There's a 'No Touch' rule in this Himachali village: How travellers survive here

There are many villages in India that carry age-old traditions, yet none are as intriguing as Malana. Located on the heights of the Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the village does not pride itself in fancy resorts and cafes where one can take pictures. What makes Malana stand out in the crowd is its unique social practice that amazes virtually any visitor – no outsider may touch the people living there or the temples and items they consider sacred.Many tourists feel bewildered about how to act in such a peculiar environment and wonder how to move around the village without inadvertently touching anything. It is easier than expected, however, since the number of tourists who come to visit the village yearly is considerable. What is more, it must be admitted that tourists cannot expect too many amenities here because the place has never been adapted to cater to them.Malana is located at an elevation of about 2,650 meters in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The village has been secluded from the outside world due to its location amidst high mountains and dense forests. The seclusion of the village has made it possible for the villagers to conserve traditions which are followed with zeal and dedication.The heart of the Malana social structure revolves around Jamlu Devta, who is not only the deity of the village but also influences other aspects of life. Dispute settlements and social behavior in the village have been regulated by norms related to Jamlu Devta. No-touch culture is one such tradition followed by the village inhabitants.Even if such practices appear peculiar to an outside observer, for the villagers of Malana they are normal aspects of life.The restrictions extend beyond physical contact with residents.Visitors are expected not to touch: Violations of these customs, it seems, have led to monetary penalties in the past by the local authorities. Though tourists have steadily increased, the preservation of these traditions is mandatory.The traveller must take care as to where they stand, positioning of hands, and movement around the community.Unlike other hill stations in Himachal which can be reached easily, Malana cannot be accessed simply by getting off a mode of transport.The tourists first drive till the Malana gate, which lies some kilometers away from the village. After that, the trekking distance to the village is about four kilometres. The trekkers pass through a mountainous region with breathtaking views of the Parvati valley, forests, and gorges that remind them how secluded this village used to be.The trekking journey is not difficult; however, it makes tourists feel that their visit to the village needs to be deserved.Contrary to popular belief, visiting Malana is not an exercise in hardship.There are some guesthouses and homestays for tourists, especially around the perimeter of the village. Cafés that offer basic food, ranging from traditional local food to backpackers’ fare in the area, are provided. One can easily spend the night there if he plans on doing so.The key lies in adjusting expectations.Travellers quickly learn to:In many respects, Malana instills in travellers a sense of mindfulness regarding their travels. Rather than travelling through the destination carelessly, travellers are forced to become aware of themselves and the power their actions might hold over a certain community.Malana is not a cultural destination built for the purpose of entertaining outsiders. Residents of Malana actually live and bring up their families here. Their traditions are of vital importance to their lifestyle, culture, and history. This no touching policy is a very serious rule that has been adopted by the community as a means of life.To survive in Malana, one does not need any superhuman abilities. What one needs is awareness and respect.