Situated amidst the unblemished elegance of the Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Sissu Lake is a secret paradise that serves as an enchantment to the eyes of any visitor. This tranquil spot, engulfed by high mountains and lush greenery, is perfect for those trying to escape the bustle of city life. So, if you are planning a visit to Sissu Lake and want to know how to utilize your trip to the fullest, here are some simple tips to guide you.

What Makes Sissu Lake Special?

Sissu Lake is also referred to as Khwaling. It is primarily known for crystal clear water that mirrors the grand Himalayan peaks. Its scenic background makes it one of the favorite spots for nature as well as adventure lovers. A few nearby attractions such as the Sissu Waterfall and small villages incorporate beauty to this place.

Road Transport

1. By Road
Road access to Sissu Lake is pretty easy and probably one of the most scenic too.

It is about 40 km from Manali. The journey takes about 1.5 hours through the Atal Tunnel- an engineering marvel connecting Manali to the Lahaul Valley.
You could either come in your vehicle or hire a taxi. The roads are pretty good, with the views on the way being breathtaking, more so after the tunnel.
2. By Bus
Government and private buses ply daily from Manali to Keylong passing through Sissu. You may stop at Sissu village to which you will have to walk or board a local vehicle in order to reach the lake.

3. By Air or Train
While it is not easy to travel directly to Sissu in terms of by flights and by trains, a flight can be easily reached to Bhuntar Airport near Kullu. There is also a railway station called Joginder Nagar Railway Station from where you will have to proceed to roads.

Best Time to Visit:

Sissu Lake remains a year-round destination, though the visit experience differs according to different seasons:

Summer: This season falls between April and June. The weather is nice, and the valley becomes green in all shades. This is one of the best seasons to visit places in this region.
Monsoon: It experiences mild rains from July to September. The views during the monsoons are quite picturesque. However, one has to face the occasional landslides.
Winter: It is full white from October to March. A frozen lake, white peaks, and regions of this type make the valley a prime destination in winter.

What to Pack for Your Tour

Packing wisely will enable you to have a highly comfortable and enjoyable trip:
 
Apparel: Carry light woolens if you go during summer. Carry heavy jackets, gloves, and boots if you are coming during winter.
Shoes: Good shoes are an absolute necessity. In case you want to visit the regions nearby, then make sure that your shoes are sturdy as well.
Miscellaneous: Don't miss the sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat since the sun in the mountains is very strong.
Snacks and Water: Some energy bars and a water bottle should be packed because eateries are not available mostly in the area of the said place.

Sissu Lake Things to Do

Wind Down by the Lake
The waters of Sissu Lake are super quiet and ideal to spend a quiet afternoons. Sit along the shore, enjoy the cool breeze, and take in the beauty of the scenery around.
 
Visit Sissu Waterfall
Located at short distance from the lake is Sissu Waterfall. The cascade falling against the lush green milieu is breathtakingly beautiful.

Local Villages Walk
A short walk to the adjacent Sissu village gives a peep into the distinct culture and life of Lahaul Valley. The local culture and their traditional Himachali foods will surely warm your hearts and taste buds.
Photography
Sissu Lake is a photographer's dream shot. From the glinting lake to the rugged mountains or the vibrant, funky wildflowers in every frame, it has a story to tell.

Adventure Activities
For thrill-seekers, there are plenty of activities such as trekking, mountain biking, and camping available within and surrounding areas of Sissu.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Journey

Acclimatize Properly: The place is at an altitude; hence it is very important to let your body be accustomed to high altitude before it becomes a reason for altitude sickness.
Check the Weather: Mountain weather can be very unpredictable and change in a matter of minutes. Check the forecast before embarking on your journey.
Travel Early: Travel during early morning so that you can make the most of your day and avoid traveling during late evenings in hilly areas.
Respect Nature: Sissu Lake is a natural wonder, so one should not litter in or around the lake and spread awareness about eco-friendly practices.

Where to Stay

Plenty of choices abound near Sissu Lake. You have options from the budget homestays to the mid-range hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse will add more to your experience as you'll get an idea of the warm hospitality of the Lahaul Valley.