For most travellers, Manali means one thing: snow. And the easiest place to find it is the road north of town – Solang Valley, the Atal Tunnel and the village of Sissu on the Lahaul side. This guide explains what you can do in each season and how to plan the day.
- Distance from Manali: Solang about 14 km; Atal Tunnel south portal about 25 km
- Atal Tunnel length: about 9 km, one of the longest highway tunnels above 3,000 m
- Snow: usually December to March at Solang; longer around the tunnel and Sissu
- Our package: Shimla – Manali 5N/6D from ₹12,500 per person
Solang Valley
Solang is a wide valley surrounded by snow peaks and forests, and it changes completely with the seasons.
- Winter (December–March): snow play, skiing lessons, snow tubing and snowmobile rides.
- Spring and summer (April–June): paragliding, zorbing, quad bikes and the ropeway to the upper slopes.
- Monsoon (July–September): green and quiet; adventure activities depend on the weather.
The Solang ropeway lifts you to around 3,200 m for wide valley views. Paragliding flights are short and weather-dependent – book only with registered operators.
The Atal Tunnel
Opened in 2020, the Atal Tunnel under the Rohtang range connects Manali to the Lahaul valley all year round. Driving through it takes about 15 minutes, and on the northern side you find a completely different landscape – drier, higher and often under snow when Manali has none.
Sissu
The first village after the tunnel, Sissu has a tall waterfall, a lake that freezes in winter and wide snowy views. It is the most popular day-trip stop beyond the tunnel and is often snow-covered until April.
What about Rohtang Pass?
Rohtang Pass itself is open for a limited season (usually May to November) and requires an online permit with a daily vehicle limit. With the Atal Tunnel, most travellers now get their snow experience at Sissu and Solang without needing the Rohtang permit.
Tips for the day
- Start early – traffic builds up near the tunnel after 10 am in peak season.
- Hire snow gear (boots, jackets, gloves) in Manali or Palchan if you are visiting in winter.
- Agree activity prices before you start; rates for snowmobiles and tubes vary.
- Carry cash – card machines and networks are unreliable.
- Respect closures – after heavy snowfall, the road beyond Solang may be closed by the authorities.
Best time to visit
- For snow: December to March (Solang) and up to April–May (Sissu side).
- For adventure sports: April to June.
- For greenery: July to September (watch for rain).
Our Shimla Manali tour package includes a full day for Solang and the Atal Tunnel area. Message us on WhatsApp to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Solang Valley from Manali?
About 14 km, around 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
When can I see snow in Solang Valley?
Usually from December to March. The Sissu side beyond the Atal Tunnel often has snow until April or May.
Do I need a permit for the Atal Tunnel?
No special permit is needed for the Atal Tunnel and Sissu. Rohtang Pass needs a separate online permit.
How long is the Atal Tunnel?
About 9 km. It takes around 15 minutes to drive through.
Is paragliding available in Solang?
Yes, mainly from April to June and in autumn, weather permitting. Choose a registered operator.
Is Rohtang Pass open all year?
No. It usually opens from May to November and requires an online permit.
Is Solang included in your Shimla Manali package?
Yes, our Shimla – Manali package includes a day for Solang Valley and the Atal Tunnel area.
How do I book?
Tap "Book on WhatsApp" on the Shimla – Manali package page or message +91 89102 77805.
