Atal Tunnel and Sissu Guide: Timings, Permits and Things to Do

Opened in 2020, the Atal Tunnel is one of the longest highway tunnels above 10,000 feet in the world. At about 9.02 km it runs under the Pir Panjal range and links Manali with the Lahaul valley in minutes instead of hours over the Rohtang Pass. It has turned Sissu into a popular day trip.

Key Facts

• Altitude: around 3,000 m (South portal)
• Length: about 9 km, two-lane, with emergency exits and ventilation
• Distance from Manali to South portal: about 25 km via Solang
• Manali to Sissu: roughly 40 km, 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic

Do You Need a Permit?

No special permit is needed to drive through the Atal Tunnel to Sissu. The online permit system applies to Rohtang Pass and is managed through the Rohtang permit portal. However, after heavy snowfall, police may restrict vehicles beyond Solang or allow only 4x4s – always check local advisories.

Best Time to Visit

• May–June: snow walls near the portals, green valley in Lahaul.
• July–September: lush and pleasant, occasional landslides in rain.
• October–November: clear skies, autumn colours.
• December–March: snow everywhere; access depends on daily road status.

Things to Do in Sissu and Lahaul

• Sissu waterfall – a tall fall that freezes into ice in deep winter.
• Chandra river views and the helipad viewpoint.
• Sissu lake – small, pretty and frozen in winter.
• Keylong – Lahaul's district headquarters, about 30 km further, with Kardang and Shashur monasteries.
• Jispa – riverside village on the Manali–Leh highway, great for an overnight.

Tips for the Day Trip

1. Start early (by 7 a.m.) to beat the long queues at the tunnel entrance in peak season.
2. Do not stop or overtake inside the tunnel.
3. Carry warm clothes – Lahaul is much colder than Manali.
4. Food options are limited in winter; carry snacks and water.
5. Fuel up in Manali.

Part of Bigger Journeys

The tunnel is now the start of the classic Manali–Leh highway and the route into Spiti via Kunzum La. Read our Spiti road trip guide and Leh Ladakh bike trip guide if you plan to go further.

Tours Including Atal Tunnel

Browse Himachal tours or these trips:

• Manali–Leh–Umling La Expedition – 9 Nights / 10 Days
• Manali to Srinagar via Leh & Turtuk – 9 Nights / 10 Days
• Srinagar–Leh–Manali Bike Trip with Turtuk – 9 Nights / 10 Days
• Srinagar to Manali via Umling La – 10 Nights / 11 Days
• Delhi to Leh Overland Expedition via Manali – 8 Nights / 9 Days

Related reading: Manali in winter · Shimla Manali itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Atal Tunnel open in winter?

It is usually open, but access roads can close after snowfall. Check with local police or your driver on the day.

How long does it take to cross the Atal Tunnel?

About 10–15 minutes of driving, but queues at the portals can add an hour in peak season.

Can taxis from Manali go to Sissu?

Yes, Manali taxis operate to Sissu; some days only specific vehicles are allowed due to snow.

Is Rohtang Pass still worth visiting?

Yes, in summer, for the views – but it needs a permit and is closed in winter.