Adorning itself with forested mountains, Kasol on the banks of the Parvati River attracts thousands of visitors from home and abroad. Located in the district of Himachal Pradesh, Kasol lies between Bhuntar and Manikaran. Divided into east and west by a bridge, this hamlet is apt for rejuvenating your body and mind. With its exquisite beauty, Kasol leaves you amazed. It is also known as Mini-Israel because of the increasing number of Israelis living there. Not only will you experience mountain sighting but also go for some of the most adventurous activities in the valley. While there are plenty of things to do in Kasol, here are 18 activities that are preferred by most travellers.
18 Activities In Kasol
Kasol is a scenic beauty that is nestled on the banks of the Parvati River amidst the snow-clad mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Check out these amazing things to do in Kasol for a blissful trip to the hills.
- Kheerganga Trek: Traverse On The Tricky Trails
- Tosh: Visit The Traditional Village
- Manikaran Sahib Gurdwara: Seek Blessings
- Moon Dance Cafe: Enjoy Here With Friends
- Parvati Shangri-La Festival: Attend & Enjoy To The Fullest
- Malana: Visit the Ancient Village
- Pin Parvati Pass: Go For A Thrilling Trek
- Naggar: Go For Fishing
- Hot Spring: Take A Dip In The Soothing Water
- Israeli Food: Let Your Taste Buds Dance
- Shopping: Pick Up Amazing Souvenirs
- Sar Pass Trek: Gear Up For Some Adventure
- Rice Beer: Taste Chang
- Riverside Camping: Marvel At The View
- Hype Music Festival: Party Hard
- Bakeries: Savour Bakery Goods
- Snowfall: Experience Bliss
- Massage: Relax Your Inner Self
1. Kheerganga Trek: Traverse On The Tricky Trails
Image Credit: Viraj87 for Wikimedia Commons
Kheer Ganga trek certainly tops the list of the most adventurous activities to do in Kasol. As you go for a 9 km long trek, one of the most stunning treks near Kasol, you will experience emerald green hills on your way blooming with vegetation. After making it to the top of the Kheer Ganga, you will find yourself surrounded by magical clouds playing hide & seek between the pine and apple trees. The snow-clad mountains here create a mesmerizing atmosphere for you to remember lifelong.
You will also find a Lord Shiva temple at the top where you can enjoy taking a bath in the hot springs. It is said that Lord Shiva meditated in this place for 3000 years. Therefore, the site has special religious significance for Hindus and Sikhs, and many also believe that the sacred waters of the hot springs have healing properties. Kheer Ganga is home to many hippies from across the globe as well.
Location: Kheerganga, Himachal Pradesh, 175134
Highlight: Enjoy the lush greenery as you make your way to the top of the Kheer Ganga and take a bath in the hot springs at the Shiva temple.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Kasol
Himachal Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
2. Tosh: Visit The Traditional Village
Located at a height of 2400 meters, Tosh is known for being a traditional village and a tourism hub visited by thousands of tourists annually. Tosh is adorned with cannabis plantations and apple orchards, which form the source of income for the locals besides tourism. Tosh is home to spectacular views of hills that embellish themselves with Himalayan montane forests.
Tosh is also known for its beautiful homestays and cute and cosy cafes. The cafes in Kasol serve a diverse range of Israeli foods because of the huge number of Israelis travelling throughout the year. You can see wooden cabins and houses with sloping roofs that are typically present in snowy regions. Tourists can rent and stay in these cottages in Tosh at more affordable rates than in Kasol. Tourists can make good use of the Parvati River tributary that passes through Tosh.
Location: 21 km from Kasol, Village Tosh PO Barsheni Parvati Valley Sub Tehsil Jari, Dist. Kullu, Kasol, 175131
Highlight: Enjoy authentic Himachali culture and Israeli cuisine during your stay in Tosh.
Timings: The best time to visit Tosh is from April to October
3. Manikaran Sahib Gurdwara: Seek Blessings
Image Credit: John Hill for Wikipedia
Located approximately 6 km away from Kasol, Manikaran is one of the top places to visit near Kasol. It is known for being home to the famous Manikaran Sahib Gurdwara. Standing on the banks of the Beas River, this gurudwara is one of the top things to do for those who visit Kasol. The hot springs inside the gurudwara are believed to help you wash away all your sins and wrongdoings.
According to legends, the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev came to this place with his disciple Mardana. When they got hungry, they collected rations from the locals to cook into a langar. They ran into a problem however as there wasn’t any fire to cook. Nanak Dev lifted a stone from the ground a hot spout streamed from underneath helping them cook. The gurudwara was founded in that same place, and millions of devotees visit annually to see the sacred hot springs.
