Kasol or Mini Israel is a beautiful as well as peaceful village located at a distance of 32kms from Bhuntar (nearest airport) in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. This village lies adjacent to gurgling Parvati river. One can sit along the river and enjoy the tranquillity and peace offered by nature. The specialty of the place lies in the trekking routes to various places like Malana, Chalaal, Kheerganga etc. Kasol is abode for the trekkers, backpackers and for those who cannot control their adrenaline rush. The cafés in the area offer you world-class cuisine which will definitely make your mouth water.
Kasol is a village in Parvati valley which is often referred to as mini Israel due to some reasons but mainly because of the in-habitation of Israelis in the region. Youth, not only from our country but also from abroad is fascinated about this place.
But the main question is-why so many Israelis?
Most Israelis are drafted into the military at the age of 18, both men and women. The mandatory service for men is 2 years and 8 months while for women it is 2 years. So after their military stint Israelis visit this peaceful and serene place for the karmic cleansing, and an uninterrupted beauty
Malana village lies in close proximity of Kasol and is famous for beautiful Valleys
Also Jewish people love to visit together in large groups. So if you see Israelis in large number somewhere, that is totally normal.
Read: 7 Must visit places in Kasol
There is a Chabad house too in Kasol. The main religion of Israelis is Judaism and a Chabad house offers a cozy and peaceful environment to learn many things about Judaism.
Because of the in-habitation of large number of Israelis, the sign boards of many cafes and restaurants are in Hebrew for the convenience of the people living there. The food that you get here is to die for. You have options from Israeli, Italian, Indian cuisines. One should not leave the place before trying the famous food and desserts. Also, do try the famous rice beer which is alcohol free and is a bucket list drink.
Kasol is also a party hotspot. The parties have international DJs.
It is the relaxing getaway for people coming here. The town hasn’t got monuments or other such sightseeing points but the natural beauty that the heart craves for, is in abundance. You need to walk in order to commute here in Kasol. But if you wish to go to Malana or Manikaran, you need to hire a taxi or catch a bus. The area is a little remote which makes it an ideal place for relaxing. The place has many hotels, guest houses which one can get at affordable prices.
River rafting, trout fishing, Camping, trekking are some of the things you can do here. Although one might need to take special permission for the fishing experience. It is considered to be as the best place for angling. There are various interesting, easy as well as difficult treks around Kasol and Malana. Kheer Ganga is one of the main treks.
Gazing at the beautiful mountains and unwinding in the lap of nature is what one can do while being here.
So because too many Israelis visit Kasol every year and some of them have also settled here, this part of Himachal Pradesh is becoming more and more like Israel every other day with construction of Chabad house and Israeli cafes and a lot more things which seem Israeli. Hence, Kasol is called as the mini Israel of India.
Read: How To Rent Bike In Bhuntar
So when are you visiting Kasol. Do leave your queries below and don’t forget to share…