The Hampta Pass trek is one of the most exciting trekking experiences that anyone can have in the Indian Himalayas. It is located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and blends together beautiful and different types of landscapes in its course. It elevates through lush green valleys, steep cliffs, and is permeated with alpine meadows along the way. It ends with snow-clad paths in the high ranges, which all trekking enthusiasts cannot miss. Given the wide range of terrains available, Hampta Pass trek is considered one of the most beautiful treks in the Indian subcontinent. More significantly, the Hampta Pass trek serves as a link between the Kullu Valley and Spiti Valley and so offers stunning views for trekkers as well.
The Hampta Pass trekking journey lasts around 5 days. This makes it a very suitable short trek for trekkers who wish to escape into the wild without spending a lot of time. Scenic sights would also include treks through oak, deodar, and birch forests across rugged terrains and the solitude of high-altitude campsites.
The Hampta Pass trek is accompanied by a guide who details the daily activities from start to finish while also touching on the trouble and difficulty levels. Also, it is informative with respect to the appropriate time season for Hampta Pass in order to get the best experience of the scenery. So whether you are a pro trekker or a novice, the Hampta Pass trek is guaranteed to be fun and full of adventure.
Hampta Pass Trek's Itinerary
Day 1: Manali to Jhobra by automobile and Chika Trek from Jhobra
Trekker’s paradise, the Hampta Pass is located in the northern part of India. Starting in Manali it reaches the Lahaul valley on the other side of the planet. People who travel on this trek get immersed in the charm of the many features that this trek has to offer. This trek is a special experience for those who live in or nearby Himalayan regions.
When you reach Jhobra, you will get fresh, have lunch, and then have some time to relax before doing the Chika trek. The distance from Jhobra to Chika is between 3-4 kilometers which can be normally covered in about 2-3 hours. During the walk, you will be surrounded by the splendid sounds wildlife and nature have to offer creating a comfortable and safe feeling around you
Day 2: Chika to Balu ka Gera
The trek to Balu ka Gera can be initiated after enjoying a sumptuous meal at Chika. The distance from Chika to Balu ka Gera is about five to six kilometers and the duration to cover this distance on foot is around four to five hours. The trail starts in an easy manner on foot, and it goes on to connect in lovely alpine meadows. As you continue to go up besides the increasing effort that is required the sights around you will be nothing short of gorgeous as the valleys holding the Balu ka Gera region will unfold themselves.
The slopes provide the ideal setting for numerous streams along the way which adds a relaxing touch to the whole experience. Some areas have other river beds and rocky bodies through which the paths get quite difficult to traverse, but the views in themselves are worth the trouble. Coming in your view will be the sights of the Hampta Valley and the grand Himalayan Range as you move towards Balu ka Gera.
Day 3: Balu ka Gera to Siagoru via Hampta Pass
The third day will be the most beautiful and challenging day as we have to pass over Hampta Pass. After relishing breakfast at Balu ka Gera, you will go for the trek towards Hampta Pass. We will take a steep initial stage in the form of a trek for around four to five hours. Hampta Pass is conveniently placed on the high route of the trek at an astonishing 4270m up in the sky. It bestows the trekkers with the beautiful sight of snow peaks encompassing it. Make sure you take time to breathe in and soak up the wild setting. Don't forget to take pictures holding the view dear to your heart.
After enjoying the view for some period, you will now go downwards to the Siagoru. This descent takes about two to three hours. The scenery becomes more beautiful and enjoyable because the altitude decreases. This, however, will all change as this trek will once again take you through alpine meadows and rocky places.
In the end, your journey will finally lead you to the Siagoru campsite where you will set up your tents. This beautiful place is surrounded by green bushes and trees and would be right for souvenirs when we are enjoying the food. After a long and satisfying day, you will rather relax in sleeping bags waiting for the next day’s schedules.
