Kasol is a small hamlet located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Renowned as the Mini Israel Of India Kasol is perfect to enjoy both parties and solitude. The hippie vibes, raven parties, vibrant cafes, hidden villages and adventurous treks make it a paradise for backpackers and honeymoon couples. The never-ending natural beauty and thundering sound of the Parvati river create a magical landscape that everyone wants to visit.
So if you’re traveling to visit Kasol then make sure to check out our handpicked list of the best places to visit in Kasol. And yes after a memorable trip, you can thank us in the below comment section –
Best Places To Visit In Kasol:
1. Manikaran Gurudwara
Located 4 KM from Kasol on the bank of the Parvati river, Manikaran is one of the most famous sacred places in Himachal. It is one of the most sacred Sikh pilgrimage sites in India. As soon you enter the Gurudwara you’ll see idols of the Hindu religion as well which makes it a secular place.
No matter where you’re from or what is your religion or at which time you come, you’ll always get free delicious food inside the Gurudwara. The main attraction of this temple is the hot water spring that is Sulphate free. The water inside the spring is so hot that even you can cook food inside it. Therefore, the Gurudwara Sahib langar (food) is cooked in this hot water. You can also take bath inside these hot water springs.
Along with Gurudwara Sahib, you will lots of Hindu temples as well where you can spot hot water springs.
You can also stay inside the Gurudwara for that you need to directly contact the staff of the temple. It is completely free to stay here. For shopping lovers, there is a market located just behind the Gurudwara Sahib where you can buy traditional Himachali accessories. Overall, it is a great place to visit, many tourists from Manali come here for a day trip.
- How to reach: To reach there you can hire a taxi that will charge around 200 to 300 INR for your complete trip. Apart from it, you can also get a bus from the Kasol bus stop.
2. Kasol Nature Park:
Situated on the bank of the Parvati River, Kasol Nature Park is an amazing place to spend a peaceful evening in Kasol. There are lots of activities for children such as sliders, swings etc. Therefore it’s the perfect family vacation spot in Kasol. You can also have an amazing view of the Parvati River that flows just behind the park.
- Entry Fees: 20 INR
3. Parvati River
Parvati river is the prime attraction of Kasol as the town is situated on the bank of the Parvati river. Sitting on the bank of the river while gazing into the snow-capped mountains and the lush greenery of Parvati valley will refresh your soul. The thundering sound of the river with the chirping of birds will make you feel like you’re in heaven. A stroll by the river while watching the setting sun is the most scenic way to spend the evening in Kasol.
4. Chalal
Located just 30 minutes of walking distance (2 KM) from Kasol, Chalal is an amazing place to visit in Kasol. It is a small place that is situated on another side of Parvati River, therefore, to reach there you need to cross the famous Kasol bridge. The Kasol bridge is the best place to click the instagrammable pictures in Kasol. During this small trekking trail you’ll find small waterfalls and a forest of pine trees.
Chalal is a very beautiful, quiet and green place where you can spend an amazing time. The soothing sound of the Parvati River makes this place more beautiful. This is the place where you’ll get lots of cheap riverside camps. Overall, it is a great place for nature lovers.
Note: Be aware because there are no signboards in this area so chances of missing are quite high.
5. Freedom Cafe, Chalal
Freedom cafe is another great place in Chalal which is located just 2 KM from Kasol. If you want to stay in riverside camps then this will be the perfect place for you. The freedom cafe is full of camps and coffee shops. There is a small clubhouse in freedom cafe where you leash out your party animal on every weekend.
6. Rasol
Located 5 KM away from Kasol, Rasol is a small beautiful town in Parvati Valley. It is a perfect offbeat destination in Himachal where you can amazing view of the Himalayas and Parvati Valley. This is the place where you see the authentic Himachali culture; enjoy witnessing the locals doing their local household works, agriculture and celebrating their festivals. Rasol is home to 75 to 100 wooden houses. If you want then you can also stay in Rasol which charges around 500 INR per person.
- How to reach: The only way to reach Rasol is to trek through Chalal Village. Chalal is the base point of the Rasol trek that takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach Rasol (depending on your speed). The trek is full of lush greenery of pine trees, surrounding mountains and the soothing sound of Parvati river.
7. Grahan
Grahan is a small beautiful town that is located just 8 KM away from Kasol. It is the place where you can witness typical Himachali Culture. There you’ll see lots wooden of houses and local cafes where you can have traditional Himachali Chai (tea) and tasty local food. Locals here are very welcoming and friendly. There are lots of wooden guest houses where you can spend a night that charge around 400 to 600 INR.
