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On first sight, anyone would simply traverse
through Kasol. It is only after some time is
invested in exploring it, that one realizes
how beautiful and picture perfect it is. The
population here is balanced equally between
local Himachalis and foreign settlers. If one
questions the presence of blonde toddlers on
the village streets mingling with their Indian
buddies, the story of old time angrezi
(foreigner) settlers will be narrated.
When in Kasol, opt for the
forests of Pines that border the village. The
camping site is right next to the river and
another is located higher up through a maze
of rhododendrons. Needless to say, the river
is icy cold but not enough of a restriction
to wandering horses that pass through each morning,
sounding their approach through the woods.
Cooking in the wild is always
enjoyable but if the palate is hungry for pampering,
then options of pancakes and apple-pies are
easily available from the German Bakery in the
village. And of course, the Indian Dhaba
cuisine is unbeatable - nothing beats the stuffed
aloo paratha (potato baked within flat
bread) and hot chai (tea) with the
mist drifting past, literally sniffing in the
delicious aromas.
You can indulge in walking.
Journey down the forest, climb the hills, chase
off to Manikaran on the trekkers track - through
streams and rocky paths, wide enough to take
only one foot at a time. Just remember to step
aside courteously, as large herds of sheep file
past, casting secretive looks towards all those
who don't look like them!
It would be an understatement
to say that time comes to a standstill. Spend
a week or a lifetime and go back craving for
more. Kasol is not just an ordinary village.
It’s not just another getaway from the
heat zones. It’s an experience and the
sole way to enjoy is to experience it!
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