Hampta PAss From Manali

Itinerary of Hampta Pass Trek

Day 1: Manali to Jobra (by road); trek from Jobra to Chika

Distance covered by road: 18.5 km

Distance covered by trek: 2 km

We begin quite early today, with a sumptuous breakfast before all else – we have a lot of ground to cover! First,
we drive from Manali to Jobra, which is where the Hampta Pass base camp is set up. The drive is characterized
by its astonishing scenery and hairpin bends. You feel the breeze in your face and nature envelope you in her
magnificence in the two hours that it takes to complete this drive. By the time you reach Jobra, you find yourself
fresh and determined to embark on the trail. On reaching Jobra (altitude: 9,800 feet), you will be warmly greeted
and briefed about the trek to Chika (altitude: 10,100 feet), that is about to follow. The trek to Chika is short (only 2
kilometres long, taking about three hours), and the perfect beginning to the rest of the four days of trekking that
are to follow. It is a wonderful, gentle walk shrouded by numerous shades of green. The vegetation is a calming
blend of birch, pine and green maple. The Himalayan hills create the most picturesque backdrop for this walk,
and even the elevations feel nothing short of a dream. On our way, we witness River Rani bubbling through the
meadows, completing the dream-like image with some docile cattle and sheep dotting the landscape. We stop for
lunch and set up camp on the banks of the river today. Evening snacks, some fun group-building activities and a
delicious dinner follow. We camp by the river tonight.

Day 2: Chika to Balu ka Ghera

Distance covered: 7 km

We wake up to a beautiful sunrise, embellishing the vibrant tints of the landscape. Our destination for the day is
Balu ka Ghera, and it is both, easy and incredibly generous and rewarding with its beauty. We begin soon after
breakfast. Though you can’t see the Balu ka Ghera campsite from Chika, you will get a general idea of the
direction once the trek commences. The trek to Balu Ka Ghera takes about 5-6 hours to complete, and the path
is laden with vibrant rhododendron trees, silver birch and other similar alpine vegetation. We see an arch of the
Himalayas commonly referred to as The White Range, and Dauladhar peaks stand tall and mighty before us. If
you’re following the regular trekking trail, at some point, you will be delighted to encounter a stream-waterfall on
your left. This is a great place to stop and refill your water resources. Afterward, we continue onwards and arrive
at Balu Ka Ghera, which is a patch of flat mountain-land, dotted with snow here and there. Tomorrow, we will
cross this patch of land to get closer to our destination, but for now, it is time to rest. Hot lunch is served here,
and afterward, trekkers are free to lounge around and enjoy their day in the precious lap of Himachal’s glory.
Dinner is provided, and the camp is set up for the night.

Day 3: Balu ka Ghera to Siagoru; crossing Hampta Pass

Distance covered: 7 km
 Hampta PAss From Manali
Today is going to be packed with thrill and adventure to the brim. The barren flatlands of the Himalayas lie
stretched out before us, and in order to get to the Hampta Pass peak, we must pass through. The terrain before
this has been meadow-like and green. Lahaul and Spiti valley, on the other hand, offers a rocky trail and barren
pathways.
The uphill trek is steep in this region, which is a challenging and exciting change from the relatively gentler
slopes you have covered the last couple days. The continuity of the terrain is only broken by a lovely river
passing through. In order to reach Hampta Pass, there are two steep ridges that you must climb, separated only
by a small, levelled plateau region. The final twenty to thirty minutes to the top require some patience and
determination. Hampta Pass’ temperature can drop very low, especially during the cooler months, which is why it
is advisable to layer your clothes appropriately. A trekking stick is an absolute necessity at this point. The
moment you reach the top is infused with a sense of euphoria, because you have surmounted a relatively difficult
portion of the trek and completed it successful. The adrenaline boost is worth all the effort, and the panoramic
view of the expansive Spiti and Lahaul valley unfolding with scenes of rural life below you, along with numerous
more snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the distance only add to the wholesomeness of the experience. You
venture into the Hampta village to explore and take some time to enjoy the view. After this tiring endeavour, some
hot lunch is provided to reenergize you and prepare you for the descent.
We descend carefully to the scenic village of Siagoru, and soon, reach the Siagoru base camp. Once the steep
regions are cleared, the rest of the trek through the village is fairly easy. After eight exhausting hours of trekking,
you catch up on some well-deserved rest and take some moments to reflect on your journey and catch up with
your fellow adventurers. Some evening snacks and tea are served. After dinner, we camp here for the night.
Tomorrow is a fresh terrain and a treat to the eye – the beautiful Chandratal lake is waiting for you.

