India is an epitome of mountain beauty and residential to myriad landscapes and terrains that lure umpteen adventure enthusiasts from different corners of the planet to return here and satiate their adrenaline desire.
Kasol may be a hamlet within the district Kullu of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in Parvati Valley, on the banks of the Parvati River, on the way between Bhuntar and Manikaran. It is located 30 km from Bhuntar and 3.5 km from Manikaran. Kasol is that the Himalayan hotspot for backpackers and acts as a base for nearby treks. It is called Mini Israel of India thanks to a high percentage of Israeli tourists here.
Kasol has weathered for several months of the year and receives an honest amount of snowfall from late December to February. Himachal Hills Festival and Kasol Music Festival are music festival which happens in Kasol on every New Year's Day Eve. People from around the world gather for this festival.
Trek means continue an extended arduous journey, typically on foot. For some souls, the hunger of pine and walking the lofty terrains is an undying affair. To tend to the cravings of these wanderlusts, God created Parvati Valley in Himachal and blessed us with verdant alpine, tricky trails, and mystic alleys waiting to be explored.
The beautiful treks near Kasol have fascinated and tempted many mountain lovers in the past. Of late, they have gained popularity among youngsters and thus see the variability of trekkers every season.
Here are some treks from Kasol to go on trekking or hiking: -
1. Kheerganga Trek, Kasol
Kheer Ganga lies at the acute end of Parvati valley and thus the last inhibited village while trekking to pin valley via Pin-Parvati pass. Kheerganga's panoramic skies and vast greenery are a much-needed delight to the trekker's eyes and particularly the tired legs. It is a sanctum with a predicament spring, a little temple of Lord Shiva, and a showering tank.
It makes a rare combination for any trekker to bath in thermal spring water when everything is roofed by snow. We begin this Kheerganga trek from Barshaini, which is around 45 minutes far away from Kasol, by road. From here, you'll be taken to the hamlet of Barshaini to start the on-foot journey. The 12-km trail from here provides you with ample opportunities to explore the natural bounties of the region.
On the way, you'll find numerous charming waterfalls which will convince you with their allure to require an image. One sight of the astonishing serpent-shaped waterfall of Rudra Nag will offer you a replacement perspective on nature. These splendid waterfalls are among the highlights of the Kheerganga trek. All your tiredness of the hike is going to be washed away with a sight of the paranormal hot springs of Kheerganga.
You can step in to tackle the cool weather. The one-of-a-kind experience of relaxing during a hot spring while admiring vistas of snow-capped peaks will remain with you forever as memories. The vistas from an altitude of about 13000 feet also will leave you spellbound. You get to spend the night here amidst the mighty snow-laden mountains. It is one of the treks from Kasol.
2. Sar Pass Trek, Kasol
Sar pass is one of the foremost popular trails within the Shivalik range. The Sar Pass is in Parvati Valley of the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Sar, within the local dialect, means a lake. While trekking across the trail from Tila Lotni to Biskeri Ridge, one possesses to pass by touch, usually frozen lake (Sar) and hence the name Sar Pass Trek.
Endowed with diverse terrain and rich beauty, Sar Pass Trek could also be an ideal trek destination for beginners. Steeped in great beauty, the trail passes through thick forests, lush green meadows, rustic villages, and snow-clad mountains gracing the backdrop. Offering a variety of experiences for trekkers, Sar Pass Trek, nestled within the perfect lands of Parvati Valley, is filled with excitement and adventure.
The trek commences from Kasol, a paradise for trek lovers from all around the globe. The city is gorgeous and offers all types of accommodation from budget hotels to high-end places and delicious food serving restaurants. If you're trying to seek out something thrilling yet easy, Sar Pass Trek may be a perfect destination to start your trek expedition.
It is situated at an altitude of 14000ft, it can be considered as a great introduction to high altitude trekking. It is one of the best treks from Kasol.
3. Pin Parvati Pass, Kasol
The Pin Parvati Pass is a mountain pass in Himachal Pradesh, at 17,451ft. It was first crossed in August 1884 by Sir Louis Dane in search of an alternate route to the Spiti valley. This pass connects the fertile and lush Parvati valley on the Kullu side with the barren high-altitude Pin valley on the Spiti side. It is a popular trekking route today.
The trek route starts from Mud village on the Spiti side. Trekking to Pin Parvati Pass could also be the simplest summer break from blazing heat which may surely tempt the journey lover trekkers. The exciting part of this trek falls within the abundant great point about nature with attractive landscape, lush greenery, intense alpine forest, wild colorful blossoming flowers, and north terrestrial sceneries. Pin Parvati Pass is an ideal destination for trekkers seeking challenging adventures.
It is one among a tremendous Trans Himalayan trek that will not only leave spellbound by its beauty but also gushing with adrenaline with the challenges it throws at you. With a desirable trail of roughly 110 km, the joys it presents are nearly unending. The Pin Parvati Pass Trekking trail isn't rather well defined but worsens during the monsoon season.
