Kasol is a small village in Himachal Pradesh tucked away in the Parvati Valley. Resting on the banks of the River Parvati, Kasol offers spectacular mountain views and lush greenery to relax. Apart from its natural scenic beauty, there are a lot of activities that can be done here such as trekking, camping, visiting nearby attractions and eating delicious local cuisine.
From beautiful treks to exploring hidden gems of the hill station, Kasol offers an endless list of activities that will make you fall deeper in love with this serene setting of nature. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a laidback traveler who likes to take things slow, it’s worth exploring each corner of this paradise tucked away between mountains and thick trees. In this article, we are going to tell you about five important things that one should not miss out on doing when visiting Kasol.
Trekking to Kheerganga
Trekking to Kheerganga is one of the best things to do in Kasol, India. It is an incredible experience that provides you with the perfect opportunity to explore the magical forest of Parvati Valley. The trek is a moderate 5 km stretch that takes you through some breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and mesmerizing views of the valley. It is an experience that you will definitely not want to miss out on when you are in Kasol.
How to reach
Kheerganga is situated in the Parvati valley of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the most popular destinations for trekkers. Getting to Kheerganga may seem challenging as there are many routes that can be taken depending on your preferred mode of transportation.
The fastest route and most common way to reach Kheerganga trek is by air. The nearest airport is located in Bhuntar, which is a small town located about 35 kilometers away from Kasol. The airport at Bhuntar has regular flights from Delhi and Chandigarh, both of which have daily arrivals. Air tickets need to be purchased at least two weeks prior, especially during peak season times such as New Years and festive holidays.
Reaching Kasol, the closest town near Kheerganga can also be done by car or bus. While driving, you can take either NH-1 up to Mandi and then further up the hills towards Kasol or head directly towards Manikaran via NH-154 from Chandigarh to Manikaran via Nahan-Paonta sahib road connecting Baddi &Kalka. From Kasol visitors can take a cab or bus for Barshaini which is about 15 kilometers away from Kasol and serves as the base camp for Kheerganga Trek.
Tourists from Delhi must cover a distance of 500 kms approx, thus it takes them approximately 11 hours to reach Kasol . Public transport buses are available between ISBT Kashmere Gate & Kasol , however they might be time consuming while travelling due on narrow roads due to hilly terrain in the region.
Overall, reaching Kheerganga requires some form of travel between 5 – 11 hours depending on where you’re travelling from; air travel being the fastest way followed closely by well-maintained roads or highway access through cars/buses as well as railway stations located near places like Ambala/Chandigarh/Jallyana where you can board trains destined nearby along with connecting Volvo buses available nearby main railway stations in respective cities.
What to take
When trekking, what you pack is crucial so that every part of the journey is comfortable. Here are a few key items to take on your trek to Kheerganga:
- A sturdy backpack (at least 30 liters in size) – This should be big enough for all the necessary clothing and equipment, including rain gear and snacks.
- Clothing – Make sure to bring warm and waterproof layers, as well as appropriate footwear for off-trail hikes on rough terrain. It’s important to also include sun protection such as hats and sunglasses.
- Sleeping bag liner – This can help with temperature regulation during colder nights, plus it adds an extra layer of protection from dirt and insects.
- Snacks – Trail snacks that pack lots of energy will come in handy throughout the journey; protein bars and nuts make great choices.
- Bottled water – These should be reused when possible or brought back down with you, out of respect for the environment.
- First aid kit– Include bandages, water purification tablets, antiseptic cream and any medications that may be necessary throughout the trek; scorpion bites can occur frequently in this region so it’s a good idea to carry topical allergy creams just in case.
- Flashlight & headlamp – This helps with navigating through dark paths when needed.
What to expect
Kheerganga, nestled deep in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, has something to offer to every traveler. For those looking for calm and serenity in the mountain air, nature walks and plenty of leisurely days amid panoramic views, Kheerganga stands out as a popular destination. At the same time, trekkers and adventure seekers can find plenty of trails through lofty mountains and thick forests leading up to Kheerganga.
Kheerganga is a small village situated at a height of over 3000 metres above sea level. While the sun shines brightly during the day, night times here can get incredibly cold with temperatures often dipping below freezing point. So, when you plan your visit here, make sure that you bring along some warm clothes like woolen sweaters or jackets to feel comfortable when you’re relaxing after your treks and hikes.
