Subathu: Gurkha History and the Old Shimla Route

Subathu is defined by two distinctive historical themes: the old road to Shimla and the history of the Gurkhas. Both span different periods—from a route that was once important to travellers heading to the summer capital to the Gurkhas’ present-day role in the Indian Army.

Subathu on the Old Road to Shimla

Subathu was an important stop on the old road to Shimla. The route ran from Kalka via Kasauli, past Lawrence School in Sanawar and through Dharampur to Subathu; from there, it continued through the villages of Sairi and Kakkarhatti to Shimla. When Shimla became the summer capital, Subathu was a natural stopping point for the Governor-Generals and Viceroys of India who rode up on horseback. The town is therefore part of a historic sequence of routes whose named stops stretch from Kalka to Shimla.

Gurkha History: Past Role and Present-Day Regimental Centre

From its early years, Subathu was a significant recruitment centre for Gurkhas in the British Indian Army. Today, Subathu is the Indian Army’s regimental centre for Gurkhas. These details mark different historical periods: its former recruitment role and its present-day institutional role. Subathu was also initially the base of the newly appointed British Political Agent for the Hill States.

The Gurkha Fort in Subathu also reflects the Gurkhas’ earlier history: it is a remnant from the time when Gurkha warriors invaded the area. The fort is used for army training and is not open to the public. Near the fort, the Gurkha Museum displays exhibits from the period of the Anglo-Gurkha Wars. If you would like to visit the museum, check in advance whether access is possible. The fort and museum offer different perspectives: one focuses on a structural remnant, the other on exhibits from the period of the Anglo-Gurkha Wars.

Solan as the Wider Destination

The wider destination of Solan offers additional, distinct themes. The narrow-gauge Kalka–Shimla Heritage Railway passes through Solan and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a different kind of route from the historic road through Subathu: the Heritage Railway through Solan. The Karol Trek starts at Chambaghat in Solan City and ends at Shikhar Ki Devi Temple. Its named starting and ending points offer clear guidance if you are considering trekking as part of your travel plans.

Solan’s religious culture includes the Shoolini Mata Temple. It is dedicated to the goddess Shoolini, an incarnation of Maa Durga. The Shoolini Fair takes place every year in June as a three-day mela at Thodo Ground in Solan. The Shoolini festival is celebrated annually on the third Sunday in June, with the main events held at Thodo Ground. If you would like to plan your visit around the festival, check the exact dates before travelling.

When choosing a destination for a holiday rental, it helps to weigh up the themes: Subathu is associated with Gurkha history and the old Shimla road, while the railway, temple, festival and trekking themes mentioned above are located in the wider Solan area.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Mundaghat, Kandaghat, Kasol, Dagshai, Bajaura, Kullu, Bharwain, Shoghi.

For the wider travel guide: Himachal Pradesh.