Name: Kasol
Rating: 4.1

Rasol, Kasol Overview

Nestled in Parvati Valley of the Himalayas is the magical village of Rasol. Close to the famous Malana village and Kasol, Rasol is a simple yet exhausting trek from Kasol (around 3-4 hours), spanning between two and four hours. Chalal is the starting point of the trek. Visitors are greeted by an endless expanse of lush greenery as they enter Rasol, which has around 75-100 wooden houses.

Due to the after-effects of tourism seen in popular destinations like Kasol, Manali and Tosh, villagers are slightly wary of outsiders in their village, taking great measures to avoid physical contact and protect their personal space. Apart from agriculture, one can see locals engaging in authentic rural activities such as the domestication of animals and the spinning of wool.

Children here can be found playing Panjee, a game similar to that of chess with the only difference that 4 people can play the game in one go. Food over here is a bit costly due to the separation of the village from the outer world which increases the cost of procuring the food in Rasol. But trust us, the food is worth paying the required amount. Also, having a meal with the villagers at their homes will add some more amazement to your adventure trek in Rasol!

1. Jamdagini Rishi Temple

The village temple is devoted to Jamdagini Rishi who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The natives of Rasol offer prayers to their deity Lord Jamdagini. If you enter the temple within its premises you (Read More) are fined a sum of INR 2000.

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How to Reach Rasol from Kasol

The only way of reaching Rasol is undertaking a trek from Kasol which is about 5 km only, yet it takes around 2 - 4 hours depending on the familiarity with the area as well as the hiking ability. From Kasol, one must head towards Chalal, which is a 30-minute trek from here across the majestic Parvati River. The trail from Chalal to Rasol begins from the forbidden temple at Chalal. There are many signs along the way pointing to "Magic Rasol". It is a relatively easy hike comprising a stony trail with a few steep climbs here and there, and one is treated to a myriad of exclusive mountain scenery filled with the gorgeous greenery of the Himalayas.

Accommodation in Rasol

The only accommodation available in Rasol is backpacker guest houses having common washrooms and one bed per person. With under 100 houses and strict community guidelines against outsiders, one may not be able to find homestays or residence amongst the villagers. The neighbouring villages of Chalal and Kasol have many more accommodation options for travellers.

Where to Eat in Rasol

There is no meat in the village. The food here is prepared from locally-grown vegetables and are delightful to eat. Om cafe and Monty's guest house offer simple yet delicious food to travellers.

Tips for Visiting Rasol

There are no ATMs or internet services in the area. Keep enough cash to carry out the required transactions during your stay.
Be respectful of the culture and customs of the locals. Do not take personal offence at their avoidance of strangers. Be polite and thank the villagers for the hospitality that they present you with.
Do not click pictures of the villagers without asking them.
Do not litter or destroy natural surroundings.
Rasol is known for producing some of the best hashish in the world since cannabis grows naturally in the area. While the locals consider it a plant, possession of the same is illegal throughout the country and can invite legal troubles, fines and imprisonment.
There is no alcohol or meat in Rasol. Do not carry any with you either.
Carry a water bottle and a pair of good hiking shoes for the hike.
Those with respiratory or heart conditions should avoid this trek as it can be physically straining.