Kasol- the tiny hamlet located on the banks of Parvati valley holds abundant beauties that are a treat to your soul. Some say it has the finest landscapes, while others consulate their wanderlust of visiting humongous mountains visiting Kasol. I visited this place the previous year after thinking of all the tittle-tattle I have heard about the Himachal beauty. Obviously, some of it was from my friends and some from the euphoric blogs I read on the world wide web.
But let me tell you something that's surreal about the place, it has all the vibe that you need after you have decided to leave the city life and enjoy a peaceful escape. This little place situated between Bhuntar and Manikaran is one of my favorite stops on the travel list. If you ask me, I can visit this one again and again. Pardon me for my unending explanation, let's move to the unreal places that belong to none other creation in the world but Kasol.
I am sharing with you the top ten places that I went to and I would suggest you definitely visit once you are in Kasol.
If you are a fan of huts and age-old stays, Choj village is a perfect choice. It is situated just one kilometer from Kasol and you can easily walk to achieve this place. Choj is a little village with some truly ancestral homestays, it is free of the city rush, there are no bikes and it's the closest thing to nature you can see in Kasol. While most people skip this place not because it's boring but lesser of them know about it. While visiting Kasol, stop at Choj to witness the mountains closer to your arms and huts that will fill your heart. The village will definitely hold a place for nostalgia as you leave.
Hot springs and religious sites, this is what makes Manikaran one of the most visited places in Kasol. As far as Hindu tales foretold, Manikaran was named after Manu recreated human life after a flood carried away human existence. Sikhs believe in the walking of Guru Nanak with his disciples to Manikaran which makes it a pilgrimage for them. Manikaran Sahib is a holy site and is considered a pious place to both Hindus and Sikhs.
To the trek lovers, this is the place that will demand you to hold your breath. Even though it is considered to be one of the easiest treks, just about 9 km, the view upfront is dreamlike. You can take a walk to the peak and enjoy the famous dishes of Kasol in the nearby hamlets. Also, there's an option to stay at the top as there are multiple accommodations. The hot emerging springs, the heart-touching weather, and the humongous mountains will already demand your presence for long.
Malana is a tiny tiny village in Malana Nala, a side valley of the Parvati Valley is the only isolated village in the world. Often known as the village of taboos and totems, Malana holds a specific place in the history of Kasol. When you visit Malana, you are not supposed to touch the walls and creations of the Malani's ( Malana locals). This village is considered to be one of the first democracies in the world, traditions further speak of the village's founding to occur from the remnants of Alexander's great army.
Another traditional tale recites Malanas be the descendants of Aryans and the democracy lies in the fact of Akbar's visit to the village announcing shred of taxes. This is one reason why Malani's don't believe in the system of tax. Little did the world know, this place is one grand trader of marijuana and this is not what only I am saying. Hundreds and thousands of Marijuanaphiles have been searching the magic valley for its unreal produce of marijuana and the quality is only observed in this little village. The weed hunting literature and the historic resemblance are all that make this village a forever undiscovered happening.
If you are looking for a picnic spot or just want to grab some me-time, go to Parvati River. The view of the pretty Himachal on the side of the flowing river is cherishing. Parvati river is one of the most visited and adored places of Kasol, despite the fact that there's nothing adventurous here. But sometimes sitting and enjoying at the beauty is all you need, the river offers the same. I found this enchanting and I would love you guys for visiting Parvati. Shall I tell you a hack, visit Parvati river at night, grab some food, sit on one of the rocks and look at the stars twinkling. This moment will live with you forever!
Another village that holds an exotic location and is famous for its hippie culture is Tosh village. The village is situated at a height of 2,400 meters above sea level and lies on the banks of the Tosh river. The hippie culture is the reason for tourists visiting this tiny village from all over the world. You can have breathtaking views, the snow-capped mountains, and the surreal river view here.
Tirthan valley is an offbeat destination and has almost everything that a traveler dreams of viewing. Famous for trekking, wildlife watching, fishing, and much more, this station is an undiscovered beauty. No matter how many times you have visited, you will always get to know a thing more every time. The valley is loved for the abundant pine trees that make it gorgeous for a walking experience. The hidden waterfalls, the mesmerizing meadows, the snow-kissed mountains, and the riverside retreat makes it one of the heartful destinations.
At any time of the day, you can visit the Nature Park. It's serene and eternally beautiful for sightseeing. In case you wanted to rest for a while on your Himachal trip, this is probably the best place to look out for. You can feel the crystalized Parvati river flowing through the park and the rocks form the perfect benches to lay on. You just can't skip this pretty park on your way to Himachal Pradesh.
Well, these are my most favorite eight destinations that I think you will also enjoy.
If you have been a traveler or discovered more of the Himachal beauties, do let me know in the comment section. I would be visiting those places and the next blog you demand will be related to them. It's a promise mate!