Tosh Valley is nestled in the picturesque Parvati Valley is the quaint village of Tosh. Tosh Valley trek is an easy trek that begins in Barshaini. Lush valleys, sprawling meadows, spectacular mountain views and the gushing Tons river, all make this trek an incredible experience. As you reach Tosh village, you’ll be pleased to explore the relaxed vibe of this charming place which is known for its hippie culture. The village also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Tosh is located around 20 km from Kasol and 3 km from Barshaini.
Trekking to Tosh Valley is not very difficult, so even beginners, kids and families can enjoy it. Trek usually takes 2 days with an overnight stay in Tosh village. You can find homestays and guest house facilities easily.
During the journey, you will walk through beautiful pine forests, wooden bridges and narrow mountain paths. In Tosh you will see a simple and peaceful village life which will take all your worries away. Colorful flowers, grazing animals and apple orchards give a feel of watching the dreamland stories in real.
The best time to trek to Tosh Valley is from April to October. During this time weather is pleasant. Tosh offers you to feel the real taste of a mountain village life without needing too much trekking experience. It's a perfect weekend escape from the busy lives of cities.
History of Tosh Valley Trek
Tosh village is a simple yet very charming village lying on the slopes of the great Himalayas. It is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, apple orchards and pine forests. Though there's no particular record of the history of Tosh, it's best known for its beautiful nature around it.
Tosh was believed to be a sacred place in old times. Locals believe that Tosh has been blessed and protected by Lord Shiva. There is also a small temple in the village devoted to Jamadagni Rishi who was a wise sage in Hindu mythology. The villagers still worship here and follow their old traditions.
Tosh remained isolated and untouched for hundreds of years. Only shepherds, wool weavers and some locals knew about this place. They grazed their animals here and grew crops like potatoes and maze. They lived in wooden houses and followed local customs and culture. Their life was difficult but peaceful and they didn't depend on cities for their daily needs. In the late 1990s, Tosh slowly gained recognition by tourists and travelers.
Trekkers who visited Kasol and Kheerganga, also started exploring nearby places like Tosh. Due to its simple and rustic vibes, it became a popular destination. With time, guesthouses, cafes and homestays opened here and locals also got opportunities to grow their source of income.
Though modern tourism brought some changes here, villagers still hold on to their old and traditional lifestyles. Tosh is an amalgamation of old and new and which makes it charming and unique.
Highlights of Tosh Valley Trek
Traditional Himachali Village Life
Tosh village is best known for its beautiful blend of old traditions and rustic mountain living. The lifestyle of villagers is simple yet charming. Wooden houses, locals in traditional Himachali attaires, spiritual inclinations and festivals celebrations, all make Tosh a idyllic village.
Cannabis Fields and Local Beliefs
The wild cannabis plants are naturally grown in the Tosh region. While cannabis is illegal to sell or buy, these fields have shaped local culture and stories. These plants are believed to be linked with Lord Shiva and spiritual practices.
Hippie and Backpacker Culture
Tosh has become a heaven for hippies and global backpackers over the years. Here you will see colorful cafes, trance music and a happy-go-lucky lifestyle. Tosh serves as a beautiful halt from the busy and noisy life of cities. Here time is slowed down and every moment feels like a pause.
Raw & Untouched Nature
Tosh Valley trek stands different from commercial treks. It offers a raw and unspoiled natural beauty combined with Himachali traditions. Though it's very famous among trekkers, you will not see crowd here. Snow-peaked mountains, dense forests, waterfalls and streams, everything is in raw form. The air feels fresh and surrounding peaceful.
Bonfire Nights and Local Stories
Evenings in Tosh are engaged with spotting sunset and nights end with bonfires. Locals tell enchanting stories of myths, spirits and gods. It creates an enjoyable atmosphere and trekkers enjoy it under the starry sky. Next morning, a perfect sunrise awaits you.
Difficulty Level of the Tosh Valley Trek
Located in Parvati Valley, Tosh Valley reaches a maximum elevation of around 2,400 meters (7,874 feet). The trekking here is classified as an easy trek which can be done by beginners, families, kids (above 7) and even solo.
The terrain is covered with dense forests, muddy trails, stone-paved paths and occasional wooden bridges over small streams. Path is mostly well-marked with gentle ascent. Basically, no technical climbing skill is required. Trekkers only need good fitness and stamina.
Tosh Valley is a short trek and takes around 2 days to complete. Total trekking distance from Barshaini to Tosh is about 3-4 km and it takes around 1.5 to 2 hrs to reach the village on foot.
Altitude of Tosh Valley is not so high hence the acclimatization is not a big concern. Trekking is quite manageable and homestays/guesthouses are available as there's no big loaded backpack to carry with.
Tosh Valley is an all-weather trek and can be done even in rain and winter but to avoid slippery trails and heavy snowfall, not recommended in monsoon and winter. However, many trekkers do it in winter time to enjoy snowfall. There can be few moderate challenges in winter but can be easily overcome with mild training and physical fitness.
Best Time to Visit Tosh Valley Trek
The best time to do Tosh Valley Trek is from early summer to late autumn (from April to November). This time weather is pleasant and sky remains clear to view the towering peaks of the Himalayas.
- April to June: After March, winter fades away and the temperature starts becoming normal. The daytime temperature range is between 15°C to 25°C while at night time, it remains around 5°C to 10°C. During these months, the meadows and trails come alive with green landscapes, blooming flowers and flowing waterfalls.
- July to August (Not Recommended): This is the monsoon season so expect heavy rainfall. Some trekkers do trekking during this time for enjoying lush green scenery and challenging trails. However, this time the risk of landslides increases and due to clouds the visibility is reduced. Trails are slippery and leeches are common this time. Beginners and kids should avoid trekking this time.
- September to November: The arrival of winter can make air crisp and trails dry during this time. However, the temperature remains similar to spring 10°C to 20°C in daytime and from 2°C to below 8°C at night. Tourists are fewer and environment is more peaceful. Perfect for photography. In late November, chances of snowfall is also high. Snow lovers can have a chance to view snowfall this time.
How to Reach Tosh Valley Trek
- Tosh Valley is located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh. To reach here, start your journey from Bhuntar (Kullu) in Himachal Pradesh.
- Bhuntar is well-connected by road and air. Bhuntar Airport (KUU) is the nearest airport, approx 50 km from Manali. You can also take an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to reach Bhuntar.
- From Bhuntar, start driving towards Barshaini (starting point) via Kasol and Manikaran. The drive takes around 4-5 hrs to reach Barshaini and offers glimpses of the Parvati Valley.
- Barshaini is the starting point of the Tosh Valley trek. From here, trek around 3 km (45-60 mins) to reach Tosh. You can also hire a local cab but trekking is more enjoyable due to scenic trails.
Things to Carry in Tosh Valley Trek
- Backpack (20–30L): Lightweight & comfortable
- Valid ID Proof
- 1 warm jacket/fleece
- Thermal innerwear (if trekking in cold season)
- 2-3 quick-dry t-shirts
- Trekking pants (avoid jeans)
- Raincoat (especially in monsoon)
- Woollen cap & sun cap
- Gloves (in winter)
- Extra socks & basic wears
- Good quality trekking shoes with grip
- Light slippers for campsite
- Tent (if not booking through a trek provider)
- Sleeping bag/mat
- Headlamp or torch (with extra batteries)
- Water bottle (minimum 2 litres)
- Electrolytes or ORS
- Energy bars, chocolates, dry fruits
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, painkiller, Diamox for AMS if going higher)
- Mobile + power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Trekking pole (optional but helpful)
- Small towel or napkin
- Garbage bag (leave no trace)
