Malana is a beautiful village in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The village is known for its unique culture, language, and beautiful natural landscapes. Here are the top two places to visit in Malana:
1. Introduction
Malana is a small, remote village nestled in the Parvati Valley, at an altitude of 2,652 meters. It is famous for its unique culture, language, and beautiful natural landscapes. Malana is accessible only on foot and is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
2. Malana Village
Malana village is a place like no other. It is known for its unique culture and language, which is different from the rest of the country. The people of Malana consider themselves to be descendants of Alexander the Great and have their own set of customs and beliefs. The village is also famous for its hand-woven shawls and the famous Malana cream. Visitors are required to follow a strict code of conduct while in the village.
3. Trek to Chandrakhani Pass
The Chandrakhani Pass trek is a must-do for anyone visiting Malana. The trek is a moderate one and offers breathtaking views of the Parvati Valley. The trek takes you through dense forests, quaint villages, and meadows, and ends at the Chandrakhani Pass, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek is best done in the summer months.
4. Malana Glacier Trek
The Malana Glacier trek is a challenging one and is recommended only for experienced trekkers. The trek takes you through rugged terrain, rocky trails, and narrow gorges. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The trek is best done in the summer months.
5. Kullu Manali Circuit
The Kullu Manali circuit is a popular tourist route and can be combined with a visit to Malana. The circuit takes you through the beautiful Kullu Valley, Manali town, and other nearby attractions. The route is dotted with temples, hot springs, and natural beauty.
6. Bhrigu Lake Trek
The Bhrigu Lake trek is a popular trek in the region and is named after the sage Bhrigu. The trek takes you through beautiful meadows, forests, and high altitude lakes. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and is best done in the summer months.
7. Kasol
Kasol is a beautiful village located close to Malana and is known for its natural beauty and laid-back vibe. The village is famous for its scenic beauty, backpacker culture, and adventure sports. Kasol is a great place to relax and unwind after a trek or a visit to Malana.
8. Malana Cream
Malana cream is a unique product that has become synonymous with the village itself. It is illegal to produce or possess cannabis in India, but Malana cream is still produced and sold in the village. Visitors are advised to be cautious when purchasing Malana cream and to avoid carrying it out of the village.
9. How to Reach Malana
Malana is accessible only on foot and can be reached by trekking from the nearest town, Jari. Jari is well-connected by road and can be reached from the major cities in the region. The trek from Jari to Malana is a moderate one and takes around 4-5 hours.
10. Best Time to Visit Malana
The best time to visit Malana is from April to June and from September to November. The weather during these months is pleasant, and the trekking trails are open. The monsoon season, from July to August, should be avoided as the trails can be slippery and dangerous.
11. Where to Stay in Malana
There are no hotels or guesthouses in Malana, and visitors are required to stay in the nearby town of Jari. Jari has a few budget guesthouses and homestays that offer basic amenities.
12. What to Pack for Malana
Visitors to Malana should pack warm clothes, trekking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. It is also important to carry enough cash as there are no ATMs in the village.
13. Things to Do in Malana
Apart from trekking and exploring the village, there are not many things to do in Malana. Visitors can spend time with the locals, learn about their culture and customs, and try the local cuisine.
14. Local Etiquette in Malana
Visitors to Malana are required to follow a strict code of conduct. They should be respectful of the local culture and customs. Here are some local etiquettes to keep in mind:
- Visitors are not allowed to touch any property or person in the village without permission.
- Visitors should not touch or enter any religious structures in the village.
- Photography is strictly prohibited in the village. Visitors should not take any photographs of the locals or the village without permission.
- Visitors should not litter in the village and should dispose of their waste responsibly.
- Visitors should not offer money or gifts to the locals. This is considered disrespectful and can be offensive to the locals.
It is important to remember that Malana is a unique and isolated community with its own set of customs and beliefs. Visitors should respect the local culture and traditions to ensure a positive and respectful experience.
15. Conclusion
Malana is a unique and beautiful village in the Parvati Valley. It offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors to Malana can enjoy trekking, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. However, it is important to follow the local etiquette and be respectful of the local culture and customs. A visit to Malana is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
16. FAQs
- Is Malana safe for tourists?
- Yes, Malana is safe for tourists. However, visitors should follow the local etiquette and be respectful of the local culture and customs.
- What is the best time to visit Malana?
- The best time to visit Malana is from April to June and from September to November.
- Is it possible to stay in Malana?
- Yes, it is possible to stay in Malana. However, visitors should respect the local customs and traditions while staying in the village.
- How do I reach Malana?
- The only way to reach Malana is by foot. The nearest town is Kasol, which is accessible by road.
- Can I try the Malana cream?
- Yes, visitors can try the Malana cream. However, it is important to remember that cannabis is illegal in India and visitors should be aware of the laws and regulations.