The journey from Delhi to Kasol is a thrilling transition from the amazing plains into the tranquil serenity of the Parvati Valley. Kasol has also been referred to as ‘Mini Israel’, owing to a large population of Israelis. It is, therefore, a haven for backpackers, trekkers, and nature lovers who look forward to its serenity alongside the gushing Parvati River. Several options are available, but going in a Tempo Traveller from Delhi to Kasol offers the right mix of comfort, convenience, and camaraderie if you are traveling in a group. These vehicles offer ample space, push-back seats, and are driven by experienced drivers who take you along the serpentine mountain roads of Himachal Pradesh, thus making sure that your Himalayan adventure starts off well. You get ample options to stop and see the various scenic points en route, which makes the 12-14 hour overnight journey quite manageable.
Delhi to Kasol Distance
It would be approximately 510 to 531 kilometers from Delhi to Kasol via road, depending on the route one takes. The general route contains NH44 and NH154, which go via major cities like Chandigarh, Bilaspur, Mandi, and Bhuntar to reach Kasol. Although manageable, the journey is very long, taking anywhere between 12 to 14 hours by road. This is of course dependent on the traffic that’s encountered, mainly while exiting Delhi and through the final stretches of narrow mountain roads past Bhuntar. Generally, people prefer night journeys to make full use of their time in Kasol: they leave late in the evening and arrive the next morning.
How to reach Kasol from Delhi
Kasol does not have any major railhead or airport; so, one has to be prepared for a multi-modal journey while traveling from Delhi. The journey is mainly dependent on roadways, and Bhuntar is the main transport hub, situated approximately 31 km away from Kasol. Accordingly, tourists can opt for the economical bus to Bhuntar, the comfortable private taxi or Tempo Traveller that offers door-to-door service, or the fastest yet most expensive flight to Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar.From Bhuntar, local buses or cabs are easily available for the final, picturesque 1.5 to 2-hour drive uphill to Kasol village.
Delhi to Kasol Bus
The bus is the most affordable and popular way to reach Parvati Valley. Overnight buses, including HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) and private Volvo/AC coaches, ply daily from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmere Gate and Majnu ka Tila. Most services head directly to Bhuntar, the closest major bus station to Kasol. The bus journey takes around 12-13 hours and costs ₹800-₹1,500, depending on the bus type and the operator.Upon reaching Bhuntar, travelers must transfer to a local bus or hire a taxi for the remaining 30-40 km to Kasol, a picturesque final leg that takes about two hours.
Delhi to Kasol Train
Kasol does not have a dedicated railway station. The most convenient and best-connected major railhead is Chandigarh Junction (CDG), situated approximately 275 km away. A closer, though less accessible, option is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 144 km from Kasol, which is connected via a narrow-gauge line from Pathankot. Those who will choose the train route will first go by train from Delhi to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, one will proceed further by road (8-9 hours) via a private cab or an HRTC bus to Bhuntar and then a short taxi ride to Kasol. This multi-modal travel is less preferred than the direct overnight bus or Tempo Traveller due to the long transfer time.
Popular Trains from Delhi to Chandigarh (CDG):
Kalka Shatabdi Express (12005 / 12011)
Una Jan Shatabdi (12057)
Paschim Express (12925)
Delhi to Kasol Flight
By air, it is the fastest but most premium way to reach the region. The nearest airport to Kasol is Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), located in Bhuntar. This airport is 31 km away from Kasol. Flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. However, Bhuntar flights are very limited and generally quite expensive; delays or cancellations owing to weather changes are common, too. From there, a pre-booked or airport taxi must be taken for the final scenic 1.5-hour drive to Kasol. This is recommended only when speed is an absolute priority and one has no budgetary constraints.
Airlines operating Delhi (DEL) to Bhuntar (KUU) flights:
Alliance Air
IndiGo
Vistara
Delhi to Kasol 3 Days Tour Cost By Tempo Traveller
For small trips, hiring a Tempo Traveller in Delhi is the best option as it will guarantee comfort and flexibility in the journey. Prices vary based on the seating capacity of the vehicle and the vehicle type.
| Type of Tempo Traveller | Seating Capacity | 3 Days Tour Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 9-Seater Tempo Traveller | 9 Passengers | ₹25,000 – ₹28,000 |
| 12-Seater Tempo Traveller | 12 Passengers | ₹26,000 – ₹28,000 |
| 16-Seater Tempo Traveller | 16 Passengers | ₹30,000 – ₹33,000 |
| 20-Seater Tempo Traveller | 20 Passengers | ₹35,000 – ₹38,000 |
| 26-Seater Tempo Traveller | 26 Passengers | ₹40,000 – ₹45,000 |
These rates include driver allowance, tolls, and fuel but exclude accommodation and food.
Places to Visit in Kasol
The Parvati Valley is rich in sights, from natural wonders to unique cultural experiences.
Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib
Located 4.3 km from Kasol, this is a renowned pilgrimage site for the Sikhs and Hindus. The gurudwara is situated on the banks of the Parvati River, but the main attraction is the hot water springs. According to beliefs, these springs have therapeutic and religious healing properties. Moreover, the water temperature is so high that it is utilized for cooking food for the huge langar. A visit to the Gurudwara offers a glimpse into a deep sense of piety and a rare geological phenomenon.
Chalal Village
A 30-40 minute, rather pleasant and short trek across a suspension bridge from the main road in Kasol, offers access to the remote village of Chalal. Having a reputation for being a sedate destination with considerable rustic charm, Chalal has become a common request among all travelers looking for a quieter base. It offers stunning vantage points of the Parvati River, and its small, winding paths lead to cozy, Israeli-themed cafes where one can relax and soak in the uninterrupted mountain views.
