as KUSOWLIE and the principal means of transport over the hills was the Tonga or the pony. There still exists the remnants of a cart track connecting Kasauli with Kalka and as old residents tell me it used to take two & half hours on foot to reach Kalka. This offers an excellent opportunity for trekking enthusiasts. The Gilbert Trail is another short trek, which can be taken by young & old alike. Kasauli was a sleepy cantonment where army sahibs spent their summer holidays. It was one of a chain of cantonments built in the 1840’s to garrison troops in preparation for a war against the Sikhs. The British paid the local Rana Rs. 5,000/- for the land.

An unwritten law kept the Indians off the Upper Mall, which was for the sahibs only. The best bungalows are situated there. The Kasauli Club, founded in 1840 is probably one of the oldest in the country. It has now been restored to its pristine glory what with period furniture and regal ambience. At night, the patio adjoining the Bar offers a stunning view of Chandigarh and its adjoining area. Kasauli has a rich bird life, what with blackbirds, bulbuls, Himalayan magpies and barbets chirping around. The famous Central Research Institute that in the old days was known as the Pasteur Institute and used to make anti rabies serum is also situated here. There was also a well-known TB Sanatorium here, which has since been closed down.

Kasauli remains the cleanest and most peaceful hill resort in the lower Himalayas. After the winter snows thaw, its hillside blaze with flowers. So don’t miss coming to Kasauli. You will never regret it.

To give you an idea location wise:

HOW TO GET THERE

(A) BY ROAD

325 KM from Delhi, 65 KM from Chandigarh, 160 KM from Ludhiana, 130 KM from Ambala, 75 KM from Shimla, 275 KM from Manali (Via Arki)

As is evident from the above, the maximum transit by road (good roads) would be 6 to 7 hrs in a private vehicle from Delhi. Kasauli is also well connected by rail with Delhi via Kalka and via Chandigarh by air.

(B) BY TRAIN

Train Connections to Kalka (for Kasauli) are: -

1. Himalayan Queen : Dep. N.Delhi 0600 hrs Arr. Kalka 1145 hrs

2. Morning Shatabdi : Dep. N.Delhi 0740 hrs Arr. Kalka 1130 hrs, with a good breakfast being served enroute. The whole train is air-conditioned and the fare is Rs. 460/- only. Kasauli drop by Taxi would cost approx Rs. 600/-

3. Paschim Express : Dep. N.Delhi 1115 hrs Arr. Kalka 1630 hrs

4. Evening Shatabdi : Dep. N.Delhi 1715 hrs Arr. Kalka 2100 hrs, the railways serve evening tea and snacks.

5. Kalka Mail : Dep. Old Delhi 2240 hrs Arr. Kalka 0515 hrs

ABOUT ALASIA HOTEL - KASAULI

Alasia Hotel is situated amidst the wonderful settings of the Himalayan Mountain ranges and boasts of a scenic beauty of a hill station still untouched by rampant commercialization. Alasia has 13 rooms, which have been classified into 5 Luxury Suites and 8 Deluxe Suites. The Luxury Suites are made of a separate living room and bedroom while the Deluxe Suites are made up of a double room with a study. All the rooms have been tastefully designed with modern day facilities such as attached baths with running hot & cold water, colour television and telephone connection. Alasia also has a full functional restaurant serving Indian, Chinese and Continental Cuisine. The Constellation Café serves good Indian, Tandoori, Continental and Chinese Cuisine. The Alasia pies are considered the best “East of the Suez” and the Espresso Coffee reminds our foreign guests of back home. The Lawrence Bar & Lounge with its old world charm helps our guests relax amidst soft music being played on the piano. Alasia has its own Car Parking.