
A homestay for weekend escapeswinter snow dayslong mountain walkspet-friendly stays
Where the mountains
slow you down.
On the edge of a quiet village, where the forest begins and the noise of the city fades away.
Where the mountain is your backyard
Windmill Inn sits on a mountaintop on the outskirts of a quiet village near Solan, Himachal Pradesh — right where the forest begins. Panoramic views, clean mountain air, and the kind of peace that's becoming rare.
Just 6 hours from Delhi and 2 hours from Chandigarh. The perfect weekend reset.
Pet-friendly, family-friendly, and quietly tucked away in the Solan hills — Windmill Inn is a working homestay for travellers who'd rather hear birds than horns. We're a 40-minute drive from Solan town and around 80–90 minutes from Kasauli. Forest trails start at our gate, the café opens at sunrise, and there's a sunset hike to a hidden fort that most guides don't know about.
Everything at Windmill Inn
A small, family-run, pet-friendly stay near Solan with five rooms, an on-site café, a working garden, and the forest trails starting at our boundary. Whatever brings you here — a long weekend, a snow trip, a quiet stretch of work-from-the-mountain — the place is built to absorb the city out of you.
From our cosy Standard rooms to the panoramic Super Deluxe — every room has a private balcony. Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms are positioned so you can watch the sunrise from bed.
View Rooms →Forest nature walks, a guided sunset hike to a hidden abandoned fort, bonfire evenings, and forest picnics. Some of the finest things to do near Solan and Kasauli, right from your doorstep.
Explore Experiences →Our on-site café is open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM. Fresh home-cooked meals, chai on the lawn, valley views. Last kitchen orders at 9:30 PM.
See House Rules →Google Reviews
"For people who want to embrace peace and quiet away from the city and touristy places, everything that Windmill Inn offers is just perfect! The property overlooks the valley and is surrounded by lush greenery. Everywhere you look is an opportunity to find something soothing to the eyes — the flora, fauna, birds, crazy sunsets, clouds that change drastically by the minute. You could just sit, do nothing and feel immense peace. Everyday there is an opportunity to find a new spot to watch the sunset, my favourite was at a former fort 'the Gorkha fort', a short and sweet hike starting a few minutes away from the property. And when you've built up an appetite after the hike, the kitchen staff is ever ready to cook something delicious. Aside from the vibe of the entire place, I personally commend the spaciousness of the rooms, something that a lot of properties compromise on. The host was very warm and helpful with all the queries I had — thanks Saksham! If you're looking for somewhere offbeat and safe to go I highly recommend Windmill Inn! Can't wait to be back!"
"Stayed at Windmill Inn, Dharo Ki Dhar, Solan and really had a pleasant experience. The property is situated around 200 meters away from the village, offering a peaceful and scenic atmosphere. Host Saksham is a true gentleman with an excellent taste in music. Had some great conversations during the stay which made the experience even better. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well maintained. The deluxe rooms offer a beautiful view of the mountains. The food was home-cooked, fresh, and delicious — especially enjoyed the Chicken Curry and Yellow Dal. The pricing of the food was quite reasonable, and the quantity served was more than sufficient. Overall, it was a warm and comfortable stay. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful mountain getaway."
"I had a wonderful stay at Windmill Inn in Solan! The property is peaceful, well-maintained, and offers a lovely view of the surrounding hills. What truly made the experience special was the warm hospitality. A big thank you to Saksham, our host, who made us feel comfortable. He was attentive, friendly, and always ready to help with anything we needed. Food was amazing! Rooms well maintained and cozy. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a relaxing and welcoming getaway in Solan. Looking forward to visiting again!"
"The most amazing property in Himachal. Stayed there for a night and the place had just started just before the disaster in Himachal. But luckily this place lies at a hill without any tensions of cloudburst. Being a Pahari myself from Kasauli, I was at peace with my family. The guy running this place happens to be a famous DJ and only specializes in techno. We had great discussions. I also suggested some ideas to him. Probably when you reach there soon. If you are looking for a different, quieter stay, this is your destination."
