Nestled in the mighty Himalayas lies the beautiful Hampta Pass, connecting the green Kullu Valley with the stark Spiti Valley. Cros
sing an elevation of 14,000 feet, the Hampta Pass trek is one of the most stunning and thrilling hikes in Himachal Pradesh. This 5-6 day trek takes you through forests, rivers, mountain landscapes and high-altitude meadows as you make your way from the village of Manali to Chandratal Lake.
Trek Begins
The trek usually begins from the quaint hill station of Manali, located at an altitude of around 6,700 feet. After checking into your hotel and resting for a bit, the real adventure begins the next morning.
First day
The first day is a moderate 9 km uphill trek from Manali to the village of Chika at 9,500 feet. The trail winds through pine and deodar forests with the snow-capped Indrasan and Deo Tibba peaks visible in the distance. The fresh, crisp mountain air energises you as you make your way up. Stopping at Chika for lunch, you can recharge yourself for the upcoming steep ascent to Balu Ka Ghera. This stunning meadow at 11,900 feet is a great place to set up camp for the night under the starlit sky. Make sure you acclimatise properly and get enough rest as the next day takes you above 13,000 feet.
Second Day
The second day involves a 7 km trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Shiagouru via the Hampta Pass. This is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek as you cross the pass which connect the green Kullu Valley and the brown Spiti Valley. The initial climb leads you above the treeline into a barren landscape with only mountain slopes and boulders for company. The last one hour is a steep ascent over scree and rocks to finally reach the pass at 14,035 feet. Do not rush through this final climb, take slow measured steps as the air gets thinner. Stop frequently to rest and hydrate yourself. The feeling of accomplishing the crossing of Hampta Pass is exhilarating! You can even see the Chandratal Lake from here. After celebrating your achievement, you begin the descent to Shiagouru, crossing small streams and taking in the phenomenal views. Shiagouru has verdant meadows that make a perfect camping spot at 12,900 feet.
Third Day
After the exertions of the second day, the third day is a relatively easier 8 km downhill trek to Chhatru at 11,000 feet. Walking down into the Spiti valley, you leave behind the greenery and enter the rugged, arid terrain. The difference in the change of scenery from Kullu to Spiti valley is stark and incredible to behold. Crossing riverbeds and waterfalls, you arrive at the village of Chhatru, situated along the Chandra river. The campsite here has epic views of the Chandra Bhaga mountain ranges. You can visit the quaint local temple before retiring for the night under a blanket of stars.
Fourth Day
The fourth day involves driving from Chhatru to Chandratal Lake which takes about 2-3 hours. At an altitude of 14,100 feet, Chandratal is a breathtaking high-altitude lake nestled among lofty mountains. The crystal clear blue waters with reflections of the encircling peaks is mesmerizing. The 3 km circumambulation of the lake gives you different vantage points of its pristine beauty. You can catch glimpses of the mighty Deo Tibba range from the lake on clear days. Camping by the lakeside as the sun sets behind the mountains is an ethereal experience beyond words.
Fifth Day
The fifth day entails driving back from Chandratal Lake to Manali, bidding goodbye to the Spiti Valley. Reaching Manali in the evening, you can unwind and celebrate the completion of the thrilling Hampta Pass trek. The trek encompasses the best of Himachal - verdant green forests, gurgling rivers, high mountain passes, sprawling meadows, barren landscapes, snowy peaks, high altitude lakes, quaint villages and nomadic life. Completing it leaves you with a sense of accomplishment and invaluable memories.
The moderate to difficult grading of the Hampta Pass trek makes it suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. One needs to be physically fit to undertake the trek easily. Proper acclimatization, light layered clothing, sun protection, comfortable trekking shoes and poles are a must. Try to avoid alcohol or smoking at high altitudes, stay hydrated and don't over-exert yourself. Carry medication and first-aid if needed. Hiring an experienced guide is highly recommended, especially for first-time trekkers. The best season is from June to September, before snowfall blocks the passes. Permits might be required, so check the AMS regulations.
The rewards of completing the Hampta Pass trek are plentiful. The richness of nature and culture you experience is mind-boggling. Each day brings spectacular new vistas - be it forests, waterfalls, streams, meadows, mountains or lakes. The changing landscapes, the sweep of valleys, are humbling and magical. You get to experience the unique local Himachali lifestyle and culture in villages along the way. Nothing beats the thrill of crossing a high Himalayan pass on foot! There is ample opportunity for photography to capture the stunning scenic beauty. Completing a multi-day Himalayan trek instils confidence and tests your endurance. The friendships forged while sharing the trail are invaluable. The tranquility and solitude of the mountains works wonders for your mental health. If you love nature, adventure and challenges, the Hampta Pass trek is certainly a must-do.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack your rucksack and be prepared for the Hampta Pass Odyssey, a spectacular trek that takes you through valleys, meadows, streams, mountains and high passes. The stunning vistas, the physical challenge, and the sense of achievement on completing it will leave you with lifelong memories and stories to tell! The magical Hampta Pass trek truly is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers.
