Tucked away in the serene Parvati Valley, Kasol is a small but vibrant village known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly vibe. It’s one of the most popular backpacking destinations in Himachal Pradesh, attracting trekkers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers.
If you’re planning to explore Kasol and the breathtaking Parvati Valley, this detailed itinerary will guide you through the best experiences in this tranquil Himalayan paradise.
🗺️ Day 1: Arrival in Kasol
Morning:
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Arrival: Reach Kasol via Bhuntar (15 km away), which is accessible by bus, taxi, or car from Manali or Delhi.
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Check-in: Choose from several budget-friendly accommodations like Zostel, Blue Diamond, or cozy homestays in the village.
Afternoon:
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Explore Kasol Village: Stroll around the village, enjoy the picturesque views of the Parvati River, and soak in the chilled-out vibe. Kasol is famous for its cafes offering Israeli food, organic coffee, and fresh fruit shakes.
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Visit the Parvati River: Relax by the river, walk along its banks, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Evening:
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Sunset at Chalal Village: A short 30-minute walk from Kasol will take you to Chalal Village, known for its laid-back vibe and scenic views. You can sit by the river, watch the sunset, and experience the local culture.
🏞️ Day 2: Trek to Kheerganga
Morning:
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Start Early for Kheerganga Trek: Begin your trek early in the morning to Kheerganga (13 km). The trek is moderate, taking around 4-5 hours. You’ll pass through lush forests, beautiful waterfalls, and rustic villages along the way.
Afternoon:
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Reach Kheerganga: Once at Kheerganga, enjoy the scenic views and take a dip in the famous hot water springs—a natural therapeutic experience. Kheerganga is the perfect place to relax after your trek.
Evening:
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Camping in Kheerganga: Stay overnight in one of the local campsites, where you can enjoy a bonfire, stargazing, and meet fellow travelers. The starry skies and peaceful environment make it a perfect spot for reflection.
🗺️ Day 3: Kheerganga to Tosh Village
Morning:
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Return Trek to Kasol: After enjoying the sunrise and a relaxing dip in the hot springs, trek back to Kasol (around 4-5 hours). You can take your time and capture the beauty of the valley once again on your way down.
Afternoon:
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Lunch in Kasol: Enjoy a hearty meal at one of Kasol's famous cafes. Don’t miss out on trying Israeli salads, falafel, and pita bread.
Evening:
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Drive to Tosh Village (3 km): In the late afternoon, head to Tosh, a small village located 3 km above Kasol. It’s the perfect place to unwind, explore, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Parvati River and surrounding peaks. Spend the evening relaxing or taking a short walk around the village.
🏞️ Day 4: Explore Tosh Village & Malana
Morning:
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Tosh Village Exploration: Spend the morning exploring Tosh Village. Visit the local temples, interact with the villagers, and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley.
Afternoon:
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Head to Malana: After lunch, take a 1.5 to 2-hour hike to Malana, known for its unique culture and isolation from the outside world. Malana is also famous for its cannabis, though it’s important to respect local customs and avoid interfering with their traditional ways of life.
Evening:
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Return to Tosh: Head back to Tosh and relax after the day’s exploration.
🗺️ Day 5: Return to Kasol & Departure
Morning:
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Head Back to Kasol: After breakfast, take a short drive or trek back to Kasol. You can relax and explore any spots you may have missed during your first day in the village.
Afternoon:
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Souvenir Shopping: Kasol has a number of small shops selling woolen clothes, handicrafts, and other souvenirs. Take some time to pick up unique items as memories of your trip.
Evening:
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Departure: Catch your bus or taxi back to Bhuntar or Manali to return to your home or next destination.
🍲 What to Eat in Kasol & Parvati Valley
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Israeli Food: Don’t miss the famous Israeli dishes like Shakshuka, Hummus, Falafel, and Pita Bread at local cafes like Jim Morrison Café and Moon Dance Café.
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Tibetan Delights: Try Momos, Thukpa, and Tingmo at local eateries.
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Local Snacks: Grab a quick snack of Chana Chaat or Samosas while strolling around Kasol market.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Kasol & Parvati Valley
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Kasol: Zostel, Blue Diamond, Parvati Kuteer, Himalayan Village
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Kheerganga: Campsites, Kheerganga Guest House
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Tosh: Tosh Valley Café, Buddha Café, and homestays
🚗 How to Reach Kasol & Parvati Valley
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By Road: Kasol is well-connected by road from Manali (75 km) and Bhuntar (15 km). You can take Volvo buses or private taxis from Delhi or Manali.
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By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, about 15 km from Kasol.
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By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, around 140 km away.
💡 Travel Tips for Kasol & Parvati Valley
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Carry cash: ATMs are limited in Kasol and unavailable in other areas.
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Pack warm clothes: Even in summer, the weather can get chilly, especially at higher altitudes like Kheerganga and Tosh.
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Respect local customs: Parvati Valley is home to several small villages with unique cultures. Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially in Malana.
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Hydrate well: Trekking can be challenging, so drink plenty of water and carry snacks.
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Stay eco-friendly: Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid using plastic bags.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Kasol and Parvati Valley offer a perfect mix of adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking to Kheerganga, exploring Tosh, or simply relaxing by the Parvati River, the valley provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With stunning views, great food, and an inviting community, Kasol and the surrounding Parvati Valley will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.