🏔️ Sissu to Keylong — Exploring the Soul of Lahaul Valley
Hidden beyond the mighty Rohtang Pass, where the landscape turns from green to golden brown, lies a region of Himachal that feels untouched by time — Lahaul Valley.
Here, nestled along the banks of the Chandra River, you’ll find two incredible destinations: Sissu and Keylong — peaceful, raw, and breathtakingly real.
❄️ Sissu — The Crown Jewel of Lahaul
Sissu (also known as Khagling) is a small, picture-perfect village located on the Leh–Manali Highway, about 40 km from Manali and 30 km before Keylong.
As soon as you step into Sissu, the world feels different — wide open valleys, snow-covered peaks, waterfalls gushing from cliffs, and the calm hum of the Chandra River flowing beside you. The village is surrounded by fields of peas and potatoes, and during autumn, the golden hues of the valley look straight out of a postcard.
🌊 Must-Visit Spot — Sissu Waterfall
The most famous landmark here is the Sissu Waterfall, visible even from the highway. A short hike takes you close enough to feel the mist on your face as the water plunges down from the mountainside. During winter, it freezes into a wall of ice, creating a surreal sight you won’t forget.
Sissu is also home to a small helipad, and you can even find cozy cafés and homestays where you can sip coffee while staring at glaciers in the distance.
🛣️ The Road to Keylong — Beauty in Every Mile
The drive from Sissu to Keylong is pure magic. The road snakes along the Chandra River with constant views of snowy peaks, hanging glaciers, and traditional stone villages.
It’s about 30 km, and every bend gives you a new postcard view of the Himalayas.
You’ll cross bridges, apple orchards, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind — a reminder that the Himalayas aren’t just mountains, they’re living energy.
🏕️ Keylong — The Heart of Lahaul
Keylong is the administrative and cultural capital of Lahaul Valley. Unlike Manali, Keylong is quieter and more authentic — no big crowds, just endless peace and panoramic views.
🛕 Things to Do in Keylong
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Visit the Kardang Monastery, the largest and most famous monastery in Lahaul.
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Explore Shashur Monastery, known for its colorful murals and annual monastery festival.
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Take scenic walks through Jhalma and Gemur villages to experience local Himachali life.
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Stop by local cafés — try momos, thukpa, and butter tea with a view.
At night, the sky over Keylong feels like it’s full of diamonds — countless stars shining over the valley, unpolluted and serene.
🌸 Best Time to Visit
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May to October: The best season when roads are open and the valley blooms with color.
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November to April: Expect heavy snow — Sissu turns into a white wonderland, accessible via the Atal Tunnel from Manali.
🧭 Travel Tips
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🚙 How to Reach:
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From Manali, take the Atal Tunnel to reach Sissu in under 2 hours.
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Keylong is about an hour’s drive further.
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🏡 Stay options: Homestays in both Sissu and Keylong — Tashi Homestay, Tribe Café Stay, or Jispa Journey Camps.
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🥾 Pack warm clothes — temperatures drop sharply after sunset.
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📸 Don’t miss sunrise views — the morning light hitting the peaks is pure magic.