Day 4: Siagoru to Chhatru; drive to Chandratal Lake

Distance covered by trek (Siagoru to Chhatru): 4 km

Distance covered by road (Chhatru to Chandratal Lake): 30 km

We start early after breakfast for a fairly simple downward trek passing the Hampta valley. The most prominent
point of interest is the view of the ever-present Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. After surmounting Spiti as a
whole, we find ourselves in Chhatru, a desolate, barren region in this area, lounging at the altitude of 11,100 feet.
Chhatru is a sparsely populated place. It is the culmination of three points imperative to adventure points in
Himachal – Hampta Pass, Spiti and Rohtang Pass. Giving your senses a break from the continuous barrenness
of the terrain before this, Chhatru proves to be quite a refreshing treasure in green. We stop here for a tasty lunch
before setting off on our drive.
From Chhatru, we drive about 30 kilometres to reach the much-awaited Chandratal Lake. A scenic gem of the
state of Himachal, Chandratal has been named as such affectionately, because of its elegant crescent moon
shape. The lake itself is a vision in lucid blue, the water lilting and soft to the wanderer’s eye. Though the water is
freezing, swimming in the lake is a permitted activity, and proves to be incredible, enveloping you in a rush you
didn’t know you needed. One may also enjoy the vividly coloured prayer flags, the wishing stones and a cup of
tea or two along with a taste of the mighty Himalayas reflecting in the crystal clear water. This is your last night of
the Hampta Pass trek. Take the time to enjoy the clear sky and the stars. Don’t forget to bundle up and keep
yourself warm – the temperatures are very low during this time.
 Hampta PAss From Manali

Day 5: Drive from Chandratal Lake to Manali (via Rohtang Pass)

Distance covered by road: 140 km

We begin once again, with a lovely meal and some reflection upon the lovely time we have spent trekking on our
trek to Hampta Pass. We set off on out drive early this morning, because the journey that follows is
time-consuming. We take the Rohtang Pass to get back to Manali and we go through the various flavours of the
Kullu valley, as well as the Lahaul and Spiti valley as we do so. Once we reach Manali, trekkers disperse
homewards according to their travel plans. For this time, our wholesome journey together ends here.

Inclusions of Hampta Pass Trek:

The Hampta Pass trek package includes:
● Transportation support on Traveller, Ertiga or Innova (depending on the size of the group)

throughout the journey.

● Accommodation on sharing basis.

● All meals (vegetarian), including everything from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 5.

● A well-experienced and certified trek leader.

● Cook

● Supporting staff.

● Forest permit.

● Camping equipments like tent, sleeping bags, gaiters and crampons (if required) will be

provided.

Exclusions of Hampta Pass Trek:

The Hampta Pass trek package does NOT include:
● Anything that has not been covered in the inclusions mentioned above.

● Porters or mules to carry your personal luggage. The cost per bag (10/12 kg) is 300 per day.

● Any kind of personal expenses.

● Any kind of personal medication.

