12 Essential Stops In Sissu Valley, Manali, For An Unforgettable Trip

If your love for treks got you to Manali, then you can try going for the Ghepan Lake Trek. This trek is about 33 km long, takes a couple of days (three to five days), and is moderately difficult. The trek is a treat to the eyes; you're met with snow-capped mountains on all sides, and the lake, at 14,000 feet, is a beautiful blue lake. 

Timing (Best Time to Trek): May to October is the best time when the weather is most stable.

Google Rating: 4.7/5

The beautiful Sissu Falls (also known as Khagling) lies on the Manali-Leh highway and is the perfect spot for tourists to wind down after a long ride. To experience its enchanting aura, you’ll have to trek up a rocky path, about 15 to 20 minutes, leading to the waterfall. Coming straight from the glaciers of the Himalayan range, the water falls from an impressive height of 3,051 meters and is not a sight to be missed.

Timing: Open 24 hours

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Gyephang is the most revered deity of Lahaul. It is believed that Gyephang or Raja Ghepan is the protector of the people and that they fought with demons in the olden days. Once in two to three years, the deity is taken out of the temple in a procession.

Timing: 8 AM - 7 PM

Google Rating: 4.9/5

Short treks will lead you to various monasteries in Lahaul. These aren't exactly in Sissu, as it's a small town. The best way to know which one is near you is to ask the hostel or hotel reception, as locals would be able to tell you the exact way to one near you. You should head to these monasteries to meet lovely people, enjoy some peace and soak in their culture. Some that we've heard about are Othang, Tayul, Guru Ghantaal, Labrong Gompa and Kardang.

Timings (Average): 5:30 AM - 9 PM

Google Rating (Average): 4.7

Sissu Lake is a man-made lake with crystal-clear turquoise waters, and surrounded by lush greenery and towering snow-capped mountains. It's a peaceful escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Come here to camp, picnic, or just chill with a book, Maggi and some good old chai. 

Timing: 6 AM - 6 PM

Google Rating: 4.5

Access from any part of Sissu; for this one, all that's required from you is to be present. Many people choose to come here only to stargaze. You get an expansive view with twinkling stars and a view of the Milky Way. If you're an enthusiast of astronomy, we suggest travelling with a telescope.

Adventure seekers can zip line across Chandra Lake. People tend to choose to zip line on their way to the waterfall, as it reduces trek time. The cost is approximately INR 300 for both sides. You won't have to struggle too much to find a zip-lining counter near the river, as there are quite a few. But in case you still need help, contact Rat Adventure Sports at 7018053577. 

Timing: 9 AM - 5 PM

Price: INR 300 onwards

14 kilometres west of Sissu, Gondhla Fort is an eight-story tower built by the Raja of Kullu. It's an absolute hidden gem, entirely made out of stone and timber. Though you are not allowed to go inside, you can experience the place's history and magnificent views from the banks of the River Chandra.

Timing: 10 AM - 5 PM, Mon-Fri

Google Rating: 4.4/5

It goes without saying that Sissu is one of the most amazing camping sites. It is located at the end of a relatively moderate trail that delivers a serene and exquisite sense of calm. The most popular is the Sissu waterfall camping site, but you can also consider camping at the Shitidhar glacier hike.

LBB Tip: We suggest keeping your eyes open during the travel while reaching Sissu, you will probably cross a viewpoint from where you can see the entire Sissu Valley. This point is not available on Google Maps, but you'll be able to spot a big rock—that's your sign to stop and get some photos.

No trip is complete without visiting the local market. It's the perfect time to shop for souvenirs and explore the culture. Located at the Polo Ground, Keylong Market is where you can indulge in traditional delicacies like Siddu (steamed bread), Chana Madra (chickpea curry), Dham (a festive platter), and shop for handicrafts and woollen garments.

Timing: 8 AM - 6 PM (subject to change)

Google Review: 3.9/5

One major reason why people go to the mountains is to find peace, and what better way to do it than strolling through the lanes of a beautiful Lahaul valley in Sissu amidst the entire mountain range? While in summer, the fields would be lush green and the sky would be clear blue, during the winters, you can take advantage of the snow-capped mountain view.

Approximately 40 km from Sissu, you will find Tandi, a picturesque confluence point of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, forming the Chandrabhaga (Chenab) River. It's an ideal spot if you want to click the most "where is it" pictures. And, of course, it's a great space to declutter your mind.

Pro-Tip: The Ultimate Manali Guide: Places To Visit, Eat At, And Things To Do