It's no secret that Himachal Pradesh has some of the most beautiful trekking trails in the country. With a lot of Himalayan peaks in the area, it's easy to see why it's known as the land of snowy mountains. The Hampta Pass trek is one of the best treks in the area, tucked in between the Lahaul Valley and the Kullu Valley in the Spiti district. It's one of the easiest treks to hike, and you can do it at any level of experience.
What is the Hampta Pass Trek Famous For?
On the Hampta Pass trek, you will be able to see snow-covered Himalayan peaks, Chandratal Lake, along the banks of the river Ravi, through lush pastures and forests. As you cross the pass, you will see the deserts of Lahul Valley, all encircled by mountains.
The route of the Hampta Pass trek is through a small forest. As you go up the steep, vertical, and rocky paths, you will see different colors of flowers in bloom.
At each campsite during Hampta Pass trekking, you will be able to enjoy panoramic views. You will be able to witness the sunset behind the Hanuman Tibba, which can be seen from the campsite at Bhalu ka Ghera.
Best Time to Go for Hampta Pass Trek
The best time for the Hampta Pass trek is during the summer and early autumn months, from mid-June to mid-September. Here's why:
· June and July: It’s the clearest, greenest time of year. The snow is gone, and the valleys are blanketed with grasslands and blooming wildflowers.
· August: The weather continues to be nice, but you will experience monsoon rain in some areas of trekking, especially in Kullu Valley, so be ready for some rain.
· September: The weather is still great, but there will be some rain in certain parts of the trekking area, especially in the Kullu Valley, so be prepared for it.
Itinerary for the Hampta Pass Trekking
Here's a simplified itinerary for the Hampta Pass trek:
Day 1- Manali to Jobra: Start your trek by taking a 17 km drive to Jobra and then hiking to Chika in 45 min. Along the way, you'll pass through a forest full of maples and pines. As you hike, you'll be able to enjoy the view of the Rani River flowing by. You'll also pass through two bridges and a nice area of forest with walnut trees and oak trees.
Day 2- Chika to Bhalu Ka Ghera: Go out on the Bhalu ka Ghera trek to begin your day on the right foot and be welcomed by the vivid hues of small flowers. As the snow melts, you'll come face-to-face with the river, and you'll see a herd of mules grazing on the green grass. Catch a glimpse of the gorgeous sunset from the top of the Hanuman Tibba and call it a day.
Day 3- Shea Goru via Hampta Pass: Cross rockfall-prone areas on the hike through the mountains of Bhalu Ka Ghera. Later, ascend vertically to reach here at 14,000 ft, where you will get a bird's-eye view of the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley with Deo Tibba Peak in front of you. Return to the campsite.
Day 4- Shea Goru to Chatru, drive to Chandratal: Drive to Chatru Campsite, leave your baggage, Prepare to Visit Chandratal Lake, Soak in Moon Lake, and return to Campsite Chatru.
Day 5- Chatru to Manali drive: On the morning of the last day of the trek, get up, pack your bags, and leave for Manali. Say goodbye to Spiti Valley and start your return journey.
How To Reach Hampta Pass Trek?
Reach Manali: The trek usually starts from Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. You can reach Manali by:
By Road: Manali is well-connected by road from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. You can take a bus or hire a taxi.
By Air: The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), approximately 50 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Manali.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, but it's quite far from Manali. The most convenient train stations are in Chandigarh and Pathankot. From there, you can proceed to Manali by road.
Final Thoughts
The Hampta Pass trek is a mesmerizing journey through the heart of Himachal Pradesh's natural beauty. With its snow-capped peaks, blooming wildflowers, and stunning landscapes, this trek offers an unforgettable experience for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The best time to start this adventure is from mid-June to mid-September when the valleys are lush and vibrant. If you are seeking a remarkable Himalayan trekking experience, consider exploring the Hampta Pass trek package and discovering the magic of this picturesque trek.