Tosh Village
Tosh is the last frontier, nestled at a higher altitude, about 21 km from Kasol via Barshaini, in this popular stretch of the valley. This village is famous for its backpacker culture, traditional wooden houses, and budget-friendly guesthouses. It greets you with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the formidable Pin Parvati Pass, among others. It is the starting point of a few minor treks and is celebrated for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural light during sunset.
Kheerganga Trek
This is arguably the most famous attraction, though it requires a full day of trekking. Starting from Barshaini (16 km from Kasol), the 12-13 km trail passes through thick forests and small waterfalls. The reward is reaching the summit, approximately 13,000 feet, which features a temple and a natural hot water spring where trekkers can bathe, surrounded by snow-dusted mountains. It’s an essential experience for adventure lovers in the region. Nature Park, Kasol & Parvati River
Situated right within Kasol, the Nature Park is a serene spot for leisurely strolls amidst tall pine trees and dense greenery. It provides access to the fiercely flowing Parvati River, whose banks are ideal for relaxation, picnics, and photography, offering a perfect counterpoint to the energetic pace of the market area.
Delhi to Kasol 3 Days Tour Itinerary
This itinerary focuses exclusively on the three full days of activities in Kasol while utilizing a Maharaja Tempo Traveller to maximize the efficiency of sightseeing.
Day 1- The tour effectively starts on Day 1 with the group’s late morning arrival in Kasol, following the overnight journey. After checking into the pre-booked accommodation (hotel or campsite), the group spends its early afternoon acclimatizing and having lunch at one of the famous local cafes. The late afternoon is used to take a soft, scenic 30-minute hike across the suspension bridge to the tranquil Chalal Village for riverside views and initial exploration. Later, dinner and leisure activities mark the end of this first day.
Day 2 is utilized for a local sightseeing trip with the hired Tempo Traveller. The entire morning is reserved for the spiritual and geological wonder of Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib and its famous hot springs. In the afternoon, head for Barshaini, which is considered the start of the Kheerganga Trek, in the hired Tempo Traveller. Later in the afternoon, drive to the high-altitude village of Tosh for breathtaking mountain views and hanging out in one of the unique cafes. Later, return to the Kasol base for dinner and overnight rest.
Day 3- he last day, Day 3, includes local culture and preparation for departure. The group, after having breakfast, heads to the local Kasol Market to purchase souvenirs. They then spend the late morning and noon at leisure beside the Parvati River near Nature Park, followed by a late-afternoon checkout. The full group of Tempo Traveller occupants boards the vehicle in the evening (usually around 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) to start the second overnight journey towards Delhi.
Conclusion
The Delhi to Kasol Tempo Traveller Tour is a highly recommended mode of travel for those groups looking for comfort, no hassles, and a personalized voyage into the most beautiful Parvati Valley. This private mode of transportation converts the challenging overnight drive into a comforting group experience that combines scenic stops with door-to-door convenience.
Kasol-an upcoming destination offering surreal views, spiritual enlightenment at Manikaran, serene escapes in Chalal, and breathtaking views from high altitudes in Tosh-is a picturesque blend of Indian and Israeli culture. The suggested 3-day itinerary balances relaxation and exploration perfectly, making sure the traveler captures a perfect snapshot of the valley’s treasures. The Urbania Tempo Traveller does its job of providing comfort and flexibility, so you have all the time and reason in the world to embark on an adventurous yet seamless trip to spend most of the time in the pristine beauty of Himachal Pradesh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some of the most well-known Israeli dishes to try in Kasol?
Kasol is famous as “Mini Israel”, and thus, its cafes specialize in authentic Israeli food. Some of the most recommended dishes include Shakshuka, poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce; Hummus and Pita, creamy chickpea dip with freshly baked bread; and Falafel, deep-fried chickpea balls usually served in a platter or pita wrap.
What local foods should I not miss in Himachal? Do try Siddu, a steamed, fermented bread stuffed with savory fillings, best eaten with ghee; Thukpa, a hearty Tibetan noodle soup; and Dham, the festive Himachali vegetarian platter, at local dhabas for a taste of the local Pahari culture.
Is the road from Bhuntar to Kasol safe for a Tempo Traveller?
Yes, the road is safe but narrow, winding, and mountainous. It is a must to hire a Tempo Traveller with an experienced driver who is highly familiar with driving conditions in the Himalayas. The drivers are usually well versed in navigating this stretch, especially in adverse weather.
What is the condition of mobile networks and the internet in Parvati Valley?
In general, the main Kasol village has the most reliable coverage with Jio and Airtel 4G. But once you move up to the higher, far-flung villages such as Tosh and Chalal, the signal grows weak and intermittent. Internet connectivity may be slow, so heavy internet use may not be a good idea.
Is it necessary to pre-book accommodations along with a Tempo Traveller?
Yes, of course. In the case of group travels, pre-bookings of Tempo Traveller ensure better rates and availability, especially during peak season. Similarly, accommodation needs to be booked in advance for the best location and price, as these fill up very fast.
Are the hot springs at Manikaran safe to bathe in?
The hot springs at Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib are natural and hence safe. The temperature of the water is very high close to the source, while in the pools constructed for bathing, it is moderate. It is a highly revered site, and due propriety in behavior and cleanliness is expected.
What if I want to do the full Kheerganga Trek?
The complete trek to Kheerganga takes about 5-6 hours one way. In order to get to the end and enjoy the hot spring at the top, you really need to expand your trip to a minimum of 4 days/3 nights. A 3-day itinerary is barely enough to drive to the base (Barshaini) and do some village visits nearby.
