If you’re an adventure enthusiast seeking an offbeat trek in the mesmerizing Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the trek to Chalal and Rasol Village from Kasol is sure to capture your heart. This scenic trek takes you through picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and offers breath-taking views of the majestic peaks that adorn the Himalayan skyline. I and Joban planned for this off beat trek in kasol. We started our journey from Chandigarh on 17th March at around 11:00 PM. HRTC buses are the best mode to travel to Himachal and I prefer to travel by normal ones as the fresh air circulation makes your journey easy. We reached Kasol at 10:00 PM.
Day 1: 18.03.2022
As we had to trek the same day, we thought of getting freshen up at kasol itself. As you enter Kasol you will find hippies in tattered clothes over tattooed bodies all around. After having our breakfast, we started our trek at about 10:45 AM. We asked a few locals about the trek route and they guided us on the right path. Nestled along the banks of the Parvati River. Kasol is known for its serene ambiance, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. From Kasol, the trek to Chalal, a small village located just 30 minutes away, begins.
As we hiked through the dense forests, we were treated to stunning vistas of the snow-capped peaks that dot the horizon. Peaks such as Kullu Makalu (6,291 meters) and Papsura (6,451 meters) from the Dhauladhar range are visible from Chalal, and their towering presence against the azure sky is a sight to behold. The pristine Parvati River accompanied us throughout the trek, providing a calming backdrop to our adventure.
Chalal is a quaint village known for its relaxed vibes, rustic charm, and riverside cafes. You can immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the friendly villagers, and savor the delicious Himachali cuisine. The village is also famous for its vibrant trance music scene and attracts travelers from around the world.
The beauty of the Parvati River and the charming bridges that dot the trekking trail are some of the highlights of the trek to Chalal and Rasol Village. As we made our way from Kasol to Chalal, the Parvati River accompanied us throughout the journey. The river, with its crystal-clear water, flows gracefully through the valley, adding to the picturesque landscape.
You’ll also come across numerous spots where you can take a break and relax by the river, listening to the soothing sound of flowing water and taking in the serene surroundings. The river also offers several opportunities for photography, with its glistening water reflecting the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, creating picture-perfect frames. The river’s serene presence, the soothing sound of flowing water, and the rustic wooden bridges add to the overall experience, making this trek a visual treat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
One of the highlights of the trek is the beautiful and vibrant rhododendron flowers that adorn the path, creating a breath taking sight that is sure to leave you mesmerized. The trek to Rasol village is particularly known for the abundant rhododendron forests that you pass through along the way. These forests are a sight to behold, with rhododendron flowers blooming in various shades of pink, red, and white, creating a colorful carpet against the lush green backdrop of the valley.
As you hike through the rhododendron forests enroute Rasol village, take a moment to immerse yourself in the beauty of these exquisite flowers. Pause to admire their vibrant colours, inhale their sweet fragrance, and revel in the magic of nature’s canvas unfolding before your eyes. It’s a truly enchanting experience that adds an extra layer of charm to your trek to Rasol village.
We continued our trek to Rasol Village, a remote hilltop settlement tucked away in the Parvati Valley. The trail winds through verdant forests and terraced fields, and the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks become even more spectacular. Peaks such as Hanuman Tibba (5,930 meters), Deo Tibba (6,001 meters), and Indrasan (6,221 meters) from the Pir Panjal range are visible from Rasol. The snow-clad peaks glisten in the sunlight, created a mesmerizing sight that left us in awe.
Rasol is known for its unique culture, traditional way of life, and warm hospitality of the locals. After getting a home stay for the day, we explored the village, interacted with the villagers, and learnt about their customs and traditions. The village also offers stunning views of the Parvati Valley below, with the river meandering through the valley and the peaks standing tall in the background. The trek to Rasol is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. The sights of the mighty peaks visible from these villages are a highlight of the trek, offering a glimpse of the majestic Himalayas. The serene ambiance, the lush greenery, and the warmth of the locals make this trek a truly enriching experience.
Also, the villagers in Rasol, still rely on mules as a mode of transportation for carrying heavy loads. The use of mules as pack animals is a traditional practice that has been passed down through generations in this region. They are used by the locals to transport a variety of items, including firewood, food supplies, construction materials, and other essentials. The use of mules for transportation in Rasol village is an intriguing aspect of the local culture and a testament to the traditional practices that are still prevalent in this remote Himalayan region. It offers a unique insight into the sustainable ways of life and the harmonious relationship between the villagers and their animal companions. So, when you visit Rasol, take a moment to appreciate the role of these hardworking mules in the local community and the rich cultural heritage they represent.
