Are you looking for the best places to visit in Kasol? This guide is intended for backpackers, nature lovers and adventure lovers visiting the “Mini Israel of India” in Himachal Pradesh. We will explore spiritual locations, breathtaking trekking paradises, and must-see villages. Highlights include well-known spots like Tosh and Malana, as well as the unforgettable Kheerganga Trek with its natural hot springs. Get ready to discover the most beautiful riverside locations in Parvati Valley, as well as the cultural highlights of all the possibilities this Himalayan valley has to offer.
As you walk through Kasol Village and Parvati Valley, you’ll realise that it’s aptly called “Mini-Israel.” The streets are a mix of Himachali and Israeli culture. There are Hebrew signs all over the menus at cafes, and the smell of fresh hummus mixed with Indian spices is at every corner. The village, while still offering a lot to explore, is small enough to wander on foot, with plenty of chances to stop and appreciate the views of the towering peaks and thick pine forests. The Parvati River runs through the village, giving it captivating views. The cafes in Kasol serve everything from Israeli shakshuka to wood-fired pizzas. For accommodations, you can find a list of registered hotels in Kasol on the Himachal Tourism government website.
Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, located at a short distance of 4 kilometres from Kasol, is one of the most religiously sacred places in the Parvati Valley. The gurudwara sees hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and curious travellers from around the world each year, all of whom come to visit this important Sikh shrine. Next to the gurudwara is the Parvati River, where visitors can observe an amazing natural aspect of the region, hot springs! The hot water erupting from the ground is at temperatures reaching near 96 degrees Celsius. You can also enjoy the free food or community kitchen (Langar), which serves thousands of daily visitors with meals prepared using the natural steam from the hot springs.
When you want an easy and gratifying trek from Kasol, Chalal Village is just 2 kilometres away through lovely forest trails. Your trek will be along the beautiful Parvati River, where you’ll be wandering over lovely wooden bridges and through thick pine forest that allows dappled sunlight onto the trail. Chalal is ideally situated for adventure seekers who want to experience light trekking in the Himalayas without much difficulty. The village has an exquisite viewpoint of the valley and is your perfect base camp. As you traverse towards longer treks into the Parvati Valley, you’ll find nice little cafes and hotels to relax after your explorations.
Located deep in the upper Parvati Valley, Tosh Village offers you an experience away from the chaotic regular trekking circuits. Your trek here takes you through winding mountain paths until you arrive at a village of some cream and wood houses, located on each steep hillside. The people still live as they have for centuries. It’s also a village at an impressive elevation, complete with epic views of snow-covered mountains in all directions. You can expect Tosh to be your perfect base from which to explore the region’s pristine wilderness, but still with access to modern-day comforts in the form of great restaurants and comfortable guesthouses. The peaceful environment of the village also allows you to disconnect entirely and enjoy watching the mountains around you light up at sunrise or lying on a roof stargazing on a clear night.
You will be engaging in one of the most fulfilling treks in the Parvati Valley once you start your journey on the Kheerganga trek. The 12 kilometres will take you across wooden footbridges on the riverside of the rushing Parvati River, and will provide unbelievable views of snow-covered mountains and lush green valleys. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts at the top when you soak yourself in the natural hot springs with a perfect Himalayan backdrop. The trek realistically is about 4-5 hours each way, which makes it favourable for both novice and experienced hikers. Throughout your trek, you will find quaint tea stalls and local vendors along the path to recharge your energy. Kheerganga’s hot water is said to have healing properties. So, if you so choose, you can camp overnight, head back down the next morning to one of the hotels in Kasol to rest. This will make for a memorable Himalayan adventure.
When you visit Malana, you are stepping into one of the oldest democracies left on earth, standing at 2,652 metres above sea level. Malana runs, just like any other enclave, with its ancient legal system, which includes its parliament (known as ‘Kanashi’), which has governed Malana for over 1000 years. When you arrive, you will discover that locals believe they are descendants of the soldiers of Alexander the Great, and they make everyone respect their customs by preventing outsiders from touching their houses, temples, or objects. You have to trek to this remote village through dense forests and steep mountainous trails, but it is a cultural treat for everyone with each step you take. You will be able to hear the villagers speaking their dialect called ‘Kanashi’. The centuries of relative isolation of this village have allowed its customs and traditions to remain unchanged, giving you a unique glimpse into an ancient way of life.
You arrive in Bhuntar knowing you are at the door of your Kasol adventure, as you pass through one of the busier towns with a population of 8500. Bhuntar rests at the intersection of the Beas and Parvati rivers and is your key pit stop before further travel in the valley. Stop by the local market to stock up on supplies for your stay, grab a bite to eat, or change money. You will get to Kasol from Bhuntar, which is a winding 45-minute journey through windy mountain roads, where you can witness some unbelievable views of the valley. Local buses, taxi cabs, and renting a bike can be arranged to travel the picturesque distance to Kasol. It’s better to directly reach one of the hotels in Kasol and drop off your luggage before setting off on your excursion.
How to Reach:
Air: Bhuntur Airport is approx. 40km from the Kasol from where you can easily reach to the destination:
Train: Chandigarh Railway Station is one of the nearest most popular railway stations.
Bus: There is regular public transport available from Chandigarh to Kasol which is a 260km journey & takes around 6-7 hours.
You can explore the Chandigarh city during your Kasol itinerary by staying in one of the budget treebo hotels in Chandigarh.
Grab your backpack and begin planning. Whether you’re interested in the historic figurative culture, the treks, or simply want to build some memories riverside, Kasol and the surrounding villages will fill your soul for a lifetime. You can also include Kasol in your Manali itinerary as a one day visit as well. You can explore the relaxing & budget Treebo hotels in Manali. Plan your visit during the appropriate season and abide by local traditions. Make sure to confirm your stay in advance at well-known chains like Treebo Hotels, and you’ll be fully immersed in a unique blend of culture and nature that Kasol has to offer.
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