PARVATI VALLEY
Kasol in Himachal Pradesh is one such place which is equally famous yet somehow totally off-the-radar in the Himalayas. If you search over the Internet about planning a trip to Kasol, you will get different versions about Kasol when talking to different type and age of people.
This tiny little village, Kasol, on the banks of the Parvati river in Parvati Valley seems to speak with the hippie souls like no other place in Himachal Pradesh does. Yes, it has gained popularity in recent decades along with other villages of Parvati Valley, and the OGs would tell you that the charm is fading. But, there is still magic left when sitting beside the Parvati river and hear her sing those exclusive musical tunes!
About Kasol
Back in the day, Kasol was a place known amongst a select few circles – especially foreigners from predominantly Israel, Russia, and a few eastern European countries. The few Indians that explored this unknown region were the ones that truly belonged in the wild, withholding this particular place. Thanks to the easy availability of mesmerizing views, beautiful landscape, fantastic weather and of course, the Malana cream.
However, when the social media gained prominence, this little serene heaven gained popularity like no other. Kasol became a brand about chilling, trekking, hiking, getting lost in nature, and just enjoying some time off. With tonnes of treks and trails surrounding the entire Parvati Valley region, it soon got famous as the second home to the backpackers in India.
Culture in Kasol & rest of Parvati Valley region
With lots of influence of foreigners, Kasol is lovingly called Mini Israel. As in Israel, it is mandatory for citizens, both men and women (YAY Equality!), to serve in the defense forces of the country. One can easily spot many Isreali soldiers roaming about the streets and chilling in cafes. Having spoken to a few in my time there, the soldiers tend to seek solidarity to process their thoughts after spending time experiencing the brutalities of army life.
Of course, the availability of Malana cream is a definite pull for the seekers of peace! I have often wondered if the name Parvati Valley has anything to do with the abundance of Hashish in the region.
Also, another significant influence in the region is of the Sikh population as Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib, best known for its hot water springs, is further ahead of Kasol....