Rasol village is home to a small community of locals who lead a simple and close-knit lifestyle, deeply connected to nature and their surroundings. One of the first things that strikes you about Rasol village is its unique architecture. The traditional houses in Rasol are made of wood and stone, designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the Himalayas. These houses are typically two or three stories high, with sloping roofs made of slate or wood shingles. The walls are constructed with local materials such as mud and stones, creating a rustic and charming appearance.
The people of Rasol are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. Despite living in a remote and secluded location, they welcome visitors with open arms and are eager to share their way of life and culture. Interacting with the locals gives you a chance to learn about their customs, traditions, and beliefs, providing a unique cultural experience. The stunning natural beauty of Rasol village is another highlight. The village is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and terraced fields, offering breath-taking views at every turn. The serenity of the place and the pristine beauty of the Parvati Valley make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Life in Rasol is simple, yet rich in culture and heritage. It’s a place where traditions are preserved, and nature is respected. Visiting Rasol provides a unique opportunity to experience the charm of traditional mountain village life, interact with the friendly locals, and soak in the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas. It’s a place that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and allows you to reconnect with nature and appreciate the simpler joys of life.
The trek to Chalal and Rasol Village is a rewarding adventure that promises stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, cultural immersion, and a memorable experience in the lap of nature. As with any trek, it’s important to be well-prepared and follow responsible trekking practices. Make sure to carry essential trekking gear, stay hydrated, and respect the local culture and environment. The Parvati Valley is a fragile ecosystem, and it’s crucial to leave no trace behind and preserve the pristine beauty of the region.
Day 2: 19.03.2022 – Tosh Village and Kutla Glacier
We left Rasol early in the morning for next destination, Tosh village. We hired a shared cab from Kasol and during our interaction with tourists we got to know about trek to Kutla glacier which starts from Tosh itself. Nestled in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Tosh Village is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Tosh, located at an altitude of 7,874 feet, is a scenic village known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque views, and warm hospitality of the locals. The trek to Kutla Glacier from Tosh is a mesmerizing adventure that offers breath-taking vistas of the mighty Himalayan peaks and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.
The journey to Tosh village is an adventure in itself, with winding roads, lush green forests, and gushing Parvati River accompanying you along the way. The village is accessible by a narrow road that meanders through dense forests and terraced fields, offering stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
After reaching Tosh village we started searching for an accommodation for our stay. As we went up the views got more beautiful and we decided to take up the accommodation which is located at the highest point. We then had our lunch and rested for the day.
After taking a short nap we decided to explore the village. Tosh village has a unique architecture, with traditional Himachali houses made of wood and stone, adorned with intricately carved doors and windows. The village is inhabited by friendly locals who are known for their warm hospitality and simple way of life. Interacting with them offers a glimpse into the local culture and customs, providing an authentic experience.
Tosh village is blessed with natural beauty in abundance. The village is surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, including the prominent Kheerganga and Sar Pass, which are popular trekking destinations. The Tosh River flows through the village, adding to its charm with its crystal-clear water and soothing sound.
The village is also dotted with apple orchards and terraced fields, where locals cultivate various crops such as maize, potato, and rajma, adding to its idyllic landscape. For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Tosh offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Trekking is a popular activity, with trails leading to nearby destinations like Kheerganga, where one can soak in hot water springs, and the stunning glacier of Sar Pass. Camping under the starry night sky is a magical experience, and the village also serves as a base for exploring nearby trails and valleys.
Apart from its natural beauty, Tosh village also has a spiritual side. The village is dotted with small shrines and temples, including the Tosh Devi Temple, which is revered by locals and visitors alike. The temple is known for its unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding valleys, making it a peaceful spot for meditation and reflection.
Despite its remote location, Tosh village has basic facilities for travelers, including guesthouses and cafes that offer local cuisine and other snacks. The village is also known for its vibrant hippie culture, with travelers from around the world visiting to experience its laid-back vibe and alternative lifestyle. The landscape of Tosh is truly awe-inspiring. The pristine beauty of the region is accentuated by the gurgling streams, cascading waterfalls, and verdant meadows that dot the trail. The air is crisp and refreshing, and the tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating amidst nature’s bounty.
