Solan, nestled in the Shivalik hills of Himachal Pradesh, is a tranquil hill station known for its natural beauty and spiritual heritage. Just 55 km from Chandigarh, it’s an ideal getaway for those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. Solan offers quiet, sacred retreats with ancient temples that blend serenity, history, and architectural charm, perfect for soulful pilgrimages. If you’re based in Chandigarh, you can visit one temple per day over eight trips, covering each at a leisurely pace. Here’s your guide to eight must-visit temples near Solan, including the revered Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple, the scenic Kali Tibba Temple, and the majestic Churdhar Temple, with estimated time to spend at each temple.
Trip 1: Churdhar Temple – The Abode of Lord Shirgul Mahadev
Situated at 3,647 meters atop Churdhar Peak, about 50 km from Solan in Sirmaur district, the Churdhar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shirgul Mahadev, a form of Lord Shiva. Revered as the highest peak in the outer Himalayas, it’s a spiritual and trekking destination, accessible via a 7–18 km trek from Nohradhar or Haripurdhar. The temple, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of divinity. A small statue of Lord Hanuman near the temple adds to its sacred aura.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 110 km to Nohradhar (via NH5) + 7–18 km trek
- Travel Time: ~3 hours by car to Nohradhar + 4–6 hours trekking (one way)
- Timings: Open 24 hours (best visited during daylight)
- Time to Spend: 3–4 hours at the temple and peak (excluding trek time; plan for a full day or overnight camping)
- Tip: Carry trekking gear, water, and warm clothing; avoid monsoons due to slippery trails. Basic facilities are available at the temple.
- Plan: Leave Chandigarh Friday evening, stay in Nohradhar, trek to the temple Saturday morning, and return by Sunday.
Trip 2: Jatoli Shiv Temple – Asia’s Tallest Shiva Shrine
Located 8 km from Solan in Jatoli village, the Jatoli Shiv Temple is a marvel of Indo-Aryan and Dravidian architecture. Revered as Asia’s tallest Shiva temple at 122 feet, it houses a sacred linga and a holy Jal Kund, believed to have medicinal properties akin to the Ganges. The serene hilltop setting and intricate carvings make it a spiritual and visual delight. Visit on a Sunday for free langar.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 63 km (via NH5)
- Travel Time: ~1.5 hours by car
- Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM
- Time to Spend: 1.5–2 hours (for darshan, exploring the temple, and enjoying the hilltop views)
- Tip: Photography is prohibited inside; enjoy the hilltop views instead.
- Plan: Leave Chandigarh early Saturday morning, spend the day exploring the temple and nearby Solan markets, and return by evening.
Trip 3: Shoolini Mata Temple – The Heart of Solan
Dedicated to Goddess Shoolini Devi, an incarnation of Durga, this temple is Solan’s namesake and spiritual cornerstone. Just 2.2 km from Solan’s city center, it’s a small yet vibrant shrine, especially during the Shoolini Fair in June. Its peaceful ambiance and historical significance make it perfect for a quick, soulful visit.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 57 km
- Travel Time: ~1.3 hours by car
- Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM
- Time to Spend: 1–1.5 hours (for prayers and soaking in the ambiance)
- Tip: Visit during Navratri for a festive vibe.
- Plan: Drive to Solan on Sunday morning, visit the temple, and pair it with a stroll through Solan’s Mall Road before heading back.
Trip 4: Jakholi Devi Temple – A Shakti Pitha Retreat
Also known as Bhadra Kali Temple, this sacred Shakti Pitha is 5 km from Solan in the Jakholi area. Despite its modest size, it’s a powerhouse of spiritual energy, dedicated to Goddess Bhadra Kali. The Shikara-style architecture and serene location near Rajgarh Road make it a hidden gem.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 60 km
- Travel Time: ~1.4 hours by car
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Time to Spend: 1–1.5 hours (for darshan and exploring the serene surroundings)
- Tip: Accessible by bus or taxi; combine with a visit to nearby Kali Mata Mandir.
- Plan: Head out Saturday morning, spend a few hours at the temple, and enjoy a picnic lunch in Solan’s scenic surroundings.
