Kasol Calling: A 48-Hour Guide To This Himalayan Paradise

Ask any intrepid traveller and they’ll tell you how there’s more to Kasol than the smoker’s paradisiacal vibe. This tiny hamlet, located on the banks of the gushing Parvati River in its namesake valley has been the mainstay of backpackers and trekkers, many of whom either come here for its cafe culture or make it their base as they head out to explore many treks nearby, mainly Sar Pass and Pin Parvati Valley Trek.If you’re planning a trip to this village, here’s all that needs to be added to your bucket list.

Day 1 Morning: Local TourKickstart your day with a serene riverside breakfast at one of the many cosy cafés in Kasol like Bhoj Café or Moon Dance Café. Indulge in Israeli-inspired dishes like shakshuka or hummus with pita while enjoying stunning views of the Parvati River. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through Kasol Market, where you can shop for quirky souvenirs, woollen shawls, and handcrafted jewellery. Don’t miss the shops selling colourful harem pants and Tibetan trinkets, which you’ll see on every foreigner in this small village.

Afternoon: Trek To Chalal VillageIf you’d like to stretch your legs, hike to the Chalal village, less than 2 kms from Kasol, and can be reached in about 30-45 minutes. The trail is filled with scenic views and pine-scented air, perfect for a calming trek. Unlike Kasol, which is somewhat touristy now, this village still retains an old world charm.

Evening: Manikaran Sahib GurudwaraA sacred site for both Hindus and Sikhs, Shri Manikaran Sahib is located just 3 km from Kasol, and can be accessed by local bus or cabs. This gurudwara has hot water springs, which are believed to have healing powers. You can also visit a Shiva Temple located near the gurudwara. Day 2 Morning: Kheerganga TrekRise early and gear up for a half-day trek to Kheerganga, one of the most popular trails in the Parvati Valley. The trek takes about 4-5 hours one way and rewards you with breathtaking views, lush forests, and natural hot springs at the summit. Don’t forget to take a dip in the warm waters, believed to have therapeutic properties.

Tosh If you're short on time, you can opt for a shorter trek to Tosh, a quaint village offering panoramic vistas and cosy cafés. It is the last motorable village in Parvati Valley located 20 km away from Kasol and is hugely popular with backpackers for its panoramic views and cheap accommodations.

Evening: MalanaThis secluded village is a trip in itself. Locals in Kasol will tell you how people in Malana consider themselves to be descendants of Alexander the Great, and have a strict code of conduct, which includes not touching any stranger outside their community. And ofcourse, Malana is most famous for Malana Cream, a highly sought-after variety of hashish. Also Read: How to Reach KasolThe nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar), about 31 km away. From there, you can take a taxi to Kasol. It is also well-connected by road and can be reached by buses from Delhi or Chandigarh. Opt for overnight buses to reach early in the morning and maximise your weekend.