Welcome to Tosh, the village located at the end of Parvati Valley, this quaint village is a hidden gem in the hills of Himachal Pradesh. Tosh is a destination that is untouched by modernisation and a perfect escape for those seeking peace and serenity.
The village is popular among backpackers, especially those from Israel and Europe, who come here to escape the chaos of their daily life. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to trade their laptop for a mountain view and some fresh air? Tosh is a do-nothing vacation spot where you can take a break from the fast-paced city life and simply relax.
But that’s not all, folks! Tosh is also famous for its cannabis plantations, so you know it’s a chill place to be. And the hippie culture and otherworldly vibe of this village will surely transport you to another world.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, then the Tosh Kasol trek is just the thing for you. With its gradual terrain and the waters of river Parvati flowing through its bosom, this trek is a go-to expedition for all adventure seekers. And if trekking isn’t your thing, then you can take a walk through the village passing through the apple orchards and green pastures.
Tosh is a melting pot of cultures, and you can interact with people from all over the world at local eateries. You can try some indigenous as well as exotic food while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.
The village has scattered villages across the lush green hills juxtaposed against snow-dusted peaks. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during January or February, you can even catch a glimpse of the temple of Jamdagni Rishi, which is opened only once a year. The temple has a long verandah which provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding snow-capped Himalayan ranges.
And let’s not forget about the parties! Tosh is a hub for backpackers, and many psychedelic and trance parties are organised here. So, get ready to dance the night away and make some new friends.
The best time to visit Tosh is from April to October, though it has a pleasant weather throughout the year. And if you’re feeling adventurous, then the period from November to February sees the whole village covered in snow, and it can be a good time to visit if you want to experience the freezing cold.
Since tourism is growing at a fast pace in Tosh, many guesthouses and hotels are coming up. There is budget accommodation available in the village, with most of these guesthouses having a tandoor in each room to keep it warm and a common bathroom. And if you’re a Pink Floyd fan, then you’ll be happy to know that there’s a guesthouse named after them! Other stay options available include Ashwin Cafe and Hotel Hilltop. And if you want a more authentic experience, then there are also some homestays in Tosh, though they are few in number.
The cafes in Tosh mainly serve Indian, Italian and European food. The food available here is a little expensive as it’s a lot of effort to bring all the raw materials up to the village. But trust us when we say that it’s worth every penny. And like all other hill stations in Himachal, Tosh also has vendors at various places serving Maggi with a cup of tea. There is something about having Maggi at a high altitude in the chilly weather that just hits the spot.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, put on your hiking shoes, and head to Tosh for a vacation you’ll never forget!