Guide
Hampta Pass Trek
Imagine walking through lush green forests and open meadows one moment, and then finding yourself surrounded by barren mountains and vast, rugged valleys the next. That dramatic change in scenery is what makes the Hampta Pass Trek one of the most memorable trekking experiences in Himachal Pradesh.
With its changing landscapes, mountain views and a challenging yet achievable route, Hampta Pass offers a little bit of everything that makes Himalayan trekking exciting.
Ready to hit the trail? Here’s what each day of the Hampta Pass trek looks like, from the starting point in Manali to the dramatic landscapes beyond the pass.
Day 1: Manali → Jobra → Chika | 10,100 ft
- Your trek begins with a drive from Manali to Jobra, the starting point of the trail.
- From Jobra, begin walking through pine and maple forests towards the Rani Nallah.
- Enjoy your first views of the green valley, streams and surrounding mountains.
- Reach Chika, set up your camp beside the river and relax for the evening.
Day 2: Chika → Balu Ka Ghera | 11,900 ft
- Start your day by following the Rani Nallah deeper into the valley.
- Get ready for river and stream crossings as you make your way through the changing landscape.
- Pass through Jwara, where wide green meadows open up around you.
- Depending on the season, you may encounter snow patches and snow bridges along the trail.
- Reach Balu Ka Ghera, surrounded by mountains and snow-covered slopes, and spend the night at the campsite.
Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera → Hampta Pass → Shea Goru | 14,000 ft
- This is the day when the real adventure begins, so start early.
- Make your way up the steep trail towards Hampta Pass, walking across snow and rocky terrain depending on the season.
- Reach the pass at around 14,000 ft and take a moment to look back at the green Kullu Valley and ahead towards the stark Lahaul landscape.
- If snow conditions are suitable, you may get the chance to glissade (slide down a snow slope) during the descent.
- Continue down towards Shea Goru, where the landscape changes dramatically from green mountains to barren, rugged terrain.
- Camp at Shea Goru and enjoy the spectacular mountain surroundings.
Day 4: Shea Goru → Chatru | 10,900 ft
- Wake up to the striking landscape of Lahaul and begin your descent towards Chatru.
- Walk through rocky terrain and glacial valleys, with the landscape becoming increasingly dry and dramatic.
- Cross streams along the way and take in the stark contrast with the lush Kullu Valley you saw at the beginning of the trek.
- Reach Chatru, marking the end of the trekking portion of your Hampta Pass journey.
Day 5: Chatru → Chandratal → Manali
- If weather and road conditions allow, continue by road from Chatru towards the beautiful Chandratal Lake.
- Walk around the lake and take in its blue waters surrounded by barren mountain slopes.
- After spending some time at Chandratal, begin your journey back towards Manali.
- Your Hampta Pass adventure ends with one last drive through the dramatic landscapes of Lahaul.
From green meadows and river crossings to snow-covered trails and the rugged landscapes of Lahaul, Hampta Pass offers a new experience at every turn. If you’re looking for a Himalayan trek that combines changing landscapes with adventure, Hampta Pass is a journey worth taking.