Location: Hari Har Ghat, Manikaran Rd, Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh 175105
Highlight: Take a bath in the hot springs inside the Manikaran Sahib Gurdwara and have food at the langar.
Timings: 5:00 am – 12:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Related Post: Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In December
4. Moon Dance Cafe: Enjoy Here With Friends
Moon Dance Cafe & German Bakery should top your list if you are looking for the best things to do in Kasol with your friends. Indoor and outdoor seating are available and the cafe faces stunning vistas of snowy hills and green valleys. Located in the heart of Kasol, this cosy and woodsy cafe has been running since 1992 and serves guests with the yummiest snacks, delicious baked goods, and hearty meals.
If you are here for breakfast, you must try their lemon crêpes, Nutella waffles, chocolate chip cookies and butter croissants. Their pizzas, lamb chops and grilled chicken would have you coming back for more as well. The cafe provides a great ambience & a Pinterest-y aesthetic, amazing live music on most evenings, and sports screenings whenever your favourite matches are on. Overall, visiting the cafe is a great ol’ time to spend with your buddies or your date on your trip to Kasol.
Location: Near Bridge, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh 175105
Highlight: Go for brunch or lunch here. Takeaway is also available although you wouldn’t want to miss out on a beautiful time at the cafe.
Timings: 8 a.m to 11 p.m. every day
5. Parvati Shangri-La Festival: Attend & Enjoy To The Fullest
Image Credit: Kaique Rocha for Pexels
The Parvati Shangri-La festival is all the rage among party animals these days. Happening annually in the Kasol Village, this music party goes on for 12 hours straight and is, therefore, a great experience to have in your 20s with your friend group. You get to see Indian and international DJs perform and make you groove to some of the most infectious EDM and Psytrance beats that are sure to leave you hot, excited, and sweaty with all the dancing.
Only the very best artists perform at Shangri-La and the best international drinks and cuisine are served at the festival. Passes for the festival go from INR 1000 for a standard ticket to INR 4000 for a Diamond Pass. So, if you are in Kasol during the year-end, make sure to visit Sky Heaven as this is one of the best things to do in Kasol at night. You will find this to be a part of every first-timer’s guide to Kasol.
Location: Sky Heaven Katagla, Kasol, Parvati Valley
Highlight: Make your new year a mind-blowing one as you party at this one-day blowout festival in Kasol that features trembling performances by DJs accompanied by laser shows.
Timings: Usually starts at 2 p.m.
Related Post: Kasol New Year Party
6. Malana: Visit the Ancient Village
Image Credit: Shepi003 for Wikimedia Commons
Located approximately 21 km away from Kasol, Malana is another name for solitude. Being disconnected from the rest of the world, Malana is the only village in Malana Nala, a side valley of the Parvati Valley. The village overlooks the Deotibba and the Chanderkhani peaks which make for a picturesque view. The village is sometimes called the oldest democracy in the globe as the villagers believe that they are the descendants of the soldiers who served in the army of Alexander The Great who got stranded here due to injuries.
The villagers have their own set of customs which tourists should follow including not touching any temples, houses or the people of Malana. Any outsider is considered polluted. Several documentaries have been made about this fascinating place and slowly the village has started opening itself up to the world at large. Great news for people who love trekking – since there is no road to Malana, you will have to go for a moderately challenging climb. During your trip to Kasol, you must experience the culture here. You can either go camping or stay in any of the hotels near Kasol for ease of accessibility.
Location: Malana Nala, Parvati Valley
Highlight: Go for the moderately challenging climb leading to the Malana Village and experience the local culture.
Timings: It takes 1-2 hours to complete the trek.
7. Pin Parvati Pass: Go For A Thrilling Trek
Image Credit: Zoeacs for Wikimedia Commons
Ideal for those who have a passion for mountaineering, Pin Parvati Pass Trek allows you to experience beauty and thrill at the same time. This 12 km long trail is recommended for proficient trekkers only as it is considered one of the toughest treks in the entire country. Taking you through the spectacular landscapes of Parvati Valley, this trans-Himalayan trek lets you see the barren mountains of the Pin Valley on the other side.
Whether you have always wanted to see grassy meadows or walk through dense forests, this trek gives you all. As you keep trekking, you will observe a subtle change in the shades of nature – going from green to brown. Not only the colours, but the cultures also change on the two different sides of the mountain. Going for this trek is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Kasol Himachal Pradesh. You cannot miss out on this location on your Delhi to Kasol road trip if you’re an adventure junkie.
