A Journey to the Heart of the Himalayas

If you are searching for a peaceful and scenic destination that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation, look no further than Kasol and Manikaran. In this blog i am going to share my experience with you when i traveled  to Kasol and Manikaran. Hope if you are planning to visit Kasol this would help you as a traveler.

Kasol and Manikaran, Nestled in the heart of the Parvati Valley in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, these two charming villages offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s splendor.

Route Map:Delhi–Chandigarh–Mandi–Kullu–Kasol–Manikaran.

Total Distance: Delhi to Manikaran (570 Kms).

How to reach: Kasol and manikaran are located in the outskirts of the parvati velley and are well connected via road. You can board the bus from ISBT kashmiri gate, Both type of service is available from ISBT Kashmiri gate, Volvo and HRTC (Himachal Pradesh Transport Corporation). As the traveling time would be more then 11 hrs so be prepared if you are travelling by bus.

Note: Traveling by bus is a cheaper option.

Day 1: Delhi–Chandigarh–Chail–Shimla (By Car)

We started our journey early in the morning from delhi, around 6:30 am as it was a very long drive to our destination, So we decided to have minimum halts. we crossed the Karnal by pass in no time, and were on the GT Karnal Road.

You can choose Murthal, Sonipat as your first halt. We had our breakfast at the famous, Amrik Sukhdev (Former known as sukhdev dhaba) very famous for paranthas, every Delhiites would khow it very well.

Then we moved on and reached to chandigarh around 10:00 AM, From chandigarh you have two route options to reach kasol. You can chose the route via Rupnagar or via Shimla. We came to know that the road via rupnagar is not good and is broken.

We decided to go via shimla, it was around 4hrs drive to shimla and we had our whole day to spend and we were in mood of exploring other place as well. So we decided to go shimla via Chail (very less known destination).

Chail is very beautiful place, it has a very scenic beauty. There is a riverside resort you can be seated on the chair in the middle of the river and spend some peaceful moment with your loving one. see picture.

after having a relaxing break at chail we ended up with staying at shimla at night.

Day 2: Shimla–Mandi–Kullu–Kasol–Manikaran

The route from shimla to kasol is very beautiful, the flora is aid to the beauty.

Finally we reached to kullu, and kasol is around 30 Km from kullu. The road is very steep and narrow but its a fun to drive. After you reach to kasol, surprisingly it does not look like indian village. You can spot lot of foreigners here then anywhere else. Most of the foreigners are Israelis, and most of them are staying here from years, and you can also see the sign boards on the shops in Hebrew language.

You have many options to stay in kasol and the food is tasty and cheap as well. If you love adventure you have an option to live in the tents by the river side.

In kasol you can track to a very famous village “Malana”, Its near about 4 kms tracking. The track to malana is also beautiful. People in malana village are pure blood of Arayans, and they dont want the other people to touch their belongings. It is clearly mentions there “Not to touch the boundaries or anything inside the premises of the temple” One who do so will have to pay the fine.

Kasol, also known as the “Mini Israel of India,” is a backpacker’s paradise that has become increasingly popular among travelers over the years. With its stunning views of the Himalayas, tranquil rivers, and vibrant Israeli community, it is no wonder why so many people are drawn to this mystical place.

Upon arriving in Kasol, you will be greeted by the friendly locals and a plethora of cafes and restaurants serving delicious Israeli and Indian cuisine. From here, you can embark on one of the many trekking trails that lead you to nearby villages, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

Manikaran, just a short drive from Kasol, is a holy pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Sikhs. This unique location is home to several hot springs that are believed to have healing properties, and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green forests.

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara is a must-visit, not only for its religious significance but also for its breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere. The gurudwara is located along the river and offers panoramic views of the valley, making it the perfect place to relax and meditate.

While in Manikaran, be sure to take a dip in the hot springs and visit the nearby Raoli waterfall, which is a popular spot for picnicking and swimming. If you are looking for an authentic cultural experience, attend the evening prayers at the gurudwara, where you can hear the soul-stirring sounds of devotional music and witness the community coming together in worship.

Kasol and Manikaran are also great destinations for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities such as rafting, paragliding, and rock climbing. Whether you are seeking a spiritual journey or a thrilling adventure, these two villages have something for everyone.

In conclusion, a trip to Kasol and Manikaran is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless opportunities for adventure.

This part of the Himalayas is truly a gem that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and set off on an unforgettable journey to the heart of the Himalayas!

Hope this article will help you to plan a joyful and safe trip to Kasol.