Kasol Kheerganga Trek

In recent times Kasol has been in the rage for backpackers and nature enthusiasts across the country. The number of tourists visiting this hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh has gradually increased. Different people come here for different reasons and to enjoy different climates. Kasol has a mild and pleasant temperature all year round. Surroundings change the color according to the season and reveal different colors at different seasons. People So, this place doesn't disappoint you at any given time of the year except monsoon. The rains make the tracks slippery and Kasol being a hill station, makes it very difficult to traverse across from one place to another. Being said that, few months are very versatile to backpack to Kasol.

Months   Temperature

Apr-Jun.  25 degrees Celsius

Feb-Mar.  10 degrees Celsius

Jul-Sep.  15 degrees Celsius

*A rucksack(small/large) depending on the number of days you want to visit. Usually, a small one would be easy to carry around.

* Trekking/hiking shoes, Quechua shoes would be the best suitable for this trek.

* Reusable water bottle ( avoid plastic bottles as much as possible), you can refill the water anywhere since the place is pristine.

* Woolen clothes to keep you warm like jackets, thermals, gloves, and beanies. Pack lighter wools for summer and heavier ones if you are visiting in winters. Winters are very harsh.

* Sunblock regardless of the season.

* Snickers/ chocolates and dry fruits to munch on the way or to keep you energetic during treks.

* Power bank to keep you connected.

* A torch is the handiest thing you should carry when traveling to a hill station.

* Tent if you are willing to camp on your own in an isolated spot for solace.

* The signal connectivity is very poor in the hill stations and BSNL is compatible in this place.

* Carry the basic first aid kit.

* Always carry ID proofs and write down the emergency number on your backpack as a safety measure.

* Spot room bookings at night should be avoided since the rates triple up. Try to pre-book to the maximum extent.

 Kasol is a nature's paradise and a very pristine place, be accountable for your actions and do not litter in the open.

* Do not carry plastic bottles.

* Do not humiliate any religious beliefs or culture of people living there.

* Do not enter/touch any place/ thing without seeking permission.

* Do not indulge in any illegal activities like smoking hash. Such activities are prohibited and are punishable.

* Do not disturb the serenity of the wild by playing loud music.

* If you are new to the place, do not wander without any guide or companion.

* Do follow the rules and regulations of the place.

* Be polite to the people.

* Do respect the traditions of the place.

* As a responsible tourist, pick up any wrapper lying on the path and drop it in the trash bins. Nature will thank you.

* Be responsible for all the valuables you carry.

* Always ask permission before clicking pictures.

* Surroundings are so beautiful that one should meditate to attain peace.

1. Momos: Steaming hot momos served with freshly made chutney is a must to try when in Kasol. The cold weather around makes the dish even more delicious.

2. Trout Fish: A trout fish is native to cold waters and is available at fewer places in India. Do not miss the chance to eat a well-cooked Trout fish fry that tastes amazing.

3. Shakshuka: This dish which is native to Israel is an affordable, filling, and undemanding meal. It’s a dish of poached eggs in a sauce of tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and olive oil with a pinch of spices to it making it tangible.

4. Bourekas: Another dish of Israel origin is Burek. It is made up of Phyllo pastry which is filled with spiced meat or cheese. It comes in different shapes and sizes with a wide selection of fillings and is topped with sesame or poppy seeds. This is yet again a must-try dish that is super yummy and filling.

5. Lemon cake: You get the best Lemon cakes in the eateries here. A hot cup of chai/coffee with a lemon cake is a must in the chilly evenings to soothe your buds and cravings.

6. Hash Brownies: Taste these brownies which are infused with a little quantity of Hash in them. Finding them might be quite a daunting task but surely worth it. After all, a bit of hash in some form in the world's famous Hash spot isn’t a sin( wink). Also, these tend to have medicinal properties.

7. Rice beer: The locally prepared rice beer/ Chang with little to zero alcohol content is a specialty here and almost every guest house serves it on demand.

8. Thukpa: A Tibetan noodle dish that is soupy and is available both in vegetarian and non-vegetarian varieties. This is another must-try comfort food in the weather.

9. Hummus with pita bread: Hummus with pita bread is a classic middle eastern snack that you must try when in Kasol. This is a very healthy option and keeps you full and helps you maintain your energy levels. This complete snack can be eaten dipped with naan/ sandwiches or burgers.

10. Falafel: Your trip to Kasol isn’t complete without tasting these mouth-watering falafels. It's a deep-fried ball made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. Perfectly fried and served most authentically.

This majestic place has rich flora and fauna scattered throughout. Due to variations in altitude, it is home to an enormous number of species.

Flora in Kasol

*Common trees found in this region are Deodar, Pine, Spruce, and Fir which belong to conifer species.

*Several species of medicinal plants like Hath Panja and Brahmakamal grow luxuriously in a few valleys here.

*Cannabis/Marijuana is a wild plant that grows almost everywhere in the region.

*People here cultivate apples for their living.

*Himalayan blue poppies, irises, marsh marigolds, buttercups, and Himalayan balsam flowers are found most commonly around  the valleys of Kasol.

Fauna in Kasol

*Birds in the area include Lamagiers, Bullfinches, Rosefinches, and Himalayan griffons.

*Brown dipper which is an aquatic songbird is found here.

*Himalayan brown and black bears can also be spotted occasionally.

*Snow leopards are found in fewer numbers in this region.

Though there are no direct flights or trains to Kasol, you can easily reach the place connecting through buses from the nearest airport or railway stations.

REACH KASOL BY AIR: Bhuntar domestic airport is the nearest one to Kasol which is 31km away.

REACH KASOL BY RAIL: Joginder Nagar railway station is the nearest rail station which is 144km away.

REACH KASOL BY BUS: HRTC runs regular busses from Delhi, Punjab, and other Himachal cities.