On arriving at Kheerganga, trekkers should expect amazing views – all around them are snow-capped peaks of beautiful Himalayan mountains with lush green forests below. There are various trails that traverse through these forests; winding paths that pass through quaint villages, rivers gurgling since ancient times all add up to an unforgettable experience.
Trekking enthusiasts will have plenty of choices when it comes to trails too – from easy walks over sloping inclines leading up to semi-difficult uphill paths – whatever you choose will be highly rewarding because of the stunning sights on offer! You might even cross streams on your way through little bridges built by local villagers for convenience.
In fact, plenty of other fun activities await visitors at Kheerganga like horse riding or paragliding – depending on one’s choice! One must also try out some delicious cuisine specially prepared here – such as mouthwatering local dishes made from ingredients found in abundance in this area like potatoes, turnips and probiotic drinks prepared by local villagers using traditional methods. All these experiences make a trip to Kheerganga truly memorable.
Parvati Valley
The Parvati Valley is a paradise for tourists, located near Kasol in Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, lush green forests and rivers, and traditional villages. The valley’s landscape is truly breathtaking, with the rivers Parvati and Beas flowing through it. With numerous activities and attractions, it is the perfect place for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, let’s get into the details and explore the best things to do in Parvati Valley.
How to reach
Reaching Parvati Valley is quite an easy task and involves either flights, or a combination of buses and trains. The closest airport to Parvati Valley is Kullu Airport, roughly 50 km away, and the nearest railway station is at Joginder Nagar, which is around 80 km away.
By Air: The nearest airport to the region is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu which has direct connections to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. Taxis from the airport will cost a few hundred INR and it’s advisable to book your taxi beforehand through online cab aggregators.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kasol/Parvati Valley is Joginder Nagar railway station which can be reached from many parts of the country. From Jogender Nagar you can catch a public bus or hire a private taxi for Manikaran and Kasol. Check with both services for availability before choosing one as private taxi may not run all day but buses will definitely be available for passengers who wish to travel all the way up till Kasol/Manikaran.
By Road: You can also reach Parvati Valley by taking a direct bus journey or hiring a private taxi from New Delhi or Chandigarh to reach Manikaran/Kasol directly via NH 3 & NH 44 highways which connect this beautiful region with rest of India in no time at all! A car journey from Chandigarh takes around 8-9 hours while the bus journey will take anywhere between 9-10 hours depending on traffic conditions. You should book your tickets in advance if you’re traveling during peak season (May – September).
What to take
When planning your visit to Parvati Valley and Kasol, it is essential to come prepared with the right supplies. Here are our suggestions of items that can make your trip more enjoyable:
Clothing: Pack warm clothing and several layers, as temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains at night or after dark. Waterproof clothing is also a must as there’s always a risk of rain in the higher elevations.
Footwear: Lightweight hiking shoes or sandals that have a good grip should be worn at all times when hiking in the valley.
Hiking gear: If you plan on doing any serious hiking, it’s important to come with appropriate gear for your trek including sturdy walking sticks, backpacks and hats with good sun protection. A first-aid kit should also be included for any minor medical issues or injuries.
Toiletries: Shower facilities may be limited so bring along soap, shampoo and toothpaste so you can keep clean during your stay. Pit toilets are common near most campsites so bring some toilet paper.
Electronics: Bring along mobile phones in case there is an issue while traveling as well as extra SD cards or USB drives to store extra photos or videos taken while on your hike. You may want to include an extra battery pack too just in case.
What to expect
A visit to the Parvati Valley region in India is an adventurous and enriching experience, whether you are looking for a relaxing escape or an outdoor adventure. Nestled in the lower elevations of the Western Himalayas, this region provides a perfect environment for nature-lovers, explorers, and travelers alike.
The lush valley is composed of terraced rice paddies, dense green forest areas, snow-capped mountain ranges, and spectacular waterfalls. There are hundreds of miles of trails through various types of terrain and around various villages that make the perfect spot for hiking, trekking and camping. The Beas River snakes through many picturesque panoramas on its way down from the Himalayas. You can also enjoy whitewater rafting adventures or, less daringly but no less enjoyable peaceable fishing or swimming trips on the river.
