Parvatgraphy

Travel as much as you can, as far as you can, as long as you can. Life’s not meant to be lived in one place

Tuesday, 5 November 2024

JIBHI

Jibhi truly sounds like a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its natural beauty, from lush green forests to tranquil lakes, makes it an ideal spot for anyone looking to reconnect with nature. The historical significance of Chehni Kothi adds a layer of cultural depth to the region, providing insight into the area's rich heritage. The scenic views from Jalori Pass further enhance Jibhi’s appeal, making it a must-visit for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Have you had a chance to visit Jibhi, or is it on your list of places to explore?
Jibhi is an offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh that offers a perfect retreat from the chaos of modern life. Nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by towering pine-covered mountains, this serene village is blessed with cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and peaceful meadows. It's the kind of place where time seems to slow down, making it an ideal weekend getaway for those seeking tranquility.
The village also takes pride in its rich cultural heritage. A highlight is the Chehni Kothi, a 17th-century fortified tower that stands as a testament to the region's history. This remarkable structure attracts both devotees and travelers alike, offering a glimpse into the area's ancient architecture and spiritual significance. 
During my visit to Jibhi last autumn, I found myself completely captivated by its untouched beauty. On the second day, I decided to trek up to Jalori Pass. As I made my way through the forest, I stumbled upon a hidden meadow, surrounded by wildflowers. I sat there for a while, soaking in the peaceful silence, with only the distant sound of waterfalls and birds to break it. 

The moment felt timeless, and just as the clouds cleared to reveal the snow-capped peaks, I felt a deep sense of calm I hadn’t experienced in years. On my way back, I met a local who shared stories about the history of Chehni Kothi and the village's folklore. That brief encounter left me feeling even more connected to Jibhi, and when I left, I realized the village had given me more than just a getaway—it had reconnected me to the simplicity and peace I had been longing for.
For adventure and nature lovers, a trip to Jalori Pass, located at an altitude of 10,800 feet above sea level, is a must. The pass offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks that are bound to leave you speechless. Whether you're hiking through its meadows or simply soaking in the mountain views, Jalori Pass promises an experience that will stay with you long after you leave. 
Jibhi is a peaceful, timeless destination, blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and Himalayan grandeur into one unforgettable escape.

The easiest way to reach Jibhi from Delhi is by road, as there are no direct air or rail connections. 

**By Air:** The nearest airport is Bhuntar (60 km away), with a 2-hour taxi ride to Jibhi.

**By Rail:** The closest station is Joginder Nagar (123 km away), which takes around 4.5 hours by road.

**By Road:** The most convenient option is to take a bus from Delhi to Manali, then get off at Aut Tunnel and hire a local taxi to Jibhi. The journey takes about 12 hours.

THINGS TO DO IN JIBHI
**Local Sightseeing in Jibhi**
A must-do in Jibhi is to take leisurely walks and discover hidden spots with breathtaking valley views. Apart from popular sights like Jibhi Waterfall, explore quiet paths that lead to cozy cafes and local shops offering authentic food and stories, adding to the charm of this peaceful village.

Exploring Waterfalls and Natural Pools in Jibhi

Jibhi’s Tirthan River is dotted with natural pools and waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip. Besides the popular Jibhi Waterfall, you can explore hidden gems like the Chhoie Waterfall near Shringa Rishi Temple and the Secret Siund Waterfall in Shangarh, offering both adventure and solitude.

**Hike to Nearby Viewpoints in Jibhi**
Jibhi offers several accessible viewpoints with stunning views of snow-capped peaks. Whether it’s the panoramic views from Jalori Pass, which leads to Serolsar Lake and a 360° viewpoint, or the scenic hikes to Bahu Hilltop and Shangarh, each trail reveals a new, breathtaking perspective of the mountains, making every hike a rewarding experience.

