Walking through Kasauli is like leafing through the pages of a living storybook. The little hill town, with its winding roads, colonial architecture, and pine-scented breeze, is best experienced on foot. One of my favorite walks here is the circular trail that starts at Mall Road, winds its way to Sunset Point, and loops back again—an easy stroll that reveals Kasauli’s many moods.
Beginning at Mall Road
Mall Road is the heartbeat of Kasauli—lined with small cafés, bakeries, and old shops that seem to have resisted the passage of time. I usually begin my walk here, grabbing a quick coffee or a warm bun before heading towards the quieter stretches. The charm lies not just in the bustle of the market but also in the way the colonial-era buildings stand gracefully, their sloping roofs and wooden balconies speaking of another era.
The Gentle Climb Towards Sunset Point
From Mall Road, the path gradually narrows and begins to curve. It is shaded by tall pines and deodars that filter the sun into delicate patterns on the ground. The air grows cooler and quieter as you leave behind the chatter of the market. On one side, you see glimpses of valleys stretching endlessly, while on the other, beautiful cottages peep through the trees—many with stone walls, arched doors, and blooming gardens that make you pause and admire.
Some of these homes are occupied by army families, and you can sense the discipline and neatness in the way the hedges are trimmed and the pathways kept spotless. There’s something grounding about walking past these residences—the mix of history, order, and natural beauty creates a balance that’s uniquely Kasauli.
Sunset Point – A Pause for the Soul
The trail eventually leads to the famous Sunset Point. This is where the mountains open up into a panoramic view of the plains. On a clear day, the sky turns into a canvas of changing colors—orange melting into pink and purple, with the silhouettes of distant ridges fading into the horizon. Even if you visit during the day, the viewpoint feels magical, with the wind carrying the fragrance of pines and the occasional call of birds.
The Circular Return Trail
Instead of retracing the same path, you can continue walking ahead and take the circular loop that leads back to Mall Road. This part of the trail is quieter and almost meditative. You pass through stretches of thick greenery, spotting occasional wildflowers, listening to cicadas, and enjoying the rhythm of your own footsteps.
Along the way, more colonial-era cottages dot the landscape, some well-preserved and still in use, others crumbling gently into time. Their gabled roofs, pastel-painted window frames, and old stone walls tell stories of British officers, mountain summers, and generations that lived amidst these very pines.
The loop eventually brings you back to Mall Road, completing the circle. And there’s something satisfying about ending where you began—only now, you return with flushed cheeks, a clear head, and a memory of the views and silences you’ve just soaked in.
Why This Walk is Special
It’s an easy trail suitable for all ages, best enjoyed at a slow pace.
You get a slice of everything—local life on Mall Road, history in the architecture, nature in abundance, and breathtaking views at Sunset Point.
It’s a reminder that Kasauli isn’t about rushing from one “spot” to another, but about letting the town reveal itself step by step, turn by turn.
A Few Tips for the Walk
Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times—the light is softer, and the air carries a golden glow.
Carry a light jacket, even in summer, as the breeze can be cool under the pines.
Keep your camera handy—you’ll want to capture the play of shadows, the heritage cottages, and of course, the view at Sunset Point.
Respect the army areas and private properties; admire from a distance and avoid straying into restricted zones.
This circular walk in Kasauli is less about the destination and more about the journey. It is about slowing down, observing the details—the green slopes, the old houses, the disciplined serenity of army quarters, and the vast sky opening up at Sunset Point. It’s the kind of walk that lingers with you long after you’ve left the hills.
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