Tosh History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
Manali
Himachal Pradesh
Tosh is a small village located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It lies at an altitude of around 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level and is nestled in the Himalayas, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and scenic landscapes.
Key Highlights:
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Location: Parvati Valley, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh
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Altitude: ~2,400 meters
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Nearby Places: Kasol, Manikaran, Kheerganga
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Popular For: Trekking, serene mountain views, backpacking culture, and apple orchards
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Vibe: A laid-back, bohemian village popular among trekkers and travelers looking for peace and natural beauty.
Tosh is a picturesque mountain village located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. Situated at an altitude of about 2,400 meters (7,900 feet) above sea level, it is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, peaceful atmosphere, and traditional wooden houses.
Tosh is a remote mountain village situated at approximately 2,400 meters above sea level in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. Historically, it was an isolated settlement, primarily inhabited by indigenous communities who practiced traditional agriculture and livestock rearing. The villages architecture features wooden houses with sloping roofs, reflecting the regions vernacular building styles. Over time, Tosh has evolved from a secluded hamlet to a popular destination for trekkers and backpackers, largely due to its picturesque landscapes and proximity to trekking routes like the Kheerganga Trek.
In recent years, Tosh has become known for the cultivation of cannabis—locally referred to as charas—due to the regions fertile soil and ideal climatic conditions in the Parvati Valley. This has added to the villages appeal, particularly among certain groups of travelers seeking a more unconventional experience.
This element has played a role in shaping the villages identity as a destination favored by travelers looking for offbeat and alternative experiences.
Best Time to Visit Tosh
The ideal months to explore Tosh are from April to June, when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lush and green. During this period, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities and treks. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans. Winter (October to February) offers snowfall and a tranquil atmosphere but comes with colder temperatures and potential travel challenges due to snow.
Top Things to Do in Tosh
Set out on a picturesque trek to Kheerganga, famous for its soothing natural hot springs and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The journey takes you through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and charming Himalayan villages, making it a refreshing and memorable adventure.
2. Visit Tosh Waterfall
A brief hike from the village takes you to Tosh Waterfall, where you can soak in the refreshing mist and peaceful ambiance—perfect for unwinding and finding a moment of calm for meditation.
3. Explore Local Cafés
Tosh is home to a lively café scene, where many spots serve delicious Israeli dishes such as falafel, hummus, and shakshuka. These cafés not only offer a warm, inviting atmosphere but also feature breath taking views of the majestic mountains that surround the village.
4. Shop for Handicrafts
The markets of Tosh are filled with an array of handmade woolens, semi-precious stones, and authentic Himachali crafts. Visitors often pick up unique items like dreamcatchers, chillums, and Bob Marley T-shirts as souvenirs of their trip.
5. Yoga and Meditation Retreats
The serene atmosphere of Tosh makes it a perfect destination for yoga and meditation. Many guesthouses and cafés in the village host classes and retreats, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and achieve inner tranquility.
6. Stargazing at Kutla Village
A brief walk from Tosh takes you to Kutla Village, an ideal location for stargazing. The pristine, unclouded skies provide a spectacular view of the Milky Way and various constellations, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.
Photography in Tosh
- Scenic Spots: Capture the stunning landscapes of Tosh, including snow-capped mountains, traditional wooden houses, and lush green valleys.
- Local Etiquette: Always ask for permission before photographing locals, especially in religious sites, to respect their privacy and traditions.
- Best Times: Golden hours—early morning and late afternoon—offer the best lighting for photography.
Safety Tips
- Carry Cash: ATMs are limited in Tosh, so it is advisable to withdraw cash beforehand from Kasol or Bhuntar.
- Respect Local Customs: Avoid touching temples or religious structures without permission.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to bring water with you on all treks and hikes to stay hydrated.
- Avoid Drugs: Refrain from using or carrying any illegal substances; penalties are severe.
- Travel in Groups: If unfamiliar with the area, consider trekking with a group for safety.
Famous Foods in Tosh
- Siddu: A classic Himachali steamed bread, typically served with a dollop of ghee.
- Trout Fish: Locally sourced from nearby rivers and flavored with authentic regional spices.
- Momos & Thukpa: Tibetan-style dumplings and noodle soup, popular in local cafés.
- Israeli Cuisine: Many cafés offer dishes like falafel, hummus, and shakshuka, reflecting the villages international influence.
How to reach Tosh by Air
Bus to Bhuntar
Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport): Located approximately 31–50 km from Tosh, this is the nearest airport. However, flight frequency is limited, and fares can be relatively high.
Chandigarh International Airport: The distance between Chandigarh International Airport to Tosh is 290km . From Chandigarh, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Tosh.
How to reach Tosh from Delhi
- Departure: Take buses from Delhis ISBT Kashmere Gate to Bhuntar.
- Duration: It takes approximately 11–14 hours.
- Cost: ?700–?1,500, depending on the bus type.
- From Bhuntar: Take a local bus or taxi to Kasol (about 30 km).
- Kasol to Barshaini: From Kasol, take a local bus or taxi to Barshaini.
- Barshaini to Tosh: From Barshaini, a 3 km trek leads to Tosh.
2. Private Car or Taxi
- Distance: Approximately 530 km.
- Duration: Approximately 12–13 hours.
- Cost: Approximately ?6,200.
- Route: Via NH44 and NH3.
- Comfort: Offers flexibility and comfort, especially for groups.
People also ask
1. Tosh is famous for?
Tosh is famous for:
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Scenic beauty: Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys in the Parvati Valley.
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Trekking: It is a base for treks like Kheerganga, Pin Parvati Pass, and Animal Pass.
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Hippie culture: Popular among backpackers for its relaxed vibe, cafes, and trance music.
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Apple orchards and wooden homes: Traditional Himachali village charm.
2. What is the best time to visit Tosh, Himachal Pradesh?
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Best time: April to June and September to November
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Spring & summer (Apr–Jun): Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
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Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies, post-monsoon greenery.
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Avoid monsoon (Jul–Aug): Risk of landslides.
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Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowfall, but can be very cold and roads may be blocked.
3. Snowfall in Tosh
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Yes, Tosh receives snowfall during winter, typically from late December to February.
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Snow adds a magical touch, but accessibility becomes difficult due to slippery roads and blocked passes.
4. Which hill station is near to Tosh?
Nearby hill stations:
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Kasol (20 km): Most popular base before Tosh.
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Manikaran (22 km): Known for hot springs.
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Manali (95 km): Major tourist hub.
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Kullu (85 km): Valley town with cultural significance.
5. Distance from Manali to Tosh?
6. Which is the nearest railway station to Tosh, Himachal Pradesh?
7. Tosh to Kasol distance?
8. Delhi to Tosh distance?
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