**Cafe Hopping in Jibhi**
Cafe hopping in Jibhi is a delightful experience, where you can enjoy vibrant atmospheres and meet fellow travelers. The vibe is relaxed, with people unwinding, sunbathing, and connecting with nature. Each cafe has its unique decor, from hand-painted walls to quirky art, adding to the charm. It's the perfect place to embrace the spirit of "Eat, Pray, Love" and enrich your journey with delicious food and good company.

**Trekking Experiences in Jibhi**
For those seeking both adventure and serenity, Jibhi offers several one-day treks that are as rewarding as they are challenging. Trekking here is a therapeutic experience, with breathtaking views that come after a good climb. 

The treks also offer the chance to camp under the stars, disconnect from daily life, and enjoy simple joys like bonfires, sunrises, and the peace of nature—making the entire journey a true escape.

BEST PLACE TO VISIT IN JIBHI 

**Jalori Pass & Serolsar Lake**
Jalori Pass is one of the highest passes in Kullu District, offering stunning views of Tirthan Valley. The drive to the pass is a thrilling adventure, with steep and narrow roads adding to the excitement. Once you reach the top, the peaceful ambiance—marked by rustling leaves and chirping birds—creates a serene escape.
The trek to Serolsar Lake, situated at 10,170 feet, is a highlight. The trail winds through dense oak forests, rocky paths, and open meadows, allowing you to soak in the beauty of rolling green hills and distant snow-capped peaks. Along the way, a 360° viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, making it one of the most scenic and memorable spots in Jibhi.
How to reach Jalori : 12kms, 36 minutes 
Serolsar Lake Distance : 5km from Jalori Pass
Difficulty : Easy 
Time Taken : 4-5 Hours 

**Raghunathpur Fort**
The Raghunathpur Fort Trek starts at Jalori Pass and leads to the historic fort built by the Mandi rulers for protection. Though the fort is in ruins, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley, making it a popular spot for trekkers.

The trail is a beautiful blend of nature and culture, with lush flora, wildlife, and a sense of history. It’s an easy trek (3 km, 2-3 hours) that’s perfect for a day hike or even a camping trip under the starry skies, allowing you to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayas.

**Shangarh**
Nestled within the UNESCO-listed Great Himalayan National Park, Shangarh is a breathtaking meadow that feels like something out of a painting. With lush green fields, grazing sheep, and vibrant flora and fauna, the landscape is nothing short of ethereal. 

The Shangchul Mahadev Temple adds a spiritual touch to the area, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and divinity against the stunning backdrop of meadows. For anyone visiting Jibhi, a trip to Shangarh is a must, offering tranquility, natural beauty, and perfect photo opportunities.

**Distance:** 58 km (2.5 hours from Jibhi)  
**Time Needed:** 1-2 days  
**How to Reach:** Accessible by bus or taxi

**Bahu Village and Temple**
Located just 5-6 km from Jibhi, Bahu is a peaceful village that offers a serene escape from the crowds. Surrounded by crisp landscapes and tranquility, Bahu is ideal for those seeking secluded accommodations like riverside cottages and tree houses.

From Bahu, you can hike up to the Sheshnag Temple, spending time exploring untrodden trails, basking in the sun, and enjoying stunning valley views. The village is perfect for hiking, village exploration, and camping.

**Time:** 6 am to 6 pm  
**How to Go:** 8 km, 30-minute drive from Jibhi  
**What to Do:** Hiking, exploring the village, camping

**Chehni Kothi and Shringa Rishi Temple**
Jibhi offers both natural beauty and cultural heritage, with highlights like the ancient **Chehni Kothi** and **Shringa Rishi Temple**. The temple, nestled in oak forests in the Great Himalayan National Park, can be reached by a refreshing hike. In autumn, the vibrant forest colors make the trek even more scenic. 
**Location:** Trek starts from Chehni Village  
**Timings:** 6 am to 8 pm  
**Things to Do:** Hike, pray, meditate, photography

**Jibhi Waterfall and Mini Thailand**
The **Jibhi Waterfall**, just a 5-10 minute walk from the main market, is one of the most popular attractions in Jibhi. Surrounded by blooming flowers and streams, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy nature. The waterfall is safe for a dip, and the surrounding area is perfect for photography or simply relaxing.

