With dense forest perched on Parvati Valley's mountainsides, Kasol is ideal for the adventurous traveler on a day trip. This hamlet consists of brightly colored buildings, friendly locals and a roaring river nearby. If you want to explore Himachal Pradesh's "Amsterdam of India," plan your itinerary in this quiet community today.
Traveling to Kasol
Kasol resides in the Kullu district within Parvati Valley. Ideally, fly into Bhuntar Airport and take a taxi to Kasol. This community is connected by well-maintained roads, but it can be a bit treacherous between late fall and early winter. Snow does fall in this region, which can block the roads. Because Kasol is a small community, you can walk to dining, lodging and other attractions once you're in the city center.
Experiencing Nature
Surrounding Kasol is nature in its rawest form. Indeed, several treks originate in Kasol and feed out into the hillsides. For example, the Chalal Trek takes you along the Parvati River while looking out for the native flora and fauna. Alternatively, look for the Kheer Ganga trek. With multiple waterfalls, bridges and a moderate terrain, this trek is a bit longer but offers more views than the shorter trails. Hiking during the spring and fall is recommended so that you can see Parvati Valley blossoming and growing greener as the sunny days come and go.
Exploring the Cuisine
With several cafes dotting Kasol's landscape, foodies are welcome to try local delicacies throughout their stay. If you want to try recipes such as borek, shakshouka or classic hummus, Kasol's locals have a rich background in homestyle cooking. Because of the area's large Israeli population, it's possible to find classic dishes and unusual fusion options during your stay. Simply ask for a menu at the local cafe to see the daily specials.
Unearthing the Music and Dancing Scene
Remarkably, Kasol has become a haven for dance and music lovers. Indeed, several festivals occur throughout the year. For instance, the Indrasan Festival occurs in May. For several days, psytrance music plays as the audience grooves to the tribal beats. In June, the Summer Hills Festival takes over for two days. If you want to ring in the new year in Kasol, there's a music festival for your nighttime entertainment, too.
Shopping for Souvenirs
Undoubtedly, Kasol's flea markets are major attractions. Across many city blocks, you can stroll down the sidewalks and see nearly every handicraft conceived in Northern India. Woolen clothing, boldly colored accessories, dream catchers and other souvenirs stand out to visitors. Typically, travelers can browse and negotiate on some prices. Many items are made from local materials, which gives each item a unique and charming allure. From jewelry to chillums, fine items sold in Kasol's flea markets are a treasure hunter's dream.
From trekking the hillsides to exploring the Parvati River, Kasol offers many activities for nearly any traveler. Typically, select a season that's comfortable for your entire group, including winter fans and summer admirers. Overall, Kasol is a humble hamlet that welcomes everyone to experience its culture.
