live your DreAms: PArVatiVAlley

hAd aNY onE EXperinced heaVEn ........StrANGE nA But I Must SAy I feeL THE hEAven when I visit A historicAl ANd a heaVEN pLace ....pArVaTI vAlley

PaRvaTi VaLLEy

Parvati Valley is situated in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. From the confluence of the Parvati River with the River Beas, the Parvati Valley runs eastwards, through a steep-sided valley from the town of Bhuntar, in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh Passing through Manikaran, a pilgrimage town revered by both Hindus and Sikhs, there are many fascinating places to visit near the valley.
Rudra-Nag, the serpent shaped waterfall, the pine forests of Khirganga where Lord Shiva is said to have meditated, the rock formation of Pandu Pul and the Pin-Parvati Pass (5400 m) are some of the popular tourist attractions. The Pin Valley National Parkis another tourist attraction and is known for its resident wildlife population including the snow leopard.

BeSt PlAces IN parVaTiVALLey

1 KaSoL

2 MANIKARAN

3 kHEErgaNgA

4 tOsh

KASOL

Known as the mini Israel in Himachal Pradesh, Kasol is a hill station in Parvati Valley, on the way to the pilgrim town of Manikaran. It is located 42 km east of Kullu at a height of 1640 m.

Kasol is an ideal destination for backpackers, trekkers and nature enthusiasts due to its scenic valley, untouched mountains and great climate throughout the year. It is an important base for trekking towards SarPass, Yanker Pass, Pin Parbati Pass and Khiriganga.

One can also visit Manikaran which is famous for the natural hot springs. The hot springs is said to possess curative powers. Many pilgrims take a dip in the holy water to wash away their sins.

One must have an angling license and receive a permit from the forest department for angling in Kasol.

Kasol has many cafes and restaurants. As it is a favourite with Israelis and other foreigners, continental cuisine is also available apart from North Indian and local cuisine.

Kasol enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. Best time to visit Kasol is from March to May.

ManiKaRaN

Manikaran is located in the Parvati Valley along the banks of river Parvati, northeast of Bhuntar in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh. It is at an altitude of 1760 m and is located about 40 km from Bhuntar.This small town attracts tourists visiting Manali and Kullu to its hot springs and piligrim centres.An experimental Geothermal Energy plant has also been set up here.

Manikaran is a pilgrimage centre for Hindus and Sikhs. The Hindus believe that Manu recreated human life in Manikaran after the flood, making it a sacred area. It has many Temples and a Gurudwara. There are temples of Lord Rama, Krishna, and Vishnu. The area is well-known for its natural hot-water springs and its beautiful landscape.

The name Manikaran is derived from this legend. The water is still hot and is considered extremely auspicious. A pilgrimage to this place is thought of as complete. It is also believed that there is no need to pay a visit to “Kashi” after visiting this place. The water of the spring is also supposed to have curative powers. The water is so hot that rice for the “langar” is cooked by putting it into a linen-bag and dipping it into the boiling water.

Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 37 km
Kullu town: 45 km
Manali town: 85 km

TosH

Tosh lies on the slope of a mountain overlooking a river and a waterfall. Just after the local households, series of hotels appear at the end of the village. Distinct smell of Marijuana is the first impression of Tosh. While browsing for an accommodation, I came across to couple of hippie chicks and became excited about my stay in Tosh. Tosh is full of budget accommodation (300 INR per night) so finding one was not tiresome.

After lodging, I strolled along the narrow lanes of the village which was so beautifully synched with two contrary side of civilization. There are plenty of smoke joints, food joints, pizza corner, tea stalls and restaurants. You may find it difficult to get typical Indian meal but will definitely get Israeli food everywhere in the village. Heading further, I had seen a group of hippies playing pink Floyd and smoking joints. It reminded me of scenes from the movie “Hare Rama, Hare Krishna”. Public display of affection was also at its extreme along with some broken hearted engaged in Yoga etc.