Hampta Pass Trek
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- Trip Duration: 5D / 4N
- Max altitude: 4270 m / 14,065 ft
- Grade: Easy to Moderate
- Start/End point: Manali
Hampta Pass Trek: The Ultimate Himalayan Crossover
Step into a real-life fairy tale as you cross from the lush green valleys of Kullu into the stark, dramatic deserts of Lahaul!
If you want to experience two entirely contrasting worlds in a single journey, the Hampta Pass Trek is your perfect match. Widely considered the most dramatic crossover trek in Himachal Pradesh, this trail guarantees an adrenaline rush and memories that will last a lifetime.
When you start from the Manali side, you are greeted by deep forests, vibrant wildflowers, and lush green meadows reminiscent of the Valley of Flowers. But as you climb to the 14,065 ft summit of the pass and cross over into the Lahaul and Spiti region, the landscape shifts dramatically. Suddenly, you step into a stark, barren, high-altitude desert surrounded by snow-capped peaks—it truly feels like stepping onto a set of Game of Thrones!
Steeped in rich mythology, locals call this route the “Staircase to Heaven,” as it is believed the Pandavas traversed this very path on their epic journey.
Overview
Hampta Pass Trek Logistics & Essentials
How to Reach Manali
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Chandigarh (IXC). From there, you can take a cab or a Volvo bus to Manali. (Note: Kullu/Bhuntar airport exists but flights are highly unpredictable).
- By Train: Chandigarh is the best major railway hub, connected to Kolkata via trains like the Azad Hind Express.
- By Road: Manali is well-connected by road. Overnight Volvo buses from Delhi (10-12 hours) and Chandigarh (6-8 hours) are the most comfortable and reliable options.
✨ Highlights of the Trail
- The Dramatic Crossover: Witness the unbelievable geographical shift from the green Kullu valley to the arid, cold desert of Lahaul.
- The Summit Climb: Experience an adrenaline-pumping climb to the top of Hampta Pass at 14,065 ft.
- Breathtaking Panoramas: Get spectacular views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, including Mt. Deo Tibba and Mt. Indrasan.
- Chandratal Lake: Crown your trek with a mesmerizing drive and hike to the crescent-shaped, crystal-clear Chandratal (Moon Lake).
- Epic Campsites: Pitch your tent at some of the Himalayas' most beautiful sites, including Balu Ka Ghera and Shea Goru.
Highlights
- The Dramatic Crossover: Witness the unbelievable geographical shift from the green Kullu valley to the arid, cold desert of Lahaul.
- The Summit Climb: Experience an adrenaline-pumping climb to the top of Hampta Pass at 14,065 ft.
- Breathtaking Panoramas: Get spectacular views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, including Mt. Deo Tibba and Mt. Indrasan.
- Chandratal Lake: Crown your trek with a mesmerizing drive and hike to the crescent-shaped, crystal-clear Chandratal (Moon Lake).
- Epic Campsites: Pitch your tent at some of the Himalayas' most beautiful sites, including Balu Ka Ghera and Shea Goru.
Itinerary
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As the first day of the trek arrives, our team will pick you up at Manali at 8 am after breakfast. At first, we will drive to Jobra (2900 m) from Manali (1830 m) and then we will trek to Chikka (3200 m) from Jobra. The distance from Manali to Jobra is 16 km and will take 1 hour to reach Jobra. From Jobra, the distance for Chikka is 3 km which will take 2 hours to reach our campsite. On the first day, our trek is through lush green forests that is filled with oak, deodar, and maple trees. Today the trail is short and easy and after some time we will cross a wooden bridge and continue walking to reach Chikka from where the valley begins. Our Chikka campsite is very beautiful and has flowers scattered everywhere. Overnight stay at Chikka.
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On the 2nd day, we will trek to Balu Ka Ghera (3650 m) from Chikka (3200 m). Today we will trek a distance of 5 km which will take around 7 hours to reach our next campsite – the most beautiful Balu Ka Ghera. We will start early at 8 am after breakfast from Chikka and cross another wooden bridge. Initially, for the first 2 km, the trail is a bit muddy. Today will be our first river crossing and after 2.5 km we will cross the Rani Nullah. You should be very careful while crossing as the river is full of boulders. Once you cross the river, the spectacular lush green meadows of Jwara begin with colourful flowers scattered all over. We will enjoy our packed lunch amidst this natural colourful bed. From Jwara the trail becomes quite easy with very little ascents and small patches of land with streams at the side. After walking for another 4 km, we finally arrive to the most magical campsite – Balu Ka Ghera.
