Kasol to Kheer Ganga trek: Why should Parvati Valley be on the list of trips?

We watch from the capital to enjoy our weekend breaks in the serene Himalayas. After all, this part of India is something different and magical. It’s hypnotic silence for some in the mountains and an unpolluted experience for others.

In northern Indian Himachal Pradesh, the Parvati Valley is such a location. It’s one of those picturesque destinations to slow down.

From the Parvati River confluence with the Beas River, the Parvati valley flows from the city Bhuntar to the east through a steep valley. You can stay here for three days and you’re not only going to have to experience Kasol’s famed, adrenaline-filled trek, but also the off-beat paths of Israeli food.

What to do? 

Board a bus that will cost you about Rs 1,100 from Majnu-ka-Tilla in Delhi to Bhuntar. You can take a taxi to Kasol for Rs 1,000 once you hit Bhuntar. Many homes and hotels can be found in Kasol, starting with Rs 800.

The drive from Bhuntar to Kasol is beautiful, with a view of the snow-capped mountains and luxuriant greenery from many haircutters.

THE STUNNING KASOL

When you hit Kasol, take some time to rest and regenerate to take advantage of your time. Start by wandering outside, exploring beautiful trails, and chilling the Beas and Parvati Rivers, which stream right next to the hamlet.

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara is also a short walk from the town of Kasol and you must add this journey to a quiet retreat. In the popular hot springs of the gurudwara, you can also dip.

It took us about 15 minutes to walk to reach Kasol’s main market near Manikaran Sahib. The roaring Beas will also take your turn, trust us and be a beautiful walk as you walk along the path.

In Kasol you can try Israeli cooking in several cafes with surreal mountains adding an entirely different flavor to your dinner. Pick any of Kasol’s best-known cafés: Evergreen Cafe, Rainbow Cafe, Moon Dance Cafe, and Jim Morrison Cafe. Pick them up. A short path through the forest takes you to some of these haunts. This will be worth the minimalist vibes and delicious food served here.

Kasol is also the location of a local market where you can buy souvenirs and go shopping. If you are a dog lover, you’ll also see a lot of fun furballs wandering down the sidewalks.

THE GORGEOUS KHEER GANGA TREK

If you are visiting Kasol Kheerganga Trek is a must-have experience. The trek leads you across the panorama of the luxuriant green hills and blue skies. If you are someone seeking an adventure, it is one of the most common and most important experiences on your Travel-Bucket list.

We began our journey by taking a taxi for Rs 1000, which is the last place on the road to the Barshaini village. From Barshaini begins the Kheer Ganga trek.

We were asked by the authorities to register our names at the starting point before we commenced our journey.

Trekking poles can be purchased, and water and food are refilled. The easiest way to travel as lightly as possible on this trek is to travel about 12 kilometers, which includes rough terrains and slippery woodlands. Raincoats, hiking shoes, and a collection of clothes should not be forgotten because the hike will dirty you.

You will follow two routes to complete the trek – one through the villages and the other through the forest. It took us about 5-6 hours to complete the forest trail with 3-4 10-15 minutes in between.

The hike is both an exhilarating and lovely experience. It has something for everyone, from crossing terrains that will give you a rush to views that wipe away any concern. And from above, the view is quite different.

We stayed at a campsite when we reached Kheer Ganga. Many campsites can be found when you hit the top, but booking in advance is often preferable. We took two camps, which cost roughly Rs 2500. Prices vary for different camps.

You can also take a dip in the hot springs, one of the best walks in the warm water amidst snow-capped mountains.

What’s in the minute?

Kasol may be a small hamlet, but all facilities are offered in the village with busy tourism. But you have to prepare for it’s the Kheer Ganga Trek. Cash should be kept handy for the whole journey, as ATMs sometimes don’t work.

Pack light because the journey takes a lot of travel on foot. Since Kheer Ganga is a long walk, it is best not to strain, but to keep it simple. Do basic first-aid kits, insect repellent, water-resistant jackets, and clothing. If you don’t have daily workouts or fitness routines, it is always best to have a health check-up in advance.

Where do you go?

Kheerganga is best visited between April and June, and between September and November. This is the season when light rains come to the valley and the cool mountain weather is enjoyable and enduring. The valley becomes a magnificent green dream and the amazing river is added.