Local culture abounds in Parvati Valley with colorful religious shrines and majestic architecture from ancient times waiting to be explored. There are also monasteries founded hundreds of years ago where you can learn about uncommon traditions in meditation and Buddhist philosophy not found anywhere else in India. You can shop for handmade items like carpets rugs, intricately embroidered textiles at local markets as well as indulge some famous cuisine that’s made only with locally sourced ingredients.
Last but not least come experience nightlife in Kasol – one of India’s buzzing hill party towns! A night out here will include some live music performances playing some insane magic tunes amongst locals and other travelers like yourself! Nothing beats a night binging beside bonfires accompanied by handmade local whiskeys called ‘chhang’.
Visit Tosh Village
Tosh Village is one of the best things to do in kasol. It is a beautiful village located in the Parvati Valley near Kasol in Himachal Pradesh. The village offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and many outdoor activities like trekking and camping. The village is known for its rustic charm and its friendly people who are more than happy to share their stories and experiences with visitors. It is definitely a destination you must visit when you are in Kasol.
How to reach
Tosh Village is a quaint village in Parvati valley located in the famous tourist destination of Kasol, Himachal Pradesh. This charming village is ideal for backpackers and nature enthusiasts who want to explore the pristine beauty of the Himalayas with minimum effort. Located between Manikaran and Kheerganga, Tosh is known for its unspoiled aura, laid-back attitude and stunning scenes of nature’s finest creations.
To reach Tosh, tourists must travel to Bhuntar in Kullu district by buses from Delhi or Chandigarh and then take a shared cab towards Manikaran from Bhuntar bus stand. The direct bus from Delhi to Manikaran will drop you at Barshaini, which is about 10 km away from Tosh village. From Barshaini, take a cab/shared jeep to Tosh Village (or hike along the beautiful river Parvati). Another way to reach there would be to take a direct state-run Himachal Pradesh roadways bus that connects Katra town of Jammu with Barshaini; this journey takes around 20 hours depending upon weather conditions.
If you are travelling by flight, then fly into Chandigarh International Airport via airlines like Indigo or Spicejet etc. and catch an overnight bus from Chandigarh Bus Stand (ISBT) directly towards Manikaran Bus Stand or Bhuntar; the latter being your best option if you plan on arriving in Kasol before noon because most buses stop running at night due to lack of facilities en route.
What to take
When packing for a trip to Tosh Village, it’s important to pack everything you’ll need to make the most of your experience! This includes items for both activities and relaxation.
Essential items include weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, identification documents, and any items necessary for particular activities like camping gear. You should also bring toiletries and basic first aid supplies such as antiseptic or bandages. Sunscreen is also essential to protect you from the sun’s strong rays if you plan on being outdoors during the middle of the day.
Don’t forget traditional travel essentials like bottled drinking water, a compact towel and some snacks that will fit into your bag in case you don’t feel like buying food while walking around exploring. Have a power-bank or an extra battery handy in case your phone runs out of charge during your explorations. Electronic devices may be useful if you intend to take photos and videos or utilize certain features on an app (hiking trails/attraction tracking).
In terms of staying comfortable and enjoying yourself more there are also some things that you may want to consider bringing – like a hat/cap/umbrella, sunglasses, insect repellent etc. depending on the season when visiting Tosh village. A small guidebook can provide interesting information about local attractions as well as translations for written signs since English is not widely spoken there. Finally, don’t leave behind good vibes and enthusiasm – this could make all the difference in having an unforgettable experience at Tosh village.
What to expect
Tosh village, situated in the Parvati Valley, is a small yet popular Himalayan town. This quaint village offers numerous opportunities to its visitors like trekking, walking, adventure sports and camping. Visitors can enjoy the majestic beauty of the region with magnificent views of snow-capped mountains and lush green deodar forests. Tosh Village is situated at altitude of 2200 meters, making it a great place to soothe and relax while basking in nature’s serenity and charm.
There are several things to look forward to when visiting Tosh Village:
- Parvati River which runs through this picturesque village provides an opportunity for white water rafting.
- The trails of Tosh provide a delightful hiking experience along with camping and trekking opportunities
- The routes of Tosh are popular amongst bikers
- Kheerganga peak is a great spot for acquiring some amazing photographs
Village dwellers lend out their cottages for rent which offer you all the modern amenities required during stay at affordable rates.
