Kasol, Kasauli, or Kullu: Which is the Best Tourist Destination?
The heart of Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is home to many of the best hill stations of India. These pristine and untouched landscapes are some of the best places to visit in India and provide all kinds of experiences that one seeks in the mountains. Picture this, a laid-back vacation while gazing at the mountains or serene, colonial-era escape or an adventurous trek in valleys, there are too many things to do in Himachal Pradesh.
However, the three musketeers of the hill stations in India are Kasol, Kasauli and Kullu. These are some of the notable hill stations in India that are frequented by many people for a vacation in India. Although, the age-old question that lies here, which is the best tourist destination in India amongst the three? In this blog, let’s explore these offbeat destinations in India that may appear the same but offer a vast variety of experiences.
About Kasol : The most serene hamlet of India
Situated in the lap of the Himalayas, this little hill station in the Parvati Valley is located around 500 km from Delhi. With the serene river flowing through it, the alpines of this hill station in India are magnificent to begin with.
Kasol is the most sought-after weekend getaways around Delhi and Chandigarh and was also known as the hippie paradise. Multiple cafes, boundless energy and spiritual aura are quite familiar to the city. If this is your vibe, then definitely choose Kasol
Best time to visit Kasol
Although the weather in Kasol is perfect all year round, the best time to visit Kasol would be during the summer months of March to June. This is one of the best time to visit Kasol as the temperatures are a bit mellow, warm and let’s you absorb all its aura.
For witnessing snowfall in Kasol, consider heading during the months of October to January. This is not the peak of Kasol but plenty of people frequent this hill station in India during these months. The landscape changes drastically and the Parvati Valley is completely covered in a blanket of snow.
How to reach Kasol
Kasol is pretty well connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Kasol to Delhi is 500 km long so it can be pretty daunting to visit. Let’s look across the different options for travelling to Kasol by road, train and air.
Kasol by Road
One of the easiest ways to travel to Kasol is by road.Kasol by road is a magical experience that can completely transform anyone’s experience. We recommend taking a bus to Kasol from Delhi or Chandigarh and get down at Bhuntar which is 60 km from Manali. Alternatively, one can travel to Kasol private car as there are many car rentals in Delhi. There are a number of local buses that can frequent this and make travelling easier.
Kasol by Train
The closest railway station is the Pathankot Railway Station that is located 150 km away from Kasol. Once at the station, there are many private cabs and buses near the railway that can be used to travel to Kasol.
Kasol by Air
Kullu Airport located 32 km away from Kasol is its nearest airport. Take a private or shared cab from here to Kasol and you’ll reach in about an hour.
Activities to do in Kasol
– Kheerganga trek in Kasol
Kasol’s most famous place is Kheerganga trek, which is one of the top places for trekking in India. You can immerse yourself in natural hot springs after a tiring hike of 14 kilometers. To reach Kheerganga trek , you need to take a bus trip from Kasol to Barshaini, the starting point for this much acclaimed trek.
– Explore the local cafes in Kasol
Kasol has some of the most iconic Israeli cafes in India. These cafes not only come with good food but also charming views of the Parvati Valley. Some of the notable cafes in Kasol are – Moon Dance, Mountain Goat, Stone Garden, Freedom, and The Evergreen.
– Take a spiritual journey to Manikaran Sahib
This village’s most prominent attraction was the Manikaran Sahib religious Gurudwara, often visited by Sikh devotees across the country. Manikaran’s hot springs and stunning landscapes are well-known.
– Stargaze in the Parvati Valley
At Parvati Pass, the night sky is so clear and beautiful when you look at the stars. Here, you can see lots of stars and Milky Way in details because there are no city lights. This is a perfect place for appreciating the wonders of the universe in the Himalayas.
– Trek to Waichin, The mini Kheerganga
One of the best trekking spots in the country, Waichin is a great alternative to Kheerganga Trek. If you want to explore trekking in India but are a beginner, Waichin is one of the best places to trek for beginners. Blessed with tall pine and coniferous trees, dazzling views of the snow-covered Himalayas, the beauty of Waichin is unmatched!
About Kasauli: Capture the colonial-era charms
Located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, Kasauli has been the most preferred places to visit in India for family. Kasauli is a top honeymoon destination in India due to its colonial-era buildings and places such as Christ Church and Kasauli Brewery, the oldest in Asia.
Resurrecting the charm of all things old school with its pine forests and exotic herbs, Kasauli is the place you’d love to run in the laps when wanting peace and change of view. The monkey point with its serene sunrise, the age old Gurkha fort, and its streets of Mall Road, Kasauli where you’d go for a laid-back long weekend in India.
Best time to visit Kasauli
Kasauli attracts visitors throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Kasauli is between the months of April to June, as the weather in Kasauli is extremely pleasant. With summer vacations in the view, the town becomes one of the most preferred summer destinations in India. However, giving it’s proximity to Delhi and Chandigarh, it is also the best weekend getaway destination near Delhi and Chandigarh. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to October, is also a good time to visit. The rains make the place look even more scenic and green. It is better to pack a jacket or two, as the weather can get a bit chilly during October. As there are occasional showers, an umbrella is recommended.