Trip 5: Mohan Shakti Mandir – Art Meets Spirituality
Situated 12 km from Solan in Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park, this temple is a masterpiece of art and devotion. Set within 40 acres of gardens and sculptures depicting Vedic tales, it’s a cultural journey as much as a spiritual one. The intricate carvings and life-size figurines of Hindu deities make it family-friendly.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 67 km
- Travel Time: ~1.7 hours by car
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Time to Spend: 2–2.5 hours (for temple visit, exploring the heritage park, and admiring the sculptures)
- Tip: Check out the park’s laser shows on Indian mythology.
- Plan: Visit on Sunday, explore the temple and heritage park, and return by late afternoon.
Trip 6: Naina Devi Temple – Divine Energy Amidst Nature
Perched atop a hill, the Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi (a form of Shakti), is 10 km from Solan. Its elevated location offers panoramic views of the Shivalik hills, blending divine energy with nature’s splendor. Less crowded, it’s perfect for a serene escape.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 65 km
- Travel Time: ~1.6 hours by car
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Time to Spend: 1.5–2 hours (for prayers, climbing to the temple, and enjoying the views)
- Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the short climb.
- Plan: Drive up Saturday morning, spend time at the temple, and enjoy the hilltop views before returning.
Trip 7: Kali Tibba Temple – Spirituality with Scenic Views
Located 38 km from Solan in Chail, the Kali Tibba Temple is a hilltop sanctuary dedicated to Goddess Kali. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, it offers stunning vistas and spiritual tranquility. Its remote location ensures fewer crowds, making it ideal for a meditative retreat.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 93 km
- Travel Time: ~2.5 hours by car
- Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
- Time to Spend: 1.5–2 hours (for darshan, meditation, and soaking in the scenic views)
- Tip: Visit early morning for misty views; pair with Chail Palace.
- Plan: Leave Chandigarh early Sunday, visit the temple, explore Chail’s scenic spots, and return by evening.
Trip 8: Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple – A Mythical Hilltop Sanctuary
Located in Kangar Dharyar, Sirmaur district, about 40 km from Solan, the Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple, also known as Bhurshing Mahadev, sits at 6,800 feet on the Nahan-Solan highway. This ancient Shiva temple is steeped in mythology, believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati witnessed the Mahabharata’s Kurukshetra war. Surrounded by lush forests and offering panoramic views of the Shivalik hills, it’s a serene retreat for devotees and nature lovers. A short 2-km trek from Panwa adds an adventurous touch, though a motorable road is also available.
- Distance from Chandigarh: 68 km (via NH5 and Nahan-Solan highway)
- Travel Time: ~1.8 hours by car
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Time to Spend: 2–2.5 hours (for darshan, trekking, and soaking in the scenic views)
- Tip: Avoid the Chakki Mor route; take the Kumarhatti road for a smoother drive. Photography is prohibited inside.
- Plan: Leave Chandigarh early Saturday morning, visit the temple, and enjoy the hilltop tranquility before returning by evening.
Why Plan This Temple Trail?
These eight temples near Solan offer a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and Himalayan beauty, all accessible as day trips from Chandigarh (except Churdhar, which may require an overnight stay). By visiting one temple per trip, you can explore at a relaxed pace, soaking in the divine aura and natural charm. From the mythical Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple to the lofty Churdhar Temple, this eight-trip journey is fulfilling and rejuvenating.
- How to Reach: Solan is 55 km from Chandigarh via NH5. Most temples are accessible by car or taxi; Churdhar requires trekking. Buses are available for budget travelers. The nearest railway station is Solan, and Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla) is 50 km from Solan.
- Best Time to Visit: March to July for pleasant weather; June for festivals like the Shoolini Fair. Churdhar is best from April to June or September to November.
- Pro Tip: Start early to avoid traffic, and pack snacks for the drive. For Churdhar, check weather conditions and carry trekking essentials. Combine temple visits with Solan’s attractions like the Solan Brewery or Majthal Sanctuary for a wholesome day trip.
Embark on this eight-trip spiritual journey from Chandigarh to uncover Solan’s sacred gems, and let the divine vibes and Himalayan serenity rejuvenate your soul.
