About 12 kilometers away from Manali lies Sethan, a quaint Buddhist village. It's a hidden gem of Himachal that's covered in snow through and through. The snow-capped mountains, sunkissed peaks, and the gorgeous view overlooking the Dhauladhar Range are some of the things that make this place stand out. If you're not one who likes visiting crowded touristy places but also wants to engage in some outdoor and adventure activities, Sethan Valley is the ideal place for you.
If you're visiting the valley in winter, you can't miss out on the opportunity of snowboarding along the snow-covered valleys of Sethan. Snowboarding is going to be an enjoyable experience as you slide through the white snow-covered mountains. Plus, you don’t have heaps of people surrounding you as you snowboard and have the time of your life. You get the space to master the art of snowboarding in your own time while also enjoying it to the fullest.
If you don't know how to snowboard and want to learn, you can hire a local guide to help you with that. You also have ample places around Prini to rent all kinds of equipment that you will need to enjoy this activity. Things that you need to keep in mind here are that you need to be wearing thick layers of clothes to keep yourself warm and safe from the frigid weather.
Also Read: Best Hostels In Manali
Sethan Valley is the only place in India where you get to live your fairytale dream of staying in an Igloo. Yes, you read that right. In Sethan, there are igloo hotels that you can stay in for the night. These igloos are open for travelers during the months of December and January. This is the time when it's usually freezing and the igloos can hold their shape.
Once you reach the hotel, the staff will give you all the information about how to live in an igloo. They will also provide you with gumboots and attire that will keep you when living in the igloo. Besides, you're welcomed with some warm tea which you can sip while you admire the gorgeous view of the surroundings. With delicious hot-served food, a snow-screen projector, snow activities, sightseeing, hiking, and many other activities, your stay at the igloo is going to be an exciting one. And it’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing that you should not miss out on.
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As sad as it may sound, the tall building and the pollution of the city doesn't allow you to look at the night sky and admire the stars. But, on your next trip to Manali, you can visit Sethan and look at the sky all you want. This offbeat location has a soothing atmosphere which adds to your experience of stargazing. And what's the best part you ask? You can stargaze all year long in Sethan and it's one of the best things to do here.
Stargazing is something that you can enjoy from almost everywhere in Sethan. When you get back to your hotel after an eventful day of adventures, you can simply lie down and have a look at the stars. You’d actually be surprised at what the night sky in Sethan Valley looks like. It's a very calming exercise that helps you relax and unwind. If you have the chance to do only one thing out of the lot, stargazing in Sethan is the one to choose.
Also Read: Top 7 Things To Do In Himachal
Another fun and interesting thing to do in Sethan Valley is bouldering. This is a fun summertime activity that you can enjoy between the months of March and May in the valley. When climbing these rocks you’ll truly feel your adrenaline pumping. There are different grades of climbing that you can choose from that you can pick according to your capabilities and strength.
Right from beginners' basic level up to the highest scale, there are quite a few scales established for you to pick from. So whether you're a beginner or a pro at this activity, you’ll be able to enjoy bouldering no matter what. Plus, there are instructors and guides who will be present at all times to help you out whenever needed. If you love adventure sports, this is a must-visit thing to do in Sethan Valley.
Also Read: Experiencing The Chandratal Lake Trek From Manali
Pandu Ropa is a mythological place that is located just two kilometers away from the valley. It's a site often visited by locals and tourists alike. It is believed to be the place where the Pandavas meditated and resided before the Mahabharata. Keeping that in mind, the place is given a lot of importance by the locals and the farmers consider it pious.
Farmers from neighboring areas grow crops here as they believe that this land is blessed and fertile. When you start exploring Pandu Ropa, make sure that you are accompanied by a local guide. They will let you know in detail about the history, and significance this place has in their lives.
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The panoramic view and beauty of Sethan are definitely going to tempt you to explore more of the peaks that surround it. The best thing to do in this case is to hike or trek to some of the amazing spots around the area and check out some hidden gems. Some of the best places to explore in Sethan are Hampta Pass and Indrasan Peak. These are two of the most intriguing places that you must visit as an adventure lover.
Also Read: The Manali Travel Guide
Hampta Pass Trekking
The Hampta Pass trek is a multi-day trek with Sethan Valley as its base camp. The best time to go trekking here is during the summer and right before winter. The trek is also open during the winters, but at times it's also closed due to heavy snowfall or the occurrence of storms. This is one of the best things to do in Sethan as you get to live and experience the beauty of the valley over a few days and really enjoy it.
Also Read: Experience Kodachadri Trek In Karnataka
Explore Indrasan Peak
Indrasan Peak is another mythological attraction that is very popular in Sethan Valley. This peak is situated just towards the east of Pandu Ropa and has a very interesting hiking route to explore. This peak is considered to be the pinnacle of the throne of Lord Indra. It's a much less explored place, but once you reach on top you’ll see why it's hyped up so much. It's definitely on the top of the list of things to do in Sethan valley. And we think that's enough motivation for you to book your tickets and get to Sethan Valley!
Summing Up
The soothing atmosphere, snow-capped mountains, scenic beauty, seclusion, and most of all, the feeling of being the only one around in Sethan Valley are unparalleled. So when you plan to take a vacation next, make sure you have Sethan on your mind. It's one of the best places for you to explore and you’re not going to be disappointed.
Is There Snow In Sethan Valley?
Yes, there is snow in Sethan Valley. It is always covered in snow during the winter, which is the ideal time to visit this place.
How Can I Go To Sethan Village From Delhi?
If you're traveling from Sethan to Delhi, it's best to take the train. It's a much faster and more efficient way of reaching the village
Is Hampta Pass Open?
Yes, Hampta Pass is open for visitors and tourists from the months of Mid-June to October.
Is There A Network In Sethan?
This is going to be the trickiest part of going on a trip to Sethan. You barely get any network when you're in the village.
Is There Snow In Sethan In May?
Yes, there is snow in Sethan in May, and is the best time to visit the valley for some fun snow activities and adventures.
Is There Snowfall In Manali In March?
March is when it starts getting warmer in Manali. This is when the summer sun starts shining and there are minute chances of it snowing in Manali in March.
Is Hampta Pass Risky?
Hampta Pass is not a risky trek. With a tour guide, proper direction, and precautions, you’ll be able to have a blast on this trek. It's one of the best things to do in Sethan.
How Is The Weather In Manali In December?
December is the peak winter season in Manali. The temperature rises as high as 20°C and goes as low as 7°C in December in Manali.
