Wandering Through the Hills: A Soulful Journey to Manali and Kasol

By – Sarang Pote

Since childhood, I’ve been a passionate travel enthusiast always eager to explore new places, immerse myself in local cultures, and, of course, indulge in regional cuisines. As I began earning independently, I made a conscious decision to plan a trip every three months. It became my way of staying mentally refreshed and physically energised. I realised that travel, especially spontaneous wandering, has a way of rejuvenating your spirit in the most profound ways.

Over time, my love for hiking grew stronger. I’ve trekked through several trails across Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh, each one leaving behind unforgettable memories. However, one trip stands out above all the unforgettable journey to Manali and Kasol.

This trip had been on my friend Advait’s bucket list for years. In 2024, after numerous postponed plans, we finally made it happen. The excitement was palpable as we ventured into the quaint towns nestled in the Parvati Valley. Among the first places we explored were Kalga, Pulga, and Tulga, a trio of idyllic hamlets known for their serene beauty and charm. Each village, surrounded by lush pine forests and set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, felt like a page from a storybook.

A highlight of our visit was a spiritual detour to Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, where we partook in prasad and engaged in Seva (volunteer service) a heartwarming experience that added a deeply meaningful layer to our adventure.

Our next destination was Tosh Village, a picturesque settlement tucked away amidst snowy ridges and glacial streams. We sat down by the water, soaking in the tranquillity of the mountains, only to realise later that we had spent over two hours simply admiring the breathtaking landscape.

And of course, what’s a trip to Himachal without a hike? The next day, we laced up our boots and set out for Kheerganga, a trek known for its captivating trails and natural hot springs. The ascent was both challenging and rewarding, with panoramic views that made every step worth the effort.

From Kasol, we made our way to Manali, the quintessential mountain retreat. With its snowcovered peaks, verdant forests, and winding rivers, Manali felt like a postcard brought to life. We ventured through the Atal Tunnel, one of the highest tunnels in the world at over 10,000 feet. It bypasses the infamous Rohtang Pass and connects to Keylong in the Lahaul-Spiti district. Driving through it felt like entering another world one where snow-capped mountains greeted you on every side.

Our time in Manali was filled with adventure. We tried skiing, zip-lining, and several other adrenaline-pumping sports that added an element of thrill to our otherwise tranquil journey.

On the final day, we made a short excursion to the base camp of Hamta Pass, a revered trekking destination. We also visited iconic landmarks like the Hidimba Temple and Naggar Castle, both immortalised in Bollywood classics like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Jab We Met.

This journey was more than just a getaway, it was a reminder of how travel connects us to nature, to culture, and to ourselves. Every destination left an imprint, every conversation with locals added a new perspective, and every trail walked became a chapter in our travel diary