Malana Village is one of India’s most mysterious and fascinating places. Nestled in the northeast corner of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Malana sits at a height of 9,938 feet above sea level. It is often called “The Village of Taboos” because of its strict customs and rules that have remained unchanged for centuries.

Surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, Malana feels like a world apart—a place where time stands still.

How to Reach Malana

Malana is located about 23 km from Kullu. The nearest point with vehicle access is Jari, from where you can hire a taxi or a private cab to reach the start of the trek. No public buses go directly to the village.

From the drop-off point, visitors must walk along a scenic trail that winds through pine forests and crosses wooden bridges, taking about 45 minutes to an hour. The paths also connect Malana with Chandrakhani Pass and Dev Tibba, popular trekking routes that offer stunning views of the Himalayas.

A Village with an Ancient Democracy

Malana is believed to have one of the oldest democratic systems in the world. The villagers claim they are direct descendants of Alexander the Great’s soldiers, although some historians say they are descendants of the Aryans.

According to legend, when Mughal Emperor Akbar fell sick, he visited Malana and was miraculously cured. As a reward, he granted the villagers freedom from taxes and outside interference—a tradition the villagers proudly uphold to this day.

The village is managed by the Gram Sabha, an eleven-member council whose decisions are final and cannot be challenged by any outside authority. Because of this independent governance, Malana is sometimes called the “Athens of the Himalayas.”

Jambulu Devta – The Guiding Spirit

The people of Malana have a deep faith in their powerful local deity, Jambulu Devta, who is believed to be an incarnation of sage Jamadagni. All important decisions, conflicts, and laws are settled according to the will of the deity, communicated through oracles and the village council.

One of the most striking customs here is the strict rule that outsiders must not touch the houses, walls, or belongings of the villagers. Even food prepared by non-natives is not accepted. These taboos help preserve the purity of their culture and spiritual beliefs.

Malana Cream – The World-Famous Hashish

Apart from its history and traditions, Malana is also known worldwide for producing Malana Cream, a high-quality strain of hashish made from cannabis resin.

Malana Cream has been twice awarded Best Hashish at the High Times Cannabis Cup, in 1994 and 1996, making it famous among cannabis enthusiasts globally.

Although cannabis cultivation is illegal in India, it remains a significant source of livelihood for many families in the village. Authorities frequently attempt to curb its production and trade, but demand continues to keep it alive in the region.

Culture and Customs

Malana is known for its strict social rules, some of which may seem unusual to visitors:

  • Outsiders must never touch temples, houses, or sacred objects.
  • Locals avoid physical contact with visitors.
  • Visitors must stay in designated guesthouses outside the main village area.
  • Photography of people and religious ceremonies requires permission.

Despite these rules, the villagers are friendly and often willing to share stories about their heritage—if approached respectfully.

Trekking and Natural Beauty

Beyond its cultural significance, Malana is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers. The surrounding mountains are covered with dense deodar and pine forests, and the views of Chandrakhani Pass and Parvati Valley are breathtaking.

Popular activities include:

  • Trekking from Jari to Malana and onwards to Chandrakhani Pass.
  • Exploring hidden waterfalls and forest trails.
  • Camping in the scenic meadows around the village.

Tips for Visiting Malana

If you are planning a trip to Malana, keep these points in mind:
✅ Respect local customs and avoid touching property.
✅ Carry your own food and water.
✅ Stay only in approved guesthouses or camps.
✅ Take your trash back with you—Malana is ecologically sensitive.
✅ Be prepared for basic facilities and limited phone connectivity.

Why Visit Malana?

ancient democracy, living traditions, and stunning natural beauty. Visiting Malana feels like stepping into a hidden world—one that has fiercely guarded its identity for thousands of years.

If you are seeking an offbeat travel experience in Himachal Pradesh, Malana Village is a destination that will inspire, surprise, and stay in your memory forever.