Just 14 km from Manali, Sethan felt like stepping into a hidden world. This small Buddhist village, nestled among pine forests and framed by the snow-capped Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, offers peace far from Manali’s touristy chaos. I was amazed by the view of the Beas River flowing far below, dividing the two ranges—absolutely breathtaking.
Though quiet, Sethan is full of surprises—snowboarding, hiking, bouldering, camping, and even Milky Way sightings on clear nights. The highlight of my stay? Sleeping in a real igloo—a surreal, magical experience I never expected in Himachal.
If you’re craving solitude, natural beauty, and a truly offbeat adventure, Sethan is worth every mile.
Let’s Quickly Dive Into The Details –
| Why Visit Sethan? |
| Best Time To Visit Sethan |
| Things To Do In Sethan |
| How to reach Sethan |
| Where to stay in Sethan |
| Where to eat in Sethan |
| Travel Tips |
Why visit Sethan?
If you think you’ve seen all that Manali has to offer, think again. Just 14 km uphill lies Sethan, a quiet little village that somehow manages to feel like both a dream and a deep breath.
I still remember the first time I visited Sethan — the air felt lighter, the views more vivid, and the silence more meaningful. Nestled at an altitude of 2,700 meters, this Buddhist village is home to the Khampa tribe, and their warmth adds a soulful touch to the entire experience.
What makes Sethan truly worth visiting is its untouched charm. Far away from the noise and chaos of typical tourist circuits, this village invites you to slow down. The sun-kissed peaks, crisp air, and open skies make it the perfect place to unwind, journal, hike, or simply stare at the horizon doing nothing — guilt-free.
And if you’re into unique stays, Sethan will surprise you. From cozy homestays to luxury glamping, camping under the stars, and even India’s rare igloo stays in winter — the options are refreshingly offbeat. On my last visit, watching the Milky Way from my tent felt like time had stopped.
So, if you’re wondering why visit Sethan, the answer is simple: to rediscover yourself in the silence, to fall in love with the slow life, and to create travel memories that actually mean something. –
Best time to visit Sethan
Any time of the year would be the best time to visit Sethan. So, it depends on your personal choice before deciding the best time to visit Sethan.
Sethan Summer (March to May) – Summer is the perfect time to visit Sethan for adrenaline-pumping activities like bouldering, night camping, hiking, fishing, and trekking. It looks spectacular after the harsh winter when the thick layer of snow starts fading out and lush greenery starts showing. The temperature hovers from 2 to 15 degrees Celsius. It is the best time to enjoy the lush greenery of Sethan.
Sethan in Monsoon (June to August) – If you want to experience the raw natural beauty of Sethan then monsoon is the ideal time to visit. The refreshing breeze through the Dhauladhar mountains will calm your heart and soul. And the soothing music of river Beas makes your vacation peaceful.
Note – The monsoon season in Himachal is prone to heavy rains and landslides. So before leaving do check the weather forecast.
Sethan in Autumn (September to October) – Autumn is the best season to visit Sethan. After the monsoon season, it looks spectacular when nature is in full bloom with colorful flowers and forests of pine trees.
Sethan in Winter (November to February) – Winter in Sethan will be very harsh as the temperature drops to minus. The heavy snowfall covers the entire landscape with a white layer of snow. Sethan becomes a paradise for snow lovers in winter. The heavy snowfall opens the door for various snow activities like snowboarding, skiing, and sledging. And winter is the time when you can stay in Igloo – The unique and famous part of Sethan.
Things to do in Sethan Valley
Away from the hustle of daily modern life, Sethan is a quiet village. However, there is a lot to do and various activities according to season. So, let’s dive into the details of various things to do in Sethan –
1. Skiing & Snowboarding (Snow Related Activities)
If you’re planning a winter escape to Sethan, skiing should be right at the top of your list — and trust me, it’s nothing like the crowded slopes of other hill stations.
The first time I experienced Sethan in winter, I was completely mesmerized. The entire landscape transforms into a white wonderland, untouched and almost surreal. Unlike popular skiing spots, Sethan offers wide, peaceful slopes, low pollution, and barely any crowd — making it ideal whether you’re a beginner or just want to enjoy snow sports at your own pace.
What I loved most was the laid-back vibe. You don’t feel rushed or out of place. Local guides are friendly and patient, especially with first-timers like me who struggled with balance in the beginning! With a little practice and a lot of laughter, I was gliding down gentle slopes and soaking in mountain views I’ll never forget.
Pro tip? Don’t forget to layer up, wear sunscreen (yes, even in snow!), and grab your gear from rental shops in Prini, just before you head up to Sethan.
2. Bouldering
If winter in Sethan is all about snowboarding, skiing, and snow tubing, then summer belongs to bouldering. And let me tell you — it’s not just a sport, it’s a full-body and mind experience.
The first time I tried bouldering in Sethan, I was a little nervous. Climbing rocks with just your hands and feet? It sounded intense. But the thrill of it — the quiet focus, the rugged textures of the boulders, the crisp mountain air — had me hooked in minutes.
