After three days of continuously changing buses and sleeping on the night train, I finally found myself having a sip of masala tea in one of the local restaurants in Vashisht village in Himachal Pradesh.
What a blessing!
After a pretty busy life in Rajasthan, I just desired to escape to a green oasis full of good people and positive, calm atmosphere.
Located just 2km away from Manali – Central Himachal Pradesh, Vashisht is a great escape to the Nature and low key vibes of a local community. The little village is spread along the mountainside above the Beas River. It provides mountain views, well worth the short drive from Manali. If you arrive to Vashisht on a sunny day, you can catch some great panoramic views, above the city of Manali with a colorful balloon.
Vashisht village attracts wanderers and hippies, who seek for an economical, communal and stress-free life. It is also a popular weekend gateway for Indian families, visiting neighboring Manali.
Named after the Rishi Vashisht, the revered sage in the Hindu mythology, Vashisht vaillage is considered as a significant sacred place. One of the main attractions of the city is the Vashisht temple, well-known for offering natural hot springs all year long. The hot natural waters from Himalayas are located under the temple in separated tanks, reserved for woman and man. It is very important place for residents, who take a dip in hot baths almost every day. Decoration such as ornate wood carvings, ancient figures and paintings, make this place very outstanding.
In the front of the Vashisht temple, you can come across lovely local ladies holding big white rabbits. They are a kind of attraction for tourists, willing to take a picture with a fluffy friend.
So, it is time to move on to my favorite part of the city! Yogini waterfall – that’s the spot!
It is located on the northern hills of the sacred Vashisht. A pleasant hike takes about one and a half hour and it offers incredible views over the city. A well marked hilly path allows you to see the life of native people and discover the nearest lush forest.
Once you reach the waterfall, there are two different ways to see it, from a different perspective. I choose the one which needs an additional 15min hike uphill. However, the view is worth every step!
It is a truly remarkable spot to just take a breath and relax.
I was lucky enough (or not) to come across a local man sitting on the way to the lush forest. After noticing me, he enthusiastically started taking something out of the bag. When I came closer, I noticed one snake and two cobras in the front of my feet.
Walking along the main (and the only) road in Vashisht, you can find plenty of cafes and restaurants serving Indian, Chinese, Israel and Continental food. Local vendors offer everything from paintings, local craft, traditional clothes and Indian jewelry.
If you are vising Manali, don’t forget to have a stop in this lovely village. Vashisht is one of the most attractive off the beaten track destinations in Himalayas that gives the authentic touch of local life.
In the front of the Vashisht temple, you can come across lovely local ladies holding big white rabbits. They are a kind of attraction for tourists, willing to take a picture with a fluffy friend.
So, it is time to move on to my favorite part of the city! Yogini waterfall – that’s the spot!
I was lucky enough (or not) to come across a local man sitting on the way to the lush forest. After noticing me, he enthusiastically started taking something out of the bag. When I came closer, I noticed one snake and two cobras in the front of my feet.
Walking along the main (and the only) road in Vashisht, you can find plenty of cafes and restaurants serving Indian, Chinese, Israel and Continental food. Local vendors offer everything from paintings, local craft, traditional clothes and Indian jewelry.
If you are vising Manali, don’t forget to have a stop in this lovely village. Vashisht is one of the most attractive off the beaten track destinations in Himalayas that gives the authentic touch of local life.