A 30-minute hike leads to **Mini Thailand**, a serene spot with crystal-clear waters and two large rocks that resemble Thailand's iconic landscapes. It's ideal for dipping your feet, sitting on the rocks, and soaking in the tranquility.

**How to Reach:** 10-minute walk from Jibhi Market  
**Timings:** Open 24 hours (Best in the morning or late afternoon)  
**Fees:** Rs. 30  
**Things to Do:** Photography, bathing, hiking

**Great Himalayan National Park**
The **Great Himalayan National Park**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning 1,171 square kilometers, it offers a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and even the elusive snow leopard. You can explore the park through a guided trek or opt for a safari to safely immerse yourself in the wild.

**Where to Go:** Forest Road, Shamshi, Himachal Pradesh  
**Fees:** Rs. 100 (Indian), Rs. 400 (Foreign Visitors)  
**Timings:** Open 24 hours  
**Things to Do:** Trekking, camping, birdwatching, jungle safari

Jibhi, in Tirthan Valley, is beautiful year-round:

- **March–May (Spring/Summer)**: Pleasant weather, ideal for hiking and capturing snow-capped peaks.
- **July–October (Monsoon/Autumn)**: Misty, lush, and less crowded. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, with waterfalls in full flow. November offers stunning autumn colors.
- **November–February (Winter)**: Snowy and serene, perfect for a cozy winter escape. Great for relaxing but trekking is limited.

Choose based on your preference: mild weather, monsoon beauty, or a snowy retreat.

**Jibhi, Tirthan Valley 4-Day Itinerary**

**Day 1: Delhi to Jibhi**
- Take an overnight bus from Delhi to Jibhi (Manali-bound buses work). Get off at the AUT Tunnel, then take a cab to Jibhi.

**Day 2: Jibhi Sightseeing**
- Visit Jibhi Waterfall, Mini Thailand, and enjoy cafe hopping. Relax and soak in the beautiful scenery.

**Day 3: Jalori Pass – Serolsar Lake**
- Take a taxi to Jalori Pass, trek to Serolsar Lake (4-5 hours). Enjoy the lake, visit Manimahesh Temple, and return by sunset.

**Day 4: Hike to Chehni Kothi**
- Trek to Chehni Kothi, explore the Great Himalayan National Park, or visit Bahu Village. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and hidden waterfalls.

**Day 5: Jibhi to Delhi**
- Return to Delhi by overnight bus (12 hours).
This itinerary gives you a mix of adventure, relaxation, and nature, making for a perfect Jibhi getaway!

Monday, 4 November 2024

MANALI

My Manali travel blog to offbeat Manali and the best places to visit in Manali
I would take an unknown trail leading to a strange place over a popular trek any day. I leave a city from its bus stand if I see it is crowded. Staying alone in one tent amongst the hundred empty ones makes me feel like a ninja. Ditching the most popular restaurants in a city I get lost in the back lanes to find local treats.

The road less traveled is my home.

Otherwise, why would I wander alone in South America for nine months while Europe waited or stalk wild orangutan around the Kinabatangan river in Borneo when a national bird park in Kuala Lumpur was a fifteen minutes walk or become a blogger while I still get software engineering job offers from TimesJobs or hitchhike in the deserted Spiti alone when I could have just stayed on under the blossoming apple trees of Parvati Valley.

My unexpected love affair with Manali, India’s summer queen, started when I arrived there for a day to travel to Spiti the next morning. Though the counter at the HRTC bus stands and the many travel agents in Manali told me that the road to Spiti wasn’t open yet, I shuttled between the tour agencies that fringed the rickety lanes of Old Manali until I found one who understood that I wouldn’t take no for an answer. 

