Himachal Pradesh is a popular destination for tourists and is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. During the winter months, many visitors are drawn to this beautiful state. Among its famous spots is Sissu, located in the Lahaul-Spiti district, which has become increasingly popular for its unique charm and snowy scenery. And if you, too, are planning to visit Sissu, we have an update for you! Starting January 20, the local gram panchayat has imposed a ban on tourist activities until February 28 to safeguard the region’s cultural traditions and religious practices.
The Sissu gram panchayat, along with key religious and community organizations, has decided to close the village to tourists for a period of 40 days. This decision is rooted in a deep respect for the area’s cultural and spiritual traditions. These religious restrictions coincide with significant festivals, such as Halda and Poonha, which require serenity, focus, and discipline.
The panchayat leaders believe that the presence of tourists could interfere with these observances, important for honoring deities like Raja Ghepan and Goddess Bhoti. Consequently, the community embraces a period of spiritual reflection during this time, placing rituals and community gatherings above commercial interests.
๐All tourism activities in Gram Panchayat Sissu,Lahaul Spiti will remain suspended for 40 days from 20th Jan to 28th Feb.
The decision has been taken in view of the religious and cultural observances of the region(including Halda festival) and to ensure peace and sanctity.โฆ pic.twitter.com/Icwqnaix9Jโ โข ๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ข ๐๐ฆ๐ญ๐ โข (@HimUvaach) January 11, 2026
What Will Be Banned During This Period?ย
All villages within the Sissu panchayat, including the areas around the helipad, will be off-limits to tourists during this period. Rajeev, the panchayat president, stated that the ban prohibits all travel-related activities from Pagal Nullah to Ropsang. Furthermore, all forms of adventure tourism, including ATV riding, hot air ballooning, zip-lining, skiing, bungee jumping, and tubing, will be strictly forbidden.
Major attractions in the Sissu area, such as frozen waterfalls and adventure trails, will be unavailable to visitors. Although the Manali-Keylong route through the Atal Tunnel might still be accessible depending on weather conditions, entrance to Sissu village for leisure will not be allowed. However, other regions in Lahaul-Spiti, like Koksar, Keylong, and Yangla, will remain open to tourists.
Local authorities, along with youth and women’s groups, will enforce the closure, posting informational signs at entry points to inform travelers to avoid the village during this restricted period.
