The Hampta Crossover: A Visual Journey from Green to Grey

Trekking in the Indian Himalayas is a dream for many. Among all the high-altitude treks in India, the Hampta Pass trek stands out for its dramatic change in landscapes. It is a short yet stunning journey that connects the lush green valleys of Kullu with the barren, rocky deserts of Spiti. This trek gives every trekker the feeling of walking through two different worlds from green forests and blooming meadows to cold deserts and grey mountains.

Let’s take a visual journey through this unforgettable trail, often described as the perfect crossover from green to grey.

Starting Point: Manali to Jobra

Your adventure begins in Manali, a popular hill town in Himachal Pradesh. From here, a short drive takes you to Jobra, the starting point of the Hampta Pass trek. This area is surrounded by pine forests and wide grasslands. The air is fresh, and the scenery is peaceful. It sets the mood for what lies ahead.

Jobra sits at an altitude of about 9,800 feet and offers an easy introduction to the trek. The trail from here is mostly gentle and gives trekkers their first taste of mountain beauty.

The Forests and Meadows of Chika

From Jobra, the path leads to Chika, a beautiful campsite surrounded by tall trees and a flowing stream. The walk is not too hard and goes through oak and maple forests. During summer and early monsoon, the trail is filled with wildflowers. You can hear birds singing and the sound of the river nearby.

The Chika campsite gives trekkers their first chance to sleep under the stars, with clear skies and cool air making it a memorable night.

The Scenic Valley of Balu Ka Ghera

The next day’s trek takes you to Balu Ka Ghera, which means “bed of sand.” This place gets its name from the sandy riverbed of the nearby stream. The trek to this point is longer but gives amazing views of snow-covered peaks and long green stretches of land.

Here, the trail moves above the tree line. You begin to see the change in landscape as the lush forests are left behind. Marmots and mountain goats are sometimes seen here, and the silence of the mountains begins to take over.

Crossing the Hampta Pass

This is the most exciting and challenging part of the journey. The climb to Hampta Pass (14,000 feet) starts early in the morning. The path is steep and often covered in snow. But the effort is worth it. As you reach the top, you are greeted by a 360-degree view of both the Kullu and Spiti valleys.

The green valley you came from lies on one side, while the dry, rocky terrain of Spiti appears on the other. It truly feels like you are crossing into a new world. The temperature drops, the air becomes thinner, and the scenery changes completely.

This contrast is what makes the Hampta Pass trek so unique. In just a few hours, you go from green hills to grey deserts. It is a shift that is rare in most treks.

Descending into Spiti: Shea Goru

After crossing the pass, the descent takes you to Shea Goru, a cold desert valley with rocky paths and sharp mountain peaks. The greenery is now gone, replaced by dry slopes and snow patches. The campsite here is one of the coldest on the trek, with icy winds blowing across the valley.

Though the place is harsh, its beauty is quiet and stunning. The sky is often crystal clear, making it perfect for stargazing. The silence is deep, and you feel far from the noise of cities and crowds.

The Final Stretch: Ending at Chatru

The last leg of the trek is from Shea Goru to Chatru, a small settlement on the Manali–Kaza road. This part is mostly downhill and gives a full view of Spiti’s dry landscape. Chatru is where you meet civilization again, but in a different form — small huts, local workers, and a few vehicles.

From Chatru, most trekkers take a drive to Chandratal Lake if the roads are open. This high-altitude lake, shaped like a crescent moon, is one of the most beautiful sights in Spiti. Its blue waters and silent surroundings make it a perfect end to the journey.

When to Go on the Hampta Pass Trek

The best time to do the Hampta Pass trek is from mid-June to mid-October. During this time, the weather is mostly clear, and the trail is safe. In June and July, you may find snow near the pass, while August and September offer greener valleys and clearer skies.

Always check the weather and road conditions before you go, as the mountain weather can change quickly.

Things to Pack

For a trek like Hampta Pass, packing right is important. Here are some essentials:

• Warm clothes (layers work best)
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Trekking shoes with good grip
• Gloves and woollen socks
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cap
• Water bottle and energy snacks
• A good-quality backpack
• Sleeping bag and mat (if not provided by organizers)

Most trekking companies provide tents and food, but it’s best to check in advance.

Fitness and Difficulty

The Hampta Pass trek is considered a moderate-level trek. It is good for beginners who have some fitness and want to try a high-altitude trail. You should be able to walk for 5–6 hours a day and be comfortable with steep climbs and river crossings.

It’s a good idea to do basic workouts or walking routines a few weeks before the trek. This helps improve stamina and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

Why the Hampta Pass Trek is Special

The Hampta Pass trek is not just a walk through mountains. It is a journey that shows how nature can change in the blink of an eye. From forests and meadows to glaciers and deserts, this trail offers something new every day. The mix of green and grey, life and stillness, makes it one of the most visually rich treks in India.

If you are looking for a Himalayan trek that is not too long, offers dramatic views, and is packed with natural beauty, the Hampta Pass is the one to choose. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the trek ends.