Location: Barshaini Village, Parvati Valley
Highlight: Seeing the contrast between two different landscapes and cultures; different livelihoods, structure of houses, and lifestyles.
Timings: June to September is the best time to go trekking here. Nature blooms in its prime glory at this time.
Related Post: Resorts In Kasol
8. Naggar: Go For Fishing
If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, fishing in Naggar is one of the top things to do in Kasol for you. Located approximately 57 km away from Kasol Village, Naggar is also known for being home to the Naggar Castle. Naggar is a sleepy little offbeat town that most tourists skip over in favour of the more popular locations – which is a huge mistake. Naggar presents the opportunity to enjoy nature, pleasant weather, strolls by the river, the local Himalayan folk art, and trekking up smaller hills and peaks.
A stay in Naggar would be more affordable than most other homestays in Kasol and the place won’t be crowded with tourists like flies. A fishing session on the banks of the Beas River is a great activity to do in solitude or with a friend. To make the most out of it, visit Naggar Castle after fishing, go shopping for handwoven Himalayan textiles, and visit the local temples and monasteries.
Location: Naggar, Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh
Highlight: Visiting local museums and art galleries is a good way to get to know the culture and heritage of the indigenous people in Naggar.
Timings: Naggar Castle opens from 9 am to 6 pm
9. Hot Spring: Take A Dip In The Soothing Water
Image Credit: Aman Gupta for Wikipedia
Did we already mention that Manikaran Sahib has hot water springs next to the Gurudwara which allow for a most relaxing and purifying hot water bath? Well, it is well worth mentioning again. Bathing in hot water springs is very common in colder countries and atmospheres. It is therapeutic, helps keep your body warm, and helps release tension from your muscles and tendons.
Bathing in the Manikaran hot springs is also supposed to wash away your sins. The hot spring here is also used to cook rice which is then offered to the gods. Other hot springs nearby are the Vashisht Hot Spring in Kullu, the Kheer Ganga Hot Spring, the Kasol Hot Water Spring, the Tatwani Hot Spring in Kangra, and more. Visit these on your Kasol trip from Manali!
Location: Sosan, Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh 175105
Highlight: Bathing in the sacred waters of Manikaran is also supposed to be curative if you suffer from diseases or serious illnesses.
Timings: Open during daylight hours
Related Post: Kasol In Winter
10. Israeli Food: Let Your Taste Buds Dance
Image Credit: young shanahan for Wikimedia Commons
Kasol is often referred to as ‘Mini Israel’ due to the presence of Israelis and their culture here which is why you will find that the food here is also influenced by Israeli cuisine. Due to several factors including the pleasant cold weather in our otherwise tropical country, the bounties of nature, and the beautiful landscape, tourists from Israel stay here for longer durations, some even settling down in the town.
Thus, you can relish authentic dishes that the visitors have brought from their country and which the locals have also perfected in their own right to taste exactly how the Israelis like it. So, one of the most fascinating and fun things to do in Kasol on your vacation is to hit the Israeli cafes in town that serve the most delicious Chicken Laffa with a side of Hummus, Shakshouka, and Pita bread.
Location: Stone Garden Cafe, Evergreen Cafe, Jim Morrison Cafe, and XXL Cafe.
Highlight: Delicious exotic food combined with stunning views of snow-clad hills outside the restaurants is a must-have experience in Kasol.
Timings: Open during daylight hours
11. Shopping: Pick Up Amazing Souvenirs
Image Credit: sizzhot0 for Pixabay
While exploring the streets of the city on your Kasol tour, you will find that there is a lot to buy as souvenirs for your loved ones. From semi-precious stones to aromatic oils, authentic Himachali handicrafts and textiles to woollen clothes and dream catchers. Apart from this, you can also buy trendy & colourful T-shirts and handwoven rugs & carpets. The flea markets of Kasol are infinitely explorable and also sell some delicious street food.
The markets are surrounded by towering pine trees and vistas of the hills and valleys, which makes for a very pleasurable walking & shopping experience through the market.
Location: Kasol Flea Market, Manikaran Market, Bhuntar Bazaar, etc.
Highlight: Since the region is frequented by hippies and backpackers, you will find the best quality chillums – smoking pipes, in the flea markets here. Himachali caps and dream catchers are also very popular with tourists.