 Hampta PAss From Manali

What to Carry:
Clothes: At least two pairs of trekking pants, which are both breathable and durable in the face of rough weather
conditions, are an absolute necessity. Moreover, carry at least three tshirts and at least one durable, warm
protective layer (down layer or fleece jacket) for the duration of the trek. Insulation is a must even during the
summer season because temperatures can drop down drastically, especially at the summit of the trek. It is
strongly advised to also carry an outer layer that can be folded and fits conveniently in your backpack, without
taking up too much space. The best way to dress in the mountains, especially for something like the Hampta
Pass trek, is to layer your clothes such that they can easily be taken off and stored when the temperature is high,
and can be accessed easily when required.
Accessories: At least three to five pairs of socks are also advised. Not only will they provide protection from the
cold weather, but thick socks also cushion your feet from the impact of the terrain. The need for a pair of strong
trekking shoes is unavoidable, especially for the diverse Hampta Pass terrain. Along with this, a pair of lighter
camping shoes should be brought along as well. Too much exposure to heat could even cause a heatstroke,
which is why a suncap and sunglasses are a must. Gloves and a raincoat or poncho are also advised, for
protection from rain and snow.
Food and water: Apart from a little bit of patience and determination, trekking in the Himalyan region requires
energy. To keep these levels from dropping, one must keep replenishing them with energy-intensive snacks like
chocolate bars, cheese and nuts. It is mandatory to carry a water bottle (insulated bottle advised).
Miscellaneous: It is also advised to carry a set of cutlery per person (a mug, a spoon and a tiffin) and a miniature
toilet bag with items like toothpaste, lip balm and moisturizer. A strong walking stick is an absolute necessity for
trekking to Hampta Pass from Manali because of the difference in the nature of the trails throughout the five-day
long trek.

FAQ
1.What is the best time for Hampta Pass Trek?
One of the biggest assets of the Hampta Pass trek is that it can be covered at roughly any time of the year.
However, to derive maximum utility from the trek, it is advised to cover it between June and September. The
average temperature during this time is an average of 13 to 18 degrees during day time and it drops to about 0
degrees at night. In September, the temperature drops below 0. June is one of the months in which Hampta Pass
has patches of snow, thereby making it an excellent snow-trekking experience.

2.What is the level of fitness expected from the participants?

Hampta Pass’ trek difficulty is between easy and moderate. A little trekking experience from beforehand can go a
very long way, and maintaining an optimum level of fitness is recommended. A medical check-up before the trek
is also advisable.

3.What are the clothing and equipments that need to be carried from our end?
The following essentials should be carried for the Hampta Pass trek:

Clothing - Full sleeve shirts/T-shirts, track-pants, cotton socks, woolen socks, full sleeved sweater or fleece jacket
(preferable), one light jacket, thermal inners, gloves, sun-cap, scarf, and trekking shoes.

Equipment - Head-light/flashlight with extra batteries, walking stick, and a backpack with rain cover.
 Hampta PAss From Manali
Additional and miscellaneous – Insulated water bottle, towel, lip balm, cold cream, sun-screen (SPF 40+
recommended), toiletries and toilet paper, personal medicine kit, and dark sunglasses (U/V protected).

4.Which type of shoes should I carry?

Normal sports shoes are not suitable for trekking. They can be carried to wear at the campsites. For the purpose
of trekking, a strong pair of shoes from Woodland or Forclaz 500 are recommended.

5.What kind of food will be provided during this trek? What about safe drinking water?
Healthy, vegetarian meals that facilitate easy mobility in the mountains are a part of the trekking package from
Day 1 to Day 4. The menu is simple and includes items like bread and butter, poha and sandwiches for breakfast;
as well as rotis/puris with vegetable curry for lunch. Dinner mostly consists of rice, roti, dal and a dessert every
day. Tea, biscuits and other snacks are also included. However, trekkers are advised to carry energy-building
foods like nuts and energy bars from their end as well. Potable water will not be a problem because we cross
many water resources on the Hampta Pass trek. Carrying two liters of water per day is advisable.

6.What is the Cost of Hampta pass trek?

The cost of the Hampta Pass trekking package begins from INR 8,500 per adult, where a 30% discount is
applicable. Group bookings can enjoy an additional bonus discount. The most suitable time to trek to Hampta
Pass is between June and September, because the winter months witness a lot of snow, due to which trekking
activities are not allowed during that time. This package includes meals, transfers, guide, stay, and other
amenities. It is advisable to select the best available package that includes all of these things, for the trekkers’
convenience.

7.How much weight will I have to carry?

A backpack with a capacity of at least 6L is a necessity. However, any additional weight depends on your luggage
and capacity.

8.Will there be mobile connectivity?

There will be a few places where mobile connectivity will be available. However, for most of the trekking period,
you will not find mobile connectivity while covering the Hampta Pass trek.

9.How to reach Hampta Pass?

