Hampta Pass Trek

The Hampta Pass Trek is among the most beautiful and enjoyable treks in the Indian Himalayas. It’s a breathtaking 4-5 day journey through the stunning Hamta Valley. Surrounded by the majestic Pir Panjal and Spiti ranges, you’ll be awestruck by the landscape. Starting from Manali’s lush green forests and snow-capped peaks, the trail leads through Chika, Balu Ka Ghera, and over the 14,100 ft Hampta Pass into the arid Spiti Valley.

The trek offers the remarkable transition as you journey from the verdant beauty of the Kullu Valley to the stark, barren expanse of Lahaul and Spiti on the other side of the pass. The highlights of this unforgettable trek include crossing the Hampta Pass, camping at scenic spots like Balu Ka Ghera and Shea Goru, encountering the mesmerizing crescent-shaped Chandratal Lake, exploring charming villages like Sethan, and witnessing a diverse array of flora and fauna along the way.

Best time of year to trek Hampta Pass

The best time for the trek, is from June to mid-October. During this time the weather remains stable, with low chances of rain. The trek is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall, which blocks the routes and makes the pass inaccessible. However, for winter sports enthusiasts, winter is the ideal time to visit the Hampta Pass Trek, as the heavy snowfall creates a beautiful winter wonderland.

Difficulty level

The trek stands out as one of the most popular and moderate-level treks in the Indian Himalayas. It falls under Level 3 trekking due to its rapid altitude gain, challenging river crossings, overhangs, small tricky sections, and lack of easy emergency exits. This trek is ideally suited for trekkers with some prior hiking experience. For beginners, maintaining fitness is crucial for successfully completing this trek. With adequate physical fitness, you can smoothly navigate through the terrain and conquer the challenges along the way.

Altitude

The trek is an exciting adventure that leads you to an altitude of 4,270 meters (14,107 feet) through Himachal Pradesh’s stunning landscapes. Starting from the base camp in Manali, the trek covers a total distance of 40 kilometers. As you near the end of the journey, get ready for the spectacular sight. Chandratal Lake, the ultimate reward of the trek.

Duration

Beginning in the lush green valley of Manali, the trek concludes back in Manali after covering Chandratal Lake. Typically, completing the trek takes 4 to 5 days. The highest point of the trek is Hampta Pass. Where the massive mountains of the Pir Panjal and Spiti ranges dominate the entire landscape.

Main Attractions of Hampta Pass Trek

Chandratal Lake

Chandratal Lake, situated in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, is a stunning high-altitude lake, one of the highest in India at an elevation of approximately 4,300 meters. Considered sacred by Hindus, the lake is believed to be the place where God Indra’s chariot picked up Yudhishthira. Chandra Tal, nicknamed ‘Moon Lake’, has a unique crescent shape.

Chandratal Lake - Hampta Pass Trek

Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass, located at an elevation of 4,270 meters (14,107 feet), stands as the highlight of the trek. Positioned between Balu Ke Ghera and Siagoru, it offers trekkers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hampta Pass Trek 4N,5D - International Youth Club

Camping at Serene Locations

The trek offers opportunities for camping at scenic locations such as Balu Ka Ghera, Chatru, and Shia Goru. The Balu Ka Ghera campsite, positioned on the edge of a river, provides picturesque views. Furthermore, camping at Shia Goru is renowned for its adventurous river crossing. It is advisable to carry your own personal gear and be prepared for the challenging terrain and weather conditions at high altitudes.

Camping at Hampta Pass Trek

Glacial Streams

The glacial streams add a thrilling element to the trek, particularly when crossing the stream at Shea Goru, which is one of the most adventurous parts of the journey.

Hampta Pass Trek Package

Exciting River Crossings

During the trek, trekkers actively navigate several river crossings, including one at Shea Goru, which adds an exciting and adventurous element to the journey. Trekkers actively hop over to the other bank and trace their way towards the pass from there. As the snow melts, navigating through the river poses increasing challenges.

River crossing at Shea Goru - Hampta Pass Trek

Star Gazing

At high altitudes, clear night skies are perfect for star gazing. Trekkers can witness a breathtaking display of stars, constellations, and even the Milky Way on clear nights, making each day of trekking end magically.

Night at Hampta Pass Trek - Camping, International Youth Club

Trek Essentials

The essential items to pack for the Hampta Pass trek include trekking shoes, warm clothing, trek pants and t-shirts, thermals, sunglasses, woollen cap and gloves, headlamp/LED torch, raincoat, lunch box, water bottle, and other miscellaneous items. These items prepare you for varying weather conditions, challenging terrain, and high altitudes on the trek.

Mobile connectivity during trek

After Prini, near Manali, the last point of network connectivity, mobile connectivity becomes very limited and unreliable throughout the trek. While returning, network connectivity is available at a few places such as Rohtang Pass and Manali. Trekkers should be prepared to be disconnected from the outside world and plan accordingly. Since ATM facilities are also limited, carrying cash and essential supplies is recommended.