Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake

Hampta Pass Trek

The Hampta Pass Trek, located in the beautiful Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, is a renowned trekking route famous for its diverse topography and lush greenery. The trek offers a unique blend of verdant meadows, dense pine forests, and barren, high-altitude deserts. It attracts tourists for several reasons, one of which is its moderate difficulty, making it accessible to both inexperienced and seasoned trekkers. The highest point of the trek, Hampta Pass, stands at an altitude of 14,000 feet (4,270 meters), offering spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

As the trek progresses, it leads trekkers into the Spiti Valley, known for its starkly beautiful landscapes, which are in sharp contrast to the lush surroundings of Kullu. The journey becomes even more enchanting with opportunities to interact with the local Gaddi shepherds, enjoy alpine camping, and experience river crossings. The best time to embark on the Hampta Pass Trek is from June to October, as this period offers the most favorable weather conditions and ensures the region is easily accessible. With its mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, the Hampta Pass Trek is an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts and those seeking a thrilling yet accessible Himalayan adventure.

Hampta Pass Trek Package Cost

• Triple Sharing: Rs. 9499/- per person
• Double Sharing: Rs. 9999/- per person

Hampta Pass Trek Details

• Pick up and drop: Manali
• Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
• Altitude: 14100 ft.
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Total trek length: 26 km

Hampta Pass Itinerary

Day 1: Manali Arrival – Drive to Jobra – Trek to Chika (2 km)

The journey begins as the group assembles at the pick-up point by 11:00 AM for a briefing session by the trek leader, where all necessary details about the trek will be shared. From there, we head toward Jobra, the base camp for the Hampta Pass trek, situated at an altitude of 9,379 ft. The drive from Manali is scenic, with winding roads offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kullu Valley. Upon arrival at Jobra, we take a short break before starting the trek toward Chika. The trek is a serene experience, passing through thick forests of pine, maple, oak, and silver birch trees. Along the way, the picturesque Rani Nallah stream flows through the lush meadows, enhancing the beauty of the trail. Upon reaching Chika, we set up camp in its vast green landscape under the open sky. Dinner will be served in the evening, followed by an overnight stay in Chika. (Note: Arriving in Manali a day before the trek is advisable to help your body acclimate to the altitude and weather conditions.)

Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera Trek (8.5 km, 6 hours)
After an early morning breakfast, we begin our trek toward Balu Ka Ghera. True to its name, which translates to "sand," the trail transitions from grassy meadows to rocky and boulder-strewn paths, making this section a moderately challenging trek. The trek offers a stunning display of nature’s beauty—on one side, the Jwara River flows gracefully, while on the other, the mighty Dhauladhar ranges stand tall. A hidden waterfall amid the greenery adds to the charm of the trail. As we progress, we reach Chota Balu Ka Ghera, where the terrain briefly flattens before becoming rugged again. Carefully navigating the rocky path, we arrive at Balu Ka Ghera, where we set up camp amidst towering mountains. The evening is spent under a starlit sky, with dinner served before resting for the night.

Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Siagoru via Hampta Pass (7 km, 9 hours)
Following breakfast, we continue toward our next campsite at Siagoru. The trek involves navigating boulder-filled paths and tricky descents, requiring careful footing. Along the way, we cross the breathtaking Hampta Pass, where a river flows gracefully through the valley. The trail is adorned with vibrant wildflowers, and if lucky, one might witness a rainbow arching over the landscape. The majestic Deo Tibba peak looms in the distance, adding to the enchanting scenery. After soaking in the stunning views, we begin our descent. The downhill trail is steep and consists of loose stones, requiring extra caution. The winding path eventually opens up into a valley leading to Siagoru, where we set up camp for the night. The rest of the day is spent at leisure, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at Siagoru.

Day 4: Siagoru to Chatru Trek (7 km, 5 hours) – Drive to Chandratal (48 km, 3 hours) – Return to Chatru
The day begins with an early breakfast, after which we start our descent toward Chatru. Unlike previous sections, this terrain is vast and barren, with little vegetation. The steep slopes provide an exciting challenge, making the descent an adrenaline-pumping experience. Upon reaching Chatru, we embark on a scenic drive to Chandratal, a mesmerizing high-altitude lake situated 45 km from our campsite. However, this drive is subject to weather conditions, as the harsh climate can sometimes make the route impassable. If conditions permit, we enjoy a short sightseeing tour around Chandratal, taking in the lake’s tranquil beauty. After spending some time at the lake, we drive back to Chatru, where we set up camp for the night. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Chatru.

Day 5: Drive from Chatru to Manali (63 km, 2.5 hours) – Tour Ends
After an early morning tea and breakfast, we begin our return journey to Manali. The drive is a feast for the eyes, featuring majestic mountains and the Chandra River flowing alongside the road. A highlight of the journey is passing through the iconic Atal Tunnel, adding to the excitement of the return trip. Upon reaching Manali, the group disbands, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure, leaving with cherished memories of the trek.

Important Note

Before embarking on the Hampta Pass Trek, it's crucial to ensure you are well-prepared for the adventure. Here's an important message to consider before starting your trek:

1. Physical Fitness: It's essential to be in good physical health and fitness. The trek involves challenging terrain and high altitudes, so being prepared is key. Regular cardio and strength training exercises in the weeks leading up to the trek will help improve your stamina.

2. Acclimatization: Spend at least one day in Manali or a nearby location to allow your body to acclimatize to the higher altitudes. This helps reduce the risk of altitude-related illnesses and prepares you for the trek ahead.

3. Pack Wisely: Pack only the essentials and keep your backpack as light as possible. Crucial items to include are warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, comfortable trekking shoes, a good quality backpack, a first-aid kit, and personal identification.

4. Weather Awareness: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast for the region before your trek and carry appropriate clothing and gear. Be prepared for rain, snow, and sudden drops in temperature.

5. Stay Hydrated: At high altitudes, staying hydrated is essential. Carry a reusable water bottle and purifying tablets or a water filter. Drink plenty of water to help prevent altitude sickness.

6. Altitude Sickness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, including headache, nausea, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, inform your trek leader immediately. Ascend slowly to higher altitudes and, if symptoms worsen, descend to a lower altitude.

7. Trekking Permits: Ensure that you have all the necessary permits and permissions required for the trek. Check with local authorities or your tour operator to ensure you're aware of any specific permits needed for the regions you'll be trekking through.

8. Leave No Trace: Practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Dispose of waste properly, avoid littering, and respect the environment and local culture. Ensure that the natural beauty of the Himalayas remains undisturbed for future trekkers.

9. Trekking Group: If you're not an experienced trekker, consider joining a guided trekking group. Experienced guides provide valuable knowledge, support, and safety throughout the journey.

10. Emergency Contacts: Carry a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, your trek leader, and your family or friends back home. Ensure someone knows your itinerary and expected return date.

11. Respect Local Culture: Be respectful of the local customs and culture. Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people.

12. Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, including emergency medical evacuation if needed.

Remember, the Hampta Pass Trek offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the stunning Himalayas. By being well-prepared and following safety guidelines, you will be able to fully enjoy the adventure while ensuring your well-being. Stay safe, be responsible, and take in the breathtaking beauty of this region!