🏔️ Malana Village

Malana is a small but very unique and mysterious village in Himachal Pradesh. This village is located in Kullu district, near Parvati Valley. Malana is a different world – people have their own laws, their own culture, and a mysterious history that makes it one of the most different and fascinating places in Himachal.
In this blog we will explore:
History of Malana
People here and their lifestyle
Rules for tourists
Places worth visiting
Trekking experience
And the truth about Malana Cream

🏞️ The Story of Malana – An Ancient Republic

Malana is also called the oldest democracy of India. People here believe that they are descendants of Alexander the Great. Their body features and accent are a bit different when compared to Himachali people. That is why the culture of Malana is very unique and isolated.
Here there is a self-governed system of its own which is named “Jamah”. In this system every decision is taken by the people of the village together and there is no need for any external interference. Local deity Jamlu Devta is considered to be the highest authority here.

🙏 Malana ke Strict Rules – No Touch Policy

If you are planning to visit Malana, it is very important to first understand the rules and traditions of this place. Here outsiders (i.e. tourists) are not allowed to touch the houses, temples or belongings of the locals. If you touch anything even by mistake, you may have to pay a fine!
All this may seem weird, but for the locals this is a part of their centuries old belief system. Therefore tourists should behave respectfully here.

🧗‍♂️ How to reach Malana?

Malana village is not easily accessible. You will have to do a bit of trekking to reach here.
Route:

• Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (near Kullu) – 50 km approx
• Nearest Bus Stop: Jari village
• From Jari you will have to take a private cab or shared taxi till Malana Gate
• From the gate to Malana village it is a trek of about 4-5 km, which is steep and rocky.
  This trek can be a bit tough, but the views you get make all the efforts worth it.

🌿 Malana Cream – Fame aur Controversy

Malana village is famous worldwide for one more reason – and that is Malana Cream. It is a high-quality charas (handmade hashish) made from local cannabis. It is illegal, but still it has become a part of Malana’s identity.
Many foreign travellers visit Malana just for this product, but now the authorities have imposed strict rules. If any tourist is found with this, he can face heavy fine and even jail. So, strictly avoid any involvement with it.

🏡 Malana ki Lifestyle – Back to Basics

The people of Malana are self-sufficient. Agriculture is their main occupation, especially apart from malana cream production.
Culture Highlights:

• Locals speak their own language – Kanashi
• The entire village is formed in a single community
• Houses are built in wooden architecture
• Temples are very old and beautifully carved
  The women here wear traditional dress and the people are constantly engaged in preserving their cultural purity.

🌄 Nearby places worth visiting

You can not only see Malana village but also enjoy the natural beauty around it. The locations here are just like postcards.

1. Malana Trek

The trek to Malana Gate itself is an adventurous experience. Narrow trails, pine forests, and waterfalls in between will refresh you.

2. Chandrakhani Pass

If you are a serious trekker, you can try the Chandrakhani Pass trek. This trail takes you up to 12,000 ft with panoramic views of Parvati Valley.

3. Parvati Valley

If you are a serious trekker, you can try the Chandrakhani Pass trek. This trail takes you up to 12,000 ft with panoramic views of Parvati Valley.

4. Jamlu Devta Mandir

This temple is the spiritual center of Malana, but remember – going inside is prohibited, and you have to watch it from a distance with respect.

📷 Photography Tips for Malana

• Take permission from the locals before taking photos
• Drone flying is strictly prohibited
• Nature shots and trek visuals are amazing – shoot during golden hours

🛏️Where will you stay?

There are limited stay options for tourists in Malana. You can stay in nearby Kasol, Jari or Tosh. Good hostels, guest houses and camps are available there. Some travellers trek to visit Malana and return the same day.

⚠️ Important Tips Before You Visit Malana

1. Respect local customs – follow the no touching rule
2. Don’t indulge in any illegal activity
3. Carry good shoes and water bottle for the trek, don’t forget to take it
4. Do check the weather before visit
5. Solo travel is safe, but group travel is preferred

✨ Conclusion- One Village, Many Stories

Malana is not just a tourist spot but a life-affirming story – where every corner, every rule and every path gives you a new perspective. If you are interested in adventure, mystery and culture, then Malana is the perfect destination for you.
This is Himachal’s most offbeat, yet soul-touching destination where time passes a little slow but memories become very sharp.