Kasol was in our bucket list since long. But everyone told us its not for family.
I completely disagree. It depends on what you want to do and what are your preferences. During our trip to Kasol we saw all types of families. Though I saw bachelors (backpackers) more but Kasol has something for everyone.
If you are looking for luxurious holiday in Kasol, then you will be disappointed as they mostly have hostels and some small hotels. Most of the cafes in Kasol are good with great views and food. With Kasol I recommend visiting Tirthan Valley or Jibhi.
Hotel Tip: There is nothing to visit in Kasol market plus it's super congested and have parking problem. Choose your hotel away from market near river. There are many river side camps and properties that you can opt for.
How we planned our trip to Parvathy and Tirthan Valley:
We started early from Delhi around 4 as it is around 1o hours journey from Delhi to Kasol. Roads are very good. With new 4 lane highway journey was super smooth and scenic.
First break: We took quick chai break at Murthal. Food here is not so good neither Chai so you can avoid and prefer Haveli that comes in Karnal and Ambala.
Second Break: Lunch Break
Third break: Outskirts of Kasol you will get lots of Maggi point and last benchers cafe to try.
Hotel: Whoopers Boutique Hotel. I will not recommend this hotel to families as you have to climb lots of stairs to reach here plus parking is a big problem here. Facilites were ok. Rooms were very small. Good for bachelors. Instead stay at riverside camps.
We decided to explore market same day as our hotel was in main market itself. There was nothing to explore in market so we went to Offlimits Cafe. This is most beautiful cafe in Kasol next to river. It's must visit in evening time for its delicious food and vibes.
We started our day with breakfast at another cafe, little Italy inn. Must try Israeli breakfast. Next we went on Chalal Trek which is river side trek and easiest of all. If you are looking for party place then on the way you can visit Pirates of Parvathy which is famous for its jungle parties. We ended our trek with lunch at ATS cafe.
After some rest, in evening we visited Moon Dance & Bar cafe and ended our day.
What we missed: Graham Trek. If you are a trekker then this should be in your list along with Kheer Ganga trek. We were travelling with small kids so could not trek here.
Start your day early to visit Tosh and Manikaran. We started in afternoon for our next destination Tirthan Valley which is 2.5 hours from Kasol. Whole drive was very scenic as you will be driving next to river side. This is very beautiful and unexplored place. It is completely different from Kasol. Kasol is energetic and has its party vibe. This is silent and laid back place. We really loved beauty of this place.
Hotel Tip: Book your hotel next to river side. We booked Riverwalk Tirthan. It's a beautiful property with excellent location next to river. It has some good cafes nearby to explore.
We went to river side in evening and relaxed. Tirthan Valley have its own unmatched beauty. I found it more beautiful than Parvathy Valley.
Start early as this is going to be tiring. In morning we went to 45 minutes Choi Waterfall Trek. It was 5 minutes walking distance from our hotel. This early morning trek is difficult but sight of waterfall is worth all the pain.
Next we were ready for another adventure to Jalori Pass and Serloskar Lake. Road journey to Jalori Pass is very exciting and you have to be very careful with your driving skills. It's 1 hour ride from Tirthan valley without traffic. Once you reach there you will see all green meadows around you and view from top is mesmerising.
If you want to trek further and have time then visit Serloskar Lake. Its 5 km trek one side so you will need around 6 hours to complete to and fro. But it's simple trek that can be done with kids also.
It's a clear water lake in between meadows. If you dont have time or energy then you can skip it. There is a temple on top that you can visit. Must try Rajma Chawal here. You can take horse also to visit this place but it will be not worth the pain. Better to trek so that you can enjoy beauty of trek.
Down ascent from Jalori is where you will get real adrenaline rush. Its steep descent and brakes may fail so better be careful and take small breaks while you are driving to allow your brakes to cool down.
On the way back you can take a stoppage at Jibhi and explore cafes here.
Day 5:
It was last day of our trip. After heavy breakfast we started our road journey back to Delhi. We took overnight halt in Chandigarh.
On the way you can stop at Haveli Karnal or Haveli Ambala for lunch / dinner.
Cafes to visit in Kasol:
Offlimits Cafe, ATS Cafe, Little Italy, Panchtara, Last Benchers.
Cafe to visit in Tirthan Valley:
HP49 cafe
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