Malana
Report By: S. Arthur & Rajiv
Atwal E-Mail
Author
*
Do not touch people, some rocks &
stones in this village. They are sacred
and heavy fine from village head have
to be paid instantly.
BACKGROUND:
Situated in Kullu Distt. of Himachal Pradesh.
Malana is famous for its unique history.
Tribal people here find their roots with
Alexandria. It is widely believed that
people of Malana are direct descendant
of Greeks,which visited India during
one of their campaigns under Alexander
the Great. The very features, language,
religion and socioeconomic structure resembles
with ancient Greek civilization. This
is quite true that they manage their own
judicial, social and religious lives-
which is unique in its own way-and that's
major attraction for people to visit and
witness a life style where certain stones
are also sacred and in case someone touches
them-have to be heavily fined. Malana
is unique village where a tourist is told
very clearly about his limits and its
penelty.One can not touch certain stones
and neither touching the residents is
accepted.Accidents do happen and they
draw very heavy penalty from trekkers/tourists.
Although Indian Govt. knew very well about
activities and drug culture going on,but
strangely there have been no steps taken
till date. Hence Malana is still considered
one of the great mines of "high quality
" of Charas.And many locals have become
millionaires within couple of years.
PHASE1
One can reach Bhuntar by air also,otherwise
it is well connected by road and heavy traffic
of buses and taxis is there to accommodate
every one.Bhuntar is situated on Kullu-Manali
highway.From Bhuntar one has to turn for
Manikaran which is a religious place for
Sikhs. Kasol is just on way to Manikaran,just
a 45 min. drive from Bhuntar.One can smell
the very air filled with western music and
small eating joints serving different different
dishes.I have seen many "Hippies" spending
good time here,before starting climbing
for Rashol.
PHASE2
Trek is very easy in first leg and well
defined.One encounters many people from
different countries ,enroute.So ,no confusion.Rashol
is bit higher and last leg of the day may
leave you bit tired.There are now well equipped
eating joints which are also offering night
stays,for very nominal prices.
PHASE3
Start early and within three Hrs., Malana
shows its beautiful fields. Now they do
not cultivate "smoking stuff" this side
of the trek (Media attention) There is INSTRUCTION
BOARD Rt. at enterence...study it very
carefully. No police is going to come for
your help in any case.They make and rule
their own laws.This is Malana. Inquire before
photography..there are certain stones/rocks/temples
which are not allowed to be photographed.You
can eat at many eating joints and boarding
is also provided by them.Have a nice time.
NOTE:
Our personal experience is that this region
is not safe for solo trekkers and please
do not go alone. |