What makes Sethan perfect for bouldering is the variety. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who’s already scaling rock walls back home, you’ll find challenges ranging from V0 to V12. So, no matter your fitness level, there’s a rock here with your name on it.
And don’t worry — you won’t be doing this alone. Local experts and guides are around to help, especially if it’s your first time. They’ll walk you through the techniques and safety basics, so you can focus on enjoying the climb (and the views!).
3. Igloo Stay
Ever dreamt of sipping hot coffee while wrapped in a warm blanket inside a house made entirely of snow? I did — and Sethan made it real.
Yes, this tiny mountain village offers something incredibly rare: authentic igloo stays, right here in India. It’s one of the most surreal experiences you can have — stepping into a structure made of packed snow, yet feeling cozy and comfortable inside with thick mattresses and insulated sleeping bags keeping you warm.
As someone who’s always chased unique stays, this one truly stood out. There’s something magical about watching snowfall outside your igloo, slurping Maggi, and feeling like you’re living in a snow globe.
- Best time for igloo stay – The igloo stay season runs from January to April, when snowfall is at its best.
- Cost – 4000 INR per night.
- Interesting Fact – Sethan is the only place in India where you can find igloo.
4. Camping
If you’re craving a little adventure mixed with tranquility, camping in Sethan is an absolute must. Imagine pitching your tent surrounded by the breathtaking Dhauldhar mountain range, with the soothing flow of the Beas River nearby — it’s like nature itself is inviting you to slow down and soak it all in.
On my camping nights in Sethan, I felt completely unplugged — just me, the crisp mountain air, and a sky full of stars that felt so close, I could almost reach out and touch them. There’s something magical about falling asleep to the sounds of the river and waking up to panoramic views that photos simply can’t capture.
Beyond the beauty, camping here is a wonderful way to connect with the local lifestyle. It’s where you can share stories around a campfire with locals, taste home-cooked meals, and experience the simple joys that make Sethan so special.
So, if you want to make your Sethan trip truly memorable, pack your camping gear and get ready to live the authentic mountain village life — under a blanket of stars you won’t soon forget.
5. Experience Sethan’s Night Sky: A Cosmic Show You Can’t Miss
During the day, Sethan’s lush green meadows invite you to wander and soak in nature’s calm. But it’s the night here that truly steals your breath away. Far from the noise, pollution, and blinding city lights, Sethan offers one of the most stunning night skies I’ve ever witnessed.
There’s something incredibly special about sitting outside with a warm cup of coffee, simply gazing up at a sky sprinkled with countless sparkling stars and the soft glow of the Milky Way stretching above you. Trust me, this kind of peaceful magic isn’t something you’ll find even at the world’s most luxurious hotels.
The way the moonlight bathes the landscape in a gentle white glow has a calming effect that melts away your worries, even if just for a little while. It’s no wonder travelers from all over flock here just to experience this beautiful natural wonder.
And if you want to make the most of this celestial spectacle, camping in Sethan is hands down the best way to immerse yourself fully in the Milky Way’s glory — falling asleep under the stars and waking up to fresh mountain air is an experience you’ll never forget.
6. Hiking and Trekking
During my visit, I discovered that Sethan isn’t just about beautiful views; it’s about the journey too. You can choose gentle day treks like Pandu Ropa, perfect for a relaxing yet refreshing hike through forests and meadows. Or, if you’re craving a challenge, the famous Hamta Trek starts right here, offering rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas that stay etched in your memory forever.
No matter your skill level, Sethan’s trails invite you to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature — every step feels like an adventure, and every turn reveals a new postcard-perfect view.
So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore Sethan from its roots to its peaks!
7. Visit Pandu Ropa Cave and Lake
If you’re around Sethan, don’t miss a visit to Pandu Road, a place steeped in history and local legends—just 2 kilometers away. The name itself tells a story: “Pandu” refers to the Pandavas, the five brothers from the epic Mahabharata, and “Ropa” means farming.
Locals believe that during their exile, the Pandavas stayed here and farmed the land. It’s said that because of this divine connection, the fields here never run dry, and farming continues with deep reverence and faith.
When I visited Pandu Road, I was struck by the peaceful aura that surrounds the place. There’s a mysterious cave to explore and a breathtaking lake that seems to sparkle with ancient secrets. It’s a spot where history, nature, and spirituality come together — truly mesmerizing and unlike anything you’d expect near a small mountain village.
If you want to connect with the local culture and witness a slice of sacred tradition, Pandu Road is a must-see on your Sethan itinerary.
How to reach Panduropa – Trekking is the best way to reach Panduropa. And the trek is very easy traversing through meadows, forests of pines and amazing mountain ranges.
8. Trek to Indrasan Peak
If you loved the Panduropa trek, get ready for another unforgettable adventure — the Indrasan Peak trek. This isn’t just any mountain climb; it’s steeped in myth and magic. According to local legends, Indrasan Peak is believed to be the throne of Indra, the powerful Hindu God of Rain. Imagine standing at the foot of a peak where myths come alive!
Rising majestically to 6,223 meters, Indrasan is one of the most challenging yet rewarding treks near Sethan.
On my trek, every step felt like a step into a story — with crisp mountain air, stunning panoramas, and the quiet thrill of being part of something timeless.
