The Best Weekend Getaways From Kasol, India

Only an hour drive from Kasol, Malana is a haven famous for its pristine natural beauty, serenity, and the Malana Cream (premium-quality cannabis). Visitors can bask in the nature, marvel at the intricately carved temples or go trekking nearby (as well as smoke cannabis, should you wish). The Chanderkhani peak and Deo Tibba are the finest treks in the area.

This ancient village can be reached directly via a taxi. Alternatively, you can reach via a trek from Jari or Naggar, which is challenging and full of Instagram-worthy shots.

Malana, Himachal Pradesh, India

For a super-easy and peaceful weekend, Tosh is located just 20 kilometres (12.4 miles) from Kasol. There isn’t much to do in this village, and that’s exactly where its charm lies – its green hills, snow-laden mountains, raw natural beauty and tranquil vibe are what draw travellers. Trance and psychedelic parties are hosted here regularly, and there are a plenty of undisturbed trekking trails around the area, including the famous Kheerganga trek.

Tosh, Himachal Pradesh, India

Some 60 kilometres (37.2 miles) from Kasol lies the ancient town of Naggar. The town is small in size, but has plenty to offer visitors. Naggar provides history buffs a wealth of experience through the 15th-century Naggar Castle that stands out with its stunning architecture, which is a blend of Himalayan and Western styles; and the 19th-century Uruswati Himalayan Folk Art Museum, displaying Russian folk art, stone carvings and traditional musical instruments. For spiritual seekers, the town has a couple of beautiful temples – Naggar Castle 11th-century Gauri Shankar temple, wooden Tripura Sundari temple and earthquake-resistance Jagatipatt temple. Outdoor adventurers aren’t left out in this town. The surrounding landscape provides adventure enthusiasts some recreational opportunities, from trout fishing to trekking.

Naggar, Himachal Pradesh, India

This hill station is just a two and a half hour drive away from Kasol. Besides the mesmerising vistas of the snow-covered mountains and a plethora of adventure opportunities, from paragliding and zorbing to trekking and mountain biking, Manali also offers spiritual attractions, such as pagoda-shaped Hadimba Devi temple, the historic Vashisht temple, Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa and the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India

Dubbed the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’, Bir Billing is the perfect spot for those looking for a thrill over the weekend. Along with paragliding and other outdoor adventures, from camping to hiking, the area is home to Buddhist monasteries – the Palpung Sherabling and the Chokling Monastery – that provides visitors a much-needed spiritual retreat.

Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh, India

A two hour drive from Kasol lies the picturesque ski-resort town of Narkanda, which is ideal for anyone seeking peace and serenity in the mountains. The town offers a variety of winter sports and skiing options for novice and experienced skiers alike. Besides, there are some other attractions also worth visiting, such as the Hatu Peak, which is the highest peak in the Shimla district set at a prodigious elevation of 3656.7 metres; the Tannu Jubbar Lake, and apple orchards at Stokes Farms.

Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh, India

Located about 228 kilometres (141.6 miles) from Kasol, Shimla is one of the best options for a long weekend getaway. From colonial-era buildings, museums and theatres to quaint cafes, heritage hotels, bustling shopping alleys and a plenty of adventure activities, this hill station has something for everyone. The charm of the Queen of Hills increases during winters, when the blanket of snow falls over it – a sight to behold!

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

Set on the embankment of Uhl river, Barot is a small village, just about five hours outside Kasol. The village is encircled by spectacular landscape, including magnificent Himalayas and dense deodar forests, which provides hours of fun for the adventure enthusiasts. From trekking to angling and camping, recreational activities abound. Alternatively, wildlife explorers will be impressed by the variety of Himalayan wildlife, including leopard, Himalayan black bear, ghoral and more at the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary.

Barot, Himachal Pradesh, India

Located approximately 219 kilometres (136 miles) from Kasol, Dharamshala is a beautiful hillside town with something to offer all types of visitors, whether they are adventure lovers, architecture buffs or spiritual seekers. The town features charming monasteries, quaint cafes, bustling shopping areas, and several historical and cultural attractions. The spectacular landscape encompassing snow-capped Dhauladhar mountains, lush forests, valleys and scenic waterfalls will appeal to those seeking adventure activities, including trekking and boating. While in the area, its suburbs, such as Ramnagar, Dharamkot and McLeod Ganj are worth exploring.

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India

Located close to Shimla and about a seven hour drive from Kasol, Kufri is a small hill station nestled at an altitude of 2,630 metres. With snow-laden mountains, dense forests, scenic valleys and pristine natural beauty, Kufri is nothing short of paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Come here if you’re looking to indulge in adventure sports, such as skiing, trekking, horse riding and go-karting, or want to be at one with nature – in peace and quiet.

Kufri, Himachal Pradesh, India