But on that one day that I spent in old Manali, I walked in the colorful old market of Manali that is catered to please the ones on the Hummus trail, got enticed by small coffee and confectionary shops right in the middle of a tiny street lined with guesthouses, the green hills around Manali called me to walk along them, the various local dishes sizzling out of Manali restaurants’ kitchens made me hungry, while the Manaslu and the Beas river flowed in all glory. 

I decided that I would return to Manali from Spiti and ignore the top places to visit near Manali lists put up by the tour agencies and spend a few days in Manali to explore the dream destination of many Indians in my style – which was mainly to avoid crowded places and find the dusted gems.
 

When I went back to Manali after traveling in Spiti for a week, I took a room in a simple hotel in Old Manali. From my room’s balcony, I could look at the ubiquitous snow-capped Himalayas surrounding Manali, but nothing more than that. Compromising for a hotel rather than a homestay, which is unusual for me, I stayed away from the backpackers who go to Manali to smoke, play cards, and party and live in lush homestays that want to make a living. 

Well, that is already one secret that I have told you to experience Manali differently — stay in an (almost) empty guesthouse if you prefer solitude, like me. 

What happened in those next few days is between Manali and me. But I would be generous enough to let you in on some secrets in this Manali guide; in fact, I will tell you the best things to see in Manali. 

Come on. Let’s go into the green lanes of Manali and find ourselves some adventure. 

For that is what Manali is for. 

Manu Temple
Manu temple is one of the ancient holy shrines to visit in Manali. This sacred town is named after sage Manu, to whom this temple is dedicated. According to legend, the present-day temple is where sage Manu meditated. This revered edifice in Manali is visited by countless devotees who are rejuvenated with mental & spiritual energy.

Distance from Manali – 3 km

Hadimba Devi Temple
Hadimba Devi Temple is another famous shrine among several temples of Manali. The temple is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, a demoness who married the mighty Pandava prince, Bhim, after he killed Hidimb, fulfilling her vow. This temple is worth admiring for its spectacular Pagoda-style architecture. Add it to your Manali itinerary plan.

Distance from Manali – 3 km
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is famous for its scenic beauty and mesmerising views of glaciers, peaks, Lahaul Valley, & the Chandra River. It was once a part of an ancient trade route for the people residing in the Pir Panjal region. During winter, it is covered with a massive blanket of snow. Hence, it is closed from October & reopens in May. 

Distance from Manali – 35.6 km

Solang Valley
Solang Valley is one of the best places to visit in Manali. It is a must-visit for its scenic wonders & for partaking in the Winter Skiing Festival, plus enjoying multiple adventure activities like zorbing, horse riding, paragliding, skiing, sledging, mountaineering, parachuting, & trekking. 

Distance from Manali – 13 km
Atal Tunnel
Atal Tunnel also joins the list of popular tourist places in the hill town. It is the longest highway tunnel known in the world, constructed at the height of 10,000 ft. Passing through the verdant green forests, providing a striking view of mountain peaks & flowing rivers on either side, is a visual treat for vacationers. The tunnel is named after the former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Distance from Manali – 24 km

Jogini Falls
Jogini Falls is a fantastic spot for travellers with a beautiful view of a cascading waterfall falling from 160 ft. To visit this popular tourist attraction, you must begin trekking from Vashisht Village, where you will spot pine trees & orchards on your way. Jogini Falls is a delightful sight for nature lovers, trekkers & backpackers.

Distance from Manali – 5 km
Vashisht Temple & Hot springs
Vashisht Temple is an ancient holy shrine that attracts tourists with its appealing interiors, wooden carvings, paintings, & antique figures. As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to sage Vashisht, a royal priest of the Raghu clan, & the master of Lord Ram & his brothers. Besides divinity, this place is also acknowledged for its hot water springs that have medical properties to heal skin diseases. 

