Hampta Pass Trek – A Thrilling Journey Through the Himalayas

Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most scenic and thrilling Himalayan treks, known for its dramatic landscape transitions. The trail takes you from lush green valleys of Kullu to the barren, cold deserts of Lahaul and Spiti, offering a unique contrast that very few treks in India provide. For trekkers, Hampta Pass is a dream come true—it has forests, meadows, river crossings, glaciers, and high-altitude mountain passes, all packed into just 4-5 days of trekking. Whether you are a first-time trekker or an experienced adventurer, this trek is perfect for anyone looking to explore the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

How to Reach the Starting Point – Manali to Jobra

The Hampta Pass trek starts from Jobra, a small base near Manali (Himachal Pradesh). Getting there is quite easy:

By Road:

• Drive or take a shared taxi from Manali to Jobra (Approx. 2 hours, 18 km)
• Manali is well connected by overnight buses from Delhi and Chandigarh.

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Bhuntar (50 km from Manali), with flights from Delhi.

By Train:

• The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, but most people prefer taking a train to Chandigarh and then a bus/taxi to Manali.

The Trekking Route – Stunning Landscapes at Every Step

The Hampta Pass trek is a moderate-level trek with an altitude gain of 14,100 ft. It usually takes 4-5 days, covering around 25-30 km.

Day 1: Jobra to Chika (2-3 Hours Trek, 10,100 ft)

The trek starts from Jobra, taking you through lush pine and maple forests before opening into vast green meadows. The day ends at Chika campsite, where you can relax beside a gushing river with mountains all around.

Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera (4-5 Hours Trek, 11,900 ft)

This stretch is one of the most beautiful parts of the trek. The trail follows the Rani River, passing through wildflower-covered meadows and rocky terrain. Balu Ka Ghera, meaning “heap of sand,” is a vast riverbed-like campsite where trekkers rest before the big climb ahead.

Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass to Shea Goru (7-8 Hours Trek, 14,100 ft)

This is the most thrilling and challenging day of the trek, as you ascend to the Hampta Pass summit. The climb is steep and filled with glaciers and snow patches, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Pir Panjal and Spiti Valley. After reaching the top, the descent towards Shea Goru begins, where you start seeing the barren landscapes of Lahaul.

Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru (5-6 Hours Trek, 11,000 ft)

The trek continues through rocky landscapes and icy streams, finally reaching Chatru, a small village in Spiti Valley. Here, the contrast between green Kullu and barren Spiti landscapes is truly magical.

Optional: Chandratal Lake Visit (Same Day or Next Morning)

Many trekkers choose to extend their trip with a visit to Chandratal Lake, one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in India. It is known for its crystal-clear blue waters and surreal mountain reflections.

Best Time to Visit and Trekking Tips

Best Time for Hampta Pass Trek

• June to September – Best for clear views, pleasant weather, and snow-covered trails at the pass.
• Avoid Monsoons (July-August) – The Kullu region gets heavy rainfall, making trails slippery.

Essential Trekking Tips

• Prepare for cold temperatures – Night temperatures can drop below 0°C, so carry warm layers.
• Trekking shoes are a must – The trail has rocky, snowy, and wet sections.
• Acclimatization is key – Stay in Manali for a day before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
• Pack light but smart – Essentials include rain gear, gloves, trekking poles, and sunscreen.

Food and Stay – What to Expect on the Trek?

All meals are provided at campsites, usually consisting of hot dal, rice, chapati, and vegetables. Trekkers stay in tents on a twin or triple-sharing basis, offering a raw but beautiful Himalayan experience.For those wanting extra comfort, homestays in Chatru or Manali can be booked for the last night.

Why Hampta Pass Should Be on Your Trekking Bucket List?

The Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most rewarding Himalayan experiences, offering:

✅ A variety of landscapes – From lush green meadows to snowy mountains to barren deserts.

✅ An adventure for all – Suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers.

✅ A chance to witness high-altitude beauty – Without trekking for too many days.

✅ An opportunity to visit Chandratal Lake – A breathtaking add-on to the trek.