Day 3: 20.03.2022
After getting a good sleep we woke up early in the morning and started our trek to Kutla Glacier at 7:30 AM from Tosh village. The trail winds through lush green meadows, dense forests, and gushing streams, providing a thrilling and scenic experience at every step of the trek. As we left Tosh village a beautiful waterfall welcomed us where we had a sumptuous breakfast with ginger tea. The splashing sound of the waterfall perfectly blended with the gushing wind and balanced the quietude of the distant snow clad peaks hovering over vast forested slopes.
After crossing a wooden makeshift bridge over the waterfall, the trail suddenly became incredibly steep. To add to that, the rocky steep trail was completely covered by thick and dry dust, which made walking over it a bit difficult.
After another hour of uphill walk through a well-trodden trail, beautiful wooden cottages welcomed us to the beautiful meadows of Kutla. The place was unexpectedly serene and calm. Only a few wooden cottages stood at distance surrounded by mountains.
We took a short break and had some snacks and recharged ourselves for the final destination. The trail took us through a scenic route with breath-taking views of the Parvati Valley, passing through terraced fields, and dense forests of oak, pine, and deodar trees. The trail is moderately challenging, with steep ascents and descents in some sections, but the stunning views and serene environment make it worth the effort.
Apart from the awe-inspiring peaks and glacier, the trek also takes you through charming little kutla village and terraced fields, giving you a glimpse into the local way of life. You can interact with the friendly locals, learn about their customs and traditions, and savor the local cuisine, which is a unique blend of flavours and ingredients from the mountains.
As we made our way up, we were greeted with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Parvati Valley, including the famous peaks of Kailash, Pinnacle, and Hanuman Tibba, which are visible from various vantage points along the trek.
Kutla Glacier is a lesser-known glacier in the Parvati Valley, located at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) above sea level. It is a relatively small glacier that is part of the Parvati River system, which flows through the valley. The glacier is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and dense forests, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers and trekkers.
As you ascend towards Kutla Glacier, you will come across meadows and grazing grounds where local shepherds bring their cattle for grazing during the summer months. These meadows, also known as Thakur Kuan or Thakur Khan, are vast grasslands surrounded by forests and offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or camping, where you can relax and soak in the beauty of nature.
The final stretch of the trek takes you to the Kutla Glacier, which is a small patch of ice surrounded by rocky terrain. We reached the glacier point at 12:00 PM. The glacier is not very large compared to some of the other glaciers in the region, but it offers a unique experience of being in the presence of glacial ice in the midst of the Himalayas.
The majestic Kutla Glacier, nestled in the lap of the towering Himalayas is a stunning sight to behold, with its pristine white snow glistening in the sunlight, and the surrounding peaks towering over it. The serene silence of the glacier and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains create an otherworldly experience that leaves you in awe of nature’s grandeur. The serene and pristine surroundings of Kutla Glacier make it a perfect spot for meditation, photography, and appreciating the raw beauty of the mountains.
The trek to Kutla Glacier or any other glacier requires proper preparation, including suitable clothing, trekking gear, and acclimatization to the high altitude. It’s advisable to undertake such treks with experienced guides or trekking agencies to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact.
The trek is of easy to moderate difficulty and can be completed in a day, making it a perfect adventure for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The best time to undertake this trek is from May to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
It is a truly mesmerizing adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the Himalayas. The breath-taking vistas of the majestic peaks, the serene landscapes, and the warm hospitality of the locals make this trek an unforgettable experience.
So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to embark on this thrilling journey to explore the majestic beauty of Tosh Village and trek to Kutla Glacier.
From the glacier point we then trekked back and reached Tosh Village at 2:30 PM. The views rom the uphill side were more astonishing and the kutla village looked entirely like a wonderland. The mesmerizing landscapes were truly a bliss.
After the strenuous trek we had our lunch at our hotel and decided to pay obeisance at Gurudwara Sri Manikaran Sahib. Taking a dip in the hot water springs was a refreshing and invigorating experience after a long and tiring trek. The warm water helped us to relax our body, providing a sense of rejuvenation and comfort. The warmth of the water helps to improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate fatigue, providing a natural form of hydrotherapy.
Happy trekking!
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