Distance from Manali – 3 km

Old Manali
Once popular with the hippie crowd, Old Manali continues to charm its travellers with its green forests, apple orchards, rustic homestays, endearing cafes, & things from a bygone era. Besides being a quaint town of Manali, it still holds its relevance among the tourists who prefer strolling on its streets, & shopping for woollens, souvenirs, & lots more. 

Distance from Manali – 3 km
Manali Sanctuary
Manali is not just a retreat for nature lovers & adrenaline junkies but also welcomes wildlife enthusiasts who can experience the wilderness at Manali Sanctuary. Sprawling at 31.8 sq ft, this sanctuary houses endangered & rare wildlife species, including leopards, snow leopards, musk deer, brown bears & many others. Herds of Ibex can also be spotted migrating in the glacier zone during summer.  

Distance from Manali – 2 km
Nehru Kund
Nehru Kund is a natural spring in Manali named after the first Prime Minister of India, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. It is said that he made a frequent visit to this place & drank water from it. While making your way towards Rohtang Pass, Nehru Kund does make an ideal stop for its pristine waters & view of serene Himalayan landscapes. It is a perfect spot to embrace nature & exploit your photography skills.

Distance from Manali – 5.2 km

Sunday, 3 November 2024

KASOL


My Experience Of Visiting Kasol That Might Help You For A Perfect Trip 

Situated in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, Kasol is a little hamlet in Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh. Located around 32 km from Bhuntar and 500 km from Delhi, this beautiful village is surrounded by alpine and coniferous forests with the Parvati river flowing right through it! Once regarded as a hideout for just hippie backpackers, Kasol has become one of the most sought-after weekend getaways around Delhi and Chandigarh in recent times. With multiple cafes and boundless serene beauty, it’s not difficult to understand why Kasol is reckoned as every youngster’s favourite destination! If you’re visiting this hippie’s paradise for the first time, make sure you take a look at this detailed travel guide to Kasol curated for first-time travellers.

Why Kasol?
The answer is really simple and strategically explained in this travel guide to Kasol. All you gotta do is dive in!
From beautiful cafes to bustling markets, from hikes like Kheerganga and Waichin to serene Parvati Valley, and from hippie culture to a spiritual retreat at Manikaran Gurudwara, Kasol has everything to satisfy your wanderlust! Whether you are looking for a simple location to spend some peaceful time with yourself or a space to party till you drop with college friends, whatever your reason, Kasol never fails to impress! So, the real question is, why not Kasol?

Best Time To Visit Kasol
Despite it being a year-round destination, the best time to take a trip to Kasol is March-June, as per every Kasol travel guide. Kasol changes shade every season, giving travellers a new set of breathtaking views to marvel at! During December, January and February, Kasol gets snowfall which turns this place into a white wonderland. As Spring approaches, shades of green start to seep into the picture. By July, Kasol and the whole Parvati Valley are covered in lush green forests bathed in sunlight. October-December witnesses the autumn season, when the same landscape turns to shades of orange and brown. Now it’s up to you to decide which colours of Kasol you wish to explore!
How To Reach Kasol
 Kasol is well-connected via road, railway, and air to almost all parts of India. Looking for the most scenic yet budget options on how to travel to Kasol by different mediums? Our special travel guide to Kasol will give you just that.

How To Reach Kasol By Road:
Kasol is easily accessible by road. Take a private Volvo or an HRTC/HRTDC bus from Delhi going to Manali and get down at Bhuntar (60 km before Manali). Now comes the question of how to reach Kasol from Manali. Easy peasy! You’ll find a number of local buses and cabs, both sharing and private, willing to take you to Kasol from there. If you are coming from Chandigarh, you can board a direct bus to Kasol or Manikaran.
How To Reach Kasol By Train:
The nearest railway station to Kasol is Pathankot Railhead (150 km away). Private and sharing cabs, as well as local buses, can be availed near the railway station too. From here, you can reach Kasol in two ways. One, get to Chandigarh, take a bus to Bhuntar, and then another to Kasol. Or take a bus to Dharamshala and a cab or bus from there to Kasol.