Day 4: Siagoru to Chatru
Today’s first base for trekking starts from Siagoru and is approximately 6-7 km away from Chatru. Within a range of four to five hours, one can complete the trek. Though there are rocky areas, the walk is quite a pleasant one. The pleasing landscapes at the end of the bent stone mountains and curved paths are worth the struggle. The region’s rough features will most definitely capture your interest as you simply move towards Chatru which has an ever-increasing picturesque beauty.
Once you arrive at Chatru, what will welcome you will be the stunning sights of rivers and mountains. This is also the area where the day’s trek comes to an end, and must add that it is a peaceful setting. The camp will be set up at this point and you may leave and bask in your tents for a brief period.
After spending enough time in Chatru, you will realize that the journey is still not over. The first stop in your trip to Lahaul will be traveling to Chandratal Lake, which will take about two to three hours. Chandratal Lake is one of the best-looking creeks any traveler would have witnessed. So once you arrive at ChandraTal Lake, you can stretch your legs a bit to take a short walk about the lake, that said, the view is surely worth it. So after spotting the tar, head back to Chatru and spend the night in the tents.
Day 5: Chatru to Manali
Last day of the Hampta Pass trek starts with an early breakfast at Chatru camp site and it also marks the conclusion of your trek. The distance between Chatru and Manali which is nearly 8 to 9 hour drive is begun when the camps are neatly packed and you have savored a picturesque camping site in the tranquil mountain. It is easy to forget that the drive is through monotonous terrain and unchangeable views as it incorporates steep hills, constructive straights, and charming little towns overshadowed by nature.
There are also the valleys and the other high snow covered mountains that are visible during the journey, as you follow up the Beas river tourism above the green belt of Himachal. While on the bus you get time to relax and see some of the beautiful views of the lush mountain scenery that you have just completed as you are in the process of traveling back to the busy Manali city from the mountains.
Best Time to Visit Hampta Pass Trek 
The ideal period for trekking the Hampta Pass, in most cases, is from late June to early October, though it ultimately depends on the climbers’ preference. During this time, the weather is the least of their worries as winters and monsoons are over, skies are clear and temperatures are pleasant for trekking.
The June to September period is centermost in the climbers’ goals owing to the fact that not only are the pathways open, but nature too is in good form as it is rampant with greenery and leaves and petals of wildflowers have bloomed and the meadows are dazzling bright. Such months are ideal since the average daytime temperature hovers between 10 degrees Celsius to 15 degrees, but nighttime is cooler at about 5-10 degrees Celsius. Snow will still cover parts and sections of the trail, but they will not be impediments to full-out trekking with some covering parts of the trek near the pass.
A second optional selection which climbers can turn to is Between September and October, where, it is focused more towards individuals who do not want to be surrounded by a lot of trekkers. Lows are around, although the mornings and daytime are surprising, and drier as there is less frequent rainfall while strong sunlight begs for exploration as any golden and orange scene paints everything with an aura of beauty. Though parts of the temperature will drop and some such as climbing peaks will become colder making it difficult for the areas making it chilly, cases are still effective as they allow vast panoramas full of white snowy mountains alongside endless oceans pouring of crystal clear blue skies.
Don’t visit during the winter season (November to March), as heavy snowfall makes the trail impossible to follow, and the temperature drops significantly, creating danger for trekkers.
Trekking Essentials for Hampta Pass Trek
Its mesmerizing beautiful scenery and serene environment make Hampta Pass trek a favorite site to explore for many tourists. But just like many treks, it is very important to thoroughly prepare. Ensuring you have your trekking essentials is fundamental for having a good experience during the trek. Below is a list of items that I suggest you pack and take with you on the trek:
1. Clothing: With the landscape changing and many people having different preferences, be sure to bring a base moisture-wicking layer, insulation mid-layers such as fleece or wool, and waterproof layers such as windbreakers(jackets) and rain pants. Sweater, ski pants, and a warm jacket for the night.
