• By: NP Traveller
• Jan 14, 2025
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Exploring Kasol and Malana: Your Guide to the Heart of Himachal Pradesh

Author:Alka

Looking for a gateway where the mountains meet tranquility and the soul? Welcome to Kasol, a scenic village in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, which is a heaven for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers! Kasol is a must-visit travel destination if you want to experience the serenity of the Himachal mountains. This guide will take you closer to  “Mini Israel of India”- Kasol.

Kasol

Kasol is truly a delightful small township on the banks of the gushing Parvati River in Himachal Pradesh with an infectious vibe to it. There’s no dearth of exciting activities and places for tourists here.Here are the best spots  to explore in Kasol:

1. Manikaran Gurudwara & Hot Spring

Manikaran Village is a small, serene town located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India, situated about 6 km from Kasol. If you want to immerse in the culture of Kasol, then Manikaran is your first stop.! The highlight of this hamlet is its hot springs which are believed to have healing properties. The gurudwara here is said to be the place where the Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev meditated,  asking it to be a pilgrimage destination for the Sikh community.. With the Parvati River gushing  in the premises, you can hear the soothing sound of flowing water as soon as you enter the gurudwara

2. Tosh Village: For Solitude Seekers

A short distance from Kasol, Tosh is a small picturesque village located at the base of the Parvati Valley. Known for its stunning views of snow-capped peaks and the Parvati River, Tosh is a favorite spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some solitude. Ideal for Trekking, camping, and soaking in the panoramic views of the valley, Tosh village hosts the 3 triplets of Kalga, Pulga & Tulga village, each leading to a scenic abundance of apple orchards. 

3. Nature Park: Green Oasis in the Himalayas 

Kasol’s Nature Park, a sanctuary for flora and fauna, invites nature lovers to immerse in its serene ambiance. The park, surrounded by lush greenery, is a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility. To visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, March-June and September-November are the best times when you can relish nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying picnics amidst pristine surroundings.

4. Kheerganga Trek: A Popular Trekking Destination 

One of the most treed treks to do in Kasol is the Kheerganga trek. It’s a 9 km trek that starts from Tosh and a four-hour steep climb on a narrow and tricky trail of streams & boulders. There are also options available to stay overnight at the summit. The summit passes through dense forests of pine, oak, and wild plants and offers occasional glimpses of snow-capped mountains. The key stops on the way are

• Nakthan village- A picturesque village with small wooden houses, offering a perfect view to behold.
• Rudra Nag Waterfall- A serene and beautiful waterfall en route, known for its mythological significance.
• Shiva Temple- Close to the final stretch, you will find a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

5. Camping in Kasol: 

Camping in Kasol is an escape into nature‘s embrace, where the mesmerizing beauty of the valley comes alive under the star-studded sky. Whether you choose to pitch in your tent or stay in one of the many campsites, the experience is going to be a memorable one as it will provide you with an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of life and reconnect with nature.

6. Shopping in Kasol: A Shopper’s Delight

Shopping is something that cannot be missed, in this small settlement of the mountains. Starting with Kasol’s Flea Market, visitors are drawn into a Bohemian haven adorned with hippie clothing, artisanal jewelry, and a kaleidoscope of accessories that echoes the free spirit of the town. Just a short journey away, the Manikaran Market offers a traditional affair, showcasing handicrafts, shawls, and religious artifacts amidst the backdrop of nearby Gurudwara. Meanwhile, the Bhuntar Bazaar invites the exploration of aromatic spices put in the stalls. Each market captivates the visitor to stop and shop there!

7. Cafe Hopping: This is your chance to immerse in the local culture and savor a variety of cuisines. Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot for breakfast, a riverside location for a sip of brewed coffee, or a live music venue for dinner- Kasol’s Cafe has it all! You can start your culinary journey by visiting Kasol’s Cafés like Mama Mia & the Moondance Cafe. River Rafting in Kasol is an exhilarating adventure Parvati River provides thrilling opportunities for rafting enthusiasts. Cascading through narrow gorges and serene stretches, suitable for both beginners as well as experienced rafters. Local operators organize guided river rafting tours here. So just get ready for the heart-pounding thrill awaiting you!