How To Reach Kasol By Air:
Kullu Airport located 32 km away from Kasol is its nearest airport. Take a private or shared cab from here to Kasol and you’ll reach in about an hour.

Things To Do In Kasol
With an endless array of activities like trekking and riverside camping, Kasol is a hotpot of adventure! However, despite there being plenty of articles on the internet talking about the major tourist attractions of Kasol, not every travel guide to Kasol among them will let you in on the unconventional and even hidden places to see and things to do there.

1. Trek to Kheerganga
The first thing every Kasol tour guide will suggest you experience is the mighty Kheerganga trek that takes you deep into lush jungles, over steep trails, past blooming apple orchards, and through the stunning Parvati Valley! Kheerganga is probably the most famous place to visit in Kasol. Mounted with surplus beauty, it’s also a place of holy significance. And the best part, after a taxing hike of about 14 km, the Kheerganga valley rewards visitors with a revitalising dip in natural hot water springs that instantly washes away all fatigue! To reach it, all you gotta do is take a bus from Kasol to Barshaini, the starting point of Kasol’s most famous trek.

2. Hike to Tosh Village
Tosh is the last motorable village in Parvati Valley located 20 km away from Kasol. Just like Kheerganga, Barshaini also serves as the starting point for this trek. You can take a local bus or cab till here and then Tosh is just 3 km uphill from Barshaini. While this 3 km route can be covered via car or cab, it is preferred to hike to Tosh if you wish to indulge in the most relaxing hiking experience amidst nature, treat your eyes with alluring views of the valley, and keep this little hamlet as far away from the noise and pollution of vehicles as possible!

From Tosh, you can also go for a trek to Kutla Village, for which you may need a local Kasol guide to show you the way.

3. Watch Sunsets At Chalal Village
Covered with apple trees, the tiny village of Chalal is the laid-back version of Kasol and is among the best weekend getaways from Delhi. A few specific spots in Chalal offer some of the most gorgeous sunsets you’ll ever see in the hills! Chalal is a mere 1.5 km from Kasol and can be easily covered on foot. A walk from Kasol to Chalal along the Parvati river and amidst pine woods is truly an enchanting experience!

4. Taste Honey & Adventure At Grahan Village
Many refer to Grahan Village as the ‘magic honey village’ owing to its natural bee-keeping forests and the distinct taste of honey that is collected there. To reach this quaint village, one has to cross a rather picturesque bridge connecting the banks of a gushing stream. The whole setting gives people an idyllic experience of trekking to this place.

Other than this, the village serves as the base camp for the Sar Pass trek. The trek from Kasol to Grahan and then from Grahan to Sar Pass leads trekkers through surreal pine forests, rhododendron meadows, milky waterfalls, and past snowy mountains. The last point of the trek is a frozen lake that is nothing short of a vision!

5. Visit The Quirky Malana Village
Malana is unique in every way! For starters, the locals here believe they are direct descendants of Alexander the Great! They believe that they are not a part of India or any land and they have their own democracy, apparently the oldest democracy in the world!

Malana is about 20 km away from Kasol and is undoubtedly a unique settlement in Parvati Valley. The unique culture, trippy vibes and claims of the locals make it worth adding this little village to your Kasol guide.

6. Trek To Waichin, The Mini Kheerganga
While our travel guide to Kasol urges you to taste the thrill of the Kheerganga trek, we’ll also let you in on the secret Waichin Valley trek for a little tranquillity and unspoiled nature! It’s the perfect alternative to Kheerganga! In order to get here, you’ll first need to get to Malana village, and from there Waichin is only a 4 km further uphill.

Blessed with tall pine and coniferous trees, dazzling views of the snow-covered Himalayas, and minimal commercialization, the beauty of Waichin is unmatched! The charming valley and local village life offer absolute peace and calm that’ll make you want to stay longer and keep coming back!

