Discover Himachal Pradesh: Where Snowtales Come to Life
Know why the beauty of this place gets into your soul.
As I stood there, taking it all in, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the chance to witness such splendour — to be a part of something so much bigger than myself.
You’re welcome to come with me to the most mystical, magnificent side of Himachal Pradesh, where every turn of the road reveals a new chapter in nature’s grandeur.
Join me as I take you through the majestic landscapes, snow-capped peaks and tranquil valleys that define this breathtaking region.
No trip to Himachal is complete without venturing into the heart of its treasures. Yes, I’m talking about Sissu, Keylong, Jispa, and Darcha — places less travelled yet brimming with adventure and wonder.
While you can’t see the whole of Himachal in just 1 week, you will still be able to absorb enough beauty and fresh air that you’d return for more.
Atal Tunnel Himachal
The journey from the Atal Tunnel Himachal is a calming way to warm you up before seeing a different side of the world.
Trust me, I was so excited through that 10-km-long tunnel, desperately waiting, and boom!
A dreamy universe suddenly unfolded before my eyes, and everywhere I looked, there was beauty to behold, from the panoramic views to the snow-lined roads and so much more.
It was a moment of pure magic that reminded me of the sheer wonder and awe this world has to offer.
As you journey through Lahaul, you will soon escape the hustle and bustle and be closer to Sissu, a hidden gem nestled in Lahaul. This charming village is the perfect antidote to a busy life!
The Chandra River flows gently alongside, its soothing murmurs lulling you into a state of peace. And oh, the views!
The mountain peaks sparkle in the distance, rivers rush past, and trees sway in silent harmony; it’s like something out of a dream.
There are trails to explore, treks to conquer, and much more. It’s like Mother Nature herself is calling you to come out and play.
Don’t miss out on the night scene either, it’s like a concert of stars against the dark sky.
There’s something magical about feeling the cool breeze on your face as you gaze up at the vast expanse of the night sky.
It’s the perfect excuse to snuggle up and gaze at the universe in all its glory.
What should you carry while travelling to Himachal?
I’d suggest bringing a combination of lightweight, breathable fabrics for warmer days and warmer layers like fleece jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings in places like Manali, Sissu, and Darcha.
Pack waterproof jackets, ponchos, and umbrellas, especially if you’re visiting during the monsoon season (July to September).
Invest in sturdy, comfortable footwear with good ankle support if you plan to trek or do mountain trails.
The Best time to visit Lahaul
I visited in April and was greeted by just the right weather: not too hot, not too cold, with a hint of winter’s chill still lingering in the air.
But listen to this: Himachal’s climate dances to its own tune, so plan accordingly.
And hey, here’s a tip: getting up early really pays off! I figured that out as the sun set and wished I had more time to soak in all the beauty around me.
I stayed in Palchan, a small village in the Kullu district in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It was the perfect starting point for my adventures on the Manali-Darcha trip.
With only two days to explore and roads open until Darcha, my journey this time took me through the less-crowded villages of Sissu, Keylong, Jispa, and Darcha—each a shining star in its own way.
Just a hop, skip and jump from Manali, the Lahaul Valley sprawls out from the north end of the Atal Tunnel, connecting two worlds in a beautiful composition.
If you’re wondering about the best time to visit this part of Himachal Pradesh, there’s no right answer!
Since each season brings its own unique charm, no matter when you visit, you will never miss out on something special.
Road conditions in Lahaul
I expected them to be tough and bumpy, but they were surprisingly smooth and drivable, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Border Road Organization. Whether driving yourself or letting someone else take the wheel in Sissu, Himachal Pradesh, you can relax knowing the journey ahead is safe and welcoming.
Remember to take it slow at night and follow the directions to avoid surprises.
Sissu accommodation
I didn’t get to plan my stay, but I found out that many travellers love staying in Sissu homestays for a day or two.
From cosy guesthouses to rustic homestays and even luxury resorts, there’s something for every kind of traveller.
Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly accommodation or craving a taste of local hospitality, Sissu and its nearby areas in Atal Tunnel, Himachal Pradesh, have got you covered.
Why did I have to stop here?
Let me tell you about one of my favourite moments from my trip to Himachal Pradesh; it was playing in the snow at Darcha.
As we drove through the stunning scenery, the snow blanketed one side of the road like a soft, fluffy cotton candy, sparkling in the sunlight. It was a sight to behold, especially since it had fallen the day before, and I had to stop.
Stepping into the snow was like stepping into a winter wonderland. And the best part? You can find snow mostly all along the way on the Manali-Leh Highway. This was one of the highlights of my Himachal Pradesh Road Trip.
Travel tip for Himachal
Don’t forget your sun protection essentials like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher is a good rule of thumb)! The sun can be intense at high altitudes.
We all want that perfect mountain selfie, but let’s make sure it’s a sunburn-free one!
Exploring Lahaul Valley: Let’s wrap this up
In a world where everyone’s snapping away, remember to pause and soak in the moment. Let the mountains work their magic, and you’ll be whisked away to a realm like no other. For me, it was in those quiet moments, surrounded by nature’s magnificence, that I discovered true peace and gratitude.
As Lao Tzu wisely said, “Nature doesn’t hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
Being here felt like finding a piece of peace in the chaos of life. It’s like nature had its own rhythm, and I was lucky enough to dance to it for a while. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I cherished every moment.
It was one of those times when everything just felt right.
I think it’s not just about what you see, it’s about what you feel long after you’ve left.
So, why not leap into this beautiful and godly journey?
Let the mountains share their secrets with you. Who knows, they’ll also leave a lasting mark on your heart.
And guess what? This is just the tip of the iceberg! I explored so much more in Himachal Pradesh and can’t wait to share it all with you in my upcoming travel blogs.
Have you ever experienced the charm of the mountains? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Hi, I’m Rashi. I write about my experiences and the things I learned along the way. You will find pieces about relationships, travel, and mindful living in my Medium journal. Maybe you’ll find something that helps you on your own journey, or perhaps it’ll just spark a conversation. Either way, I’d love to hear from you!
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