“Where pine forests end and the cold desert begins.”
📖 Overview
The Hampta Pass Trek is a 5-day high-altitude adventure that begins in Jobra (near Manali) and crosses the Hampta Pass (4,270 m / 14,100 ft) into the Lahaul–Spiti region, ending near Chandratal Lake. It’s one of the few treks in India that offers such a dramatic shift in landscape—from flower-filled meadows and pine forests to glacial valleys and barren cliffs. Ideal for beginners with good fitness, it’s a trek that delivers visual drama, cultural contrast, and alpine serenity.
🧭 Trek Profile
Attribute
Details
Trailhead
Jobra (via Manali)
Endpoint
Chhatru / Chandratal (Spiti)
Pass Altitude
4,270 m (14,100 ft)
Trek Distance
~25–30 km
Trek Duration
5 days
Grade
Moderate
Best Season
Mid-June to September
Permit Required
Yes (forest entry + optional Chandratal permit)
🥾 Day-wise Itinerary Snapshot
Day 1: Manali ➝ Jobra ➝ Chika (2 km trek)
Drive to Jobra (9,800 ft)
Short trek through maple and pine forests to Chika campsite
Day 2: Chika ➝ Balu ka Ghera (~6 km)
Gradual ascent along the Rani Nallah, with views of Indrasan Peak
Camp at Balu ka Ghera (11,900 ft)—a sandy riverbed surrounded by peaks
Day 3: Balu ka Ghera ➝ Hampta Pass ➝ Shea Goru (~7 km)
Steep climb to Hampta Pass (14,100 ft)
Cross snowfields and descend into Lahaul’s rocky terrain
Day 4: Shea Goru ➝ Chhatru (~5 km)
Easy descent along glacial streams
Optional drive to Chandratal Lake (14,000 ft) if road conditions allow
Day 5: Chhatru ➝ Manali (drive via Atal Tunnel or Rohtang Pass)
🌄 Trail Highlights
Landscape Shift: From lush Kullu meadows to Spiti’s cold desert—a rare ecological transition in just 5 days
River Crossings: Thrilling glacial stream crossings with rope support—adds a splash of adventure
Flora & Fauna: Spot blue poppies, rhododendrons, marmots, and if lucky, Himalayan ibex
Chandratal Lake (Optional): A turquoise moon-shaped lake in Spiti, accessible by road from Chhatru
🛕 Cultural & Historical Touchpoints
Shepherd Route: Traditionally used by Gaddi shepherds to move flocks between valleys
Spitian Buddhism: End the trek in Spiti, home to monasteries, prayer flags, and Tibetan culture
Manali Temples: Begin your journey with blessings at Hadimba Devi Temple or Vashisht hot springs
🧳 Essentials for Trekkers
Item
Notes
Footwear
High-ankle trekking boots (mandatory)
Clothing
Layered gear for cold nights and warm days
Gear
Trekking poles, rain cover, headlamp
Camping
Tents at Chika, Balu ka Ghera, Shea Goru
Permits
Forest entry + optional Chandratal access
Guide
Recommended for safety and navigation
🧭 How to Reach
Start Point:
Manali ➝ Jobra (25 km drive)
Shared taxis or trek operator transport
End Point:
Chhatru ➝ Manali (via Atal Tunnel or Rohtang Pass)
Optional detour to Chandratal Lake
Nearest Railhead: Chandigarh (~310 km from Manali)
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (Kullu) – ~50 km from Manali