How to reach Kasauli
Kasauli can be easily visited as its close to the cantonment town of Chandigarh. While on a trip to Kasauli, don’t forget to stop and just absorb the moment as the hilly ranges provide the best view of the hills.
Kasauli by Road
You can take a taxi from Chandigarh to Kasauli and reach there within 1.5 to 2 hours via NH5. Kasauli is connected through some of the best expressways in India and that makes it easier to travel from Chandigarh and Shimla.
Kasauli by Train
Kasauli does not have a raillway station of its own. 40 km from Kasauli is the railway station of Kalka. From the cities of Amritsar, Delhi, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Mumbai and so on, there are trains that go to the station of Kalka.
Kasauli by Air
The nearest airport to Kasauli is the Shimla Airport which is nearly 55 km. Although the airport has frequent flights to major cities, we recommend checking it constantly as flights gets cancelled due to harsh weather conditions.
Activities to do in Kasauli
– Seek blessings at Christ Church
Christ Church in Kasauli is the oldest church in Himachal Pradesh. The Church is in every Kasauli itinerary due to its Gothic architecture and cemetery.
– Watch a sunrise from Manki Point
There are few places in Himachal Pradesh that offer a spectacular view of the sunset and sunrise, and Kasauli is one of them. Manki Point is the highest point in the region and offers some picturesque views of the surroundings and a bird’s eye view of the Air Force Station.
– Trek through the Gilbert Trail
A stone walkway that stretches for around 1.5 km, beginning from Lover’s Lane and taking you through amazing flora. This is also a great place for bird watching and sightseeing in Kasauli.
– Head to the Gurkha Fort
There are few places in Himachal Pradesh that offer a spectacular view of the sunset and sunrise, and Kasauli is one of them. Manki Point is the highest point in the region and offers some picturesque views of the surroundings and a bird’s eye view of the Air Force Station.
– Indulge a brew in Kasauli brewery
Established in the 1820s, this Brewery is the oldest scotch whiskey distillery in Asia. Enjoy a glass of scotch whiskey brewed to perfection while hearing about its beautiful history narrated through every sip of it.
About Kullu: The Valley of Gods
Decked nearly 1200 m above sea level, Kullu is one of the stunning hill stations in India. The confluence point of two famous river : Beas and Parvati, Kullu is the most relaxing spot out of the three. Kullu is the most touristy place in India and the term Kullu Manali rightfully captures its essence. With close distance to Manali, one can extend their trip and get refuge in Manali.
Best time to visit Kullu
The best time to visit Kullu and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, India, largely depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. During the summer season of March to June (which is also the peak season in Kullu),is an ideal time for sightseeing, adventure sports, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Another good time to visit Kullu would be during the winter months where you can enjoy snowboarding and skiing.
How to reach Kullu
Kullu is conveniently located near Manali and Shimla, making it one of the easiest places to travel in India.
Kullu by road
Kullu is well-connected by a network of highways, and is located nearly 500 kms from Delhi. One can take a state transport bus and travel to Kullu by bus or private car. A Kullu Manali roadtrip is filled with picturesque valleys and views that are simply unmatchable.
Kully by train
The nearest railway station to Kullu is the Joginder Nagar railway station that is located at a distance of 125 kilometres. From there you can catch a bus or take a private cab or taxi and travel to Kullu by car.
Kullu by Air
Reaching Kullu by air is extremely convenient as the Bhuntar Airport is only 10 km from Kullu. Upon arrival, there are plenty of cabs and private taxis that take you to the city.
Activities to do in Kullu
– Bike ride through the Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass bike ride guarantees an excitement and splendid views of the Himalayas. This high-level road of 51 km is located from Manali city and it has twisting paths and scenic landscapes.
– Enjoy the tranquillity of Solang Valley
Solang village is situated between Solang Village and Soas Kund. Solang Valley is also known as The Snow Point and a large number of people come to witness snowfall in Himachal Pradesh.
– Visit the Kulant Pith
The Kulant Pith is a holy place to visit in Kullu and is recognized for its spiritual importance. It ranks among the holiest places of Hindu mythology as it was here that great sage Vashisht meditated.
– Adventurous activities such as Paragliding and Zip lining
One of the must do things in Kullu is paragliding and zip lining. Zip lining and paragliding provides a quick ride across gorgeous terrains of Kullu. Kullu is seen as an adventure lover’s paradise on earth.
– Seek blessings from Vaishno Devi Temple
Vaishno Devi temple in Kullu Manali is high revered and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Kullu. It’s a site that every follower and tourist must visit due to its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery as well.
Where to stay in Kullu?
There are many beautiful homestays and cottages in Kullu Manali. Some of these homestays in Kullu feature beautiful views as well as a fireplace to keep yourselves warm. Here are some of the best homestays and cottages in Kullu Manali.
The Artisans Chalet
The Kathguni House
The Waterwillow
Lost in the Alps
Conclusion
We’re pretty sure that you’ve made up your mind on choosing the perfect hill station in India. If you crave some adventure then Kullu is your calling. But on the other hand, if you’re wishing for peace and tranquillity, then Kasauli is the perfect destination.
All the destinations promise unforgettable getaways in North India that you’ll keep calling for more. Happy Travelling!
