Your Guide to Exploring SISSU, the Serene Hill Station Near Manali
Sissu hill station is a tourist destination approximately 40 km from Manali in Himachal Pradesh. It has gained fame in recent years, especially after the construction of the Atal Tunnel. Before the tunnel, the route from Manali to Sissu went through Rohtang Pass, which was closed for six months each year. Now, Sissu is accessible year-round.
Situated at about 3,000 meters above sea level, Sissu experiences cold weather throughout the year and heavy snowfall in winter. Despite the tunnel, heavy snow can occasionally close the road to Sissu.
Located in the Lahaul region of the Lahaul-Spiti district, Sissu is enhanced by the Chandra River. The area boasts high mountains, hanging glaciers, numerous waterfalls, and forests. Unlike other Himalayan hill stations, Sissu enjoys clear weather with minimal rainfall, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty in any season.
Sissu is a small village with visible rural activities. In summer, as the snow melts, locals plant potatoes, peas, and cabbage, harvesting them by August-September. The area is also rich in fruits like apples, peaches, and apricots. Visitors can stroll through these fields and experience rural life firsthand.
Near the Sissu Helipad is the man-made Sissu Lake, which freezes in winter and offers boating opportunities in summer. From here, one can cross the Chandra River and trek about one kilometer to the Sissu Waterfall. This high waterfall is visible from afar, and the trek to it passes through fields. The waterfall offers not only its beauty but also panoramic views of the Sissu Valley, village, Chandra River, and distant mountains.
RAJA GHEPAN’S TEMPLE
The local deity of Sissu is Raja Sissu, whose temple is located here. Behind the village stands the 5,800-meter-high Ghepan Peak. Ghepan is revered throughout Lahaul, including Sissu. A challenging trek 10 km from Sissu leads to Ghepan Lake, which locals visit with great devotion in August-September. A fair is held here annually, attracting thousands of devotees. Raja Ghepan is considered the protector deity of this remote and harsh region.
A well-maintained road connects Delhi and Chandigarh to Manali. The nearest airport is Bhuntar, about 50 kilometers from Manali. Public transport, taxis, or private vehicles can easily reach Manali. Sissu is 40 km from Manali.
ACCOMMODATION
Sissu offers various accommodation options, including hotels, home-stays, and camps. Visitors can also stay in nearby villages. Many tourists choose to stay in Manali and make a day trip to Sissu.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The ideal time to visit Sissu is from September to October. After September, the winter begins, and the leaves turn red and yellow, giving Sissu a European-like appearance. From November to April, the region experiences extreme cold and heavy snowfall. However, the Atal Tunnel allows access to Sissu even in winter.