The first step towards getting to Hampta Pass is reaching the Hampta Pass base camp. Our base camp for this
trek is Jobra, which is at a distance of about 18 Km away from Manali. It will take about two hours to cover that
distance via road. After reaching the base camp at Jobra, the trek up to Hampta Pass is a two-day affair. You will
be covering a distance of about 35 km on foot (walking and hiking) for the duration of the trek.

10.What about first aid and medicines?

Medical and first aid kits are a preexisting part of the Hampta Pass trekking package. A basic medical kit and
devices like oxygen cylinders and oxi-meters are a part of the trek cost and tour guides are well-trained to handle
first-aid situations. Other than this, if you have a specific medical condition, you will have to carry your own
medicines and requisites for the same.

11.How difficult is Hampta Pass Trek?

The Hampta Pass Trek lies between easy and moderate difficulty. What makes it so is the change in atmospheric
pressure with the rise in altitude. The weather conditions also add to the difficulty level. On this trek, you will be
traversing a maximum altitude of 14,100 feet and will pass through areas of abundantly thick vegetation.
 Hampta PAss From Manali

12.Can I have liquor or smoke while we're on the trek?

No, the act of smoking and drinking is prohibited on the trek. Since the places here are at high altitudes and even
breathing seamlessly is an issue, smoking is out of the question. Consumption of alcohol is not allowed during
the whole trail either, as it may cause nausea and vomiting. Both these activities can let your body dehydrate
easily, which makes it incredibly difficult to cover the desired distances easily.

13.How is Hampta Pass Trek weather?

The weather depends heavily on the time of the year you choose to trek to Hampta Pass. In the months of June
and July, the day temperature ranges from 13 to 18 degrees, and it falls between 0 and 7 degrees at night. In
September, the climate gets much colder, and both days and nights witness relatively much lower temperatures.
Quite astonishingly, the snowfall will last at some spots of the trek till the first few days of July.

14.Is Diamox is advisable?

Diamox is a must-have medicine to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness or discomfort from the change in altitude. It
is advisable to keep some handy. You will be trekking to a height of more than 14,000 feet and 10-12 tablets of
Diamox are great to have around in case of any emergencies, and to keep queasiness at bay.

15.How do I get in shape?

Since the Hampta Pass trek is not the easiest trek to embark on, and requires you to cover many forest ranges,
areas of high altitude and rough terrains, it is advisable to follow a good cardio routine at least a couple of weeks
before the trek, so as to build your endurance and maintain your fitness levels. These cardiovascular exercises
will not only get your heart pumping, they will also add to your lung-capacity, in terms of the amount of oxygen it
can take in. One can start with jogging and increase the speed and distance covered with each day.
Flexibility-intensive exercises like stretching, squats and swimming also go a long way.

16.What are washroom/toilet facilities like on the trek?

At each campsite, there will be separate toilets arranged for men and women. The number of toilets set up
depends largely on the number of members present in the group. Toilet-tents consist of a deep pit, a mound of
soil and a shovel to cover it up. Mostly, the toilets available while trekking are dry and you will be required to use
toilet paper only. Room fresheners will be provided.

17.How long is Hampta pass Trek?

The Hampta Pass trek is a length of 35 km, and covers the breathtaking fragments of the Dhauladhar range. The
trek starts at Manali. You are taken from Manali to Jobra via road, and then from Jobra (base camp site) to Chika,
which is located at an elevation of 10,000 feet above ground. The second day involves trekking to Balu ka Ghera
for around 5 hours. The view of the snow-capped mountains is what makes this part of the trek incredibly
satisfying. On the last day, you will be heading to Siagoru, which is your last camping destination for this trek.
From here, a drive to Chandratal Lake is what brings the whole experience full circle.

18.Is Hampta pass safe?

Yes, the Hampta pass trek is a safe trek. However, light rains during the monsoon season can make the trek
slightly difficult. Trekking to Hampta Pass is prohibited in the winter months because of the heavy snow. This trek
is also safe for solo-travelers because the trails are well-defined and there have been no unsafe events of
avalanches, etc.

19.Is Hampta pass open in December?

 Hampta PAss From Manali
No, the Hampta Pass trek route is completely sealed off in December because of the heavy snow making it a
virtually impossible route to follow. In addition to this even the roads and passes are closed during this time, for
the same reason. It is advisable to go on other Himalayan treks during this time, like the Kedarkantha trek.

