hi yogesh, there are many hotel options but if you want to stay in peace with an atmosphere of home away from home... opt for kashi villa... old charm but neatly done and has a good location and away from rush... thanks.amit

Definitely safe. I took my 3 year old with me. Just hold their hand. She walked almost all of it and actually enjoyed a lot. Its a nice scenic track, about 3-4 feet wide with bushes/plants on the sides. After 1 km or so, there was a big gap (due to some mud slide), you may not be able to cross that with a kid. Till that its perfectly fine.

I guess any time would be a good time. Depends on the season. I went during monsoon .... around 10 am. Amazing play of mist and sunlight. During clear sky and warm days a cap and sunglasses would be advantageous. Keep umbrella on a rainy day as u might not find a proper shade in the trail.

entire kasauli has budget accomodation. better to stay in town proper if u dont have private vehicle. from there can do trails

If you are aware of the difference the winter and summer season brings to a hill station and you enjoy the chill, then yes why not. If you are lucky and the sun is out it would be more than just worth it.

Why would you need to set up a camp for under 500 meter trail?

Manki point is a restricted Air force area. you have log before going (no cameras or phones allowed). I did not go up so I do not know how much time is required for going up and returning. From the base of manki point, gibert trail is just 20-30 mins by walk. there is a short cut indicated by a fancy dust bin. Ask the guard or any local at manki pt they will tell you. Gilbert trail leads to back of base of manki pt. However, you will not be allowed in as it restricted. The sunset point is not great, you can get a better view from suicide point at Gilbert's trail. you will anyway cross sunset pt on returning from Gilbert trail.