"This Airbnb was like a dream come true! The host was beyond amazing, super hospitable, and went above and beyond to make our stay extra special. And let me tell you, he was a total blast to hang out with! We laughed, we danced, we had the time of our lives! The place itself was like a cozy paradise, with all the comforts you could ever ask for. It felt like home, but way cooler! I can't recommend this Airbnb enough for anyone who wants to have the best time in Dharon ki Dhar. Trust me, you won't regret it! 🤌🏼✨"
"Went to the mountains with my pup for his first trip, and choosing this place was the best decision! Saksham is an incredibly warm and cooperative host who made our stay truly memorable. We planned for 2 days but loved it so much that we extended another day! Perfect spot to relax, enjoy delicious home-cooked food, soak up the sun, and let your pets have a blast in the chilly weather. Great for long stays with reliable WiFi too. Just call ahead if you need specific food for your pet. Highly recommended!"
"This homestay in Solan turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The staff were really nice and the rooms were super clean and comfy, with beautiful views of the hills. We spent a lot of time in the cozy café, munching on yummy food and playing games. The owner was so friendly and made us feel at home. It was such a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxed getaway in the mountains."
"Right from the location to the views to the delicious food (the coffee, vegetable cutlets and punjabi kadhi are must haves!!), we had a wonderful time here! It's not just a home away from home for us, but our 2 dogs Chica and Ash enjoyed thoroughly! Nice lawn area for dogs to play and also no restrictions for them to wander around! Do go for a trek to the fort nearby, the views are awesome! Special mention for Saksham the host and Ajay bhaiya who go out of their way to make you feel comfortable!"
"Beautiful, peaceful stay surrounded by lush flora and fauna. If you've got a knack for bird watching, there's Himalayan bulbuls, magpie-robins, and parakeets. The rooms are spacious and cozy, and the home-cooked food was super tasty and made in the cleanest kitchen I've seen at a hotel for sure! And can't forget to mention the milkybar chapatis. The host was warm, helpful, and always available — even at late hours. Perfect spot if you're looking to relax and reconnect with nature."
"Thank you for the wonderful hospitality, comfy room & delicious food. Must say an amazing and comfortable stay, owner (Saksham) is friendly and knows the place real good, took us to a nearby sunset point, amazing view. Thank you for this warm welcome. The place has an on site restaurant which is well stocked and the food was lipsmacking. The drive is amazing and the road condition is very good with ample parking space. Would love to come here again."
"Recently visited Solan & stayed at this beautiful property. It's away from all the crowd & hustle bustle. The home cooked food is made with love & it's amazing, rooms are clean & well maintained. The views are stunning from here & the host is very helpful & friendly. If you are planning to visit Solan, you should stay here. It's just a little away from Solan but everything will be worth it after you stay at this property."
"Stayed at Windmill Inn for a week this end of August. The views were absolutely amazing, and even more amazing was the climate and sounds of birds chirping and the wind blowing — things you usually miss in city life. I was working during the week I was there and loved my daily work desk in the common room. Also the views from the room were pretty amazing. Special mention to the amazing food we were served here."
"Serenity at its best! This homestay near Solan is nestled in breathtaking mountains, offering stunning views. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, perfect for relaxation. The authentic food is delicious and homemade. The hospitality is warm and welcoming, making this stay truly unforgettable! If you're looking for a peaceful place to relax and unwind nestled in the mountains, Windmill Inn is the right choice."
"My stay at Windmill Inn in Dharo ki Dhar, Solan, was incredible! The views were absolutely stunning, the rooms spacious and cozy, and the café served up mouthwatering local dishes. Exploring the nearby Gurkha forts was an adventure filled with history and awe-inspiring sights. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking for an exciting getaway!"
"If you visit Solan do check out this place. After spending almost two weeks here, I was thoroughly impressed by the property's breathtaking sunrise views. They truly added a refreshing start to each morning. The food was outstanding, and the ambiance only enhanced the overall experience. I couldn't have asked for a better stay, specially so near to Chandigarh."
