Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake

Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake

Hampta Pass Trek is among the many other delightful treks around Manali region in Himachal Pradesh. Our trek in Hampta Pass suits everyone with the scope of time and hardship hence is considered as a moderate trek. Its a terrific crossover trek in Himachal Pradesh. The beauty of this trek lies in the small corridor between Lahaul and Kullu valley with the regular change in the landscape. Our trekking start from Manali, unlike other camps, to make it easy for all to reach the base camp. It covers the majestic foothills of the Himalayas starting with thick forest which leads us to the open valley of lush green covers of the Pir Panjal Range. Their lush greens with the tree line stop when you are at the Hampta Pass (14350 ft.)  And enter the barren landscape to visit the Chandratal Lake in Lahaul & Spiti.

Highlights of Hampta Pass Trek

• Breathtaking picturesque view of the alpine Chandratal.
• Camping location under the star studded sky along with delicious and nutritious meals.
• Capture the majestic view of the Pir Panjal Ranges.
• Build adrenaline as we cross some of the high mountain passes.

How to Reach Hampta Pass Trek in Manali

Manali is well connected to all the states across India. One can travel by Road or by Air. Delhi is taken as a reference to Guide our trekkers. So plan accordingly.

Reach Manali by Road:

Manali is connected to Delhi. Take an overnight bus from Delhi, and you will reach Manali in 12 - 14 hours. Tickets can be booked online at www.redbus.in or www.hrtc.gov.in

Reach Manali by Air:

Kullu–Manali Airport in Bhuntar, which is 52 km away from Manali, is the nearest airport. Taxi services are available from Airport to Manali, which costs about Rs. 700- Rs 1000.

Tip: Since Delhi to Manali is a long journey, most Volvo private buses leave Delhi between 5 pm and 6 pm. The last HRTC bus leaves at 8.30pm from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Plan your onward journeys only post noon is giving enough buffer for bus delays.

Hampta Pass Trek Itinerary

Day 01: From Chika to Balu ka Ghera Through Trek

• Stay: Overnight stay in tents at Chikka Campsite
• Meal: Dinner.
• Altitude: Manali (11,700 ft) & Chikka (7700 ft).
• Distance: By Trek 13 km. By Road 13 km *
• Time Taken: By Trek 6–7 hrs approx., By Road 1 hr
• Trek Grade: Gradual

Embarking on our journey from Manali, our first leg entails a scenic road trip to Jobra, a quaint destination enveloped in the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas. Anticipate a thrilling two-hour drive adorned with 30 hairpin bends, each bend unveiling a new chapter of adventure and awe. Upon reaching Jobra, our trekking odyssey commences, leading us to the enchanting haven of Chika. As we traverse the trail, a picturesque vista unfolds before our eyes, with the majestic Rani Nallah flowing gracefully through the verdant meadows. Here, amidst the idyllic setting, one can witness the pastoral charm of cows and sheep grazing freely, painting a scene straight out of a fairytale. Navigating through the lush meadows, flanked by the towering hillsides, we’re presented with a choice: to tread the path along the left side of the hill or opt for the ascent and descent route, both offering their own unique charms. Regardless of the chosen path, our journey culminates at Chika, nestled snugly at the foot of the sprawling meadow. The campsite at Chika unfolds like a canvas of tranquility, offering a vast expanse of lush greenery that invites weary travelers to rest and rejuvenate. With the serene Rani River meandering nearby, it provides the perfect backdrop for setting up our camps, where the soothing sounds of nature lull us into a state of peaceful bliss. As we settle amidst the natural splendor, let’s immerse ourselves in the unparalleled beauty of this Himalayan sanctuary, where every step unveils a new facet of awe-inspiring magnificence.