20.Can I do the Hampta Pass trek in February or March?

No , you cannot do Hampta Pass trek in February or March! As these are the winter months for Hampta pass
there is deep snow all over the region and trekking is almost impossible. At this time, not only the trekking routes
but the roads are also closed due to snow. The favorable months for this trek is from June to October as there is
hardly any snow and the views of the Chandra Valley are just beyond one’s imagination.

21.Can I do the Hampta Pass trek in Winter?

No, it is not possible to cover the Hampta Pass trek in the winter months because the entire valley is covered with
snow and all the roads are blocked. Connectivity is very weak during this time, making it an inaccessible trek. In
these months, you can cover the Kedarkantha trek instead.

22. Can I go to Hampta Pass in August?

Planning for the Hampta Pass trek can be problematic in August because it The terrain becomes slippery but the
entire valley revives with the onset of monsoons. If you are planning the trek in this month then you need to be an
experienced trekker as the routes are not that easy for a first-timer.

23.How is Hampta Pass Trek in October?

In the month of October, the charm of the Lahaul and Spiti valley increases because the forests are surrounded by
glacial beauty and the views are simply breathtaking. October marks the commencement of winters at Hampta
Pass. The temperature drops very low during this time. While there is snow fall, there is no rain, making it a great
time to trek this region. The temperature at the beginning of the month is 15 degrees and drops down to -2
degrees by the end.

24.What is the total trekking distance of the Hampta pass trek?

The total trekking distance you will cover while making your way to Hampta Pass is about 35 km (on foot). The
circuit of the trek is: Manali - Jobra – Chika- Balu ka Gera – Siagoru - Hampta Pass - Siagoru - Chatru –
Chandratal Lake - Manali. The entire trek takes about six days and five nights. It is advisable to check in with
guides about the weather conditions of the area before going for the trek.

25.Why Hampta Pass is the best trek in mid-June?

Mid-June is the best time to trek to Hampta Passs, because of the constancy of clear skies and beautiful,
snow-capped peaks. The temperature ranges between 5 and 15 degrees, which makes it a doable trek for this
time. The vegetation is mostly alpine, with clusters of deodars here and there that fringe the route upwards. The
sunshine is warm and pleasant, and makes it quite an amazing place to trek. Since the weather conditions are
excellent during these months, it is the best time to trek to Hampta Pass if you are a beginner.

26.How to reach Hampta Pass from Delhi?

Hampta Pass is at a total distance of 634 Km from New Delhi. To reach the pass, you need to start your journey
from Delhi to reach the starting point of the trek, which is in Manali. The distance between Delhi and Manali is
about 536 Km, and can be covered via overnight flights or by travelling via luxury buses or cabs.

27.Is there snow in Hampta Pass?

 Hampta PAss From Manali
Yes, Hampta Pass is snow-clad from mid-June to July. Afterwards, the snow melts completely in the month of
August, and remains so till November. The winter months of December and January also witness extremely low
temperatures. It is not advisable to trek to Hampta Pass during this time.

28.Is Hampta Pass easy?

The Hampta Pass trek is between easy and moderate. It is located at an altitude of 4,270 metres, and the trek
itself is very dynamic because the rough terrain varies with each day. It is important to note that the air pressure
and altitude can make the trek a little difficult. If there is snow present, you may have some difficulty in walking
through it. However, a lot of seasoned trekkers, as well as beginners, succeed in finishing this trek.

29.Is the trek safe for solo female travellers?

The Hampta Pass trek is pretty safe for solo female travelers. You are accompanied by a professional trek leader,
a guide as well as the necessary staff to support you due course the endeavour. Moreover, this is a
group-oriented journey, and you will not be alone. You will, quite possibly, encounter more solo female trekkers
and enjoy the experience together.

30.Will we get safe drinking water on Hampta Pass trek?

Potable frinking water and other similar activities are a part and parcel of the trekking package. It is important to
carry an insulated, reusable water-bottle that can be filled with water before you begin.

31. Will I get any porter to carry my luggage?

The Hampta Pass trek package includes an experienced trip leader, well-informed guide, and adequate support
staff to help you with your luggage and other services throughout. It is also advisable to pack light and only carry
essentials during the main trek.