Overview
Hampta Pass Trek – A Journey Through Contrasts in Himachal Pradesh
At an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level, nestled in the scenic heart of Himachal Pradesh, lies the Hampta Pass Trek—a stunning route that connects the lush Kullu Valley with the stark, high-altitude deserts of Lahaul and Spiti. This trek is an adventure through diverse landscapes, where verdant meadows, dense forests, and snow-covered peaks give way to rugged, barren terrains—offering trekkers an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Starting from the charming town of Manali, renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the trek unfolds a journey that encapsulates the raw magnificence of the Himalayas. It’s not just about scenic beauty; it’s a passage through history and heritage.
The name Hampta Pass is derived from the nearby Hampta village, which historically served as a key trade route for shepherds and merchants traversing between the valleys. What was once a lifeline for trade and travel is now a testament to the region’s heritage, drawing trekkers from around the world eager to explore its natural wonders.
Who is it for?
Whether you’re a first-time trekker or an experienced adventurer, the Hampta Pass Trek is ideal. Rated as easy to moderate in difficulty, it provides the perfect balance between challenge and accessibility, making it suitable for anyone seeking their first taste of the highlands or simply looking for a short yet thrilling trek.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal season to embark on this trek is from May to October, with each month offering a unique charm:
- May to June: Snow-laden trails and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
- July to August: Lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and monsoon-washed landscapes.
- September to October: Crisp air, clear skies, and stunning visibility of distant mountain ranges.
Trek Duration & Experience
The trek spans 5 days and 4 nights, perfect for those seeking an intense yet time-bound adventure. Each day brings a new thrill—camping under starry skies, gathering around campfires, and capturing the ever-changing landscapes with your lens. Trekkers also enjoy warm hospitality in tents and charming guesthouses, sharing stories, meals, and moments of awe.
One of the most unforgettable highlights is witnessing the dramatic transition from the greenery of Kullu Valley to the barren beauty of Spiti Valley, making the trek not just a journey but a visual symphony of nature.
Key Details:
- Location: Himachal Pradesh, India
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Base Camp: Manali
- Max Altitude: 14,100 ft
- Stay: Hotels, Guest Houses, Camps
- Season: May to October
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Meals: Included as per itinerary
- Trail Type: Lush Valleys & Barren Landscapes
- Trek Distance: 27 KM
- Rail Head: Manali
Highlights:
- Witness the stark contrast between lush valleys and arid terrains.
- Capture breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and vibrant scenery.
- Trek through forests of silver birch, pine, and oak.
- Enjoy comfortable accommodations and nutritious meals throughout.
- A perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Pickup & Drop:
- Location: Manali
- Reporting Time: Flexible (based on travel plans)
- Drop Time: Flexible (based on departure)
Itinerary
Hampta Pass Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Manali to Chhika via Jobra – Walk Through Forest Trails
- Altitude:
- Manali – 2,100 m / 6,400 ft
- Jobra – 2,800 m / 9,100 ft
- Chhika – 3,100 m / 10,100 ft
- Drive Distance (Manali to Jobra): 16 km | Approx. 1 hr
- Trek Distance (Jobra to Chhika): 3 km | Approx. 2 hrs
Start your journey in Manali and drive to Jobra, the trek’s starting point. The trail leads through lush forests of pine, maple, and birch, offering a peaceful walk alongside the Rani Nallah stream. Reach Chhika and settle into your first campsite amidst nature.
Reporting Time: 12:00 PM
Expected Drop Time: Between 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM (Subject to weather and road conditions).
Important: Arrive in Manali a day early to avoid delays.
Day 2: Chhika to Balu Ka Ghera – Stay at a Scenic Campsite
- Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,800 ft
- Trek Distance: 6–7 km | Approx. 5–6 hrs
Trek along the Hampta River, with stunning views of snow-covered peaks and blooming wildflowers along the trail. Reach Balu Ka Ghera, a flat meadow surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for stargazing and camping under the open sky.
Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass – Panoramic Mountain Views
- Altitude:
- Hampta Pass – 4,300 m / 14,100 ft
- Shea Goru – 3,900 m / 12,900 ft
- Trek Distance: 7 km | Approx. 10 hrs
- Altitude Gain: 520 m / 1,700 ft
This is the most thrilling day of the trek. Ascend to Hampta Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of snow-clad peaks and deep valleys. After soaking in the sights, descend to Shea Goru, a tranquil campsite in a cold desert setting.
Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru – Drive to Chandratal (Optional)
- Altitude: Chatru – 3,350 m / 11,000 ft
- Trek Distance: 7 km | Approx. 5 hrs
- Drive Distance: 50 km | Approx. 3–4 hrs to Chandratal and back (weather and road permitting)
Trek through rocky paths and river crossings to reach Chatru in the Spiti region. If road and weather conditions allow, drive to Chandratal Lake—a crescent-shaped high-altitude lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and serene beauty. Return to the campsite after the visit.
Day 5: Chatru to Manali – Farewell to the Mountains
- Drive Distance: 65 km | Approx. 5–6 hrs
After breakfast, drive back to Manali, reminiscing the incredible journey through contrasting landscapes and unique experiences that make the Hampta Pass Trek so special.
Inclusion & Exclusion
Inclusions
Accommodation
- Camping from Day 1 to Day 4 as per itinerary.
Meals (Vegetarian + Egg options)
- From Lunch on Day 1 to Lunch on Day 5.
Support Staff
- Base Camp Manager: Manages communication and deploys extra manpower in case of emergencies.
- Trek Leader: Certified in mountaineering and first aid.
- High-altitude Chef: Provides nutritious meals during the trek.
- Local Guides: Experienced and knowledgeable (number depends on group size).
- Support Team: Adequate staff for logistics and assistance.
Trek Equipment
- Sleeping bags, sleeping liners (if required), mattresses, and utensils.
- All-season tents (3-person capacity, twin sharing basis), kitchen and dining tents, toilet tents, camping stools.
- Communication and safety gear: Walkie-talkies, ropes, helmet, ice axe, harness, gaiters, and crampons (as required).
First Aid and Medical Support
- Comprehensive medical kit, stretcher, oxygen cylinder, blood pressure monitor, oximeter, and stethoscope.
Transportation (as per itinerary)
- Manali to Jobra (start point).
- Chatru to Manali, including a visit to Chandratal (weather permitting).
Mules/Porters
- For carrying central luggage (group equipment and essentials).
Cloakroom Facility
- Available at base camp for storing additional luggage.
Permits & Entry Fees
- All necessary permits and entry charges for Indian nationals (up to the applicable amount).
Complete Trek Services
- From Manali to Manali.
- Trek Completion Certificate
- Awarded upon successful completion of the trek.
Exclusions
Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
Food during Transit (to/from Manali)
Personal Expenses
- Tips, beverages, shopping, etc.
Mule/Porter for Personal Luggage
- Can be arranged at an additional cost.
Emergency Expenses
- Evacuation, medical treatment, hospitalization charges, etc.
Any Services Not Mentioned Under “Inclusions”
Trek Essential
PARTICIPANTS MUST BRING FOR HAMPTA PASS- TREK
- 50–60 ltrs backpack
- Strong hiking boots: a leather upper is best because it gives your ankles more support. If you don’t have a pair yet, you should get one as soon as possible and wear it a lot so that it breaks in well. This will help keep blisters from forming.
- Tennis shoes or sandals that are light enough to wear in camp.
- Two pairs of thick wool socks, if possible.
- Two pairs of everyday nylon socks to wear underneath the wool socks to prevent blisters.
- One shirt for hiking, preferably with long sleeves.
- Long John top: This is also called thermal underwear, and it should be made of wool if it is the first layer.
- Two each of warm shirts and pants for camp
- 1 each rain cot/poncho
- Warm Jacket: 1
- One pair of wool gloves as thick as can be bought on the market.
- Long Johns: The first layer should be wool if possible.
- Under wear: 2-3 changes Shorts or pants for hiking: 1
- Sunscreen lotion is up to you. Chap stick or lip balm is optional.
- Water bottle: Two 1-liter bottles (Pepsi bottles work well), make sure they don’t leak.
- Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp is best because it frees up your hands for work. If you bring a flashlight, bring extra batteries.
- Items for the bathroom, like a toothbrush, toothpaste, etc. And a small one-person medical kit.
- Cotton or nylon for a sun hat. Sunglasses: Those with an anchor are best.