Manali · Experience
Atal Tunnel & Sissu
A 9.02 km tunnel under the Rohtang range that drops you into the high desert of Lahaul in minutes.
Overview
About Atal Tunnel & Sissu.
The Atal Tunnel, opened in 2020, runs 9.02 km beneath the Rohtang range and connects the Kullu valley to Lahaul year round. What used to be a long, seasonal haul over Rohtang Pass is now a twenty-minute drive.
On the far side the landscape changes completely — bare mountains, wide riverbeds and the village of Sissu with its waterfall and small lake. In winter it is the most dependable snow you will find on a day trip from Manali.
Why you should do it
- Two entirely different landscapes in one day
- Reliable winter snow at Sissu
- One of the world's longest high-altitude highway tunnels
- Easy for families — almost all of it is a comfortable drive
How to reach
Private cab from Manali via Palchan and the south portal. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours each way in normal conditions.
Nearby attractions
Solang Valley · Sissu waterfall · Koksar · Rohtang Pass (seasonal)
Things to carry
- A proper jacket — Lahaul is far colder than Manali
- Water and snacks; options are limited past the tunnel
- ID, as checks happen occasionally
Safety tips
- No stopping or photography inside the tunnel
- Start early — the tunnel can close for weather or maintenance
- In snow, only travel with a driver used to the Lahaul side
At a glance
Location
Tunnel south portal about 25 km from Manali; Sissu roughly 40 km
Best time
Year round. December to March for snow, May to October for green Lahaul valleys
Duration
Full day, roughly 6 to 8 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Who can do it
All ages, though the far side sits above 3,000 m and can feel thin for some.
Plan it with us
We include Atal Tunnel & Sissu in several Manali packages, and can add it to any custom trip.
FAQs
Atal Tunnel & Sissu — questions.
How long is the Atal Tunnel?
It is 9.02 km long and takes about 15 to 20 minutes to drive through with traffic.
Do I need a permit for the Atal Tunnel?
No permit is needed for the tunnel or Sissu. Rohtang Pass itself still requires a permit.
Is there snow at Sissu in winter?
Usually yes, from December to March — it is generally more reliable than Solang.
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