Day 02: Josimath to Poolna, By Trek Poolna to Ghangaria

• Stay: Overnight stay in tents at Balu ka ghera Campsite
• Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner.
• Altitude: Manali(11,700 ft) & Chikka (7700 ft).
• Distance: By Trek 13 km.
• Time Taken: By Trek 6–7 hrs approx.
• Trek Grade: Gradual

As the morning sun gently illuminates the landscape, indulge in a wholesome breakfast by the serene river, graciously flowing on your right-hand side. Embarking on the next leg of our journey, we navigate through rugged terrain, yet the trek remains relatively manageable. Our path leads us through a dense forest adorned with vibrant Rhododendron trees, offering a refreshing respite amidst the lush greenery. Against the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of Dhauladhar, cascading waterfalls dot the landscape, adding to the allure of the trek. Crossing a tranquil river to reach the opposite bank, we’re greeted by a breathtaking sight: a kaleidoscope of multicolored flowers adorning the meadows. Our destination, Balu ka Ghera, awaits at a campsite nestled amidst mounds and sand-covered expansis. As we approach, the terrain gradually levels, offering a welcome reprieve as we prepare to rest and recharge amidst the pristine beauty of the Himalayas.

Day 03: Balu ka Ghera to Shea Goru Via Hampta pass

• Stay: Overnight stay in tents at Balu ka ghera Campsite
• Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner.
• Altitude: Manali(11,700 ft) & Chikka (7700 ft).
• Distance: By Trek 13 km.
• Time Taken: By Trek 6–7 hrs approx.
• Trek Grade: Gradual

Indulge in a comforting cup of hot tea alongside your breakfast to kickstart the day’s adventures. Our trek unfolds in two distinct halves: first, from Balu ka Ghera to Hampta Pass, and then from Hampta Pass to Shea Goru. The initial leg from Balu ka Ghera to Hampta Pass entails a steady ascent along moderately steep slopes, culminating in the breathtaking vistas of Hampta Pass. As we ascend, the trail meanders alongside the river, offering mesmerizing views of delicate orange and yellow blooms adorning the landscape. The climb to Hampta Pass presents a vertical challenge, rewarding us with panoramic views from the summit. Take a moment to soak in the awe-inspiring scenery before commencing the descent, which requires careful navigation due to its steep nature. Upon reaching the valley floor, the trail leads us to the tranquil haven of Siagoru, nestled serenely along the riverside. As we settle into our campsite, surrounded by the soothing sounds of flowing water, let’s reflect on the day’s journey and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day 04: Shea Goru to Chatru and Drive to Chandratal and back to Chatru

• Stay: Overnight stay in tents at Balu ka ghera Campsite
• Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner.
• Altitude: Manali(11,700 ft) & Chikka (7700 ft).
• Distance: By Trek 13 km.
• Time Taken: By Trek 6–7 hrs approx.
• Trek Grade: Gradual

As we continue our trek, the terrain transitions to a downhill descent, requiring extra caution as we navigate the path. The trail closely follows the river valley, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. Unlike the forested hills we traversed earlier, this section reveals barren landscapes devoid of vegetation, showcasing a stark yet mesmerizing beauty. As we progress, we encounter two glaciers that must be crossed, adding an element of adventure to our journey. Upon navigating the second glacier, we gradually approach Chatru, with the tranquil waters of the Chandra River flowing alongside. This picturesque setting serves as a serene backdrop to our trek, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the natural splendor of the Himalayas and savor every moment of our expedition. The other side of the glacier is Chatru, the next camping zone. choose the location that has the river running around. Chatru is a magnificent camping site ; it is a consensus of the three passes, Hampta, Rohtang and Spiti. The location is just about another two hours away. Note: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chandratal Lake, affectionately dubbed the “moon lake,” on either Day 4 or Day 5 of your journey. The mesmerizing azure hue of its waters casts a spellbinding effect on the surrounding landscape. Situated 45 km from the Chatru campsite, reaching Chandratal is contingent upon favorable road and weather conditions during the summer season. However, if conditions are unfavorable, you may need to navigate directly through Chatru en route to Manali, necessitating the omission of Chandratal from your itinerary.

Day 05: Chatru to Manali

On your final day, your journey from Chatru to Manali will include a scenic drive through Rohtang Pass, allowing you to savor the mountain vistas one last time before descending to the plains below. Your return trip from the Chatru campsite to Manali is scheduled for Day 5. Following this memorable 7-hour drive, reminiscing about the mountains, you will arrive in Manali at nightfall. If all goes smoothly, there’s a chance for an evening journey to Delhi post-6:00 PM, ensuring efficient travel arrangements.