First Trek to Malana: Hidden Trails, High Hopes & Mountain Magic

In 2012, we leaped from our MBA classrooms into the bustling corporate world of Delhi/NCR. The salaries weren’t spectacular, but they fueled our dreams of weekend getaways. Himachal was the preferred choice, with easily available buses and plenty of budget stays. We visited Manali, Kasol, McLeod Ganj, and Tosh on subsequent trips. One day, while browsing some random travel blogs, I stumbled upon Malana—known for its breathtaking views and fascinating stories, some exaggerated by social media, along with its infamous reputation for cream.

That was enough to convince us for our next mountain escapade. As we settled into the bus, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, which faded at the thought of no office, no calls, no late nights—just me and the mountains.

After a day in Kasol, we geared up for our trek to Malana. Thankfully, the road was fairly accessible, though the journey from Bhuntar involved navigating narrow, winding paths with a few rough patches.

Upon reaching Malana Gate, we discovered we had to trek about a kilometre down to the village. The nearby riverbed beckoned us for a refreshing break. After enjoying the river, we embarked on the main trek. The path was steep and lacked proper steps, turning the ascent into a genuine workout. I found myself gasping for breath every few steps, taking multiple breaks along the way. Hours felt like an eternity, but finally, we reached the top.

When we arrived in Malana, we were welcomed by a mysterious wonderland. The community is deeply orthodox, steeped in rich traditions and customs. As we wandered in, we encountered a sign that read, “No Touching & Photo of Holy Place,” a stark reminder of the village’s strict rules.

Despite our initial hesitation, friendly locals welcomed us. We shared a simple meal of delicious Maggi at a cozy little house, along with some local specialties.

After a few hours of exploration, we reluctantly began our descent, each of us promising to return. Malana had captivated us with its charm and mystery. The journey back was filled with laughter, stories, and multiple breaks. I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the unforgettable adventure.