Weather:

  • Summer: 10°C to 20°C
  • Winter: -6°C to 5°C (snowfall)

Category: Adventure, Nature
Tags: Trekking, Snowboarding, Stargazing, Village, Hills, Mountains
Timings: Open year-round
Elevation: 2700 meters above sea level
Distance from Manali: 12 km
Best Time to Visit Sethan Valley:

  • Summer (March to June): Ideal for trekking, camping, and exploration.
  • Winter (December to February): Perfect for snowboarding, skiing, and snow activities.

Overview

Nestled in the Himalayas, just 12 km from Manali, Sethan Valley is a quaint Buddhist village that promises visitors a serene and adventurous retreat. With its stunning views of the Dhauladhar Range and snow-covered landscapes in the winter, Sethan is a hub for both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking peace away from the hustle and bustle of popular hill stations.

Sethan is not just a beautiful destination for nature lovers, but it also offers various thrilling activities. From snowboarding and skiing during the winter months to trekking and stargazing, Sethan is a great place for adventure seekers. The valley also offers a unique cultural experience as you explore the traditions of its small Buddhist community.

Things to Do in Sethan Valley

  1. Snowboarding and Skiing:
    With heavy snowfall during winter, Sethan Valley is a prime location for snowboarding and skiing. The region offers suitable slopes for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts, ensuring an exciting experience for all.

  2. Bouldering:
    Sethan Valley is home to granite and gneiss rocks, offering a great opportunity for bouldering. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, there are different grades of climbing routes available.

  3. Stay in Igloo Village:
    A one-of-a-kind experience, Sethan Valley boasts an Igloo Village where visitors can sleep inside traditional igloos, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a unique stay in the mountains.

  4. Stargazing:
    Due to its peaceful environment, Sethan Valley offers one of the best stargazing experiences, where you can witness an unpolluted night sky filled with stars, perfect for astronomy lovers.

  5. Visit Pandu Ropa:
    A short 2 km from Sethan, Pandu Ropa is a revered mythological site linked to the Mahabharata. Locals believe that the Pandavas meditated here, and it remains a spiritual spot for visitors.

  6. Explore Indrasana Peak:
    A trek from Pandu Ropa will take you to Indrasana Peak, standing at 6200 meters, known as the pinnacle of God Indra's throne. The scenic views here make the trek truly rewarding.

Best Time to Visit Sethan Valley

Sethan Valley is accessible and attractive all year round:

  • Summer (March to June): Perfect for trekking, camping, and exploring the village, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
  • Winter (December to February): The valley is blanketed in snow, ideal for snowboarding, skiing, and other winter sports. The temperatures dip below 0°C, making it a magical winter destination.

How to Reach Sethan Valley

  • By Road:
    Sethan Valley is located just 12 km from Manali. To reach here, follow the road uphill toward Hamta Valley and continue for 12 km. Permits are required to enter the valley and can be obtained at the Hydro Project check post in Prini, costing INR 100.

  • By Bus:
    You can take an HRTC bus from Manali, which takes about 45 minutes to reach Sethan Valley.

    • Government bus: INR 150 per head
    • Private Volvos: INR 1100 per head

  • By Taxi:
    Taxis and private cars can be hired from Manali, with fares ranging from INR 1200 to INR 1500 depending on the season.

Must Know Before You Visit Sethan Valley

  • Connectivity: Sethan has limited mobile network coverage, so it’s advised to stay at Homestays in Hamta if you need better connectivity.
  • Altitude Sickness: As Sethan is located at a high altitude, visitors might experience altitude sickness. It’s recommended to carry medicines for nausea and headaches.
  • Permits: Don’t forget to secure the necessary permit at the Hydro Project check post in Prini.