- How to reach: For Grahan trek, start your journey early in the morning. You can travel 4 to 5 KM by bike after that you need to take a trek of 3 KM for Grahan. For your convenience, there are lots of arrows during the entire trekking trail of Grahan. During the trek, you’ll find a local cafe where you can have tea and snacks. Apart from cafes, you’ll get to amazing natural beauty including waterfalls, rivers and scenic mountains. You can cover the entire trek of Grahan in 2 hours.
8. Kheerganga Trek:
Kheerganga trek is one of the most beautiful trek destinations in India with spectacular natural beauty, lively Parvati River, amazing waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, hot water spring and lush greenery. Kheerganga is located around 20 KM away from Kasol in Parvati Valley at a height of 2950 meters. Kasol is the place from where everyone starts their journey to Kheerganaga. And Barshaini is the base point for the Kheerganga trek that is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Kasol.
The trekking distance of Kheerganga from Barshaini is about 14 to 15 KM. The average time taken to the Kheerganga trek is around 5 to 6 hours. And the trek to Kheerganga is not difficult and always crowded, therefore, you don’t need any guide for this trek. You can also spend a night at Kheerganga which costs you around 500 to 700 for a maximum of 4 people. Either you can book in advance or you can also take it after reaching there.
9. Pulga Village:
Located around 20 KM away from Kasol, Pulga is a famous place among backpackers and foreigners. It is a perfect offbeat place to explore near Kasol. Pulga is famous for its natural beauty, virgin waterfalls, a forest of pine trees and apple orchards. After reaching Pulga you can have an amazing view of the Parvati river with might peaks of the Himalayas. The Fairy forest is the best place to visit in Pulga where you can just lie down and feel nature. It is protected by the Forest Department of Himachal.
Barshaini is the point where you can start trek to Pulga. Pulga is located on the opposite side of the Parvati river so you need to cross the river to start your trek. 1 and a half hours is enough to complete the trek of Pulga from Barshaini. To avoid confusion you can ask locals and cab drivers.
There are many homestays in Pulga that cost you around 500 to 700 INR. Apart from it, you will find cafes and restaurants in Pulga where you can have your meal and local Himachali food as well.
Note: Trek is the only way to reach Pulga
10. Kalga Village – A Hidden Gem of Parvati Valley
Situated at an altitude of 2298 M, Kalga is a beautiful remote destination in Parvati Valley. Kalga is not connected by any road so you need to do the trek to reach this beautiful village. This place is famous for its breathtaking views, apple orchards and forest of pine trees. Apart from the natural beauty here, you’ll find lots of cafes and wooden homestays where you can spend a night. You can also do the Kheerganga trek from Kalga as well.
The best thing about this village is that it is a plastic-free town and there is plenty of 5000 INR if you throw plastic in open. Locals here are very strict about nature cleaning. Overall, it is a perfect one-day trip near Kasol especially if you’re going to Kheerganga.
11. Tosh Village
Tosh is a beautiful off-beat destination that is located 21 KM from Kasol. Being a hilly town, Tosh offers some of the most scenic views of Parvati valley. The architecture of the house makes this town unique as all the houses are totally made out of wood. A visit to Tosh is a treat to tourists especially in winters when the town is covered by a thin white layer of snow. Trekking from Kasol is the best way to reach Tosh.
12. Malana Village:
Located around 22 KM away from Kasol, Malana is an ancient village that is famous for its strong cultural and religious beliefs. This pristine village is situated on the side of Parvati valley.
Malana is the perfect place to witness the ancient lifestyles of Himachal, the people here have no contact with the outside world, they have their own culture and ancient religious beliefs, and their lives depend on agricultural work. Therefore it is the perfect place to visit if you want to get a glimpse of how people in ancient times live their life. Apart from culture, Malana is also famous for its pristine natural beauty including lush greenery, waterfalls, rivers and beautiful mountains.
- How to reach: To reach up there you need to take a cab or bus till Jari and from there you need to take a small trek of 4 to 5 KM that leads to you Malana. But keep in that you don’t allow to stay during the night at Malana so leave on time to return back to Kasol.
13. Tirthan Valley
Tirthan Valley and Kasol are two different worlds. Kasol is more like a fancy destination where you can do party & enjoy the hippie vibes of cafes while Tirthan more like a serene and secluded place where you can enjoy raw natural beauty, year-old Himachali culture and peaceful surroundings.