2. Footwear: Since the terrain varies from rocky to snow-topped areas, it would be advisable to wear trekking boots that are waterproof and sturdy with good grip and ankle support.
3. Backpack: Putting on a medium rain cover on your bag will protect your bag (40l-50l) from the rain while allowing you to pack the essentials you need.
4. Sleeping Bag: Sleeping bags that have a rating of zero degrees to five degrees would be advisable as huddling close into one would provide a comforting warmth in cold high altitude places.
5. Trekking Poles: Using poles would take a lot of load off your knees previously keeping balance and providing stability during steep climbs.
6. Hydration & Snacks: Pack a reusable composed water bottle with nourishing snacks that would replenish your energy such as dry fruits, energy bars, and nuts.
7. Medications: Pain relieving medication, a few antiseptic ointments, sta
Key Highlights of the Hampta Pass trek
1. Find Diversity in Scenic Views: On the Hampta Pass trek, one can expect to meander through unadulterated greenery such as meadows and forests in Kullu Valley to dry landscapes in Spiti Valley. Other than that, it’s the beauty of alpine lakes, massive cliffs and snow-clad mountains that add to the changes in scenery as you hike.
2. Make it to Hampta Pass which Ranges from flat 14,100 feet: High up Hampta Pass also known as Rajan Pass, is one of the most adventurous points & an exhilarating experience as the pass is at an elevation of 14,100 feet. Such picturesque sights attract loads of photographers & tourists and are sure to make any traveler’s visit unforgettable.
3. Feel Vibrancy at the Campsites Under the Clearest Skies: While trekking, the most common places for the trekkers to set up camps are Balu Ka Ghera and Chika for easy to moderate slopes. These sites grant too much wilderness of the mountain range to not fall in love with the place and make it worthwhile.
Challenges and Tips for Trekking the Hampta Pass Trek
1. Apex and acclimatization: The height of Hampta Pass Trek has been recorded at 14,100 feet, without proper acclimatization, it can lead to altitude sickness. Trekkers are advised to go slow, do not overstrain and rest more at lower heights prior to getting to a higher level. Drinking enough water and being hydrated is equally important in the process of Altitude sickness.
Tip: You ascend steadily and take breaks at campsites which is beneficial to your body in terms of coping with the change in altitude.
2. Weather conditions are very unpredictable: Hampta pass weather tends to be the most fickle on the trek, one moment you are greeted by blue skies, and then suddenly that changes into rain or even snow, this is particularly true at high Altitudes. It sometimes may even put the trek at a greater risk as the trails become hazardous such as during monsoon season from June to September.
Tip: Always check the weather forecast before you venture out. Insufficient appropriate gear will only let you down, get yourself a waterproof jacket, trekking boots, and a rain cover for your bag.
3. Difficult geographical terrains: The trek requires a lot of physical strength since the journey involves crossing steep climbs, snow patches, and rocky paths. Furthermore, these areas are particularly troublesome as one impacts their balance and foot placement at hurdles. This is the case especially when traversing downwards or towards icy crossings.
Tip: For added support on slippery terrain use trekking poles, wear boots supporting the ankle for injury prevention and for initial elements don’t get too rushed instead take small consistent steps.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Hampta Pass trek allows the trekkers to explore the different terrains ranging from green valleys to dry deserts. It’s a trek that offers stunning views and an exciting experience with crossing the Hampta Pass at a height of 14100 ft. However, as is the case with any high-altitude trek, it requires some amount of planning and care in terms of monitoring the weather, altitude, and physical health condition of the individual.
In order to get the best out of Hampta Pass trekking, it is important to get the right advice and pack the appropriate equipment, as well as adhere to a few suggestions that may guarantee a successful trip. For those interested in a more specific approach, Himalayan Daredevils have a great offer of fully organized treks led by professional mountain guides ensuring your safety whilst fully enjoying the possibilities this great trek has to offer. It does not matter if you are an experienced trekker or this is your first time, their assistance will only enhance your experience and make it unforgettable.
