Introduction

A beautiful hamlet in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, Kasol boasts of exquisite beauty and serenity. Nicknamed the “Amsterdam of India” Kasol is situated in the Parvati Valley, on the Parvati River’s banks. Kasol is fast growing as a favourite destination of all those people who love a perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and spirituality. Kasol is located at a distance of 30 km from Bhuntar and 36 km from the town of Kullu, and falls between Bhuntar and the holy place of Manikaran. 

Kasol is an exciting hub for all the enthusiastic trekkers, and backpackers, for the place is filled with numerous trekking spots. Some of the trekking sites include the famous Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Pin Parvati Pass, and more. The Parvati Valley truly has it all, from the view of magnificent snow clothed mountains, enchanting pine forests to gushing waterfalls. 

Kasol’s culture is greatly influenced by the Israelis, as it is home to a large number of Israelis who just never left the place after being enchanted by the gorgeousness of the place. This is why Kasol is also nicknamed the “Mini Israel of India.” The cuisine here also takes a lot from Israeli cuisine. There are also a lot of cafes that are run by the Israelites. 

Kasol: A Hub for Trekkers and Backpackers

Kasol is a trekker’s dream destination as it has a lot of trek sites to offer. These treks come complete with all that one could expect from a trek – beauty, splendour, tranquillity, and adventure. 

Kheerganga Trek

Settled in the gorgeous Parvati Valley, lies Kheerganga at an altitude of 2960 m from sea level. The trek will have you move through dense pine forests, and hear the roaring milky complexioned Parvati river flow by on your side.The trek to Kheerganga will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated with its luscious pine forest pathways, gushing waterfalls, and the marvellous view of the gigantic and looming mountain ranges. The most unique thing that the trek has in store is the natural hot water spring! Mystical in nature, the hot spring, which is called the Parvati Kund, is said to have sacred healing properties which help people ailing from physical illnesses like arthritis and more. The trek has amazing stopping points, like the Rudra Nag Waterfall –a waterfall that’s shaped like a serpent, the Rudra Nag temple – an ancient Shiva temple that is highly revered by the locals. The Kheerganga trek is the most famous trek in Kasol.

Tosh Village

Situated on the banks of the Tosh river lies the Tosh Village at an elevation of 2400 metres above sea level, on the edge of the Parvati Valley. The village is known for the scenic vistas that it has got to offer, and this is the main attraction of the place. The trek to Tosh starts from the village of Barshaini, which is also the base camp for the Kheerganga trek. With beauty that is unparalleled, a trek to Tosh is entirely worth it and is something that should be taken up by everyone if possible. The best time to visit would be the winter months, as that would mean the presence of snow, and you can have the experience of trekking through snow clothed trails. 

Tirthan Valley

Located at a distance of 60 km from the hamlet of Kasol, lies one of Himachal Pradesh’s lesser known beauties– the Tirthan Valley. The Tirthan Valley houses in it the Great Himalayan National Park, which is a UNESCO site. The Tirthan Valley is a beautiful and nicely preserved place that is sure to enchant you with its ethereal beauty. 

You can partake in a great number of activities here, like trekking, riverside camping, trout angling, viewing the roaring waterfalls and more. It is a must visit destination.

Chalal Village

Seated at an elevation of 5366 feet above sea level, the Chalal village is a perfect place to escape to for someone looking for a temporary way out of their hectic lifestyles. The village is greatly influenced by Israeli culture and thus, has great Israeli cuisine to offer. The Tosh cafe is one of the most famous places to eat in here.

Pulga Village

Situated at an elevation of 2895 metres above sea level, the Pulga Village has tranquillity that is sure to bring immense peace to your mind. The village is located at a distance of 16 km from Kasol, and it has enchanting temples that bring about an air of spirituality in the place. The Pulga village hasn’t been modernised and the residents live their lives in an old fashioned manner. The place has beautiful wooden houses, tea plantations and the view of giant looming mountains that are sure to revive your senses. 

Bhuntar Town

On travelling 30 km from Kasol you’ll find the Bhuntar town which has a lot of activities to offer, and is the perfect place for all the thrill and adventure seekers. Hiking and trekking is carried out here. Apart from this, the palace also houses the Bagsu waterfall, Mohan Nature Park, Vishweshwar Mahadev Temple, and more.