Kasol, nestled in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, has become a popular destination for both backpackers and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Famous for its scenic views of the Parvati Valley, this hamlet offers much more than just a serene atmosphere.
Beyond the well-known treks to Malana and Kheerganga, Kasol is also a year-round destination, with its best months being from May to October. If you prefer to avoid snow, though, steer clear of visiting between December and February.
While many travellers come to explore Kasol's famous cafes and enjoy the Kheerganga trek, there are hidden gems near Kasol that often go unnoticed. Let’s dive into five lesser-known but equally captivating places to visit around Kasol:
1. Kalgha
Kalgha is a peaceful village tucked away from the usual hustle of life. Unlike typical Himachali villages, Kalgha offers an offbeat experience with its snow-capped mountains, charming apple orchards, and quiet streets. Ideal for those looking to unwind with a good book or engage in friendly conversations with the local villagers, this hamlet is also a popular basecamp for the Kheerganga trek.
How to Get There: Take a bus from Delhi to Bhuntar, then a local bus to Barsheni. From there, a short hike leads to Kalgha.
Where to Stay: Lost&Found Galactic Friends' House or Nazeem's Guest House.
Top Things to Do: Pick fresh apples, capture stunning sunsets, chat with locals, or get creative with some art supplies.
Distance from Kasol: 17.9 km
2. Pulga
Not far from Kalgha, Pulga offers another charming retreat with its lush green tea plantations and distinctive wooden houses. Known for its tranquil vibe, Pulga provides the perfect break from technology and city life. Don’t miss visiting the local temple dedicated to Lord Narayan or wandering through the magical Fairy Forest. For a unique treat, be sure to try Nutella milk at the hippie cafes scattered across the village.
How to Get There: From Delhi, take a bus to Bhuntar, followed by a local bus to Barsheni. A scenic 20-minute hike, crossing bridges and waterfalls, will take you to Pulga.
Where to Stay: Nazeem’s Guest House.
Top Things to Do: Explore the temple of Lord Narayan, stroll through Fairy Forest, visit apple orchards, and enjoy the village’s famous Nutella milk.
Distance from Kasol: 16.7 km
3. Rasol
Rasol, or Rashol, is a small village perched above Kasol, accessible only via a three-hour trek from Chalal. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of rhododendrons and misty mountains. As you climb higher, signboards with “Magic Rasol” will guide you. While the food in Rasol is slightly more expensive than in Kasol, owing to the effort it takes to bring supplies up, the tranquil environment more than makes up for it.
How to Get There: Take a bus to Bhuntar, then either rent a bike or take a shared jeep to Kasol. From Chalal, Rasol is a 3-4 hour trek.
Where to Stay: Sun View Cafe.
Top Things to Do: Enjoy the vibrant rhododendrons, capture the misty landscapes, and indulge in delicious local dishes at one of the cafes.
Distance from Kasol: 2.5 km (to the base of the trek)
4. Naggar
Once the capital of the Kullu kingdom, Naggar is a historic town rich in cultural heritage. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and beautiful waterfalls, this ancient town boasts an impressive architectural style. Its compact size allows visitors to explore the town on foot, making it a delightful day trip from Kasol.
How to Get There: Take a bus from Delhi to Manali and get off at Patlikuhal, which is just over an hour past Kullu. From there, a local bus or taxi will take you to Naggar.
Where to Stay: Naggar Castle or Hotel Naggar Delight.
Top Things to Do: Visit the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, Deepti Naval Art Studio, and nearby temples like Gauri Shankar and Tripura Sundari. For adventure seekers, a trek to Jana Waterfall is a must.
Distance from Kasol: 58 km
5. Sainj
Tucked in the north-western Himalayas, the Sainj Valley offers breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil meadows. Starting from Larji village, the valley extends into the majestic grasslands of Shangchul in the village of Shangarh. Trekkers often visit the nearby Great Himalayan National Park, and the temple of Shangchul Mahadev stands as a centre of local reverence in the midst of these serene grasslands.
How to Get There: From Delhi, take a bus towards Manali and get off at Aut. A local bus or taxi will then take you to Sainj.
Where to Stay: Divine Land Homestay or Forest Rest House, Shangarh.
Top Things to Do: Explore the Great Himalayan National Park, visit Shangchul Mahadev’s temple, and relax in the scenic meadows—perfect for yoga or sports.
Distance from Kasol: 67 km
Indian eVisa for Your Trip to Kasol
To explore Kasol and the surrounding hidden gems as a foreign traveler, having the right visa is essential. India offers various types of visas, with the e-Visa being the most convenient option for short-term travelers. The Indian e-Visa allows visitors to enter the country for tourism purposes, including visiting scenic destinations like Kasol, which is situated in Himachal Pradesh.
Before applying for an e-visa, you should know about what documents needed for India visa. Once your application is approved, travelers can enter India through designated airports or ports. Having the visa allows you to fully immerse in Kasol’s natural beauty and culture, making it easier to gather first-hand experiences and share insightful travel tips. Whether you're trekking through the Parvati Valley or visiting peaceful villages, obtaining the right visa ensures you can explore every corner of Kasol hassle-free and focus on documenting your adventures.
Conclusion
By uncovering these hidden spots around Kasol, your trip to the Parvati Valley can transform into an enriching experience beyond the usual tourist trail. Each village and town holds its own charm, offering a peaceful retreat into nature, history, and the local way of life.
