"Living in small village(Katagla) far from city and its noise has its own charm and magic. It becomes even more enchanting when you have splendid nature all around you."
My travel story: Trip to Katagla
Being confined to the four walls for several months made me feel restricted and tedious. Nobody could even foresee the end of the pandemic, it was even getting worse. Inside I was poised to travel but could not make up my mind, So much mental resistance was there due to many factors and other things happening around me. Initially, the planned destination in my mind was Goa, India and I was thinking of booking tickets for the same based on some planned dates in upcoming weeks.
But something else even more beautiful was lined up for my vacation. The next morning I was searching for flights to Goa and I saw flights for Kullu, suddenly Kasol came to my mind. When I checked flight timings for Kullu it was the next morning at 8 AM 😱, and reaching Kasol from Kullu was just 40km. In the snap of a moment, I made up my mind and booked one-way tickets. I told myself to forget the huddles and take this flight anyway. Later I told my family that I was going tomorrow 😁.
I did all my pending chores and packed my bag 💼 , as time was quite limited. I managed to complete all the stuff and reached Chandigarh airport around 07:15 AM, That was the time I felt it was real, It was so much exciting and scary(due to COVID) both at the same time. Everything went perfectly smoothly and within 30 minutes after the flight, I was at Kullu. I had no pre-booking for stay and cab, I just checked a few home-stays before leaving. After a few phone calls and a Google search, I managed to get a cab for Kasol. While on my way to Kasol, I researched home-stays and hotels.
Below image taken on the way from Kullu To Katagla(Kasol) :
To my bad, the cab driver was unable to locate any of the homestays that I tried to search on Airbnb or internet. The driver pulled over at one spot which was 3km away from Kasol, saying your hotel could be down 👇 there. I could only see a narrow channel of mud going down towards the beautiful river flowing at the far end.
I was unable to contact/call any of the home stays that I researched on my way and I was not sure about going down almost 500m with my luggage without any bookings. I just looked around wondering what should i do next, I saw hoarding for “The white house” 😀. Without any 2nd thought, I called the number and they had accommodation available at a genuine price, The guy over call was quite humble and they sent someone to help me with my bag and location.
Initially, the place seemed too far from the city and other amenities but it’s perfectly fine if you are looking for a peaceful & pleasant stay. This place was surrounded by magnificent lush green mountains and what makes it even more beautiful is the “Parvati Valley“. Parvati River flows right in front of the guest house. The view of the entire village is breathtaking and picturesque. Check out the pictures below from the white house.
Within a few hours, I knew that I was at the perfect location. Internally I was way too happy that I booked the tickets and made my decision to travel to Kasol. It was surely better than Goa. “The best decisions are made without thinking”😊this is so true. This trip was more of a work-cation for me as I was working as well during day hours. Working from the mountains is for sure a different experience, that I had for the 1st time in my career.
I was awestruck by the beauty of this village. Few pictures that I couldn’t resist my self to click.
About Katagla and how to reach there
Katagla is a small village 3km away from Kasol. It’s very close to Parvati River. Not much populated. Few locals here are running small shops and cafes. Katagla is a very beautiful and peaceful location to break out from monotonous life and for a peaceful vacation. This place is not so famous as of now, so fewer tourists and a minimal crowd. Katagla has its pristine vibes. Its astonishing and breathtaking views will leave you amazed. The village has small farms and apple orchards 🌳, Wooden houses with unique architecture.
How to reach Katagla
By Air To reach katagla nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Bhuntar airport. Distance from Bhuntar Airport to Katagla is approx 30 km. From here either you can take the bus 🚌 to kasol or you can book a cab🚕. Locals will guide you to the bus stop and a cab can be booked from the airport itself or you will get multiple options online as well. You will have to get down at stop Shani Mandir, which is the closest stop for Katagla, after that, you will have to walk approx 500m.
By Bus there are numerous Volvo/AC buses running from Delhi and Chandigarh. Towards Kasol daily bus services are available. You can take based on your comfort. In case you are already in Kasol, There is also an option to trek from Kasol to Katagla. It will take you around 30 minutes to reach Katagla from Kasol.
Stay at Katagla
This place has cafes, multiple home stays, and camping options, During my visit I stayed at “The white house” and “Perkup Hostel“. You will be able to find a stay at very nominal rates. It starts from Rs400 overnight to Rs1500 per night approx. Different home stays have different types of amenities. WiFi would be available in most of the guest houses and camps. WiFi is a must because the phone network is weak in Katagla.
Airtel signals are limited in Katagla, Jio network works fine.
Below are the pictures from The white house and Perkup Hostels.
Perkup Hostel is another cafe + hostel in Katagla. This place is always lively and colorful be it day or night. Here you can enjoy an amazing interior and joyful vibes, they have superb sitting arrangements on the terrace with a few games in there. Apart from all that, there is a magnificent mountain view from this place. Check out a few pictures below:
Things to do in Katagla
- The Meraki cave : To taste some mouth-watering food and drinks 🥘 🍲 you must visit this cafe. You can enjoy some customized food also, as the chef at Meraki will give ample options to choose from. This place has its vibes. Check out the pics below. Delicious food to treat your taste buds.
2. Katagla to Chalal Trek
I went to all different areas in Kasol, But this trek was something that I loved. Mostly because of the landscapes and surroundings. Lush green is almost everywhere. The higher you climb, magnificent the view. Small farms and apple 🍎 orchards all around.
The picture on the left was taken while trekking toward Chalal from Katagla.
3. Memorable walk along the Parvati River: Yes, You need to do it, to feel it yourself. The constant gushing sound of the river and heart-touching scenic view ❤️.
There are a few more cafes like Shiva Cafe and Mountains Calling Cafe which you can try.
Other places to visit around Katagla
- Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran
- Malana
- Tosh
- Kasol
- Chalal Village
Check out more details in my other post. I have added pictures and details for the above places >>>. “Not To Miss” these places if you are traveling to kasol. For any other queries please drop a comment below will try to assist you on the same.
Woww very nice and detailed.
👍
Where to park private vehicle at Katalga..is it safe..??
Vehicle parking is possible just near the katagla Bridge, Its safe. But you have to figure out the way to reach that parking spot.
Amazing