7. Discover The ‘Magic’ Of Rasol
Known to backpackers and youngsters as ‘Magic Valley’, Rasol is a small farming village in Himachal. Along with wool rearing, the locals grow hemp here, a variant of Cannabis that has multiple medicinal and industrial uses. A visit to Rasol gives you a great opportunity to interact with Himachali farmers and take a peek into their lives in the hills.

In addition to watching friendly village dwellers grow and reap this wonderful plant, you can learn a great deal about the hardships of these farmers in the hills. Discover the peaceful and eco-friendly methods that help them overcome these hurdles with ease without needing technology and the comforts of the cities.

8. Scale The Pin-Parvati Pass
The Pin-Parvati trek is one of the most beautiful and adventurous treks in Himachal. In comparison to various easy treks around Kasol, Pin-Parvati is an advanced level trek that takes around 10-12 days to complete. Along with trekking over uneven terrain and climbing boulders, the Pin Parvati trek demands trekkers to indulge in a bit of mountaineering, making it a favourite site for mountaineering enthusiasts.

This taxing 100-km long trek through the splendid Parvati Valley and the barren landscapes of Pin Valley are recommended only for proficient trekkers who are physically fit to undertake it.

9. Take A Spiritual Journey To Manikaran Sahib
The pearl-white holy sanctum of Shri Manikaran Sahib is located just 3 km from Kasol. You can take a local bus or cab to get here. Better yet, if you’re riding to Kasol from Delhi or Chandigarh, you can stop by this beautiful Gurudwara on the way itself. After all, what better way to start a trip than with the blessings of the Almighty!

Enveloped in mist oozing from the hot water springs surrounding the shrine, this gem of a place is known to embrace visitors in a refreshing and peaceful aura! When here, you can attend the heart-warming prayer, treat yourself to wholesome ‘langar’, enjoy some natural sauna inside the caves, and take a dip in hot water springs.

10. Wander In Pulga’s Apple Orchards 
The smiling locals of Pulga lure in travellers with their aromatic tea estates, cute little wooden houses, picture-perfect cherry blossoms, and the crunchy apples of their orchards they happily pluck for visitors themselves! This straight-out-of-a-dream hippie town near Kasol can easily be reached with a mere 3 km hike from Barsaini. Ask a local Kasol travel guide for the way so you don’t get lost. Though it’s a short walk, it takes trekkers through a gorgeous forest, over pretty bridges, and past stunning waterfalls, bestowing them with alluring vistas of the hills along the way!

When here, you can interact with the friendly locals, try Himachali cuisine at Boom Shankar Café, meet a cool sadhu baba at the Pink House, and revel in the utter serenity and peace of this hidden abode!

11. Go Fishing In Naggar
Catching plump trout in the Beas River is just one of the things that bring people to Naggar from far and wide! This beautiful region in the Kullu District is located next to Kasol and is equally worthy of a visit. Whether you are visiting with family, holidaying with your spouse, or road tripping with friends, you must not miss out on the experience of exploring Naggar’s delightful Himachal architecture, unending hospitality of the locals, and spectacular vistas are sure to melt everyone’s hearts!

Don’t forget to visit the majestic Naggar Castle and take Lord Shiva’s blessings at the ancient Shiva Temple, two charming aspects of Naggar that put it on every travel guide to Kasol.

12. Taste The Thrill Of Riverside Camping
Set up camp near the gushing Parvati river and catch up with old friends over a bonfire, music, and roasted marshmallows! Add a zest of fun to your holiday in Kasol with a night (or two) or riverside camping that will leave you and your gang with memories for life. It is anyway the best way to wear down your fatigue after all those tiring sessions of trekking or to intoxicate your mind, body, and soul of those long hours at the office!

Give yourself and your amigos a relaxing night in the lap of nature and the canopy of a thousand stars, another privilege our bustling metros don’t grant us!

