Keylong, located in the center of the Lahaul Valley, provides an incredible getaway from the hustle and bustle of Manali. There are some lovely valleys and snowy mountains, as well as ancient monasteries that offer an authentic experience of the beauty of Himachal Pradesh’s natural scenery.
Thanks to the Atal Tunnel, traveling to Keylong has become much simpler—even during the winter with snow! In this guide you will find some of the best routes to Keylong, places to stop along the way, places to stay and travel tips to make your travel in 2025 enjoyable and safe.
Why consider visiting Keylong in 2025!
- Keylong is much quieter than Manali, providing an authentic and tranquil experience of the Lahaul Valley.
- You will be able to enjoy the lovely snow valleys, ancient monasteries, and scenic drives along the river and mountains.
- And since the Atal Tunnel, the roads are open for nearly the whole year.
If you enjoy nature with some adventure, fantastic views and peace, this very well may be one of the best locations for your planned visit.
When is the best time to visit Keylong?
April to October: Either way, the roads are mostly cleared for travel and the weather is nice. Great for sightseeing and short treks.
November to February: Be prepared for explicitly winter with snow for snow-related activities. Roads may be limited, depending on the vehicle used, as there are spots where the roads are suspect for smaller vehicles.
There are especially beautiful views during the winters, especially the snow-covered areas from Sissu to Keylong!
Getting to Keylong from Manali
Approximate Distance: 115 km (Journey Time: 3.5 – 4 hours)
To get there, itinerary: Manali → Atal Tunnel → Sissu → Koksar → Tandi → Keylong.
Transportation options:
Private cab: Comfortable, and flexible while traveling. For example, you can book a snow-ready cab through Manali Tour Planner when traveling in winter.
Local Buses/Taxis: There are transport options like local buses/taxis but these options are limited when roads are covered in snow.
Tip: Ensure to check road conditions before traveling to Keylong, especially in Winter if snow is on the ground.
Recommended Itinerary to visits Keylong
2 Nights / 3 Days Trip:
Day 1: Journey from Manali to Keylong via Sissu. Stop and see a frozen waterfall.
Day 2: Visit Keylong, visit the Kardang Monastery and Shashur Monastery, walk along the Bhaga River, and enjoy the valley views.
Day 3: Return to Manali via the Atal Tunnel. There may be an opportunity for a stop in Naggar on the way back.
3 Nights / 4 Days Trip:
Add a day to visit close-by villages and for short treks to explore, rest, or plan other activities.
Accommodation in Keylong
- There are guesthouses, homestays, and small hotels to choose from.
- Winter tip: Choose accommodations with heating or a wood stove to stay warm.
- During the snow season, book in advance, as options are limited.
Keylong Travel Tips and Safety
- Check for BRO road updates and weather reports before you leave.
- Be prepared with thermals, warm clothing, sunglasses, and cash (there are few ATMs).
- If you plan to take a phone, the networks that usually work are BSNL or Airtel.
- Travel via vehicle: If there is snow, use a 4×4 or SUV. Small cars may struggle.
- We recommend travel insurance for winter trips.
FAQs
Is Keylong open in October–November?
Yes, the Atal Tunnel keeps the road open, but winter snows can affect small roads.
Can small cars go to Keylong after snow?
It is not advisable. A 4×4 or SUV is safer.
Is Atal Tunnel open 24 hours?
Yes, it is open 24 hours, every day of the year.
How far is Sissu from Keylong?
Sissu is about 40 km from Keylong, and a fantastic drive along the Bhaga River.
How much does a Manali–Keylong trip cost?
Packages start from ₹6,000 per person for a 2 Nights / 3 Days trip.
📞 Book your Keylong trip or snow tour: +91 70185 37498
🌐 Visit: manalitourplanner.com/keylong-tours
Also read: Is Manali Crowded During Diwali 2025? Here’s Why This Year Is the Perfect Time to Visit