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On the 3rd day of our trek, we will start early in the morning after breakfast for our next campsite Shea Goru (3930 m) from Balu Ka Ghera (3650 m) via Hampta Pass (4300 m). today will be the main day of your trek as you are going finally step your foot over the renowned Hampta Pass and it’s the longest and the toughest day of the trek as well. The distance travelled today is 9 km and will take 7 hours to reach our next campsite – beautiful Shea Goru. So we start very early in the morning from Balu Ka Ghera at 6.30 am and after 2 km, the ascent will actually get very steeper. After walking for almost 3 km, you will finally notice rocks and snow. Please note that this trail on snow need to be crossed very carefully and the weather in this region is also very unpredictable. At the end of this snowy trail, Hampta Pass lies which is small stretch that will take us to side of the Lahual. From the Pass there is difficult trail as there is a descend of 50 degree slope. This needs to be covered very cautiously which continues for 3 km at a stretch. This steep descent also becomes tough because of the consistent rain, the ground becomes muddy with big boulders. After this sharp descent, there is finally a flat terrain of 2 km and finally you reach your next beautiful campsite – Shea Goru. Overnight stay at Shea Goru.
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On our 4th day, we will trek to Chatru (3350 m) from Shea Goru (3930 m). The total distance travelled today will 5 km and will take around 4 hours to reach Chatru. Today will be our second river crossing on a glacial stream. Everyone needs to be very careful while crossing this glacial stream. Chatru is a beautiful campsite and our Hampta Pass trek finally ends today. Since today is the last day, enjoy to the fullest, reminisce your beautiful memories of the trek. Overnight stay at Chatru.
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On our 5th day, we wake up early in the morning and after breakfast, we will drive to the most magnificent Chandratal Lake (4300 m). The distance covered is 70 km and will take around 3 hours to reach Chandratal. You need to hike for 15 min to finally reach the spot of the lake. The beauty of this crescent shape lake is unmatchable and cannot be described in words. One need to be actually here to witness its real beauty. After spending some considerable time in Chandratal, we will drive back to Manali which is a distance of 140 km and will take around 7 hours to reach. We should reach Manali by 7 to 8pm. You can plan your return from Manali the next day.
What's Included
- Accommodation while trekking will be at cozy homestays.
- All transportation from Manali to Manali.
- All meals while on trek (veg & non veg). From dinner at Chikka campsite to Breakfast while checking out from the last campsite Chhatru.
- Trek equipment like sleeping bags (those who don't have their own), mattresses.
- Trekking permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits.
- Qualified & experienced trek leader.
- One local guide.
- Completion certificate.
What's Not Included
- Porters/Mules to carry personal luggage (Available at an extra cost).
- Hotel, food in Manali.
- Foods on the way, while in the car.
- Insurance for clients.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Hampta Pass is highly recommended for beginners who want to experience a high-altitude crossover trek. However, "beginner-friendly" does not mean easy. You need excellent cardiovascular stamina to handle the steep ascents on Pass Day (Day 3) and the mental fortitude to handle freezing river crossings.
The water you cross (especially at Shea Goru on Day 4) comes directly from melting glaciers. It is freezing cold. The crossings are completely safe, and our guides will assist you, but the brief moments in the water are an intense, adrenaline-pumping experience!
If you trek in the early season (May to June), you are almost guaranteed to encounter significant snow at Balu Ka Ghera and while crossing the pass. If you trek in August to September, the snow will have mostly melted, revealing vibrant green landscapes and blooming wildflowers.
No. You will completely lose all mobile network (Jio, Airtel, Vodafone) shortly after leaving Manali and driving past Prini. You will remain offline for the entire 5 days. Please inform your family of this digital blackout before the trek begins.
Yes. The road from Chatru to Chandratal is treacherous and highly weather-dependent. If there are landslides, roadblocks, or severe weather conditions, the local administration may close the road for safety. In such cases, driving to the lake will not be possible.
Gear Checklist
Trekking pole
Water bottle
Head lamp
Sunglasses
Power bank
Rain cover for rucksack
Gaiters
Windproof jacket
Sunscreen lotions
Waterproof trekking shoes
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