Visit Manikaran Sahib
Manikaran Sahib is a famous pilgrimage site located in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh. Set amidst the majestic Parvati Valley, Manikaran Sahib is known for its hot springs, with temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Rama. It is believed that the waters of the hot springs have healing and therapeutic properties, which makes it a popular destination for spiritual healing. Visiting Manikaran Sahib should definitely be on your list of things to do when travelling to Kasol.
How to reach
Manikaran Sahib is located in the Parvati Valley, around 8km from Kasol in Himachal Pradesh, Northern India. This religious destination has become a popular destination for all kinds of travellers looking to explore nature, engage in spiritual activities and try out a variety of adventure sports. Here’s how you can reach this beautiful destination and discover its many wonders:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Manikaran is Bhuntar Airport which is around 42 km away from the holy place. There are taxi and bus services available from the airport all throughout the year. You can also hire your own taxi/cab to reach this easy-to-access destination with convenience.
By Train:
For those who have time on their hands, travelling by train is a great option as this ancient holy city lies at nearly 500km from Delhi via railway route. The nearest Railway station from Manikaran Sahib is Jogindernagar (80 km) but it will take almost an entire day for you to reach here by train if you are coming directly from Delhi or Chandigarh. Kalka Railway Station lies 300 km away and Ambala Cantt railway station lies 250 km away both offering good connectivity with various cities across India as well as other parts of Himachal Pradesh like Shimla and Manali. However, it still takes a minimum 8 hours to reach here by rail, not including any changes along the way.
By Road:
You can easily get buses that depart all day to places like Kullu, Chandigarh etc depending on your current location, TATA Ace cabs can also be hired at these places which will take you directly to Manikaran Sahib making it easily accessible for solo travellers too!
What to take
When you decide to visit Manikaran Sahib, make sure you pack the essential items that will make your trip comfortable. Whether it’s clothing comfortable enough for trekking up steep hills or Himachali cuisine to sample, a well-prepared packing list can come in handy. Here is a list of things that can prove helpful on your journey:
Clothing:
- Thermal layers for cold climates
- Comfortable shoes for trekking/long journeys
- Rainproof/windproof outerwear
- Sunscreen and shades for sunny weather
Food:
- Packet of noodle soup or any other meal replacement such as Quaker Oats
Other items:
- Torch/ flashlights
- Water bottle and water purifying tablets.
- A good book or a music player with some instruments to entertain yourself while travelling.
Money:
Last but not least – Carry cash in hand and also in Indian rupees if you plan to dine out or shop around. Credit cards might be accepted by some stores, but it’s best to be prepared just in case.
What to expect
The best way to prepare for a visit to Manikaran Sahib is by getting familiar with what makes it stand out. From its spiritual and holy environment to the grand architecture of the temple and its religious significance, here’s what you can expect.
Religious Significance: Manikaran Sahib is a holy pilgrimage center which holds great religious significance both for Sikhs and Hindus. It is believed that the ninth yogi or Guru Nanak Dev Ji meditated at this site for four months prior to his enlightenment. A looped path going up the hill joined by temples, shrines and serene streams completes this highly spiritual landscape.
Grand Architecture: The most prominent feature at Manikaran Sahib is its large edifice topped with a white dome that was built in 1739 when Guru Gobind Singh visited the place thrice on his travels through Himachal Pradesh. There are also numerous other temples such as Sri Harkishan Sahib Temple, Jaam Mandir and Rama Teple among others have intricate carvings around them making each one unique in its own way.
Peaceful Environment: Amidst beautiful nature, crystal clear water streams, picturesque hillsides, tall pine forests and chirping of birds all around – Manikaran sahib is considered one of the most peaceful spots in Kasol region. People flock from all parts of India to experience this breathtaking view adorned with culture and spirituality nobody will forget soon enough.
Spiritual Activities: You can be witnessing numerous spiritual activities like lighting lanterns or doing an aarti in front of the Guru Nanak figure near Ramteple or Gurdwara complex on occasion. There’s also special prayer ceremony which can be witnessed every month signifying love for their beloved leader Gurunanak Dev Ji followed by Langar (free meals) offered daily by sangat (nearby devotees).
Holy Baths: For Hindus thermal springs at Chandratal Bhabha are believed to bring good omen while Sikhs take dips into Parvati River believing it will wash away their sins earning them spiritual freedom while they recite mantras like Japji Sahib besides performing other rituals like krishna jhulna (swing yoga) & kirtan Bhidawa (yoga meditation).
