Malana is a hidden, peaceful village in Himachal’s Parvati Valley, surrounded by mountains and greenery. The people here follow their own old customs and speak a special language. Visitors are welcome but must respect the village’s unique rules and culture.
Overview for Malana, Himachal Pradesh:
Located in Parvati Valley, Malana is not a regular hill station. This small, ancient village in Himachal Pradesh is a hidden natural beauty of the Himalayas. Malana is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and green valleys. But what makes Malana truly special is the village’s unique lifestyle and rules, which are very different from the rest of India.
To experience this beauty, you can check out our Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages. The people of Malana believe they are descendants of Alexander the Great’s army. Because of this, they follow their own customs, language (called Kanashi), and rules. Outsiders are not allowed to touch anything or anyone in the village. If they do, the item must be cleaned with water. However, it is not with the whole village, but some parts that follow this type of stereotype. You are welcome to visit, but the locals expect you to respect their way of life. This strong cultural identity is what makes Malana so fascinating.
Another reason Malana is popular is because of its location. It lies at an altitude of around 2,650 meters, surrounded by the beautiful Chandrakhani and Deo Tibba peaks. It offers peace, quiet, and breathtaking views.
What are the Key Highlights & Attractions for Malana, Himachal Pradesh:
- Trek to Malana Village: You cannot drive directly to Malana. You must trek from a point called Malana Gate. It’s a 3-4 km walk with amazing mountain views, the trail is scenic and refreshing.
- Chandrakhani Pass Viewpoint: Once you’re in Malana, take a short walk to see the Chandrakhani Pass. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views of the snowy peaks and green valley below. It’s a great place for photos.
- Jamlu Devta Temple: This temple is at the centre of Malana village. The locals worship Jamlu Devta as their main deity. Tourists are not allowed to touch or enter the temple, but you can view it from a distance and learn about the village’s spiritual beliefs.
- Malana Cream (Cannabis): Malana is also known worldwide for a high-quality form of hashish called “Malana Cream.” Though the production and selling of cannabis are illegal, many tourists are curious about it. Please note that carrying or consuming it is against Indian law and can get you into serious trouble.
Travel Tips & Essential Information for Malana, Himachal Pradesh:
- How to Reach Malana: First, reach Kasol or Bhuntar by bus or car. From Bhuntar, you can take a taxi to Jari or Malana Gate. From Malana Gate, you’ll need to walk uphill for about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the village.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Malana is from April to June and September to November. The weather is pleasant, and the skies are usually clear. Avoid visiting during the monsoon, as the trails are slippery.
- Where to Stay: You cannot stay inside Malana village. However, there are guesthouses and homestays available near the base of the trek or at places like Jari and Kasol. You can also stay in camps in the valley near the trek start point.
- Respect Local Customs: Do not touch anything or anyone in the village. Do not enter homes or temples. Ask before taking photos. The villagers follow strict rules, and outsiders must follow them too. Breaking their rules may offend them.
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