Daily Trail Log: What a 5-Day Monsoon Trek to Hampta Pass Really Feels Like

If you're dreaming of a trek that has it all lush valleys, snow-covered mountains, rivers, and changing landscapes Hampta Pass in Himachal Pradesh is where you should go. But what really makes this trek stand out is doing it during the monsoon season. It’s not the easiest time to go, but it’s real, raw, and unforgettable. Here's a daily trail log of what it actually feels like to walk this beautiful but wild route for 5 days in the rain.

Day 1: Jobra to Chika

Distance: 2 km

Time Taken: 2 to 3 hours

We started our trek from Manali, reaching Jobra by car in about two hours. The weather was cloudy but dry when we began. Our guide warned us it wouldn’t last. Within 30 minutes, light rain began and soaked the narrow trail. But the forest was lush and full of life. The rain made everything look greener.

The path was mostly flat and easy, perfect for warming up. We passed through pine, maple, and birch trees. Small streams crossed our way and we had to be careful not to slip. We reached Chika and set up tents next to a fast-moving stream.

Dinner was hot and simple. The rain had stopped by evening, and the sky was slowly clearing. We were wet, a bit cold, but already feeling the magic of the trail.

Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera

Distance: 5 km

Time Taken: 5 to 6 hours

This was the day the monsoon really showed its power. It rained all night and most of the morning. The trail was muddy and full of water. We crossed several streams, including one that went up to our knees. Our boots were soaked, and we didn’t even try to stay dry anymore.

But the views were amazing. Waterfalls poured from every mountain edge. The meadows were bright green, and the mist added a dream-like feel to everything.

Reaching Balu Ka Ghera, we saw it was more of a rocky plain than a camp. It means “bed of sand” and yes, there was sand and gravel everywhere. But the place was open and surrounded by high mountains. It was hard to believe that tomorrow we’d be crossing that range.

The night was cold and windy. Everyone was tired, but spirits were still high.

Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass to Shea Goru

Distance: 9 km

Time Taken: 8 to 9 hours

This was the longest and most difficult day. We woke up early, had a light breakfast, and started climbing before the rain could hit. The path was steep and full of loose stones. The air was thin and we had to take breaks every 10 minutes.

Snow patches started showing up after two hours. Then came the real challenge a final steep climb to the pass. It was slippery and hard, but when we reached the top, it all made sense.

Hampta Pass stood at around 14,000 feet. From the top, we saw two completely different worlds. One side was the lush green Kullu Valley, the other side was the barren landscape of Lahaul. We felt like we had crossed into another planet.

But the descent was just as tough. Wet snow turned into ice in some places, and there were no real trails. We slid down on snow at some points, laughing and scared at the same time.

Finally, we reached Shea Goru, a flat open field surrounded by tall brown mountains. The sun broke through the clouds for the first time in days. It was a small reward after a tough climb.

Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru

Distance: 7 km

Time Taken: 5 to 6 hours

This was the day we got to see the raw side of Lahaul Valley. The path was mostly downhill, but it wasn’t easy. The trail was filled with loose rocks, water streams, and strong winds.

We saw the river Chandra in full flow, muddy and fast. The surroundings were dry and dusty, a total change from the greenery of the first two days. It felt like we had trekked through two different countries.

There was no phone network, no shops, nothing around. Just nature and us. That’s the beauty of the Hampta Pass trek.

We reached Chatru, where our vehicles waited. But before heading back to Manali, we had one last treat—the visit to Chandratal Lake the next day.

Day 5: Visit to Chandratal (Optional but Worth It)

Distance: 70 km drive one way

Time Taken: Full day round trip

Not everyone chooses to do this part, but if you have time, don’t skip it. Chandratal is a high-altitude lake that sits like a jewel in the middle of barren land.

The drive is bumpy and long, and it rained on the way. But once we reached the lake, we were blown away. The water was clear and blue, and the silence around it was something you rarely experience in real life.

We didn’t stay long as the weather started to change, but the memory of that lake will stay forever.

Final Thoughts

Trekking to Hampta Pass during the monsoon is not easy. The trails are wet, your clothes are always damp, and you have to push your body harder. But the rewards are also greater.

You see nature in its wildest and purest form. You make deep connections with your team, and with yourself. Every meal tastes better after a long trek, and every sunset feels like a gift.

So if you’re planning to do this trek, don’t wait for the perfect weather. Go when it's tough. That’s when you truly feel alive.