Hampta Pass Trek Overview

Hampta Pass Trek is renowned for being one of the most accessible and convenient treks in Himachal Pradesh. It is a gateway between Manali Valley and Spiti Valley, offering breathtaking views and various landscapes. The trek is characterised by its scenic beauty, which includes expansive meadows, glacial valleys, and stunning pass crossings, making it a memorable adventure. Chandratal Lake, situated at around 14,000 feet, is a significant highlight of the trek. The optimal times to undertake this trek are May to July and August to October. The pass is famous for its snow coverage, even during summer, which attracts many trekkers. The entire trek spans approximately 26 kilometres.

Unique Features of Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass, perched at about 14,010 feet on the Pir Panjal range, is a remarkably high-altitude pass. Named after the nearby Hampta Village, it is a corridor between the lush Kullu Valley and the stark Lahaul Valley. The pass offers a dramatic landscape shift, with verdant valleys on one side and barren, rugged terrain on the other. This stark contrast provides a unique and exhilarating trekking experience featuring vertical rock walls, waterfalls, glaciers, and lofty peaks. From the pass, a trail leads to the mesmerising Chandratal Lake, known for its turquoise waters.

Dramatic Himalayan Trek

At 14,000 feet, Hampta Pass is renowned for being one of the most breathtakingly dramatic mountain passes in the Himalayas. On one side, trekkers encounter the lush, green Kullu Valley with its forests, meadows, and vibrant flowers. On the opposite side lies the almost barren Lahaul Valley, characterised by its stark, arid landscape. Standing atop Hampta Pass, the difference between the two worlds is striking and shifts rapidly.

Often compared to the Valley of Flowers due to its vibrant green landscapes, Hampta Pass offers an additional bonus of dramatic contrasts. The transition from the lush green meadows to the rugged, arid terrain of Spiti Valley is a sight to behold. The trek is filled with adventure, challenging climbs, and the thrill of crossing the pass. Trekkers will encounter stunning flora, including Himalayan Blue Poppies and Pink Hill Geraniums, and witness changing forest types from apple orchards to deodar and oak trees.

Trek Highlights

Hampta Pass: At 4,270 meters, this pass offers breathtaking mountain views and a dramatic landscape transition.

Chandratal Lake: Situated at 4,300 meters, this lofty lake is famous for its crystal-clear blue water and the snow-capped peaks encircling it.

Cultural Experience: The trek passes through small villages where trekkers can experience local traditions and cultures.

Difficulty: The trek is moderately complex, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Camping: The trek includes camping opportunities under the stars amidst the stunning Himalayan backdrop.

Best Time to Trek

The Hampta Pass Trek is best undertaken from early June to late September, with the peak months being June, July, and August. These months offer vibrant meadows, ample snow on the pass, and pleasant temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C during the day and 3°C to 5°C at night.

Experience and Adventure

Hampta Pass is more than just a trek; it’s an adventurous journey through diverse landscapes and cultures. From the rich flora and fauna of the Kullu-Manali region to the barren beauty of Lahaul and Spiti, the trek offers a comprehensive experience of the Himalayas. The trek also provides a glimpse into the local Tibetan-influenced culture in villages like Sethan, enhancing the overall adventure with cultural insights and breathtaking scenery.

Connectivity

Manali is the starting point for the trek and is easily accessible by road, train, or air from major Indian cities.

By Road: Manali is approximately 550 kilometres from Delhi and 310 kilometres from Chandigarh. Several Volvo, Deluxe, and State transport buses regularly run between these cities and Manali. Buses and taxis also connect Manali with cities such as Ambala, Dehradun, Haridwar, Shimla, Una and Dharamshala.

By Train: There is no direct train service to Manali. However, you can take the Shatabdi Express to Chandigarh, hire a cab, or take a bus to Manali. Alternatively, you can travel to Pathankot by train and then to Manali by taxi or bus.

By Air: The closest airport to Manali is Bhuntar, about 52 kilometres away. Several private and Indian Airlines provide regular flights to Bhuntar Airport. For international travellers, the nearest major airport is Chandigarh. From Bhuntar, you can travel to Manali either by cab or by taking a direct bus.

Advice for the Hampta Pass with Chandratal Trek

Trekking in the mountains can be both challenging and unpredictable. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind for a safe and enjoyable Hampta Pass Trek:

• Avoid trekking after sunset, as the mountains are home to various wild species, and you may encounter unexpected wildlife.

• Begin your trek early to cover more distance comfortably.

• Use walking poles to support yourself; they may not look stylish, but they provide crucial stability and feel like an extra set of legs.

• Bring a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated throughout the trek.

• Wear comfortable trekking shoes that offer good weight and cushioning.

• Before your trek, practice walking with a backpack for extended periods to build endurance. You’ll be away from civilisation for most of the journey.

• Minimise noise to preserve the mountains' serene environment and avoid disturbing the peaceful atmosphere.

ATM Availability

The last ATM you will find before the trek will be in Manali only. It is always advised to carry enough cash. Make all the necessary payments before, and then have some extra money.

Network Connectivity

Jobra, the base of the trek, is where you’ll get a stable network before the trek.

Trek essentials

Before any trek, there are some necessary items that we need to pack. Here is a list of those to help you pack on this, as well as on future oness too:

• Rucksack with rain cover

• Trekking boots, woollen socks, and socks

• Woollens, thermals, puffer jackets

• Snacks

• Medicines 

• Moisturiser, sunscreen, napkin, toilet paper