The track within the thick forests of the Great Himalayan park is additionally an enormous challenge even for an experienced trekker. Crossing the Parvati River and its various tributaries is usually slightly more excruciating than traversing the high-altitude fissures.
However, regardless of what number of challenges it presents, the Pin Parvati Pass trek is exhilarating enough to form one among the foremost sought-after Himalayan Pass treks at high altitudes. It is one of the treks from Kasol.
4. Tosh Trek, Kasol
Located at 2,400Mts elevation, Tosh is 21 km from the favored party-town of Kasol. Popular for its cannabis plantations, the tranquil village of Tosh is just another example of the unparalleled natural beauty that Himachal Pradesh holds within its bounds.
Located at the far end of Parvati Valley, Tosh is untouched by modernization and fast-paced life. With its gradual terrain and therefore the waters of river Parvati flowing through its bosom, the Tosh Kasol trek is the go-to expedition for all adrenaline junkies. The hippie culture and otherworldly vibe of this village will surely transport you to a special world.
Tosh has scattered villages across the luxurious green hills juxtaposed against snow-dusted peaks. Here you'll experience the bounty of nature altogether its glory, combined with some indigenous also as exotic experiences. This destination is sort of often thronged by visitors from other countries, and you'll interact with them and know their cuisine at local eateries also.
Tosh has become quite popular in recent years thanks to its proximity to the famous hippie town - Kasol. It is popular among backpackers who are trying to find and shake the humdrum of their chaotic life. People often throng here to practice yoga and meditation within the clean, fresh air and peaceful surroundings. It is mostly visited by backpackers from Israel and Europe.
Tosh is most famous for the trek route here, Kheerganga being the foremost popular. With every step you're taking into this quaint village called Tosh, you are feeling more crazy with Himalayan Town! It is one of the treks from Kasol.
5. Malana Trek, Kullu
Malana is an ancient Indian village within the state of Himachal Pradesh. This solitary village within the Malana Nala, a side valley of the Parvati Valley to the northeast of Kullu Valley, is isolated from the rest of the earth. Known as Malana or the Malana Village, it's located within the Kullu district.
The peaks of Chanderkhani and Deo Tibba shadow the village. It is situated on a foreign plateau by the side of the torrential Malana river, at a height of 8,701 ft above water level. Malana has its lifestyle and social organization and people are strict in following their customs.
Malana has been the subject of various documentaries, including Malana: Globalization of a Himalayan Village, and Malana, A Lost Identity. Roads till Malana Village trekking gate are developed. Widely known for its strong culture and non-secular beliefs, with various sentiments embedded within the past, it's an area meant for people that seek spiritual guidance.
This place is additionally apt for all adventure lovers since the route to Malana is legendary for trekking. The temples in Malana- the Jamadagni Temple and therefore the Shrine of Renuka Devi - function as major attractions of the village. Built closely to each other, they're documented for the worship of varied gods and goddesses which are highly respected by the locals, and tons of care is taken concerning its preservation.
The trekking route to Malana is adorned with lush deodar vegetation alongside a small view of the Malana Dam that energizes people from time to time. It is one of the treks from Kasol.
6. Rasol Trek, Kasol
Rasol (3,048 m) may be a small village high within the mountains of Parvati Valley and therefore the length of the Rasol trek is 8 km a method. With a mesmerizing view that accompanies you throughout the trek, if you're trying to seek out a village to seek out some peace, awesome views, and a village feel, then Rasol is the right place for you.
Close to the famous Malana village and Kasol, Rasol could also be an easy yet exhausting trek from Kasol, spanning between two and 4 hours. Chalal is that the start line of the trek. Visitors are greeted by an endless expanse of lush greenery as they enter Rasol, which has around 75-100 wooden houses.
Due to the after-effects of tourism seen in popular destinations like Kasol, Manali, and Tosh, villagers are slightly wary of outsiders in their village, taking great measures to avoid physical contact and protect their personal space. Apart from agriculture, one can see locals engaging in authentic rural activities like the domestication of animals and therefore the spinning of wool.
Children here are often found playing Panjee, a game almost like that of chess with the sole difference that 4 people can play the sport in one go. Food up here may be a bit costly thanks to the separation of the village from the outer world which increases the value of procuring the food in Rasol.
But trust us, the food is worth paying the specified amount. Also, having a meal with the villagers at their homes will add some more amazement to your adventure trek in Rasol! It is one of the treks from Kasol.
7. Chalal Trek, Kasol
While Kasol gets the spotlight amongst the villages of the Parvati Valley, one can enjoy truth serenity of the magical Himachal Pradesh by trekking slightly beyond this major town to the quaint little village of Chalal.
Situated at an altitude of over 5300ft and a 30-minute trek far away from the tourist hub of Kasol, Chalal has managed to retain its old-world mountain village rustic charm. Set within the gorgeous Parvati Valley of the Himalayas, with a grand view of snow-capped mountains and majestic pine trees, this quaint town has been nicknamed the "Israel of Himachal Pradesh", and rightfully so!