"Spent a week at this beautiful homestay near Solan, only 6 hours away from Delhi and it was one of the most relaxing getaways I've experienced. Comfortable rooms, super fresh tasty food and abundant views from everywhere in the property! The moon rise every evening was a highlight! The drive to the stay was very smooth too. Will be back soon!"
"Had an amazing experience at the property. Had booked the entire property for my friends and each and every one was thoroughly impressed with the service and cleanliness of the property. Saksham was an excellent host and personally looked into the individual needs of each room. Highly recommend the property."
"Awesome luxury hotel ran by an incredible family. Super friendly and happy to help make you feel completely comfortable and relaxed. Beds are super comfy and the views are spectacular up here. Covered parking is great to keep your motorcycle out of the rain during the monsoons! Thanks for everything y'all 🙏"
"My perfect getaway spot. Family and friends under one roof surrounded by the mountains. Multiple activities, nature walks, and blissful views. Find your inner peace at the Windmill Inn. My special thanks to the host for greeting and treating us. Guided us through the way and walks. Home away from home. ✨❤️"
"This pet-friendly homestay in Solan is a hidden gem, nestled in a tranquil forest. The panoramic 360° views of sunrise and sunset are breathtaking. Spacious, comfortable rooms and excellent service make it perfect for nature lovers and their furry companions. A truly serene and picturesque retreat."
"Magical place in the heart of Solan, the view of Dharo ki Dhar is by far the best you can get around there. Saksham, the host at Windmill, is kind and fun, takes you on exploration and treats you well. Highly recommend for a peaceful trip. The food is cherry on the cake, quite literally!"
"I stayed at Windmill Inn with my dog and her first trip could not have been better. The host is wonderful and exceptionally accommodating. The food was delicious and the room was super well maintained. The place has a calming vibe, far from the maddening crowd! Highly recommend!"
"Loved the stay at Windmill Inn. The host is a wonderful man and amazing at what he does. It was nothing short of an EXPERIENCE. I would highly recommend this place if you actually want to have a good time at an offbeat, beautiful & peaceful place."
"Serene views! Beautiful place, very neat and clean. Plus point — it's pet friendly, homely and has a very comfortable vibe. Staff is very welcoming, took good care of us. Saksham is very warm. Pancakes and milkybar beignets is a must try!"
"10/10 recommendation. People from tricity must visit this place if you are looking for a wholesome weekend getaway with amazing views, homely food, short trails and a very welcoming host to guide you through."
"One of the most beautiful places hands down that I have visited and stayed at in Himachal. From the views to the serenity, this definitely was a once in a lifetime experience. Highly recommended."
"A wonderful experience! What a hardworking and hospitable host Saksham is. Went out of his way to accommodate every request however big or small, with a smile. A truly pleasant stay 👌👍👍"
"Super host and the food is to die for. Coming up on one of the highest peaks of Solan and venturing to such a property was a delight — luxury stay and affordable prices."
"Chilled out space with beautiful view from rooms and café. Food is really good, the host and staff are very friendly and hospitable. Recommended for a peaceful getaway."
"Best homestay in Solan with beautiful views and amazing food. This place is worth your while."
Frequently Asked Questions
Windmill Inn is a peaceful homestay near Solan, located in a quiet village surrounded by forest and mountain views — just a short drive from Solan town and close to Kasauli. The property sits on a mountaintop on the outskirts of the village, right at the edge of the forest on Dharon Ki Dhar Road.
Yes. Windmill Inn is ideal for a weekend getaway near Delhi (approx. 6 hours) and near Chandigarh (approx. 2 hours). Guests enjoy panoramic mountain views, peaceful surroundings, bonfire evenings, and nearby hiking experiences.
Yes — our on-site café serves fresh home-cooked meals daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (last kitchen orders by 9:30 PM). All meals are charged separately and can be ordered à la carte.
Yes, free private parking is available for all guests staying at Windmill Inn.
