Short answer: Sissu (also called Khwaling) is a small town in the Lahaul valley at about 3,120 m, on the right bank of the Chandra river and a few kilometres beyond the north portal of the Atal Tunnel. The main sights are the waterfall across the river, the lake beside the village and the wide valley views. Half a day covers Sissu itself; a night or two lets you add Koksar, Gondhla and Keylong.
It is worth being clear about expectations: Sissu is a place for scenery and quiet, not a list of attractions. If you want activities, markets and cafés, base yourself in Manali and visit for the day.
Places to see in Sissu
1. The waterfall across the Chandra (Palden Lhamo dhar)
The waterfall drops down the mountainside opposite the town and is visible from the road and the riverside. It is the image most people associate with Sissu. Flow is strongest with snowmelt in late spring and summer; in deep winter it can freeze.
2. Sissu lake
A small lake next to the village, with an easy flat walk around it. In winter it may be frozen and snow-covered. It is the natural place to stretch your legs after the drive.
3. The Chandra riverside and valley views
The river, the poplar and willow-lined fields and the peaks behind them are the real attraction. Gyephang Goh, at about 5,870 m, rises east of the town.
4. The helipad viewpoint
Sissu has a helipad, and the open ground around it gives an uninterrupted view of the valley. Keep clear if it is in use.
5. Village and monastery walks
Several small villages surround Sissu. Labrang has a Buddhist gompa, and the neighbouring village of Shashin is associated with the local deity Ghepan. These are living villages rather than tourist sites, so dress and behave accordingly and ask before photographing people or shrines.
Places near Sissu
| Place | Approximate distance | What it adds |
|---|---|---|
| Koksar | About 14 km south-east | The first village on the old Rohtang road; snow in season |
| Gondhla | About 11 km west | A quieter village further down the valley |
| Keylong | Further along NH3 (about 71 km from Manali) | Lahaul’s main town, with more stays and supplies |
| Jispa | About 20–22 km beyond Keylong | Riverside stop on the road to Leh |
Distances come from published references and are approximate. See our Jispa travel guide if you are continuing north.
How many days do you need?
- Day trip from Manali: enough for the waterfall view, the lake and lunch. Read the Manali to Sissu road trip guide.
- One night: gives you early morning and evening light and time for Koksar or Gondhla.
- Two nights: comfortable if you want a slow break or are acclimatising before going higher.
Sissu through the year
| Season | What it is like | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| May – June | Snow on the peaks, strong waterfall, green fields emerging | The busiest months |
| July – September | Greenest; Lahaul is drier than the Kullu side | The road on the Manali side is still exposed to monsoon landslides |
| October | Autumn colour, cold clear days | Nights are already very cold |
| November – April | Deep snow, frozen lake | Access depends on police restrictions after snowfall; many stays close |
General seasonal picture; exact timing varies each year.
Staying in Sissu
Accommodation is mostly homestays, small hotels and camps, and options have grown since the tunnel opened. Before you book, ask:
- Is the property open on your dates? Many close in winter.
- What heating is provided, and for how many hours?
- Is hot water available, and are meals included?
- How far is it from the road, and is that walk clear of snow?
We have not listed prices: they vary sharply by season and we would rather you get a current quote than an outdated figure.
Practical notes
- Altitude: you are above 3,000 m. Go slowly on arrival and drink water.
- Money and fuel: carry cash and fill up in Manali.
- Network: patchy. Download maps and tell someone your plan.
- Waste: facilities are limited — carry your rubbish back.
- Snow play: stay off frozen water. A frozen lake or river is not a safe surface.
Check before you go
Want help planning Lahaul?
Tell us your dates, group and how much driving you are comfortable with. Funtoor can plan Sissu as a day trip or build it into a longer Lahaul route with vehicle, driver and stays. Plan my Sissu trip.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sissu famous for?
The waterfall across the Chandra river, the small lake beside the village and its open valley scenery just beyond the Atal Tunnel.
What is the altitude of Sissu?
About 3,120 m (10,235 ft).
How far is Sissu from Manali?
About 40 km, around 1.5 hours through the Atal Tunnel in clear conditions.
Can you visit Sissu in winter?
Sometimes. Access depends on police restrictions after snowfall, and many stays close. Check on the day.
Is one day enough for Sissu?
Yes for the village itself. Stay a night if you want to see nearby villages or avoid the midday crowd.
Compiled by the Funtoor team from published sources and official pages, last reviewed in October 2026. It is a planning guide, not a first-hand trip report; conditions in the mountains change quickly, so confirm anything time-sensitive before you travel.
Written by
Funtoor Travel Team
Travel planners based in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. We plan and arrange trips — stays, transport and experiences — across the Himalayas.
