Into the Heart of Parvati Valley: My Soulful Trek to Kheerganga

There are some journeys that stay with you forever. Not just because of the terrain or the views, but because of what they awaken inside you. My Hampta Pass trek had been one such soul-shifting experience. But months later, I found myself craving the Himalayas again—not for the thrill this time, but for peace. That’s when someone whispered, “Why don’t you try the Kasol-Kheerganga trek?”

I didn’t expect this trail to move me the way it did. But somewhere between the wild Parvati River, dense cedar forests, and the warmth of a natural hot spring at 9,700 ft, I found a version of myself I hadn’t met in a long time.

Kasol: The Beginning of Something Beautiful

I arrived in Kasol on a quiet evening. The village was humming—backpackers strolling with guitars, bonfires crackling outside cafés, and the scent of baked bread mixing with pine in the crisp air. Nestled in the heart of Parvati Valley, Kasol isn’t just a starting point for trekkers—it's a vibe.

The next morning, I wandered by the river, watching it tumble and roar, untamed and full of life. Something about the Parvati River stirs you. It’s not calm, but it pulls you in, like a voice urging you to let go and follow.

That’s exactly what I did. I followed the trail. Not for records, not for summits—but to simply feel again.

The Trail Begins: Barshaini to Kheerganga

We drove to Barshaini, the trek’s base point, where the air gets cooler and the forests grow thicker. From there, we crossed a wooden bridge and stepped onto the path that would take us deep into the Himalayas.

The initial stretch passed through Nakthan village, where children waved at us and old women sold apples from their orchards. The trail was moderate, but every bend brought a new postcard view—pine-covered cliffs, grazing goats, distant waterfalls. The kind of beauty that doesn’t scream, but whispers to you, slowly pulling your thoughts into stillness.

I remember walking silently for hours. Just the crunch of my boots, the rustle of leaves, and the Parvati River rumbling below. This wasn’t the harsh, barren beauty of Hampta. This was lush, alive, and warm.

Lost in the Forest, Found in Myself

Midway through the trek, we paused near a waterfall where mist cooled our faces and chai warmed our hands. The local tea stalls on the route are nothing short of lifelines—each offering chai, Maggi, biscuits, and always a smile.

As we climbed further, clouds started rolling in. The trail became slippery. My legs ached. But something about that forest—dense, misty, mysterious—made me push on. Every tree felt ancient, every turn felt like it had been waiting for me.

We walked in silence, each of us in our own world, until the trees parted and we saw it—Kheerganga.

Kheerganga: Where the Sky Meets the Soul

I wasn’t prepared for how beautiful it would be.

Kheerganga is a clearing tucked between mountains, with campsites lined in neat rows, colorful flags fluttering in the wind, and wisps of smoke rising from the food shacks. And in the middle of it all—the famous hot water spring.

Drenched in sweat and fatigue, I dropped my bag and headed straight to the pool. As I slipped into the steaming water, the world outside melted. My legs relaxed, my mind slowed down, and my heart felt like it had finally caught up with my body.

It’s strange—how just hot water and cold air can feel like therapy.

Later that night, we sat around a fire, watching the stars pierce through the inky sky. The Milky Way was visible—clear, brilliant, humbling. I thought of Hampta again—those silent nights, those endless skies. And I realized, I didn’t need to be at 14,000 feet to feel infinite.

The Descent: Gentle Steps and Heavy Hearts

The next morning, the weather had shifted. Fog hugged the mountains like a lover refusing to let go. We had one last chai at a local shack and began our descent.

The trek down felt lighter physically, but emotionally heavier. I wanted to stay longer. I wanted more time to soak in the slowness. But perhaps that’s what makes places like this special—you can’t hold onto them. You carry the feeling, not the place.

We reached Barshaini by noon, tired but content. I took one last look at the mountains, whispering a silent thank you.

Why Kheerganga Is a Trek for the Soul

There are treks that test your strength. Then there are treks that heal you. Kasol to Kheerganga is the latter.

It’s perfect for beginners, but also for experienced trekkers looking for a softer, more soulful escape. You won’t need crampons or guides. Just a good pair of shoes, a warm hoodie, and an open heart.

From lush forest trails to hot springs, cozy tents, and Himalayan views, this trek offers the kind of peace we’re all secretly craving.

If you’ve been feeling burned out, numb, or just… off, pack a bag and head to Kheerganga. Let the forest quiet your mind. Let the river wash your worries. Let the hot spring melt your stress.