Chandigarh may be the ideal entry point to the Himalayas, but in planning a one-off mountain trip, most head directly to Shimla or Manali. And while these destinations are certainly stunning, they can also be crowded with tourists, traffic and noise – particularly on weekends and holidays.
But what if you could enjoy the peace and quiet of the hills without the crowds?
This blog covers three little-known hill stations around Chandigarh that are sure to fulfil your quest for peace, scenic beauty and mountain air. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful couple’s escape, a solitary retreat for soul-searching, or simply a weekend in nature, these hidden gems are the perfect escape.
Barog – The Mini Switzerland of Himachal
Chandigarh distance: approx. 60 km
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours by road
A little off the Kalka-Shimla Highway, Barog is one of the most beautiful but underrated hill stations in Himachal. Surrounded by thick pine forests, misty hills and colonial architecture, this quiet town looks like something straight out of a postcard.
The wonderful British-era railway station at Barog (it lies on the UNESCO-approved Kalka-Shimla toy train route) adds to the location’s unique charm. The Barog Tunnel (Tunnel No. 33) is definitely worth checking out – it is one of India’s longest straight railway tunnels, so it’s got a bit of history added to your journey.
Why Visit Barog?
- Tranquillity: Away from tourist bustle, ideal for quiet nature walks and navel-gazing.
- Colonial Vibe: Old-world beauty with quaint cottages and British-style constructions.
- Scenic Landscapes: Lush green valleys, golden sunsets, and misty hills.
- Toy Train Ride: A joyride of views, the journey is as beautiful as the destination.
Where to Stay:
- Barog Railway Guest House (If you wish to have a unique heritage stay)
- Homestays and eco-resorts in the surrounding hills run by small families
Best Time to Visit:
- March – June: Nice weather and flowering hills
- September to November: Snowy mountains and crisp air after the monsoon
Pro Tip: Stop for local Himachali food at a roadside dhaba, and catch the sunrise from Barog’s upper viewpoints.
Dagshai – A Forgotten Colonial Hill Cantonment
Location: Morni Hills
Distance from Chandigarh: ~55 km
How to reach: By road, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Nestled on a hilltop a few kilometres from Solan, Dagshai ranks among the oldest and quietest cantonment towns in India. Founded by the British in 1847, this quirky gem brims with history and colonial-era ambience, stunning vistas and a deep sense of calm.
Unlike its busy neighbours, Dagshai has resisted the creep of commercial tourism. It has a distinctly old-world feel with its narrow winding roads, colonial bungalows and a sleepy military base.
Why Visit Dagshai?
- Historical Significance: Explore the Dagshai Jail Museum, where Irish soldiers were lodged during the British Raj.
- Quiet & Unspoiled: There’s little traffic and almost no crowds, making it a great getaway for writers, photographers or anyone looking for solitude.
- Scenic Vistas: The altitude provides breathtaking vistas of all surrounding valleys with the Himalayan foothills in the backdrop.
What to Do:
- Visit the Jail Museum and its connection to the Irish rebellion.
- Nature walks along pine-covered trails make pleasurable
- Enjoy stunning sunset views from the former helipad site.
Where to Stay:
There are few places to stay in Dagshai, so most travellers reserve accommodations in nearby Solan or Barog and take day trips.
Best Time to Visit:
Fair weather year-round, although spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) are best for seeing clearly and walking, feeling a breeze.
Fun Fact: The mobile networks here can be a little up and down-which is part of the appeal to escape the frenetic pace of city living.
Nahan – A Royal Retreat in the Shivaliks
Distance from Chandigarh: ~85 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours by road
Situated on the serene Shivalik hills, Nahan is one of Himachal’s secret hill stations, untouched and less explored. Nahan, which was once the capital of the princely state of Sirmaur, presents an idyllic mixture of royal heritage, picturesque scenery and a laid-back small-town atmosphere.
While in popular hill stations, tourists can be found swarming every corner, Nahan, however, offers a calm yet wholesome experience, starting from palaces, temples and lakes to forested trails.
Why Visit Nahan?
- Royal Heritage: Discover colonial buildings, temples and the Rani Tal (a royal bathing tank that became a peaceful lake).
- Clean & Scenic: Considered one of the cleanest towns in Himachal, it has clean roads and well-maintained public properties.
- Perfect Mix: History, spirituality, nature and local culture – without the crowds.
Things to Do:
- Wander around the local bazaar and town square.
- See Renuka Lake, the largest lake in Himachal (38 kms from Nahan, approx.).
- Read also: Jagannath Temple and Shivalik Fossil Park Nearby
Where to Stay:
- Cheap and midline hotels in the town centre
- Forest rest houses and government guest houses are also there but need to be booked in advance.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March: Wintery cool weather with clear blue skies
- Monsoon (July-September): Greenery and waterfall views (but vary road conditions)
Bonus Tip: Nahan makes for a perfect family weekend vacation or a peaceful couple’s getaway with a regal flair.
How to Reach These Hidden Hill Stations from Chandigarh
Unconventional though they are, these hill stations are surprisingly easy to access by road and train:
Car / Taxi:
- Barog & Dagshai: Follow NH5 to Solan. Well-maintained roads and beautiful drives.
- Nahan: NH907 route via Kala Amb – well-paved road with very little or no traffic.
Train:
- Barog: Take the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train and alight at Barog Station.
- Dagshai: No direct train stop, but the nearest are Kalka and Barog stations. You can hire a cab or auto from there.
- Nahan: Ambala Cantt or Kalka is the closest railway station. Continue by cab or bus.
Bus:
- HRTC & private regular buses to Solan (for Barog & Dagshai) & Nahan. Ideal for budget travel.
Tip: Start early in the morning to make the most of a weekend getaway!
Comparison Table – Quick Look
| Hill Station | Distance from Chandigarh | Ideal For | Highlights |
| Barog | 60 km | Couples, nature lovers | Toy train, pine forests, colonial vibe |
| Dagshai | 55 km | History buffs, solo travelers | British-era jail, panoramic views |
| Nahan | 85 km | Families, culture explorers | Royal heritage, Renuka Lake, clean town |
Conclusion
While the crowds rush to Manali and Shimla, these three hidden hill stations near Chandigarh quietly offer something far more rewarding-tranquillity, charm, and authenticity.
Be it Barog’s fog-clad forests, Dagshai’s colonial whispers or Nahan’s royal calm – each destination is an oft-overlooked reminder that the best destinations are sometimes the ones that people aren’t quite talking about (yet).
So next weekend, avoid the traffic and explore a quiet corner of the hills.
Who knows? You could discover your new favourite place.