Timings: Daylight timings, 7 days a week
Related Post: Monuments In Himachal Pradesh
12. Sar Pass Trek: Gear Up For Some Adventure
Image Credit: J.M.Garg for Wikimedia Commons
Trekking is one of the most popular things to do in Kasol and the hills present ample opportunities for those seeking adventure along the high peaks. Sar Pass Trek is one such easy-to-moderate trek – which is ideal for beginners and professionals alike. The word ‘Sar’ translates into ‘Lake’ in the local language so the trek includes a frozen lake on which you can walk. While trekking, you will get to see Himalayan mountains, forests, and villages.
The trek is about 48 km long and takes 5-6 days of trekking to complete. The journey can be a little strenuous but is very rewarding as well as you get to see the pine, spruce, and deodar trees, rhododendrons, and animals such as the Himalayan Tahrs and Brown Bears. The beauty of the place is worth seeing at least once in your lifetime so make sure that you opt for this trek as it is one of the offbeat things to do in Kasol.
Location: Parvati Valley, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Highlight: The journey starts from Kasol and you reach an elevation of 13,800 feet which gives you otherworldly views.
Timings: The trek duration is 5 days and your journey takes place during the daytime.
13. Rice Beer: Taste Chang
Image Credit: Engin Akyurt for Pexels
Need more things to do in Kasol to add to your travel itinerary, add tasting rice beer to it right now. Locally known as Chang, Rice beer has no alcohol in it but is a refreshing drink nonetheless. Visiting Kasol and not trying the rice beer is a trip wasted for sure. If you are wondering where can you try it then you’ll be glad to know that you can ask any local or your hotels in Kasol to get a bottle or two for you. It is quite easily available. Rice beer is delicious and has that characteristic beer taste but won’t get you wasted or high.
Another famous traditional drink here is Langri or Lugdi which is alcoholic and made from fermented rice or barley and keeps your body warm during winters. You can try the drink if you’re used to drinking undistilled alcohol and are above the drinking age.
Location: Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Highlight: You won’t get this non-alcoholic variety of rice beer anywhere else, so make sure to get a couple of extra bottles.
Timings: No specific timings
Related Post: Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In Monsoon
14. Riverside Camping: Marvel At The View
Image Credit: Syed Qaarif Andrabi for Pexels
Kasol is an emerging tourist hotspot with increasingly more travellers every year. It serves adventure junkies, nature lovers, friend groups & families, and honeymooners looking for a romantic getaway equally well. Riverside camping is one of the most sought-after things to do in Kasol. If you are craving a relaxing night stay amidst nature then you should surely try your hand at camping in Kasol.
Set up your camp right beside the gorgeous Parvati River and get ready to go stargazing. Spend your night in a woodsy & cosy cottage at the camp after roasting some marshmallows at a bonfire. In the morning you can enjoy the pristine view while relishing a cup of coffee or tea. The camp kitchens provide delicious Indian, Chinese, Italian, and French cuisines. Isn’t this all you ever wished for?
Location: North Deodar Camps, The Hosteller Kasol, ArtBuzz Kasol, Kasol Camps, and more.
Highlight: Most camping sites are located in regions with wonderful views of the hills and the mountains. Sunrises and sunsets at the camp are always gorgeous.
Timings: Open 24 hours
15. Kasol Music Festival: Party Hard
Image Credit: Vishnu R Nair for Pexels
Perfect for all music lovers, attending the Kasol Music Festival is another one of the enticing activities to do in Kasol. International and local DJs play music at this festival which lures a lot of travelers every year. The Kasol Music Festival is a 2-day 1-night event that has barbeque, camping, flea markets, and attractive food stalls with a lot of local food items that you can gorge on.
Pleasant weather, lit crowd, delicious food, and live musical performances await you in Kasol and you must plan your visit soon! Dance the night away and say hello to a new year under the relaxing sight of the Himalayan mountains. Enjoy Psychedelic, Rap, and EDM music with like-minded people and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Location: Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Highlight: Party hard and get lost in the moment dancing the night away with your buddies in the party capital of the Himalayas.
Timings: 30th-31st December
Related Post: Snowfall Places In Himachal Pradesh
16. Bakeries: Savour Bakery Goods
Image Credit: Klas Tauberman for Pexels
If you are blessed with a sweet tooth then exploring the bakeries in Kasol is one of the most exciting things that you can do on your vacation. German Bakery is the most popular bakery in Kasol. From shakes to crepes, the German bakery serves the best of every baked delight. Their speciality is their rum balls (rum-filled chocolate balls) and cheesecake.
An aromatic cup of coffee and a chocolate muffin can liven up your day while you enjoy the various picturesque destinations in Kasol. Other famous bakeries in Kasol that you can visit are Tiny Delight Bakers, Bivera German Bakery, Mama German Bakery, Buddha Place, and Cakes and Bakes.