Chalal Trek
Chalal Trek is a popular trekking destination in Kasol, India. This trek is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of around 2,500 meters, Chalal Trek is one of the best ways to explore the majestic beauty and serenity of the Parvati Valley. From the top of the trek, you can enjoy a stunning view of the peaks of the Himalayas, the lush green forests, and picturesque rivers. This trek is suitable for all levels of trekkers and can be enjoyed in any season.
How to reach
Kasol is a village in the state of Himachal Pradesh, located in the northernmost part of India. It is situated in the Parvati Valley, on the banks of the river Parvati, and is around 30 kilometers from Bhuntar.
The closest airport is the Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), located in Bhuntar. Kasol can be easily reached via a bus or taxi from Information Center at Bhuntar. If you want to trek to Kasol, it takes around 19 kilometers via Chalal Road and then take another 13 kilometers to cross Pulga Village by foot and then 6 kilometers more to reach Kasol.
From Pathankot, there are several IDTC buses running throughout day/night which drop you at Bhuntar after an approximate 11-hour journey. From Delhi, you can easily find frequent buses operating for Manali/Kullu region with plentiful options depending upon the bus operators and budget availability.
The nearest railway station from Kasol is at Joginder Nagar (about 165 km away) though this route isn’t really likely or preferable unless you are looking for an amazing adventure through scenic landscape of Indian Railways’ best routes!
What to take
Before heading out on your trek it is important to know what to pack. Being prepared is essential to having an enjoyable and successful experience. Here’s a checklist of items you will need:
Clothing:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Base layers such as thermal tops and bottoms
- Mid layers such as sweaters and fleeces
- Hats/caps and gloves
- Appropriate footwear with good grip like hiking boots or trainers
Food & Drink:
- High energy snacks e.g., protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, etc.
- Energizing drink powder or tablets – rehydrate after exercise (electrolytes are very important)
- Lunchbox with sandwiches/snack bars/fruit etc.
- At least two litres of water per person (filtered if possible) – camelbacks are great for carrying in the backpack.
Equipment:
Backpack; 40 litres + with space for extras clothes & camera equipment; Headtorch + spare batteries; Map (paper or GPS device); Compass (optional but recommended); First aid kit; Insect repellent; Sun cream & lip balm,Sunglasses.
What to expect
The Chhalal trek is an amazing journey through the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh in India. It begins just outside of Kasol, a small village in the Parvati Valley and passes through lush green meadows, rugged terrain, stunning alpine valleys, lush forests and stunning views of the grand snow-capped mountains.
The trail can be done as a day trek or as an overnight hike (depending on your preference). During both turns, you’ll have ample opportunities to go sightseeing and explore the beauty of the region. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Stunning views: The landscape surrounding Kasol is breathtaking! Snow-capped mountains form a mesmerizing backdrop to make your walk even more enjoyable. You’ll also get a bird’s eye view of meadows, waterfalls and traditional villages as you go along your route.
2. Calm rivers: As you move through the landscape, calming rivers will accompany you on your journey; giving it an extra dimension of tranquility from time to time. Relax by staying close to these majestic waters for interrupted lengths of time for some serious soul searching during your trekking expedition.
3. Diverse flora & fauna: As you proceed with Chhalal Trekking Adventures, be ready to watch out unique wildlife like wild boars, langurs and goral (goat) roam free in their natural habitat! With some luck and prior research on local fauna – You may also spot a Himalayan Tahr or Musk Deer among other rare species!
4. Crisp Mountain Air: Rejuvenate yourself with natural oxygen for better concentration throughout your walking routine amongst nature’s greatness. Enjoy light breezes that are sure to cleanse any worries away from your soul & heart during this remarkable journey. Say hello calmness when heading out into uncharted terrains.
Conclusion
Kasol is a paradise for adventurers and backpackers. With plenty of free time, friendly locals and beautiful surroundings, this is a great place to get away from the hustle of everyday life. For those who enjoy nature, beauty, adventure and relaxation then Kasol should be at the top of your list. The 5 best things to do in Kasol full will include trekking, paragliding, river rafting, village walks and nightlife. Each activity provides an opportunity to truly explore the richness of Himachal Pradesh while being surrounded by some truly breathtaking views. With accommodation ranging from budget-friendly hotels to home stays and resorts with luxurious amenities, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in this magical place called Kasol.
