Embark on an exhilarating single-day journey from the picturesque hills of Manali to the tranquil, high-altitude village of Jispa, traversing the marvel of the Atal Tunnel. This route promises breathtaking landscapes, engineering wonders, and a true taste of the Himalayas.
Your adventure begins in Manali. After an early breakfast, you will commence your drive towards the Atal Tunnel. The drive from Manali to the South Portal of the Atal Tunnel is approximately 30 km and takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.
En route, you may catch glimpses of:
- Solang Valley: Known for its adventure sports, you'll pass by scenic vistas of this famous valley.
After reaching the South Portal, you will enter the magnificent Atal Tunnel. This engineering marvel is 9.02 km long and bypasses the treacherous Rohtang Pass, significantly reducing travel time to Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Traversing the tunnel takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Upon exiting the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel, you'll find yourself in the beautiful Lahaul Valley. From the North Portal to Jispa, the journey covers roughly 75 km and takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, as the roads wind through mountain terrain alongside the Chandra River.
Continuing your journey through Lahaul Valley, en route to Jispa, you will encounter:
- Sissu Waterfall: A captivating waterfall cascading near the Chandra River, offering a refreshing stop and photo opportunity.
- Keylong: The district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti, a bustling town providing views of towering peaks and monasteries in the distance.
- Chandra River Views: Enjoy continuous scenic views of the pristine Chandra River flowing alongside the highway.
Upon arrival in Jispa, nestled by the Bhaga River, you will be greeted by stunning panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and a serene, untouched landscape. This tranquil village serves as an ideal stopover for those venturing further into Ladakh, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature's grandeur. The rest of your day can be spent acclimatizing to the altitude and soaking in the majestic surroundings of this high-altitude haven.
Note:
Vehicle shall travel from Atal Tunnel, if you want to visit Rohtang Pass on the way, it would incur additional charges, which can be discussed and paid to the driver directly.