Once a sleepy village that every traveler ignored, the luck of Sissu has changed overnight. It might be true that Manali to Sissu distance has reduced considerably after the Atal Tunnel became operational and this has resulted in this village getting popular among tourists.
For me, however, Manali to Sissu distance may be a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Manali, I still yearn for this difficult journey through Rohtang Pass which allows one to explore the beauty of the Raw Himalayas.
Manali to Sissu Distance in Older Days
In older days, covering the Manali to Sissu distance was a challenge, particularly during the monsoons as big boulders often blocked the way during the ascent to Rohtang pass. I remember getting stuck in one such landslide during my Manali to Sissu journey. It took me 12 hours to cover this distance, which was a 4-hour journey from the older route.
As the road turned upwards from the new Atal tunnel highway, the road got narrower and was an ascent till Rohtang. On the way, a brief stop could be made at Marhi, which was a collection of some makeshift shops.
I still remember that steaming hot plate of Rajmah chawal on that cold October morning,g which had to be gulped down as the HRTC bus driver was eager to accomplish the Manali to Sissu distance in a tiff. Yet, that experience was worth remembering!
As the bus climbed through twists and turns the Manali to Sissu distance reduced with every turn. Well, on the other bend beyond Koksar was Sissu, a small non-descript village.
Breathtaking Beauty of Sissu
The high mountains which surround this small village will make you feel that this Manali to Sissu distance is worth exploring. These peaks remain covered by snow most of the time and in October they still have traces of snow from last winter’s.
The drive is also scenic as suddenly you come face to face with the Chandra River which seemed a distant cry from the heights of Rohtang.
Another unique landmark of Sissu is the ever-flowing waterfall which seems to rise from a crest in the mountain peak. The only difference between the older days and today is that while earlier people used to pass by the highway having a glimpse of this waterfall. However, after construction of the Atal tunnel and transformation of Sissu into a tourist destination, reaching this waterfall has become relatively easy.
Golden Hue of Poplar Trees in Sissu
The exertion of this tedious Manali to Sissu distance almost ended when one saw the golden hue of poplar trees which line the highway. This was indeed a treat to the eyes, and even today, when you travel to Sissu in October, and even today it remains the same. In addition, you will find a large number of willow trees here.
Sissu is a wonderland indeed that has not changed a bit over the years except for the fact that with the advent of tourists in Sissu, the local people have found a source of income which earlier was restricted till Manali. In short, the loss of Manali is the gain of Sissu!
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