Why Hampta Pass is the Perfect First Himalayan Crossover for Beginners

For many people who dream of trekking in the Himalayas, the question is always the same: Where should I start? If you are a beginner looking for a trek that gives you a taste of everything—green valleys, snow trails, mountain passes, and desert views—then the Hampta Pass Trek is the perfect choice.

Located in Himachal Pradesh, Hampta Pass connects Manali’s Kullu Valley with the Spiti Valley. This short but adventurous trek is often called the “beginner’s crossover trek” because it allows trekkers to move from one landscape to another within just a few days.

Where is Hampta Pass?

• Region: Himachal Pradesh, India
• Altitude: 14,100 ft (4,290 m)
• Starting Point: Jobra near Manali
• Ending Point: Chhatru in Spiti Valley

The trek is part of the Pir Panjal range and lies inside the beautiful Himalayan ecosystem.

Why Hampta Pass is Ideal for Beginners

1. A True Himalayan Crossover

Most treks either stay in lush valleys or climb to snowy peaks. But Hampta Pass gives you the best of both worlds:

• Start with forests, rivers, and meadows near Manali.
• Cross the snow-clad Hampta Pass at 14,100 ft.
• End in Spiti’s dry desert mountains.

This quick change of scenery is rare in short Himalayan treks, which is why Hampta Pass trek is the best first crossover trek.

2. Short Duration

The trek usually takes 5–6 days, which is perfect for beginners, students, and working professionals who cannot take long holidays.

3. Easy to Moderate Difficulty

• Trek distance: ~26 km
• Daily trekking hours: 5–7 hours
• No technical climbing required
• The trail is safe and manageable with the right guidance

For beginners, this is challenging enough to feel adventurous but not too hard to become overwhelming.

4. Scenic Campsites

Hampta Pass is known for its beautiful camping locations:

• Chika: Wide meadows with a river flowing through.
• Balu Ka Ghera: A valley with snow peaks around.
• Shea Goru: A desert-like setting with a river, after crossing the pass.

Every campsite is naturally photogenic, giving beginners a magical Himalayan experience.

5. Bonus Trip to Chandratal Lake

Most Hampta Pass trek packages include a visit to Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley.

• It is a high-altitude lake at 14,000 ft.
• The lake shines blue and green with reflections of surrounding peaks.
• For beginners, this adds a memorable highlight at the end of the trek.

Best Time to Do Hampta Pass Trek

• June – July: Snow patches on the trail, good for those who want snow views.
• August – September: Meadows are lush, flowers bloom, and streams flow.
• September – October: Best for crystal-clear views of peaks and dry landscapes in Spiti.

The trek is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.

Hampta Pass Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Manali to Jobra, trek to Chika (2 km)

Drive from Manali to Jobra (2 hours). Short trek through forests to reach Chika campsite.

Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera (8 km)

Walk through meadows, streams, and rocks to reach the base of Hampta Pass.

Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass (9 km)

The most exciting day—climb up to the pass at 14,100 ft and descend into the Spiti side.

Day 4: Shea Goru to Chhatru (6 km)

Walk through barren valleys and rivers, ending at the road head in Spiti.

Day 5: Drive to Chandratal Lake (optional, weather permitting)

Visit Chandratal Lake before returning to Manali.

Cost of Hampta Pass Trek

• Average price: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 per person
• Inclusions: guide, food, camping, permits, and transport from Manali
• Packages may also include Chandratal Lake visit

For beginners, this makes Hampta Pass one of the most affordable crossover treks in the Himalayas.

How to Prepare as a Beginner

1. Fitness Training: Walk 4–5 km daily for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
2. Gear Up: Invest in good trekking shoes, warm clothes, and a raincoat.
3. Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and drink enough water daily.
4. Travel Light: Keep your backpack simple—just essentials.
5. Follow the Guide: Beginners should stick with the trek leader’s advice for safety.

Why Hampta Pass is Trending in 2025

• Short, scenic, and affordable—perfect for first-time trekkers.
• Instagram and YouTube photos from the trek are making it viral among Gen-Z.
• The Chandratal Lake add-on makes it more attractive than other beginner treks.
• Easy accessibility from Manali helps people join without long travel plans.

Final Thoughts

The Hampta Pass Trek is the best first crossover trek for beginners in 2025. In just a few days, you move from forests to meadows, from snow to deserts, and finally end with a stunning high-altitude lake.

If you are new to trekking but want a complete Himalayan adventure without taking too much risk, Hampta Pass is the perfect choice for you.