The Kalka-Kasauli Trek is a beautiful and relatively easy trek in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It connects the towns of Kalka and Kasauli, both of which are located in the Shivalik Range of the Himalayas. The trek is popular for its scenic views, charming colonial-era towns, and historical significance. It is suitable for both beginner trekkers and seasoned adventurers who want to enjoy a peaceful and relaxed journey in the mountains.
Overview:
- Region: Himachal Pradesh, India
- Route: Kalka to Kasuli
- Distance: Approximately 35 kilometers
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time to Trek: March to June, September to December
Key Highlights:
- Scenic Beauty: The trek offers stunning views of the Shivalik Hills, valleys, and distant snow-capped peaks, depending on the weather. The entire route is full of lush green forests, picturesque landscapes, and charming little villages.
- Colonial Charm: Both Kalka and Kasuli have a rich colonial history, with well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and old buildings.
- Wildlife and Flora: The trek passes through forests of pine, oak, and deodar, with opportunities to spot various species of birds and small wildlife. You may also come across terraced fields and traditional village life along the way.
- Kalka-Kasuli Railway: This route is parallel to the historic Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers a unique chance to see this old railway in action while trekking.
Key Stops:
- Kalka:
- Starting Point: Kalka is the gateway to the Himalayan hill stations, located about 30 km from Chandigarh. Kalka is famous for the Kalka-Shimla Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Kalka has a well-connected railway station and is easily accessible from Chandigarh, Delhi, and other nearby cities.
- Dharampur:
- After starting from Kalka, the trail takes you towards Dharampur, a small but picturesque town. It’s a small detour from the main Kalka-Kasuli route but offers a quiet respite with great views.
- Kasauli:
- The trek ends in Kasauli, a colonial-era hill station that is known for its quiet charm, clean air, and lovely scenery. Kasuli is a quaint town with English-style buildings, cobbled streets, and scenic viewpoints.
- Key attractions in Kasauli include the Kasauli Church, Monkey Point, and Sunset Point.
Best Time to Trek:
- Spring (March-May): The weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and clear skies. It’s an ideal time to witness the blooming flowers and lush greenery.
- Summer (June-July): This is also a good time for the trek, with cool weather at the higher elevations, though the temperature in the plains can get quite hot.
- Autumn (September-November): The weather is crisp, and the trek is still green and refreshing after the monsoon.
- Monsoon (July-August): The monsoon season should be avoided as the region experiences heavy rainfall, which can make the trail slippery and increase the risk of landslides.