Located in the lap of Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul Valley, Sissu is a hidden Himalayan jewel that often shocks travellers with its serene beauty and tranquil settlement. It is more than just a stopover with jaw-dropping landscapes, relaxed lakes, roaring waterfalls, and traditional villages. It’s a tranquil place that demands exploration.
Sissu is the perfect base or a middle stop on any Spiti Valley Tour Package or Manali Tour Package. Sissu turned into a gem of the region due to the recent construction of the Atal Tunnel, as it connects Manali and Sissu with ease.
This guide will take you through the 15 best places to visit in Sissu, provided by The Journey of the Himalaya- the best source for your adventures in the Himalayas.
1. Witness the Majestic Sissu Waterfall
The mesmerising Sissu Waterfall is the crown jewel of this town. It draws in photographers and nature lovers for its stunning magic. It creates an amazing scene when it pours from the rocky cliff. From the road, you can either view it or take a short walk for a closer look.
2. Stroll Around Sissu Lake
Sissu Lake is a serene spot for walking or quiet contemplation. The lake is a superb place to take in the valley’s silence or watch as the sun rises over the towering mountains.
3. Explore the Willow Forests
Sissu has many willow trees, which are known to be stunning in the Autumn as their colour turns to gold. Strolling through the willow forest transports you to a world of peace; it’s quiet, serene, and remarkably beautiful.
4. Enjoy the Panoramic Views from the Helipad
The Sissu helipad area is one of the best places to view the surrounding valley and the Chandra River. It is a perfect place to take pictures and admire the beauty of nature.
5. Drive Through the Atal Tunnel
Driving through the Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet, is one of the most exciting parts of getting to Sissu. It’s like entering another world when you pop out on the other side, and this starts your journey through Lahaul.
6. Camp Under a Star-Filled Sky
You can experience surreal camping at Sissu, especially on a clear starry night. They Journey of Himalaya offers camping in both manali and Spiti Valley Tour Packages. However, the best experience is having a clear peaceful atmosphere with tangeable stars.
7. Visit Gyephang Temple
Gyephang temple is dedicated to a local deity and therefore provides a cultural touch. It is an important place to learn more about the area’s notional practices and traditions. People interested within the local spirituality will appreciate the architectural and locational energy of this place.
8. Try Local Lahauli Cuisine
Try unique cuisines, Siddu, Thukpa, and Butter Tea, when you visit Sissu. Homestays and little cafes present a truly warm, welcoming taste of Himalayan hospitality and with its welcoming people sprinkled with delicious food.
9. Go for a Scenic Bike Ride
Grab a bike and tour the Sissu-Keylong highway with its jaw-dropping mountain clusters and quiet hamlets. This approach appeals to adventurers, so Tourists can add this to their additional to their Spiti Valley Tour Package.
10. Fly a Drone or Capture Time-lapse Shots
The dramatic layout of Sissu and it’s overflowing bounties of nature provide these views for photography and drone filming. Every corner of the valley, waterfall and the still spiraling road adds to the cinematic beauty.
11. Try River Crossing and Other Adventure Activities
Adventure camps in Sissu and its surroundings feature river crossing, zip-lining, and other adventure games, which are enjoyable and completely safe for novices. These activities suit families and groups wanting to indulge in some excitement.
12. Discover Nearby Villages like Gondhla and Tandi
Experience the rural life in Gondhla and Tandi villages, where you can see beautifully crafted ancient houses, old monasteries, and the remarkable confluence of Chandra and Bhaga rivers. These are common sights in thoughtfully curated Spiti Valley Tour Packages.
13. Birdwatching in the Valley
Sissu is beautiful as it has wide open skies alongside a clean environment, which makes it a good spot for birdwatching. Early in the day, you can see Himalayan magpie, finches, and some other rare birds.
14. Catch Snowfall in Early Winter
If you time your visit right, in late autumn or early winter, you can see and enjoy fresh snowfall in Sissu. The whole village is blanketed in white, transforming it into a dreamy snow holiday destination, ideal for lovers and newlyweds.
15. Stay in a Cosy Homestay
Staying in one of Sissu’s homestays will allow you to engage with locals and experience their culture. You will be provided with delicious home-cooked meals, warm hospitality, and get to see their traditional lifestyle. We at Journey of Himalaya have partnered with the best local hosts so that travelers can receive the authentic experience.
Best Time to Visit Sissu
May to September: Perfect for sightseeing, photography, and camping.
October: Noted for its golden willow forests and crisp autumn breeze.
November to March: Snowy season, but it can be difficult to get around.
How to Reach Sissu
By Road: From Manali, Sissu is only 40km away through the Atal Tunnel and can be done in under one hour.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, which is located approximately 130 km away.
By Rail: The nearest narrow-gauge railway station is Joginder Nagar, but travelling by road is simplest.
Add Sissu to Your Manali or Spiti Valley Adventure
For those prepping to buy a Manali Family Tour Package, Sissu is a pleasant and easy scenic drive, not too far from Sissu, which differs from the tourist towns. And from the Spiti Valley Tour Package perspective, Sissu is best suited as the first stop in Lahaul.
At Journey of Himalaya, we have included Sissu in our numerous tour plans because of the charm, beauty, and experiences that it offers, which are one of a kind.
Final Thoughts
Sissu, as a place, is no less than a feeling. It is quiet yet dramatic, calm yet wild, providing a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else in Himachal. As an adventurer, a couple looking for some alone time or a family on a cultural trip, Sissu has to be on your list while exploring the Himalayas.
Journey of Himalaya offers you the best of Himachal with tailor-made Manali Trip Packages and Spiti Valley Tour Packages; believe us, Sissu will be the most memorable part of your trip.