Pulga Village: The Hidden Gem of Parvati Valley
Nestled deep within the breathtaking Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Pulga Village is an offbeat paradise that remains untouched by mass tourism. Unlike its more famous neighbors Kasol and Tosh, Pulga village offers travelers a chance to disconnect from the chaos of city life and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature. With its lush green landscapes, wooden houses, mystical Fairy Forest, and laid-back hippie culture, Pulga village is the perfect destination for those seeking peace, adventure, and spiritual rejuvenation.
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Pulga special, how to reach it, the best things to do, and why it should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Pulga Village
How to Reach Pulga Village
Pulga is not directly accessible by road, which adds to its secluded charm. To get there, follow these steps:
Step 1: Reach Bhuntar (The Gateway to Parvati Valley)
The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar, about 50 km from Pulga. However, flights to Bhuntar are infrequent.
The most common way to reach Bhuntar is by taking an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to Bhuntar, which takes 10-12 hours from Delhi.
Step 2: Travel to Barshaini
From Bhuntar, take a local bus or a taxi to Barshaini, the last motorable point before Pulga. The drive takes about 2-3 hours and passes through Kasol, Manikaran, and Tosh.
Alternatively, if you’re coming from Kasol or Manikaran, you can find direct taxis to Barshaini.
Step 3: Trek to Pulga
From Barshaini, Pulga is a short 30-40 minute uphill trek. The trail is scenic, passing through dense forests and small wooden bridges over gushing streams.
If you have luggage, local porters or mules are available for hire.
Why Pulga village is a Must-Visit Destination
1. The Fairy Forest: A Mystical Wonderland
Pulga’s Fairy Forest is one of its biggest attractions. The dense deodar and pine forests create an enchanting atmosphere, making it feel like a scene from a fairytale. With its sun-dappled trails, moss-covered rocks, and the sounds of birds and rustling leaves, the forest is perfect for nature walks, photography, or meditation.
2. A Tranquil Escape from Tourist Crowds
Unlike Kasol, Tosh, and Kheerganga, which have seen a surge in commercial tourism, Pulga retains its authentic charm and serenity. There are no noisy parties or overcrowded streets here—just the sound of nature, peaceful cafés, and friendly locals.
3. Affordable Stay and Food Options
Pulga is a budget-friendly destination, with accommodations ranging from cozy homestays to wooden guesthouses offering rooms for as little as ₹300-₹500 per night. Popular guesthouses include:
The Pinewood Café & Homestay
Boom Shiva Guesthouse
Blue Sheep Café
Cafés in Pulga serve delicious Israeli, Indian, and Continental food, with specialties like Nutella pancakes, wood-fired pizzas, and herbal teas.
4. Stunning Views & Sunrise Points
Pulga is perched at a height of 2,210 meters, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the mighty Parvati River below. Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the valley, as golden hues light up the sky and mist rolls over the treetops.
5. Base for Adventure & Trekking
Pulga is a great starting point for some of Parvati Valley’s most exciting treks, including:
Kheerganga Trek (12 km, 4-5 hours) – Famous for its hot water springs and scenic beauty.
Rashol Trek (16 km, 5-6 hours) – A peaceful trek leading to a secluded Himachali village.
Waichin Valley (Magic Valley) Trek (8 km, 3-4 hours) – A lesser-known gem with breathtaking mountain views.
6. A Hippie Haven with a Vibrant Culture
Pulga is home to a small but thriving hippie community, with travelers from all over the world seeking spiritual retreats, yoga, music, and art. The village has a laid-back vibe, where people spend their days reading books, playing instruments, or simply enjoying the beauty of the mountains.
Best Time to Visit Pulga
Pulga is a year-round destination, but different seasons offer unique experiences:
Spring & Summer (March to June): Best for trekking, greenery, and pleasant weather (10-25°C).
Monsoon (July to September): Lush and beautiful, but landslides can make travel tricky.
Autumn (October to November): Crisp air, golden forests, and fewer tourists.
Winter (December to February): Snow-covered landscapes, freezing temperatures (-5 to 10°C), and a magical winter wonderland.
Tips for Visiting Pulga
✔ Pack Light – Since Pulga requires a trek, carry a backpack instead of heavy luggage.
✔ Carry Cash – There are no ATMs in Pulga, so withdraw money in Kasol or Bhuntar.
✔ Respect Local Culture – The village is home to traditional Himachali families, so dress modestly and avoid loud parties.
✔ Leave No Trace – Keep Pulga clean by disposing of waste properly and minimizing plastic use.
Final Thoughts
Pulga is a hidden paradise that offers everything a traveler could dream of—majestic landscapes, peaceful solitude, friendly locals, and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re a backpacker looking for budget stays, a trekker in search of new trails, or a seeker of spiritual peace, Pulga has something for everyone.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Parvati Valley, don’t just stop at Kasol—venture deeper and discover the magic of Pulga Village!
