Kasol is a village in Himachal Pradesh, northern India. It is situated in Parvati Valley, on the banks of the Parvati River, on the way between Bhuntar to Manikaran. It is located 42 km east of Kullu at the height of 1640 meters. Kasol is partitioned into Old Kasol and New Kasol on either side of the bridge. Kasol is a distance of 5 kilometres from holy place Manikaran. Kasol has recently transformed into a hub for backpackers, who are attracted to the scenic valley, untouched hills, low population, and good climate throughout the year. Most of the trekking is organized by the Youth Hostel of India and the base camp for the Surpass Trek is at Kasol. Visitors from Israel are common in Kasol and one can see the Hebrew language banners throughout the valley. Kasol has many things to offer -- from trekking to camping to different types of cuisine, as well as shopping from the local market. Apart from its scenic beauty, the local people of Kasol are also very warm to visitors. Unlike other popular hill stations which offer equally majestic views, Kasol appears to be much more serene and tranquil.
What To Do in KASOL
1. Walk by the Parvati River
One of the basic, free-of-cost and absolutely necessary things to do in Kasol is to go for a leisurely walk along the Parvati river. Though it may sound very basic, once you are surrounded by the gushing and frothing river on one side and a cover of green trees and old boulders on the other, you will be lost. The boulders and white sand will separate you from the temptingly beautiful river. There is a rickety old wooden bridge for that. For a supremely pleasant leisure afternoon stretch out on one of the smooth boulders beside the river with your feet in the cold water. It could be an eternity in an hour or an hour stretching into a lifetime.
2. Visit Manikaran Sahib
One of the most popular locations among the neighbouring areas, Manikaran is another spot not to be missed while sightseeing in Kasol. A famous pilgrimage centre for both Sikh and Hindu devotees, the region sees a constant inflow of visitors. Apart from its temples dedicated to Rama, Krishna, and Vishnu, the town also has a famous Gurudwara. It is believed to be the location at which Lord Shiva’s wife, Parvati retrieved her precious jewels after he performed a cosmic dance. It is also revered by the Sikhs as it is believed to be the site where Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, managed to miraculously feed the starving population of the region when he visited the area. The area also attracts tourists due to the presence of geothermal hot springs. Inside the shrine, you can see pictures of Hindu Gods, alongside Jesus and Sikh Guru’s. The messages couldn’t have been clearer; everyone is welcome and all faiths are respected. I find this bit especially touching about Manikaran Sahib
3. Take a long walk to Malana or Tosh
Malana is famous for its distinct culture and the temple of Jamlu Devta. The people of this quiet hamlet live in self-imposed isolation. They believe themselves to be the descendants of Aryans and that the purity of their race would be compromised by interaction with outsiders. A visitor in Malana cannot touch their wall, to the extent that they wash their walls with the blood of a buffalo if an outsider happens to touch it. Shocking, right? Not to them! They have their own government and do not consider themselves within the jurisdiction of the Indian government. Most say it is a cover for a raging industry of cannabis. Having said that, Malana is a village of splendid beauty. It is often referred to as 'Little Greece', as the locals believe to have descended from the lineage of Alexander the Great. Tosh is more European than Israeli and with a constant whiff of cannabis in its air. Trekking uphill through the forest is a shorter route to reach Tosh. Cabs are also available to take you there for a minimal charge of 200 Rupees. Accommodation and food are cheap and available in surplus. You will find plenty of cafes with great Israeli and European food and ideal ambience to relax. You would be hard-pressed to find a typical Indian restaurant though. The village is located on a hillside overlooking the river and a waterfall. It is ideal to undertake long walks to discover the pretty delights of its mountain scenery.
4. Trek to Kheer Ganga
Kheer Ganga is a nine km,four-hour steep climb on narrow and tricky trails. As far as treks go, this is probably one of the easiest to do from Kasol. Maybe you have heard about this place, maybe not. Not a lot of people are familiar with Kheerganga and it is a shame because it is a breathtakingly beautiful place and the trek through the forest is just a must-have experience. Those not in the prime of their health still might find the hike to Kheer Ganga rather more than challenging. But when you finally reach the lush green meadow, you will find the geothermal spring as the answer to all your prayers. Just the thing you need when everything around you is chilling. Lie in the hot bath for a wonderfully soothing experience. It is tranquillity united with breathtaking beauty. It is better to say the night at Kheer Ganga as to and fro trekking can be taxing and might hamper your enjoyment a little. The nearby hamlets provide plenty of cheap accommodation and excellent food.
5. Try Israeli Food
Apart from being a hippie paradise, Kasol is also a haven for great food, albeit little known. Tucked amidst wilderness, in a remote corner of the world, Kasol is flocked by young Israelis. Hence the name Mini Israel. The influence is clearly visible in the Hebrew inscribed signboards and abundantly available Israeli food. When in Kasol don’t hunt for fancy. Streetside cafes serve excellent food. Eat outdoors if you can. There is no dirt threatening to get into your food in this pristine valley. A view of the immense hills and dark green forests just makes your eating experience that much better. Do try the ‘Turquoise Kasol’ and ‘The Evergreen’ for a taste of Israeli food.