13. Chill At The Peppy Cafes In Kasol
Kasol has some of the most iconic Israeli cafes in India! Each one is more chic and classy than the last! They serve everything from exquisite food, vibrant ambiance, to magnificent views of the Parvati Valley! Jim Morrison, Little Italy, Pink Floyd, Shiva Shanti, Ashwin’s, Olive Garden, Moon Dance, Mountain Goat, Stone Garden, Freedom, The Evergreen, Bhoj, Buddha Place, and The Art Café are some renowned names here for some lip-smacking Israeli and continental food and refreshing views of the valley!

What’s more, Kasol is now home to India’s first ever hemp cafe – Off Limits! It serves a wide range of food and beverages, including pasta, burgers, breakfast platters, and the best hot chocolate you’ll ever have, all infused with the goodness of hemp! That sure gives us a great reason to visit, doesn’t it?

Places To Stay In Kasol
There are ample accommodation options in Kasol for all types of travellers. Our travel guide to Kasol gives you the best ones right here!

Hotels: Blue Diamond, Hotel Sandhya, Hill Crest Kasol

Riverside camps: Kasol Sanjh, Kasol Camps, Moksha Riverside Cottage

Resorts: The Himalayan Village, Echor Palm Bliss

Homestays: Backpacker’s Nest, Moksha Riverside Cottage

Hostels: The Hosteller, GoStops

Kasol Travel Guidelines
Let us conclude this travel guide to Kasol with some tips that might help you plan your vacation better and let you have a great time in this charming hill town.

Plan your holiday a month or two in advance. Kasol is a pretty popular among tourists, so chances of getting a good stay are really thin if you delay your booking procedure.

Carry sufficient amount of cash. Don’t waste time hunting ATMs in the valley.

Carry a water bottle and fill it up whenever you get a chance. Don’t keep purchasing and discarding numerous plastic bottles.

Do not litter! Discard waste only in designated waste bins and keep the surroundings clean.

Respect local customs and laws of villages or towns that you visit or trek to. Not all local settlements allow strangers in their midst.

Do not take pictures or shoot videos of locals without prior permission.

Make sure to hire an experienced Kasol guide for offbeat treks and hikes.

Wear comfortable clothes and a good pair of hiking shoes without embarking on a trek.

Many villages in and around Kasol produce Hashish as Cannabis grows naturally in these parts owing to favourable climate. Do not, however, carry it home with you as Hash is illegal in other parts of India.

1. How many days is enough for Kasol?
 3 to 4 days are enough for a trip to Kasol unless you wish to embark on a hardcore trek like the Pin Parvati or Sar Pass. Consult our travel guide to Kasol to know the best treks in the region and plan accordingly. Also, make sure you leave room for leisure activities and shopping.

2. How much will it cost for a trip to Kasol?
  A Kasol trip will cost you around INR 3,500 to INR 7,000 depending on your mode of transport, choice of accommodation, and duration of the trip.

3. Is it safe to travel to Kasol now?
While Kasol is generally safe to travel in all seasons, monsoon is not considered an ideal time to visit as the roads and hiking trails of Kasol turn muddy and slippery.

4. How do you travel around Kasol?
 Local HRTC buses ply at several tourist spots in Kasol along with many private and shared cabs. Other than this, you can simply choose to get around on foot as many of the main tourist hubs in Kasol are within walking distance and nothing beats the joy of hiking amidst towering pine trees, green hills, and chirping birds!

5. How to reach Kasol from Delhi by bus?
Travellers mostly opt for an overnight journey to Kasol in either a private Volvo or an economical HRTC bus bound for Kullu Manali. Get down at Bhuntar and take another bus or a private cab to Kasol. You can book a seat on Volvo or state-run buses online or directly at the ISBT-Kashmere Gate bus stand in Delhi from where these buses normally ply. A bus journey from Delhi to Kasol typically costs around INR 1,000-1,500. You can also hire a private cab or rent a vehicle to drive there yourself.