Guests can enjoy forest nature walks, a guided hike to a hidden abandoned fort — the finest sunset viewpoint near Solan — bonfire evenings (₹500), and forest picnics (₹500 per group, food extra). These are among the best things to do near Kasauli and Solan, available right from the property.
Yes. Windmill Inn welcomes pets with prior approval — making it a great pet-friendly homestay near Kasauli. Please inform us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements. Our garden and the forest trails right outside our gate are great for dogs, and our team is happy to help with food or anything else your pet needs. One thing to note: we also care for a friendly local stray dog who can be a bit territorial, so please check with our staff before letting your dog roam off-leash in the lawn — we'll check whether she's around first.
Windmill Inn is approximately 80–90 minutes from Kasauli and 40 minutes from Solan town — a peaceful and affordable alternative for travellers looking for a nature homestay near Kasauli. The drive itself is a scenic journey through the Himachal hills.
Yes. We host day visitors from Kasauli on a case-by-case basis — usually for a guided fort hike, a forest picnic, or a meal at the café with a long walk before. The drive from Kasauli is around 80–90 minutes each way, so a full day works best. Message us a day ahead so we can plan around the kitchen and our guide's schedule. Many guests who tried us as a day trip from Kasauli ended up booking a room and staying overnight.
Kasauli's main sights — Mall Road, Christ Church, Monkey Point, Sunset Point — are usually done in a day. For travellers wanting offbeat places to visit near Kasauli, the Solan side of the hills offers a quieter alternative: an abandoned fort with one of the finest sunset views in the region (we run a guided hike to it), old-growth deodar forests with proper nature trails, the Ashwani Khad river valley for a slow afternoon, and small mountain villages where farms still terrace the slopes. All are within a 30–90 minute drive of Windmill Inn.
Simply call or WhatsApp us at +91 78072 33866. We'll confirm availability, share room details, and guide you through the booking. Direct bookings always get the best rates.
Absolutely. Activities around Kasauli and Solan — forest treks, fort hikes, nature picnics — are all available right from the property. We're positioned to give you the tranquility of a forested mountain with easy access to Himachal's best destinations.
A 50% advance confirms your booking. Check-in is from 2:00 PM, check-out by 12:00 PM. Cancellation, ID, pet, smoking and alcohol terms are covered in full on our Booking Policies page →
A place born from love of the mountains
Windmill Inn started with a simple idea: to create a place where people could trade the noise of daily life for something more real. Perched on a mountaintop near Solan, surrounded by oak, deodar and pine forest, with views that stretch across the valley — this is that place.
We're a small, family-run homestay. What we offer is genuine warmth, fresh home-cooked food, a café that brews a great cup of chai, and a community of guests who keep finding their way back.
The fine print
Welcome to Windmill Inn. We're all about good vibes, great views, and a lot of mountain magic. To keep the peace, here are a few house rules:
Check-in from 2:00 PM (fashionably late is fine, but let us know). Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Open daily 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Come for the coffee, stay for the pancakes. Last kitchen orders by 9:30 PM.
Bonfires in the designated spot only. Charges: ₹500 (includes firewood + good vibes). Going for a hike? Tell us — so we don't send a search party.
10:00 PM – 7:00 AM. Mother Nature's asleep. So are the other guests. Shhh.
Yes, we have Wi-Fi. No, it's not always city-speed. Please take it as a sign to look at the view, not your screen.
Furry friends welcome with prior approval. Note: we also look after a friendly local stray who can be a little territorial — please check with our team before letting your dog off the leash in the lawn, so we can make sure she's not around.
Outdoors only. If you light up inside, you'll summon angry mountain spirits (and a cleaning fee).
We love hosting kind people. Help us keep it that way.
Don't be trashy. Use the bins. Go easy on water and electricity. This mountain isn't secretly hiding a power plant.
No surprise guests, exes, or party crashers.
— The Windmill Inn Team
Your home in the clouds · 5 rooms · 3 categories
Every room at Windmill Inn has a private balcony. Our Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms are positioned so you can watch the sunrise from bed as the valley lights up below.
