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Barsheni

Barsheni

Published on August 23, 2025

Tucked away in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Barsheni is a small and serene village that serves as the starting point of the famous Kheerganga Trek. Surrounded by lush pine forests, towering mountains, and the sound of the Parvati River flowing nearby, Barsheni is a place where travelers instantly feel calm and connected to nature.

Although it is often seen as just a stopover for trekkers, Barsheni itself is a hidden gem worth exploring. It’s quiet, scenic, and offers an authentic taste of Himachali village life—something you may miss in busier tourist spots like Kasol or Manikaran.

Where is Barsheni Located?

Barsheni lies around 20 kilometers from Kasol and about 3 kilometers from Tosh village. It is the last motorable point in Parvati Valley, which makes it an important base for several treks:

  • Kheerganga Trek

  • Tosh Valley Trek

  • Pin Parvati Pass Trek

The village is perched at an altitude of around 2,200 meters (7,200 feet), which gives it cool weather almost all year round.

The Charm of Barsheni Village

What makes Barsheni truly special is its peaceful atmosphere. While nearby Kasol is busy with cafés and travelers, Barsheni remains calm and untouched. Here’s what you’ll notice when you arrive:

  • Green Fields and Forests: The village is surrounded by apple orchards, pine forests, and terraced fields.

  • Traditional Houses: You’ll see wooden Himachali homes with slate roofs, giving the place a rustic charm.

  • Snowy Mountain Views: The Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges are visible in the background, making every glance picture-perfect.

  • Local Lifestyle: The friendly villagers live a simple life, farming and tending to their animals.

This calm environment makes Barsheni not just a trekking base but also a place to slow down and enjoy nature.

kasol kheerganga tour package

How to Reach Barsheni

Reaching Barsheni is easy if you’re already in the Parvati Valley:

  1. From Bhuntar (nearest bus stop/airport):

    • Take a local bus or shared taxi to Kasol (around 30 km).

    • From Kasol, continue by road for another 20 km to Barsheni.

  2. From Delhi or Chandigarh:

    • Take an overnight bus to Bhuntar.

    • Then follow the same route via Kasol to Barsheni.

The road leading to Barsheni is narrow but scenic, with pine trees, small waterfalls, and glimpses of the Parvati River running alongside.

Things to Do in Barsheni

Even though Barsheni is small, it has a lot to offer to travelers who love nature, peace, and local culture.

1. Start the Kheerganga Trek

The 12 km trek to Kheerganga begins from Barsheni. It takes you through dense forests, wooden bridges, and beautiful waterfalls before reaching the natural hot springs at the top.

2. Visit Tosh Village

Just 3 km uphill from Barsheni, Tosh is another peaceful village with stunning valley views and cozy homestays. You can trek or take a shared taxi.

3. Explore Kalga and Pulga Villages

These two villages are just a short hike from Barsheni. Surrounded by forests, they’re perfect for travelers who want to stay away from crowds.

4. Relax by the Parvati River

Barsheni is very close to the river. Spend time sitting on the rocks, listening to the sound of flowing water, and enjoying the natural beauty.

5. Interact with Locals

The people of Barsheni are warm and welcoming. Staying in a local guesthouse gives you a chance to try Himachali food and learn about their culture.

Best Time to Visit Barsheni

Barsheni is open to travelers throughout the year, but the best time depends on what you want to do:

  • March to June (Spring/Summer): Ideal weather for trekking and sightseeing.

  • July to September (Monsoon): The valley turns greener, but landslides are possible.

  • October to November (Autumn): Clear skies and stunning mountain views.

  • December to February (Winter): Cold and snowy, great for snow lovers but trekking routes may be closed.

Where to Stay in Barsheni

While most people head to Tosh or Kasol for accommodation, Barsheni also has basic guesthouses and homestays. Staying here is cheaper and quieter. You’ll get:

  • Clean rooms with basic facilities.

  • Warm food like rajma-chawal, parathas, and maggi.

  • The chance to experience life in a Himalayan village.

Why Visit Barsheni Instead of Just Passing Through?

Most travelers see Barsheni only as a stop on the way to Kheerganga. But if you spend even a few hours here, you’ll discover:

  • It’s peaceful and less touristy.

  • It’s a great place to rest before or after a trek.

  • The views are beautiful without much effort.

  • You get to experience Himachali hospitality.

Barsheni shows you authentic Parvati Valley life without cafés or loud music—just nature and calm surroundings.

kaso to kheerganga trek

Tips for Travelers

  • Carry cash: ATMs are rare.

  • Wear good shoes: Roads and trails can be muddy or uneven.

  • Pack light: If trekking, only take what you need.

  • Respect local culture: Dress modestly and avoid littering.

  • Plan transport: Shared taxis are available, but they fill up quickly.

Nearby Attractions to Add to Your Trip

  • Manikaran Sahib (10 km): A famous Gurudwara with hot springs.

  • Kasol (20 km): Popular tourist hub with cafés and shops.

  • Tosh (3 km): Peaceful village with great views.

  • Kalga, Pulga (2–3 km): Forest villages for nature lovers.

Barsheni – A Gateway and a Destination in Itself

Barsheni may be known as the starting point of the Kheerganga Trek, but it’s much more than that. With its lush greenery, snow-capped mountains, flowing rivers, and simple Himachali life, this little village is a refreshing break from crowded tourist spots.

Whether you’re a trekker, backpacker, or someone who just wants to sit by the river and breathe fresh air, Barsheni gives you the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

When you leave Barsheni, you don’t just carry photographs—you carry the peaceful spirit of Parvati Valley with you.