Malana

Malana is an ancient village in the Kullu Valley and is considered as one of the oldest democracies in the world. It is perched on a treacherous cliff at 3000 m, and until very recently the only way to reach it was by foot. It is isolated from the rest of the world and is located near Malana River.

Malana is also known as the village of taboos as outsiders are not allowed to touch anyone or anything. Malana overlooks the Deo Tibba and Chandrakhani Peaks. It can also be reached from Parvati valley across the Chanderkhani pass and Rashol Pass. The easiest way to reach Malana is from Jari till the last road head, from where it is a 2-3 hour trek to reach the village.

The Malanese have a unique culture, a different language called Kanashi and a system of governance that sets them apart from the rest of the valley. For visitors, it is advisable not to touch anything in Malana as you will have to pay a fine if you touch anything! The language, Kanashi, does not sound like any of the dialects spoken elsewhere and the language is also considered to be one of the secrets of Malana.

There are a few homestays and guesthouses in Malana, located before the village and on top of the village. Recent developments have been due to the hydroelectric power plant on Malana river. Although it is an ancient village, most houses appear new because the old village was destroyed in a fire in 2008. There is an old wooden temple of Jamlu Devta in Malana and visitors are restricted from entering the precincts; breaching of the rule attracts a fine of INR 2500.