Location: Buddha Place, Cakes and Bakes, German Bakery.
Highlight: Do not miss out on cinnamon rolls, apple pies, and crepes.
Timings: Usual timings for most bakeries and cafes are 10 am to 10 pm.
17. Snowfall: Experience Bliss
Image Credit: Himanshu Negi for Wikimedia Commons
Experience snowfall in Kasol by planning your trip in the winter season and making your dream come true. Visit between December and February to see the fresh, clean, and pure white snowfall. The enchanting snow makes you feel as if you’ve magically been transported inside a snow globe. Playing in snow, as juvenile as it sounds, is very necessary to keep our inner children alive, and is a very fun activity to do with your friends or partner.
Making snow angels and snowmen is another delightful thing to share with your friends or kids. The best places to visit in and near Kasol to see snowfall are Kheerganga, Tosh Village, Malana, and Manikaran Sahib. Sometimes though, the snowfall can be heavy and therefore one should be prepared beforehand with snowgear, jackets, thermals and woollen clothes to keep oneself warm.
Location: Kheerganga, Tosh Village, Malana, and Manikaran Sahib.
Highlight: Skiing, sledging, skateboarding, and other adventure activities can be done in snow that you should definitely take advantage of.
Timings: It is advised only to step out in snow during the daytime as during the darker hours it can be dangerous and you might be prone to slipping or falling.
Related Post: Travel Tips For Himachal Pradesh
18. Massage: Relax Your Inner Self
Image Credit: Nothing Ahead for Pexels
Kasol is a land of beauty and serenity. If relaxing is on your mind while you are in Kasol then get ready to have a replenishing massage. After exploring the popular tourist attractions and ticking off all the must-dos from your things to do in Kasol list, you must head to Ayur Spa. Trekking can be an enriching experience but also physically exhausting sometimes. Relax your mind and body by getting a full body massage.
If you are up for a massage then pre-book with Ayur Spa and get ready to be pampered with the best services and polite staff. Their services include deep tissue massage, Swedish massage therapy, head massage, foot massage, full-body massage, couple massage, Kerla massage, and more.
Location: Ayur Spa, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Highlight Their full-body massage claim to use therapeutic techniques to relax muscles, improve circulation, and enhance general well-being.
Timings: 10 am – 10:30 pm
You May Also Like To Read: Snowfall In Kasol
Make sure you add these top things to do in Kasol to your itinerary list to enhance your holiday experience. Plan your weekend getaway trip to Kasol right now! Blessed with scenic beauty and expansive landscape, a trip to this quaint hill station won’t ever disappoint you.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: rohhit verma for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Kasol
What is Kasol famous for?
Located in the Parvati Valley, the village of Kasol in Himachal Pradesh is known for sylvan forests, snow-clad mountains, and adventurous treks.
How many days are enough for Kasol?
If you are visiting Kasol only, you will be able to cover most of the places in 3-4 days.
What are the things to do in Kasol at night?
One can set up a camp by the riverside and enjoy a bonfire in the night and engage in stargazing. Moreover, youngsters can visit various clubs and bars like Panj Tara Bar & Grill, The Himalayan Village, Wunder Restaurant and Bar, etc. and get a taste of Kasol's nightlife that way.
Why Kasol is Mini Israel?
Kasol is also known as Mini Israel because of the increasing number of Israelis visiting Kasol every year. Also, you will find the food in Kasol to be influenced by Israelis.
Is Kheer Ganga Trek difficult?
Taking you 13,050 feet above sea level, Kheer Ganga Trek is moderately difficult. In case you are a beginner, you will need additional guidance during this trek. However, many consider this trek to be easier than Triund Trek.
How far is Kasol from Manali?
The distance between Kasol and Manali is approximately 75 km which can be covered in 2.5 hrs.
Are Kasol and Kasauli the same?
The village of Kasol in Himachal Pradesh is located on the banks of Parvati River. It lies between Manikaran and Bhuntar. On the other hand, Kasauli is located in Uttarakhand.
What are the romantic things to do in Kasol?
Kasol is a perfect location for some quality time with your romantic partner which you can spend camping & stargazing, fishing with your partner, taking a stroll near Naggar castle, chilling at a riverside cafe, and shopping for cute souvenirs.
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
People Also Read:
Things To Do In Yercaud Things To Do In Varanasi Things To Do In Lonavala
Abhay Kumar is a graduate of English Literature. Writing is both his hobby and his passion. He writes academic research articles as well as poetry and short fiction. He loves reading science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, and translated fiction. He also loves traveling and writing about himself in the third person.