Situated just 82 KM from Kasol, Tirthan valley is the most wonderful offbeat destination in Himachal preferred by nature and trekking lovers. It is a perfect destination for a day trip to Kasol or if you have time then spend at least one night to enjoy the most of it. However, Tirthan Valley is itself a major tourist attraction where you can easily spend a week without getting bored.
- How to reach – Take a bus from Kasol to Mandi and deboard at Aut then take a local bus or taxi to Gushaini or Nagini. If not available then take a bus to Banjar Valley. From there you will easily get a bus or taxi to Gushaini which is the part of Tirthan Valley.
- Best time to visit – March to June is the best time to visit Tirthan Valley.
Places to visit in Tirthan Valley
Jibhi, Great Himalayan National Park, Serolsar Lake, Jalori Pass, Tirthan River, Budhhi Nagin Temple and Raghupur fort.
14. Naina Bhagwati Temple
Naina Bhagwati temple is Situated in the foothills of Himalayas, on the bank of the Parvati river. It is dedicated to Goddess Naina Bhagwati, a divine power that originated from Shiva’s third eye. The temple is famous for its architecture and beautiful surroundings. The wooden and stone carving enhance the beauty of this temple.
15. Bhuntar Town
Being a getaway to Kasol, Manali, Kullu, Manikaran, Tosh and Kheerganga, Bhuntar is unintentional ignored by the tourist. But Bhuntar itself is a tourist attraction where you can stay for a relaxing holiday. It is not a much-crowded place as compared to Kasol and Manali therefore it is a perfect place for peace seekers.
There are many religious temples and old architectural buildings which give it a religious touch. Also, the serene natural surrounding gives you ample space to unwind. Overall, it is a good place to spend a few hours after exploring Kasol.
16. Choj Village
If peace is your first priority then Choj Village is the perfect destination for you. Situated just 1 KM from Kasol on the way from Kasol to Manikarn, Choj is the perfect place to stay in Kasol. The best thing about this village is that here you’ll not find any vehicular population because it is located on the other side of the Parvati river. So, to reach there you’ve to cross the small hanging bridge which is only for walking.
There you can find lots of campsites for stay. And serene surroundings of lofty mountains and the thundering sound of the Parvati river will make you forget all the problems.
17. Naggar Village
Away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, Naggar is an old peaceful town situated on the banks of the Beas River. The mystical beauty of this Himalayan settlement attracts peace seekers. Situated just 57 km away from Kasol, it is an ideal destination for a day trip from Kasol, Kullu and Manali.
Naggar, once the capital of Kullu, has now turned into a peaceful destination where you can take a break from your daily routine. The laid-back atmosphere, humble locals, delicious Himachali cuisine and spectacular views make it one of the best places to visit in Kasol.
If you want to enjoy the best of Naggar then leave Kasol early in the morning as it has a lot to offer.
Things to do in Naggar
- Visit historic Naggar Castle
- Seek blessing of Lord Shiva at Gauri Shankar temple
- Trek to Bijli Mahadev Temple, and Chanderkhani Pass
- Fishing
- Camping
- Enjoy authentic Himachali Cuisines.
18. Jana Waterfall
There is nothing special about this waterfall as it is small in size. But the way to reach the waterfall is interesting. Surrounded by the deodar forest and apple orchards make the journey more interesting as compared to the destination. This 30 feet waterfall is located in the Jana village (70 KM from Kasol). If you have enough time and looking for an offbeat destination then you should visit this place. In the proximity to waterfall, there are some good Dhaba and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local food.
19. Kutla Village
Kutla is a small village located 2 hours away from Tosh. The serene surroundings of mountains and old wooden houses take you to the era when there were no mobiles and vehicles. And guess what, this village is only accessible by only foot. Therefore, it is a perfect setup to spend quality time in solitude while admiring how amazing nature can be.
The authentic traditional vibes of this place force you to stay there at least for a day. Roaming at the foot of mighty mountains and sitting under a big deodar tree makes you feel like you’re the only person in the world.
- How to reach – It is located 3KM uphill from tosh. Trekking is the only way to reach up there.
20. Sar Pass Trek
If you’re fond of trekking and don’t have enough experience then you will definitely love the Sar Pass Trek. Traversing through the green meadows, large deodar trees. snow-capped mountains, hidden villages like Grahan and adventurous waterfalls make this 48 KM trek a paradise for nature lovers. From camping at high-altitude villages to passing through the forests of pine, this 5-day trek will let you experience some of the most amazing moments of your life.
