
A high-altitude village near Manali, known for its winter snow activities like snowboarding, igloo stays, and as a base for the Hampta Pass trek.
Sethan Valley is a small, high-altitude Buddhist village located about 15 kilometers from Manali. Situated at an elevation of over 2,700 meters, it offers a distinct experience away from the main tourist circuits. The village is inhabited by the Khampa community, migrants from Tibet, and their traditional stone and wood houses dot the landscape. During winter, from December to March, the entire valley is covered in a deep layer of snow, making it a prime location for activities like snowboarding, skiing, and unique igloo stays. Visitors can see vast, white meadows set against the backdrop of the towering Dhauladhar range. In the summer months, the snow melts to reveal lush green fields and clear streams, serving as the starting point for several treks, most notably the Hampta Pass trek. The atmosphere here is quiet and uncommercialized. There are no large hotels or markets; accommodation is primarily in the form of homestays and campsites, offering a direct look into the local way of life. The main attraction is the raw, natural landscape and the opportunity to engage in adventure sports or simply enjoy the mountain solitude.
Explore upcoming events, concerts, expos and experiences near you
Sethan Village, Hampta Valley, District Kullu, Prini, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India
Air
The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (KUU) in Kullu, approximately 65 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Manali and then another specialized taxi to Sethan. The journey takes about 3-4 hours.
Train
The nearest major railway station is Chandigarh (CDG), around 325 km away. From Chandigarh, you can take an overnight bus or a taxi to Manali, which is a 8-9 hour journey. The closest, but less practical, station is Joginder Nagar (narrow gauge).
Road
Manali is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi (approx. 550 km) and Chandigarh (310 km). From Manali, Sethan Valley is a 15 km drive via Prini. The road is steep and requires a vehicle with good ground clearance; a 4x4 is essential in winter.
Local Transport
From the Manali bus stand or Mall Road, you must hire a local taxi. Regular tourist cabs may not go all the way up, especially in winter. It's best to hire a 4x4 Gypsy or a similar vehicle from the local taxi union.
Nearby restaurants near Sethan Valley
No restaurants found nearby

Sign up to get the latest travel deals, insider tips, and destination guides straight to your inbox.
From cozy city hotels to luxury resorts — book the best stays at unbeatable prices.