8. Trek to Malana Village: An Adventurous Trek

Malana is a small, secluded village located at an altitude of 2,650 meters (8,690 feet), and it is known for its unique culture that has remained untouched by the outside world for centuries. The residents of Malana speak their language, known as “Kanashi,” and follow a distinct set of traditions and laws. The village is famous for its temple dedicated to Jamlu Devta, a deity believed to protect the village. The Malanis(locals) believe they are descendants of Alexander the Great’s soldiers and they strictly abide by their customs. The trek to Malana will take you to a nearly ancient glimpse of cultural exploration. Here’s how you can plan the trek:

How to Reach Malana: Starting Point – Kasol

Kasol is the nearest major town to Malana, located around 23 km from the village. To begin your journey you can take a local bus or private taxi taking you to the route leading to Jari, a small settlement near Malana, and then trek for about 3-4 km to reach the village.

Malana Trek: The trek from Malana takes about 3-4 hours (approximately 12-15 km) and is moderately difficult. The trail ascends through dense forests of pine and cedar trees and offers stunning views of the Parvati Valley. The total trekking distance from Kasol to Malana is about 12-15 km, depending upon your starting point which usually takes 3.5 to 4.5  hours to complete the trek. Just make sure you carry sturdy trekking shoes and warm clothes for the Kasol trip.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1.How to Reach? 

• By Air from Delhi to Kasol –The quickest way to travel from Delhi to Kasol is by taking a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi to the nearest airport, Bhuntar Airport in Kullu-Manali. Here’s a breakdown of the route:

• Flight from Delhi to Bhuntar: Bhuntar is approximately 31 km from Kasol, and direct flights from Delhi take about 1.5 hours. Although flights can be somewhat limited, booking in advance can secure a convenient schedule.
• Taxi from Bhuntar to Kasol: After reaching Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kasol. A taxi ride will take around 1 to 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of the Parvati Valley.

• By Bus from Chandigarh/Delhi  to Bhuntar: Once in Chandigarh, you can take a bus heading to  Bhuntar. Most Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses stop at Bhuntar, and the journey takes around 8-9 hours. Private operators may offer faster and more luxurious options.
• Overnight Bus from Delhi to Bhuntar: Multiple buses, both government-operated (HRTC) and private, leave from Delhi’s ISBT (Interstate Bus Terminal) or Majnu Ka Tilla for Manali. Buses usually take about 12-14 hours to reach Bhuntar.
• Bhuntar to Kasol: After arriving in Bhuntar, you can take a local bus or taxi to Kasol, which should take around 1-1.5 hours.

• By Train from Delhi to Chandigarh: Start by taking a train from New Delhi Railway Station to Chandigarh. Several trains run daily between Delhi and Chandigarh, with travel times averaging around 3 to 4 hours.Local Transport from Bhuntar to Kasol: From Bhuntar, you can either take a local bus or a taxi to reach Kasol, a journey of about 1-1.5 hours.

2.Local Transport

Kasol is a compact village, so walking and trekking are the best options to explore the nature entrails, though there are other options as well:

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs local buses that connect Kasol to nearby towns and villages:

• Kasol to Manikaran: Local buses frequently run between Kasol and Manikaran, a popular pilgrimage site about 4 km away. The ride takes around 10-15 minutes and is quite affordable.

•  Buses operate between Kasol and Bhuntar (the nearest transport hub) at regular intervals, taking around 1-1.5 hours.

• Kasol to Barshaini – Buses Operate at a fixed time to take you to Kheerganga’s nearest road network, Barsheni.

• Pre-Booked Cabs – To Reach a little farther distances from Kasol, like Malana or Tosh. One can pre-book cabs which are available near the bus stand at Kasol.

3.Accommodation

• Standard Option- The Hosteller Kasol ( Rs. 500- Rs 1,550 per night)
• Deluxe Option- Hotel Parvati View (Rs. 2,000- 4,000 per night)
• Luxury Option-The Manalsu Resort (Rs. 6,000-10,000 per night)

4. Places to eat

• Vegetarian Options- Moon Dance Cafe includes wholesome vegetarian options.
• Non-Vegetarian Options- Jim Morrison Cafe, is popular for non-vegetarian lovers.
• Vegan Options- The Green Roof Cafe specializes in vegan and organic food.