Hi Sid,
I have a friend of mine, who lives in Kasol and owns hostel in both Kasol and Kaza. He is a Amazing guy and local Himachali. You can learn a lot about local culture from him. I can connect you with him. WhatsApp me @8146019624 if you are interested.
Well if we have couple of people, we can hire a cab from Delhi - Manali. Since the distance is long, we can have a 1 night stopover at another hill station (somewhere midway of total distance) on the way which can be decided. I am "enjoy the journey over the destination" kinda guy. PM me to discuss further.