If you’re looking to add a little legend and a lot of adventure to your Sethan trip, the Indrasan Peak trek should definitely be on your list.
9. Hampta Pass Trek
If you love trekking, Sethan is more than just a quiet village — it’s the perfect base camp for the iconic Hampta Pass trek. Sitting at a high altitude of 4,270 meters, this trek is truly one of the most dramatic and breathtaking Himalayan crossings you can experience.
What blew me away the most about Hampta Pass was the mind-blowing contrast of landscapes you witness in a single spot. Picture this: on one side, you’re surrounded by lush green valleys, vibrant blooming flowers, sprawling meadows, and dense pine forests of Kullu — pure nature’s paradise. Then, turn your gaze the other way, and you see the stark, barren wilderness of Lahul, a raw, rugged land with almost no vegetation.
This striking juxtaposition between lush life and rugged terrain is unlike anything else I’ve seen in the mountains. It’s nature’s own masterpiece — and yes, it’s every bit as fascinating as it sounds.
So, if you’re planning things to do in Sethan, don’t miss gearing up for the Hampta Pass trek. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an adventurous soul eager to explore, this journey will stay with you forever.
- Trek Length – 35 KM
- Difficulty Level – Moderate
10. Hidden Waterfall
It is one of the untouched spots in Sethan. It is so undiscovered that it doesn’t even have any name so we call it hidden waterfall. So, to reach there you need to first reach Kalzang Dhaba from there is a stream that will take you to the spot. You need to hike through the forest to reach the waterfall. For more information about paths, you can ask locals or the owners of Kalzang Dhaba.
How to reach Sethan
Located just 14 KM from Manali reaching Sethan is very easy. Once you reach Manali there is a simple route that takes you to the Sethan Valley. Let’s discuss in detail –
By Road – Road is the best way to reach Sethan. The route is scenic traversing through amazing valleys, snow-capped mountains and forests of Oak. Manali is located 518 KM away from Delhi and 280 KM from Chandigarh. From Delhi ISBT or Majnu Ka Tilla, there are number of regular buses plying to Manali. The overnight bus journey from Delhi to Manali will help you to save lots of time and money. The bus from Delhi to Manali can cost you from 700 to 1200 INR depending on the bus type.
How to reach Sethan from Manali – After reaching Manali, Sethan is located just 45 minute’s drive away. Follow the Kullu-Naggar-Manali road towards Prini to reach this magical landscape.
By Train – Manali doesn’t have any railway station. The Joginder Nagar Railway station is situated 160 Km away from Manali. From there taxis, buses and cabs run to Manali on regular basis.
Chandigarh railway station is a good alternative option for train travelers as it is more popular so you’ll get train easily to Chandigarh from your city. From Chandigarh, you can easily get local or private buses to Manali.
By Air – Kullu Manali Airport at Bhuntar is situated 51 KM from Manali. But the tickets to Kullu airport from your city can be expensive and very limited too. So, tourists coming from other regions of India do take flight to Delhi or Chandigarh followed by a road journey to Manali and then Sethan.
Where to stay in Sethan
Being an off-beat destination, Sethan doesn’t have a lot of options for stay. But whatever it has all are worth it. From Glamping to Igloo stay, Sethan has very unique staying options.
Prini village which is located 10 KM away from Sethan also do have some interesting stay options. And one of them is Glampeco’s stay which offers a luxurious dome-structured camp with an amazing valley view. From there you can even spot a marvelous view of the Milky way at night as well. Overall, Sethan has some interesting staying options that mesmerize you.
Where to eat in Sethan
Don’t expect fancy restaurants in Sethan. Apart from some local Dhabas and vendors who serve maggie, simple Dal Chawal (rice) & snacks, Sethan doesn’t have many options for foodies. There is a local Dhaba named Kalzang Dhaba who serves delicious Siddu, maggie and coffee with free picturesque views.
Travel tips
- To enter in Sethan you will require a permit as it is a protected area. You can take the permit at Hydro Project check post in Prini for 100 INR.
- During winter the temperature can drops to minus too so pack heavy woolens and full sleeve shirts.
- If you’re self-driving then keep in mind it is difficult to reach Sethan in small cars especially during peak winter when the road is full of snow and slippery.
- Don’t expect you’ll get any kind of internet in Sethan.
- To enjoy in snow rent snow boots and all gear from Prini village. Prini is located on the way to Sethan.
- Foot is the best way to explore Sethan.
Conclusion
Sethan isn’t just another travel spot — it’s a hidden paradise waiting to be discovered. For me, escaping the noisy city chaos and stepping into this quiet, almost untouched village felt like pressing the reset button. The limited connectivity and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect getaway for both adventure lovers craving thrills and those simply seeking calm.
In winter, Sethan transforms into a magical snow-covered wonderland that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Come summer, the lush green meadows and towering pine trees invite you to breathe in fresh mountain air and chase adrenaline-packed adventures.
Trust me, once you experience Sethan, it’ll leave a mark on your heart. So don’t wait—pack your bags and get ready for memories you’ll cherish forever.