- Difficulty level – Easy to Moderate
- Starting point – Kasol
- Altitude – 13,7999 Feet
- Distance – 40 to 50 KM
- Best time to visit – April to November
21. The Evergreen Cafe
The best way to explore Kasol is by visiting its cafes. There are many cafes in Kasol but Evergreen cafe is the most popular one where you can enjoy various delicious cuisines including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Indian, Continental and Israeli. The outdoor seating of this place allows you to enjoy mount watering food with splendid views of mountains. Prices are reasonable and the staff is super friendly.
- Location – Manikaran Road, Near Forest Rest House, New Kasol.
Where to stay in Kasol:
In the last couple of years, Kasol has been developed for tourism a lot therefore there you’ll find lots of great places to stay including hotels, hostels, camps and guesthouses. From budget to luxurious stay there are many options. Some of them are listed below:
- The Hosteller (Near Kasol Temple, Old Kasol)
- Hostel Cozy beds (Old Kasol, Kasol)
- Nomads Hostel (Village Chojh, Chojh Bridge, Manikaran Road, Kasol Rd, Kasol)
- Himtrek Riverside Camp (Opposite the white house near Parvati kuteer, Kasol)
- Snow View Guest House (1.2 KM away from the centre of Kasol)
- Average per night cost of the campsite: 400 to 800
- Average per night cost of the hotel: 600 to 2000 (Depends on the room type)
- Average per night cost of dormitory: 400 per bed
And if you want the more budgeted options then try to stay away from Kasol in the nearby villages such as Chalal, Kalga, Pulga, and Manikaran. There you’ll get the best room at the cheapest price.
How to reach Kasol:
No matter where you live in India, getting Kasol is not a big deal. The road is the best way to reach Kasol as it is surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. Delhi is the base point for those who come from long distances. The overnight bus from Delhi will drop you Bhuntar and from there you can take a taxi or cab to Kasol. And the way to reach from Bhuntar to Kasol is very scenic especially when you travel during monsoon time.
You can also reach Kasol via Kullu or Manali (75 KM). From Manali, you can easily get a taxi or bus to Kasol. If you take a bus from Manali to Kasol then it will charge you around 150 to 200 INR.
Bhuntar has the nearest airport to Kasol that is located 31 KM away.
Most Affordable way to reach Kasol: The bus is the best way to reach Kasol. Take a bus from Delhi to Bhuntar that will charge you around 700 to 1200 INR (on the basis of bus type). From Bhuntar you can easily get the bus for Kasol that will charge you around 50 to 100 INR.
Conclusion
The above list of places to visit in Kasol truly justifies its natural beauty with a mix of hippy vibes. A visit to Kasol will let you introduce the world where traditional Himachali villages host the modern late-night party. But apart from the hippie culture, there is a lot more to admire in Kasol like trekking, hiking, nature walks and exploring the hidden villages. And with this list, you can easily explore all these things. If you still have any questions you can ask them in the below comment section. Also, we’ve answered some in the blow FAQ section.
Places to visit in Kasol FAQs
Q1: Whic are the best places to visit in Kasol in December?
Manikaran Sahib and hot water springs, Chalal, Tosh, Malana, Kalga, Pulga and Tirthan valley are some of the best places to visit in Kasol in December.
Q2: Is Kasol safe for couples?
Being a popular tourist attraction, Kasol is quite safe for both singles and couples. From homestays to luxurious resorts there are number of options for stay in Kasol. But don’t leave alone to a deserted place at night.
Q3: How many days are enough for Kasol?
3 nights and 4 days would be enough to explore most of this town. The first day is for local sightseeing, the second and third is for trekking to nearby villages and the last is for other activities.
Q4: Does Kasol get snowfall?
Yes, during winter from Dec to Feb Kasol experiences snowfall. But it totally depends on the weather so do check the weather before planning.
Q5: What are the best places for shopping in Kasol?
Flea market, Akhara Bazaar, Tibetan bazaar and Manikaran are some of the best places to do shopping in Kasol.
Q6: What is famous in Kasol?
Kasol is known for its adventurous treks, delicious food, unexplored villages, Parvati river, and hippie culture. If you’re looking for an escape from your daily to enjoy life at best then Kasol is the place to go.