With Kasol becoming a mainstream village, Chalal has found its fan following among backpackers and trekkers, who begin here to trek, camp under the celebs, or enjoy some hot chai as they soak in the sheer splendor of the scenic panorama of the grand Himalayas.
A large number of backpackers and tourists that visit Chalal has given rise to a spread of parties that happen deep within the forests, forming the right spot nestled within the mountains under a mystical sky filled with stars that no other place on the earth could ever compare to offer.
However, the delight of losing yourself within the glory of the mountains and living a straightforward life remains within the small hamlet of Chalal, making it a gorgeous essential for backpackers across the globe.
The tiny village Chalal is popularly referred to as the ‘Trance and Psychedelic Party’ village. It is accessible by foot from Kasol and presents you with awe-inspiring scenic views. You can sit on the rocks by the river and immerse yourself in its gushing sounds.
8. Mantalai Lake Trek
The Parvati valley, a bit like the Kullu valley, is one among the foremost beautiful valleys that you simply will ever see. It stands up to its name, representing the legendary great thing about Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva, almost perfectly on the earthly plane.
With lush green hills covered with Pine and Deodar on either side of the gushing Parvati river, every bend in your path offers yet another picture-perfect view of the distant snow-capped peaks.
Mantalai is the source of River Parvati and thus could even be called the source of the sweetness of this valley. For most parts of the journey, you hike along the Parvati river, with the tunes of its gushing waters, gentle here and exuberant there, which can ring in your ears long after you come back home from the sacred lake.
The trail to Mantalai, situated at 4100 m (13,500 ft) may be a challenging trek in itself, involving a big gain in altitude from the bottom. It is advised to organize well before taking over this trek. And if you are an experienced trekker who likes challenging trails then instead of descending back from the lake take the same trail further.
You will get on your thanks to Pin Parvati Pass - which is handily the foremost beautiful trek in India and features a place on every trekker's bucket list. Trekking to Pin Parvati pass involves crossover to the Pin Valley (Spiti).
The valley is known after the mighty Parvati river, which originates from the Mantalai lake, located high within the cold and icy Himalayas. It is one of the treks from Kasol.
9. Kutla Glacier Trek
Kutla may be a high-altitude grassland surrounded by forests on all the edges. The best part about Kutla is that it's free from toxic tourism and perhaps a quaint little place situated right within the lap of nature. The dense vegetation in and around Kutla causes you to feel one with nature in the least time and therefore the lack of human presence lets you do a self-introspection.
The snow-capped mountain ranges of Parvati valley are visible from Kutla. It is free from any concrete structure and features a few traditional wooden structures which give stay options. Any time spent here is a smaller amount because the place has truly mystic vibes and can cause you to want to remain more. There are some days where you'll enjoy direct sunlight throughout the day, then there are days once you will experience a dark and cloudy Kutla. Both the settings have their beauty.
The best time to go to Kutla is between early June and late July because the winter gives thanks to summer and therefore the snow melts allowing the flora and fauna to bloom all across the valley. The trail to Kutla is additionally well marked and prominently visible because it's frequented by both locals and tourists.
By July the flowers start blooming and therefore the forests are covered with wildflowers and strawberry vines. As July ends the monsoon begins to line in and rains aren't predictable within the mountains. Even small and bleak streams become gushing nallahs and therefore the trail is wet and slippery. It becomes a touch risky to travel into unknown territory in monsoons.
When winter starts, the entire landscape turns cold and dry, and then periodic snowfalls keep on happening and cover the surrounding areas with thick snow. It is one of the treks from Kasol.
Trekking to the Himalayas in India is an experience of a lifetime and a mélange of adventure and self-realization! You’ll not only discover some beautiful places, but you'll rediscover yourself amidst the sweetness of the majestic Himalayan ranges! Just remember it’s not about the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.
Every mountain is reachable if you only keep walking towards it. If your passion starts with adventure and trekking then this is the best way to get away from all that stress of noisy cities. The treks near Kasol lure travelers, comfort them with the enchanting views, and humble them with their majestic appearance.
Spanning from a couple of hours to a couple of days, treks within the Parvati Valley take you on a roller-coaster journey across the Himalayan alpine. Subsequently, these treks look appropriate for a rookie to a veteran traveler within the mountains.
From strenuous multi-day treks to easy short hikes, Kasol possesses it all. Kasol is one of the foremost sought-after destinations for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts and there is a spread of treks around Kasol. These include treks that take about half an hour to treks that require days to be completed.
Trekking within the Himalayas can be a fun and exhilarating adventure if done correctly and under expert guidance. It is one of the simplest ways to urge on the brink of nature and knowledge of peace and harmony.
Now, with all being said, the Himalayas can provide you with a trail of memories that you simply can cherish for a lifetime. People trek for various reasons, some trek for the joys of it, some trek to get to new places and cultures, some roll in the hay meet up with to Himalayan beauties while some, trek to find a sense of peace.
Every time people go on a trek, they discover a little bit more about themselves. Trekking for some people is not an adventure but an emotion. So, these are some of the treks from Kasol.
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