"Finding Stillness in the Himalayas: My First Journey Through Parvati Valley and Stay at North Deodar Camps"

My first journey to Kasol and the Parvati Valley was a leap into the unknown, but with a touch of nervous excitement. After much research, I picked up the phone and called North Deodar Camps & Resort, hoping for some guidance. The person on the other end introduced himself as Ashish, the Managing Director, whose warmth and local insight instantly put me at ease. Instead of a rehearsed pitch, Ashish patiently listened to my excitement (and inexperience) and suggested a detailed 4-day itinerary that promised to show me not just Kasol, but the spirit of Parvati Valley itself.

Arriving in Kasol: First Impressions

Nothing truly prepares you for that first drive into Kasol—the dense deodars arching above, the crisp mountain air, and the gentle roar of the Parvati River somewhere below. North Deodar Camps & Resort was easy to find, nestled comfortably a little away from the bustling market, yet close enough for spontaneous wanderings. The property itself seemed stitched into the landscape, with cedar-wood cottages and Swiss camps offering both comfort and stunning views of forested mountains.

The staff, true to Ashish’s promise, carried the gentleness of the mountains in their manner. They greeted me like an old friend and guided me to one of their newly furnished rooms: modern amenities blended perfectly with rustic charm—a balcony overlooking the river, a soft bed to sink into after a long journey, and the subtle scent of pine drifting in through open windows.

Mornings by the Parvati: Stillness and Serenity

On my first morning, I followed the trail from the resort down to where the Parvati River frothed over rocks, sunlight sparkling on fast water. Yoga and meditation became a daily ritual; the valley’s calmness somehow made each breath deeper, each stretch more meaningful. With nothing but the sounds of birds and the river, I felt more grounded than I had in years—a lesson in living gently, learned from nature herself.

Village Cafés and Day Hikes

Lunchtimes were set aside for wandering across the suspension bridge to Chalal or toward the creative cafes dotted around Katagla. Each place had its own personality—some lined with books and poetry, others alive with music played by the backpacker crowd. The slow pace, conversation with café owners, and the taste of wood-fired pizzas or Himachali thali made even simple meals a memory.

One afternoon, longing to see more than the usual, I set off on a hike to Rashol. The trek is a test of endurance, rising sharply through forests, but every step offered a new perspective: glimpses of villages clinging to hillsides, children waving from distant fields, the sharp, exhilarating air. When I finally reached Rashol, it was as if time slowed—locals invite you for chai and stories, sharing a slice of their daily life amidst cool cedar groves.

Exploring Parvati: Manikaran, Tosh, Kalga & Pulga

Ashish guided me in planning flexible local trips from the resort base. From here, it was easy to spend a day exploring Manikaran Sahib’s spiritual corridors, the hot springs mixing mythology and mountain science. Another trip took me through winding roads to Tosh, Pulga, and Kalga—villages unlike any I'd visited: wooden homes, apple orchards, friendly faces, and a pace of life that whispered ‘slow down’ at every turn.

The Kheerganga Trek: Challenge and Reward

The highlight, without doubt, was the Kheerganga trek, which we attempted on the third day. From the base at Barshaini, the trail winds past waterfalls, ancient forests, and meadows straight out of a dream. The climb pushes you to your limits, but the summit—an alpine clearing with hot springs, surrounded by snow peaks—is nothing short of magic. That night, we stayed at simple camps on top, telling stories around the fire, watching the stars multiply in the inky mountain sky.

Returning to North Deodar the next day was a homecoming. Aching legs were soothed under hot showers, and the chef had prepared a delicious array of Himachali and Indian dishes, all served with a smile—comfort food elevated by mountain hunger. There’s something deeply satisfying about returning from adventure to a place where both body and spirit find rest.

North Deodar: River Access, New Rooms & Unmatched Hospitality

One of my favorite surprises was the direct river access the property offered. Evenings were spent sitting quietly on the stony riverbank, sometimes joining other guests in meditation, sometimes lost in thought. The blend of rustic camps and their new hotel rooms offered choices for every kind of traveler—from those who seek ‘glamping’ comfort to backpackers eager for a true camping vibe. What stood out throughout was the friendliness and genuine hospitality: nothing was too much to ask.

Learning from the Valley and Its People

With each day, Parvati Valley taught me something—patience, respect for nature, the quiet dignity of mountain people. Conversations with the staff and villagers lingered long after meals were cleared; there’s wisdom here that doesn’t shout, but seeps in slowly, like the mist curling through the deodar trees.

A Memorable Base for the Valley

By the end of my 4-day journey, North Deodar Camps & Resort had become more than just a place to stay—it was my home in the valley, a launchpad for exploration, and a retreat for reflection. Whether it was the sound of the river at dawn, the warmth of a cup of chai after a long hike, or the simple joy of meeting kindred spirits, every moment stitched itself into the fabric of my travel memories. For anyone planning to truly cover Parvati Valley from a single base, I can’t imagine a better place to begin (and end) each day than here.