Our largest and most sought-after room. Positioned for the finest panoramic views — watch the sunrise from bed as the Himalayas light up. Spacious, well-appointed, and entirely worth it.
Spacious and beautifully set with exceptional mountain views. Wake to the sunrise right from your bed — these rooms catch the best morning light. Perfect for couples seeking that extra touch.
Cosy, clean, and everything you need for a genuine mountain escape. A private balcony, en-suite bath, and full access to everything Windmill Inn has to offer.
Free Private Parking
Wi-Fi Included
Mountain Views
Balcony on Every Room
Tea Kettle in Room
Pet-Friendly (on request)
Guided Hikes Nearby
Café & Home-cooked Meals
Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms are positioned so you can watch the sunrise from bed. Set your alarm — or don't. The light will find you.
See it to believe it
















Things to do near Kasauli
Windmill Inn is a base for some of the best things to do near Kasauli and Solan — guided fort hikes, forest walks, bonfire evenings, mountain barbeques and quiet picnics in the woods. Whether you're a hiker, a nature-lover, or someone who just needs to sit by a fire, there's an experience here for you.
Step out of the property and straight onto a forest trail. Several walks run from the homestay — most through old oak, some through pine, one into a stretch of deodar. Breathe in the mountain air, spot birds, and let the forest do the rest. One of the most peaceful things to do near Solan.
Best for Sunsets
A guided hike to a hidden, centuries-old abandoned fort — the finest sunset viewpoint near Solan. Watch the valley flood with amber light as the sun dips behind the ranges. An experience that stays with you.
Head into the forest trails with a packed basket and spend an afternoon surrounded by trees and mountain air. We set it up — you just show up. Food ordered from the café separately. Perfect for families, couples, and groups.
As the sun sets and the mountain air turns crisp, gather around a crackling bonfire in our designated spot. Includes firewood and good vibes. The quintessential Windmill Inn evening.
Smoky, slow-grilled flavours with the forest as your backdrop. Our mountain barbeque is set up on the lawn — marinated meats, fresh vegetables, hot coals, and the kind of evening that turns into a memory. Perfect for groups, celebrations, and slow weekend dinners at our BnB near Solan.
In Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms, the sunrise comes to you — watch it unfold from bed without stepping outside. For sunset, our fort hike leads to the finest viewpoint near Solan. Some moments are worth building a trip around.
Complimentary beginner-friendly yoga on the lawn, led at sunrise. Mats provided, mountain air included. The quietest class you'll take all year — let us know the evening before so we can set up.
A guided walk through the village we call home — apple orchards, stone houses, local farms, the slow pace of rural Himachal. Led by someone who actually lives here. A quiet highlight for anyone wanting more than the standard sights.
In-house guests only
A curated day out to Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, the Ashwani river valley, and Riva Waterfall. We plan the itinerary; transport with a driver is optional. One of the best-kept secrets near Solan.
Plan your journey
Directions
NH-44 toward Ambala → Kalka → Pinjore → Solan. From Solan town, follow towards Dharon Ki Dhar Road. We send an exact pin on WhatsApp upon booking.
NH-5 via Parwanoo → Dharampur → Solan. A straightforward drive through the lower Himalayas. We share exact coordinates on WhatsApp.
Arrive on the heritage Kalka–Shimla narrow gauge line. Short taxi ride from the station to the property. Let us know and we can help arrange pickup.
We share a precise Google Maps pin and directions via WhatsApp upon booking. Mountain roads can be unpredictable — we make sure you arrive safe.
Get Directions on WhatsAppGet in touch
No forms, no complicated systems. Call or WhatsApp us directly — we'll handle the rest.
The quickest way to reach us. Send your dates, number of guests, and preferred room. We reply within the hour.
+91 78072 33866 →Prefer to speak? We're happy to answer questions, check availability, or tell you more about the property.
+91 78072 33866 →Dharon Ki Dhar Road, Solan, Himachal Pradesh 173212. We share a precise pin on WhatsApp after booking.
Open in Maps →Room Tariff