Parvati Valley

Himachal Pradesh is arguably a popular vacation destination for many, and each has its
own reasons. The Parvati Valley, on the other hand, is a hotspot for scenic landscapes
and leisure.

Himachal Pradesh is arguably a popular vacation destination for many, and each has its
own reasons. The Parvati Valley, on the other hand, is a hotspot for scenic landscapes
and leisure. Also known as Amsterdam, India, this valley is worth a visit. In addition, this
valley is famous for the folklore of the gods who come here and stay there. A story that
most of us may be unfamiliar with.
Legend has it that Lord Shiva meditated in this valley for about 3000 years. It is believed
that he sat there, meditated, and eventually took the form of an ashes-covered
Nagasado. Years later, Lord Shiva opened his eyes and looked around this pristine,
beautiful landscape, named Parvati Valley.
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were so impressed with the beauty of this place that
they decided to spend a little more time there. According to tradition, they should have
spent 1100 years in the area.

Major Places in the Valley:

Manikaran

At 1760m above sea level, his sanctuary attracts countless visitors from near and far.
Famous for its hot springs, Manu is said to have revived life here after a flood. Legend
has it that while Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were taking a walk in the valley,
Goddess Parvati lost one of her earrings. When she asked Shiva to come and find him,
he asked one of his Bhutagana to find the earrings. Thus, Bhutagana failed in the
aforementioned mission, angering Lord Shiva and causing chaos throughout the world.
To appease Shiva, the serpent god or Sheshnag used his powers to yield to streams of
boiling water. Water spread over the area and eventually, the earring was revived and
the place also got the name Manikaran.

Malana

The villagers of Malana are believed to be descendants of the Greek soldiers of
Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great. The district court system that still exists in
Malana reflects the system of ancient Greece. It has also been proven that the Malana
people inherit Roman-like facial features. In addition, the inhabitants believe in the local
god Jamrurisi. According to Prana, the wise men who once lived in this land laid the
foundation for democracy that is still functioning here, and the parliament is fully
functioning.

Kheerganga

It is believed that long ago, Kartikeya, the second son of Lord Shiva and Goddess
Parvati meditated here for a thousand years. Legend has it that both Lord Shiva and
Goddess Parvati visited him when he was here, and Parvati prepared a keel (rice
pudding) for them.

Pulga 

Pulga is a small village, famous for cafes and the best views in Parvati Valley. There is no road up to this village as a refreshing hike of 2-3 km from Barshini is there. It is an altitude of 2210mtrs. It has a dense forest of deodar trees known as Fairy Forest.  There are various homestays and a hotel in the valley which is also surrounded by apple orchids.

Tosh

Tosh is located at the far end of the Parvati Valley and does not attract too many tourists. People who visit Tosh prefer staying in their guest houses or hotel rooms enjoying their time and do not make a big fuss. This makes Tosh a great place for a quiet vacation amidst nature. Be it views of snow-clad peaks or green hills, waterfalls, or clear blue skies, Tosh has it all. Visiting Tosh in summer will treat you to views of breathtaking landscapes that will stay with you forever.t is located at about 2,400 meters (7,900 ft) in elevation on a mountain slope on the right bank of the Parvati River in the Parvati Valley, surrounded by mountains (TOSH is the last village)

Grahan

It is situated in Himachal Pradesh, to the north of the counterculture mecca Kasol. There are about 350 inhabitants and barely 50 dwellings. The hamlet is home to numerous stunning temples with noteworthy architecture. You must travel to Kasol if Grahan Village is your final stop. The route leading to Grahan may be seen heading left as you pass the major bridge from Kasol. The trail to Grahan is moderately easy and has a good incline. You don’t mind being in the sun because it’s a jungle trail. While hiking, we pass through pine forests with enormous trees, the powerful Parvati River, and the sounds of birds and insects.

Rasol

Rasol (3,048 m) is a small village high up in the mountains of Parvati Valley and the length of the Rasol trek is 8 km one way. With a mesmerizing view that accompanies you throughout the trek, if you are looking for a village to find some peace, awesome views, and a village feel, then Rasol is the right place for you.

The trail is steep with magnificent views and to breathe in the fresh air and walk through the alpine jungles and small streams is an experience in itself. You will pass through red and pink rhododendron trees as you hike up. Once you reach Rasol you will see old wooden houses and a beautiful temple in the middle of the village

Chalal

The best part of visiting Chalal is the adventurous walk from Kasol to Chalal.

If you are looking for a laid-back village close to Kasol, Chalal might be your answer.

Kutla

Kulta Village – Hidden Treasure in Parvati Valley 

Kulta, a quirky village tucked among the mountains, is a less traveled area where you may take in the thriving, untamed environment. A two-hour hike via the winding path from Tosh will lead you to the Kulta Village, which is surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas and looks down at you. This settlement is similar to a hidden treasure of Himalayan peaks, but spare some sweat and take in the fresh air and breathtaking vistas of this undiscovered beauty on your own!

 

Kalga

Kalga or Kalgha is a small village in Himachal Pradesh located at an altitude of 8200 ft on a forested hill near Kasol in the Parvati Valley. Offering a 360-degree view of the entire valley, it is a perfect destination to visit before or after doing the Kheerganga Trek. The natives of Kalga mainly depend on apple farming and animal husbandry for their livelihood. However, several residents also run homestays and cafés within the premises of their old wooden homes to earn their living. The village homes have stone fencing to prevent the animals from going astray. The villagers use the basement of their house for keeping their animals and fuel while the upper floor is used as their residence. The gorgeous apple orchards, green fields, forests, open pastures, and even birds like the Himalayan bulbul and yellow-billed blue magpie make Kalga a piece of heaven.

 

Nightlife info
Parvati Valley might not be an ideal nightlife destination, but there are certain things you
can indulge in to salvage your night in Valley. But again, do not keep your expectations
too high. There are some cafes that stay awake up to 12 am but not every day and this
happens in Kasol and Tosh only.

Culture and history info

The Kullu Valley is known as the " Kingdom of God" Trade fairs, customs, diets, beliefs,
clothing, and professions describe the hard-earned lifestyles of indigenous peoples. The
people of Kuru believe in simple life and patience. Trade fairs and festivals celebrated in
the valley are an integral part of the local spirit. These vibrant trade fairs are of great
religious and economic importance to the people here. The customs and rituals that take
place in the valley reflect the simple, nature-loving way of life of the indigenous people.
People here worship the sages, serpent gods, and other powerful gods and goddesses
mentioned in ancient Indian scriptures. Every village has a beautiful temple dedicated to
these gods. Kuru has a rich tradition of folk art. Exquisite temple sculptures, lively
handicrafts, magnificent folk dances, and melodic songs show people’s sensibilities.
Elaborately built temples, castles, and fortresses are monuments of progressive
architecture and sculpture that flourished in the valley in the past.

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