Himachal Pradesh
Hampta Pass Trek
Duration
5 Days
Location
Himachal Pradesh
Trip Overview
The Hampta Pass Trek is a spectacular Himalayan adventure in Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its dramatic landscape transitions, breathtaking mountain views, and rewarding high-altitude pass crossing. Connecting the verdant Kullu Valley with the stark, rugged terrain of Lahaul, this trek offers an extraordinary journey through some of the most contrasting landscapes of the Indian Himalayas.
The trek typically begins near Jobra, close to Manali, where the trail winds through beautiful pine forests, lush green meadows, and scenic mountain streams. As you progress towards Chika and Balu Ka Ghera, the surroundings gradually open into expansive valleys framed by towering cliffs and snow-covered peaks. The changing terrain makes every day of the trek unique, offering a blend of peaceful forest walks and challenging high-altitude trails.
The biggest highlight of the journey is the crossing of Hampta Pass, situated at approximately 14,000 feet above sea level. The ascent involves steep trails, rocky sections, and potentially snow-covered terrain, depending on the season. Reaching the pass rewards trekkers with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. One side reveals the lush green valleys of Kullu, while the other opens into the dry, dramatic landscapes of Lahaul, creating a striking contrast that makes this trek truly special.
After crossing the pass, the trail descends towards the rugged landscape of Shea Goru before continuing towards Chatru. Many itineraries also include a visit to the stunning Chandratal Lake, a high-altitude lake famous for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain surroundings, subject to road and weather conditions.
The best time to undertake the Hampta Pass Trek is generally from June to September, when the route is accessible and the landscapes display their seasonal beauty. Early summer may offer snow-covered trails, while later months often bring clearer skies and contrasting shades of green and brown across the valleys.
With its moderate-to-challenging terrain, spectacular pass crossing, and dramatic scenery, the Hampta Pass Trek is an excellent choice for trekkers seeking an adventurous Himalayan experience. From peaceful forest trails to rugged mountain landscapes, every stage of the journey offers something remarkable, making it a memorable expedition through the heart of Himachal Pradesh.
Day-wise itinerary
01Arrival in Manali, drive To Jobra | Trek to Chhika
Arrival in Manali, drive To Jobra | Trek to Chhika
We will pick up from Manali mall road (11 a.m) then head towards Jobra then trek to chhika.
Drive Distance (Manali to Jobra): 16km | 1hr.
Trek Distance (Jobra to Chhika): 3km | 2hrs.
Climbing the hill and descending to Chhika is the easier route and the campsite lies in a huge patch of a green clearing. Rani River flows through the middle, which makes the perfect setting to pitch up a tent. You may also spot horses grazing in the meadows that make a perfect setting for some Instagram-worthy photographs. check in to the camp and overnight stay, followed by Dinner.
02Chhika To Balu Ka Ghera
Chhika To Balu Ka Ghera
Altitude: 3,600 m/ 11,800 ft.
Trek Distance: 6-7km | 5-6 hrs.
Altitude Gain: 700 m/ 2300 ft.
Wake up early in the morning, freshen up, and have breakfast. After that, we will proceed towards balu ka ghera, a packed lunch will be provided. Enough water on the way, River crossing, boulder walk, and colorful tiny flowers on the way.
The place is covered with snow and greens whereas the name implies a mound of sand. But it is said that this place was formed with the sands and dust deposited by the river and hence the name. Balu ka Ghera campsite is a flat ground amidst the mountains that you will cross the next day to reach the pass. Balu ka Ghera is at an elevation of 12,400 ft. check in to the camp and overnight stay, followed by Dinner.
03Balu Ka Ghera To Shea Goru (via hampta pass)
Balu Ka Ghera To Shea Goru (via hampta pass)
Trek Distance: 7 km | Duration: 9 hr
Altitude Gain: 520 m/ 1,700 ft.
Wake up early in the morning, freshen up, and have breakfast. After that, we will proceed towards Shea Goru. The highest altitude will be achieved on this day at Hampta Pass (14,100 ft). The day starts by heading towards the mountains you spotted the previous day near Balu Ka Ghera. The trail is along the riverside. The view is amazing, tiny yellow and orange flowers along the river banks enhance its beauty.
Altitude: Hampta Pass - 4,300 m / 14,100 ft | Shea Goru- 3,900 m/ 12,900 ft
First 1 hr gradual ascent then steep ascent till the pass
Packed lunch at the pass, enjoy the view of Indrasen Peak
Today it will be the coldest part of the trek. Around 2 hrs of steep descent and 1 hr of flat walk from the pass to the campsite then check in to the camp and overnight stay, followed by Dinner.
04Shea Goru To Chatru And Drive To Chandratal
Shea Goru To Chatru And Drive To Chandratal
Altitude: Chatru- 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft.
Trek Distance: 7 km | 5 hr.
Drive Distance: 50 km, 3-4 hr to Chandratal and back to the campsite, either on day 4 or day 5 (depending on road and weather conditions).
Altitude Loss: 550 m/ 1,900 ft.
Wake up early in the morning, freshen up, and have breakfast. After that, we will check out from the camps and proceed Chatru and drive to Chandratal you will cover Shea Goru to Chatru by foot and it will take approx 5 hours of easy downhill trek.
Shea Goru is placed at an altitude of 12,900ft and Chatru at 11, 000ft. It is a gentle trek downhill from Shea Goru. The trail here again is by the side of the river valley between mountain ranges. Some places can be a little slippery so be careful. After that we will Visit Chandra Tal Lake , located at a height of 14,000 feet. Later check in to the Campsite Chatru, have dinner, and overnight stay at the tents.
05Chatru To Manali & DEPARTURE
Chatru To Manali & DEPARTURE
Wake up early in the morning, freshen up, and have breakfast, after that, we will check out from the campsite & proceed towards Manali.
Trip Photos
Inclusions
- ✓Trek leader with helping team
- ✓All forest permit
- ✓04 Nights stay in the Camps on sharing basis
- ✓Meals as mentioned in the Itinerary (04 Breakfasts and 04 lunch and 04 Dinners)
- ✓Availability of Oxygen 24*7 in case of emergency
- ✓All Sightseeing Mentioned in Itinerary
- ✓Trek equipment:{Sleeping bag, mattresses, and Utensils 3 persons all season trekker tent (twin/triple sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent Camping stool { Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & crampons (if required) }
- ✓Trek Completion Certificate
- ✓Transportation (as per the itinerary):Manali to Jobra and Chatru to Manali via Chandratal
Exclusions
- ✕ANYTHING WHICH IS NOT LISTED ABOVE
- ✕ANY COST INCURRED DUE TO ANY EMERGENCY/CALAMITY
- ✕ANY CHANGES THAT RESULT IN EXTRA COST
- ✕ENTRY TICKETS IF ANY FOR SIGHTSEEING
- ✕ALL RENTAL GEARS