The Enchanting Beauty of Hampta Pass Trek
The Hampta Pass trek is a mesmerizing journey where nature paints its finest masterpiece. Walk through lush green valleys of Kullu, cross gurgling streams, and witness dramatic cliffs that touch the sky. At 14,100 ft, the pass unveils a breathtaking contrast—snowy Spiti landscapes stretching endlessly. The silence here is profound, broken only by the wind’s whisper.
Chandratal Lake, a shimmering blue jewel, reflects the mountains like a dream. Campsites like Shea Goru offer starry nights, while Balu Ka Ghera enchants with riverside serenity. Every step here is a love letter to the Himalayas. ❄️🏔️✨
🏔 Hampta Pass Trek: Ultimate Guide (2024)
📍 Location: Himachal Pradesh (Manali to Spiti Valley)
📏 Distance: 26 km (one way)
⛰ Max Altitude: 14,100 ft (Hampta Pass)
⚡ Difficulty: Moderate (Good for beginners)
⏳ Duration: 5-6 Days (Delhi to Delhi)
🌤 Best Season: June to September (Avoid monsoon in July-August)
🗺 Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
🚌 Day 0: Delhi to Manali (Travel Day)
- Distance: 540 km (~14 hrs)
- Transport Options:
- Budget: HRTC Volvo Bus (₹1,200–₹1,800)
- Luxury: Private Cab (₹6,000–₹8,000)
- Stay in Manali:
- Budget: Zostel/Hostels (₹500–₹1,000)
- Luxury: Johnson’s Cafe & Resort (₹4,000–₹6,000)
🚶♂️ Day 1: Manali → Jobra (Drive) → Trek to Chika (2-3 hrs)
- Drive: Manali to Jobra (2 hrs, 9,800 ft)
- Trek: Jobra → Chika (3 km, easy walk)
- Highlights: Lush green meadows, Rani Nallah river
- Stay: Tented camp (included in packages)
🏞 Day 2: Chika → Balu Ka Ghera (4-5 hrs, 6 km)
- Altitude: 10,400 ft → 11,900 ft
- Terrain: Rocky trails, waterfalls, valley views
- Camping: Riverside site with mountain views
❄️ Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera → Hampta Pass (14,100 ft) → Shea Goru (8-9 hrs, 8 km)
- Toughest Day: Steep climb to Hampta Pass
- Views: Snowfields, Spiti Valley panorama
- Descent: 4 hrs to Shea Goru (12,900 ft)
🏕 Day 4: Shea Goru → Chatru (4 hrs, 7 km) → Chandratal Lake (Optional)
- Trek Ends at Chatru (11,000 ft)
- Optional: Drive to Chandratal Lake (14 km, extra cost)
- Return to Manali: Same day (3-4 hrs drive)
💰 Budget vs. Luxury Cost Breakdown
1️⃣ Budget Trek (₹7,000 – ₹10,000)
- Trek Package: ₹5,000–₹7,000 (includes food, tents, guide)
- Transport: Volvo bus (₹1,200–₹1,800)
- Manali Stay: Hostel (₹500–₹1,000/night)
- Food: Local dhabas (₹200–₹500/day)
2️⃣ Luxury Trek (₹15,000 – ₹30,000+)
- Premium Package: ₹12,000–₹20,000 (better meals, tents, guides)
- Transport: Private cab (₹6,000–₹8,000)
- Manali Stay: 4-star resort (₹4,000–₹6,000)
- Chandratal Visit: Extra ₹2,000–₹3,000
🎒 Solo Backpacking Tips
✔ Permits: Usually included in trek packages
✔ Best Time: June & September (avoid monsoon)
✔ Packing List:
- Trekking shoes, woolen layers, raincoat
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle
- Power bank, dry snacks, first-aid kit
✔ Safety: Trek with a guide if solo
🌄 Top Scenic Highlights
✅ Hampta Pass Summit – Stunning Spiti Valley views
✅ Chandratal Lake – Turquoise blue high-altitude lake
✅ Balu Ka Ghera – Riverside camping under stars
✅ Shea Goru Valley – Dramatic mountain landscapes
🏕 Best Trekking Companies
- Indiahikes (Most reliable)
- TrekTheHimalayas (Budget-friendly)
- Bikat Adventures (Great for solo trekkers)
⚠️ Important Tips & Warnings
❌ Avoid July-August (Landslide risk)
✔ Acclimatize in Manali (1 day rest)
✔ Carry cash (No ATMs after Manali)
✔ Rent gear in Manali (Sleeping bags, trek poles)
Final Verdict
The Hampta Pass Trek is a perfect mix of meadows, rivers, and snow—ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Budget travelers can complete it under ₹10,000, while luxury options offer comfort and extra sights like Chandratal Lake.