SISSU: The remote town of Sissu in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul Valley has emerged as a major tourist attraction, with the Sissu Lake and Sissu Waterfall drawing steady crowds of visitors traveling through the Atal Tunnel.
Emerging from the green Manali valley through the South Portal of the tunnel, tourists enter the North Portal to views of high mountain ranges, snow-covered peaks, and the Chandra River. Designated safe spots around both portals have turned into popular photo stops, where visitors gather for selfies and group pictures.
Families are spending time along the banks of Sissu Lake while photographing the surrounding landscape. The surge in visitor movement has raised business expectations among local hotel, homestay, dhaba, and taxi operators.
Perched at an altitude of 3,120 metres above sea level and located about 40 km from Manali in Lahaul and Spiti district, Sissu overlooks the confluence of the Chandra River and glacial streams. Once an obscure hamlet, the town gained prominence following the opening of the Atal Tunnel in 2020. The region also houses the Raja Gyephang temple, a local shrine representing the spiritual traditions of the valley.
The meltwater-fed Sissu Waterfall cascades down around 50 metres into a deep valley off the Leh–Manali highway. A short 2-km wooded trail through pine and willow forests allows visitors to walk up to the cliff edges.
Situated about 3 km from the waterfall, Sissu Lake sits at an altitude of over 3,000 metres and is fed by the same glacial streams. During winter, temperatures dropping to -15°C freeze the clear waters into an emerald-like surface, drawing photographers and ice-travel tourists. In summer, the calm surface mirrors the surrounding peaks, serving as a spot for walks, picnics, and meditation.
The town also houses the Raja Gyephang temple, highlighting regional spiritual and Buddhist traditions. Local culinary options available at homestays and tea booths include thukpa, momos, and butter tea.
Travelers can reach Sissu via a 1.5-hour road drive from Manali through the Atal Tunnel, while the nearest airport is at Bhuntar, 90 kilometers away. Accommodation in the area consists of basic guesthouses, homestays, and campsites, with advance booking recommended during peak summer months.
