Nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, Parvati Valley is a sacred cocktail of nature, culture, and cannabis-laced chill. For backpackers, digital nomads, and lost souls on a budget, destinations like Kasol and Tosh have become more than just dots on a map. With pine-cloaked mountains, glacial rivers, and a boho traveller community, Kasol Parvati valley trip is where reality slips into something more comfortable. Located in state of Himachal Pradesh, these three places are welcome respite from the unbearable heat of North India regions.
A Trip to Kasol: The Hippie Hamlet of the Himalayas
Kasol is a tiny hamlet in Himachal and headquarters for backpackers for leading trekking trails to Chalal, Tosh, Kheerganga and many nearby villages. Perched on the banks of the Parvati River, Kasol is also known as “Mini Israel of India” for its large influx of Israeli travelers and shacks serving hummus with a side of trance music. It is the launchpad for most Parvati Valley adventures.
Things to Do in Kasol:
- Café Crawl: Forget fine dining. Kasol’s culinary scene thrives in its cafes. Evergreen Cafe, Moon Dance, and Jim Morrison Cafe (yes, seriously) serve everything from wood-fired pizzas to local trout.
- Riverside Camping: Set up camp beside the Parvati River and pretend you are not checking your phone every 10 minutes.
- Nature Walks: Short hikes through pine forests lead to rustic villages like Chalal and Rasol.
A Trip to Tosh: A Village Above the Clouds
If Kasol is where your story starts, Tosh is where it gets mystical. Located at over 7,800 feet above sea level, Tosh is accessible via a short drive and a bit of a climb, making it just remote enough to feel like a secret.
What Makes Tosh Special?
- Snow-capped Views: Think dramatic Himalayan peaks, endless apple orchards, and air so fresh it might ruin cities for you.
- Psychedelic Cafes: Every second shack has Bob Marley on the wall and chillums on the table. Try Pink Floyd Cafe or Hilltop for maximum vibe.
- Tosh Trekking Trails: The trail to Kheerganga begins nearby, and shorter treks around the village offer unforgettable views and stories you’ll embellish for years.
Kheerganga: The Hot Springs Pilgrimage
Located around 13 km from Barshaini (a short ride from Tosh), Kheerganga is a trekker’s delight. The trail, though moderately challenging, rewards you with hot springs at the top—a natural jacuzzi in the middle of nowhere.
Tips for Kheerganga Trek:
- Duration: 5-6 hours one way
- Best Time to Visit: April to June (before monsoon rains turn the trail into a mudslide)
- Stay Options: Basic tents and huts are available at the top. They’re not luxury, but your Instagram doesn’t need to know that.
Also Read: Best places for Summer Holiday with kids n Himachal Pradesh
Parvati Valley Vibes: More Than Just Scenery
What really hooks travelers is not just the landscape, it is the energy booster for trekking in Himalayas. There is a common understanding here: to slow down, tune in, and drop out (of the 9-to-5). Yoga classes, music festivals, spontaneous jam sessions, and international backpackers all make Kasol Parvati valley trip feel like a timeless traveller zone.
Other Notable Stops:
Malana: Known for its ancient traditions and, let us be honest, its legendary hashish. But tread lightly and respect the village norms.
- Pulga & Kalga: Tiny hamlets near Barshaini, known for forest walks and silent mornings.
- Manikaran Sahib: A sacred hot spring and Sikh pilgrimage site, it adds a spiritual touch to your otherwise lazy escape.
- Malana: Known for its ancient traditions and, let us be honest, its legendary hashish. But tread lightly and respect the village norms.
7 Days Itinerary for Backpacking Trip to Parvati Valley, Kasol and Tosh
Day 1: Arrival in Kasol
A road trip is best to reach Kasol, as there is no direct flight or train till the destination. Delhi to Kasol distance is 480 km approx and takes 9-10 hours to reach. If you are planning a Kasol Parvati valley trip with friends or office group, Tempo Traveller Hire in Delhi is best transportation. If you will start Kasol Parvati valley trip in early morning, you will reach Kasol by late afternoon. Check in at hotel, homestay or resort and relax for sometime and enjoy the great evening at some of the best cafes in Kasol.
Day 2: Kasol to Manikaran
I know you are on an adventure trip of trekking, but grab this chance to visit the famous Manikaran Gurudwara Sahib and pay your respect here. This is a famous place for hot water spring and cool vibes. You can enjoy the Langar at Gurudwara. Visit the Shiva Temple at back of it and return to Kasol for an overnight stay. Get ready for the trek for next day.
Day 3: Kheerganga Trek
Pack some stuff in small bags and take a seat in your luxury tempo traveller and reach the base point from where the trek starts. It is a moderate trek and will take 4-5 hrs to reach the top where you will enjoy the night camping. Make sure to book a camp with dinner and breakfast prior to your Kasol Parvati valley trip for better deal. You will get breathtaking views, hanging wooden bridges and waterfalls on the way.
Day 4: Kheerganga Top to Tosh
A less commercialized area in Himachal, Tosh offers majestic views of waterfalls, dense forest better than Kasol. Enjoy the senere beauty of nature at Tosh and stay at hotel for overnight.
Day 5: Tosh to Pulga
Tosh and Pulga are both quaint Himalayan villages located in Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh. While Tosh is a dreamy mountain perch known for its chill vibes and reggae cafés, Pulga is an offbeat gem surrounded by deodar forests. For trekking, it takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours to reach from Tosh to Pulga which is a combination of shared vehicle and short trek through thick pine forests. It is one of the best offbeat places in Himachal to must explore and find yourself. Stat overnight.
Day 6: Parvati River
On last day of Kasol Parvati valley trip, give your mind and body a relaxation and sit near the banks of Parvati River on rocks near the bridge. If time allows and your body too, take a walk to Chalal Village. After this rejuvenating Kasol Parvati valley trip, ride back to Delhi in evening for an overnight journey. It will tale 10-11 hours to cover 480 Km approx with 1 enroute stop.
Suggested Read: Rishikesh, Haridwar and Mussoorie Trip in 7 Days
Travel Tips for Backpackers
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November.
- Connectivity: Don’t expect strong Wi-Fi. This is where the cloud is literal, not digital.
- Local Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially in villages like Malana.
- Packing Must-Haves: Good trekking shoes, warm layers (even in summer), and mosquito repellent unless you want to become a blood buffet.
- Choose Right Transport to travel: Trekking trails are ok, but must hire a private and comfortable tourist vehicle to ride in luxury and comfort. For small group tours, 12 Seater Tempo Traveller on rent is best to choose for a budget and affordable Kasol Parvati valley trip.
Final Word: Lose Yourself to Find Yourself
Kasol Parvati valley trip is not a tour you just visit; it is a mood, a portal, a lingering daydream. From the laid-back charm of Kasol to the surreal serenity of Tosh and the rejuvenating waters of Kheerganga, this slice of Himachal promises transformation—or at least a great story and some excellent Instagram fodder. Whether you are there for the treks, the people, or the mystical mountain air, one thing is certain: you will leave a bit of yourself behind.
