The breathtaking views of the Deo Tibba and Chandrakhani peaks are simply the bonus.

By Ajit Brar

Nestled in the remote folds of the Himalayas, Malana village is a place unlike any other. Known as “The Village of Taboos,” this ancient settlement in the Parvati Valley is shrouded in a unique mystique and is believed to be one of the world’s oldest democracies. For centuries, the Malani people have preserved a distinct culture, a unique dialect, and a strict set of customs that make a visit here feel like a journey back in time.

Visiting Malana is less about sightseeing and more about a profound cultural experience. The primary reason to go is to witness a civilization that has remained largely untouched by the modern world. The villagers, who consider themselves descendants of Alexander the Great’s army, have their own self-governed judicial system and a profound reverence for their deity, Jamlu Devta.

The village is famous for its “touch-me-not” policy, where outsiders are forbidden from touching the locals, their houses, or their sacred structures. This strict custom, while initially intimidating, serves to protect their age-old traditions and offers a fascinating glimpse into a fiercely independent culture. The breathtaking views of the Deo Tibba and Chandrakhani peaks are simply the bonus.

Exploration in Malana is all about observation and immersion, rather than active participation.

• The Village Itself: Walk through the narrow lanes and admire the unique wooden architecture of the two- and three-story houses. The intricate carvings and rustic design reflect a deep cultural heritage.
• Jamlu Devta Temple: This is the spiritual heart of the village. While visitors are not allowed to enter or touch the temple, you can admire its unique structure from afar. The temple is a testament to the villagers’ deep faith in their deity, who they believe governs all their laws.
• The Viewpoint: As you approach the village from the final leg of the trek, there’s a natural viewpoint that offers a panoramic vista of Malana, its terraced fields, and the spectacular mountain ranges that surround it. This is the perfect spot for photos, capturing the village’s isolation and beauty.
• Malana River: The river flowing nearby adds to the village’s serene atmosphere. The sound of the gushing water and the clean mountain air make for a perfect place to reflect.

Due to the strict customs of the villagers, tourists are not allowed to stay within Malana village itself. The stay options are primarily located at the base of the trek.

• Malana Gate: The last motorable point before the trek, there are some basic campsites and guesthouses here, such as The Woods Cottage. These are the closest you can get to the village for an overnight stay.
• Jari Village: This is the main base for most travelers heading to Malana. Jari has a variety of guesthouses and cafes that offer a comfortable stay.
• Kasol: Most travelers stay in Kasol and take a day trip to Malana. Kasol offers a wide range of hostels, hotels, and cafes, making it a convenient base.

Reaching Malana is an adventure that involves a combination of bus, taxi, and trekking.

• Step 1: Reach Bhuntar (by Air or Bus). The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU) in Bhuntar. You can also take an overnight bus from major cities like Delhi or Chandigarh to Bhuntar.
• Step 2: Travel to Jari. From Bhuntar, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Jari, which is the starting point for the trek to Malana.
• Step 3: Travel to Malana Gate. From Jari, you can hire a local cab to take you to Malana Gate, which is the last point accessible by road.
• Step 4: The Trek. The journey from Malana Gate to the village is a moderate trek of about 4 km. It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is well-defined and offers stunning views of the valley.

• Respect the Rules: The most crucial thing to remember is to respect the local customs. Do not touch any person, house, or temple.
• Carry Cash: ATMs are not available in or near Malana. Make sure you carry enough cash for your entire trip.
• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from May to October. Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) due to slippery trails and winter (December-March) when heavy snowfall can make the village inaccessible.

A trip to Malana is an extraordinary experience that will challenge your perceptions and leave you with a newfound appreciation for one of India’s most unique and ancient cultures.

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