Best Time to Do Hampta Pass Trek: Season-Wise Guide.
The Hampta Pass Trek is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most scenic and rewarding treks, offering a perfect blend of lush green valleys, wildflower meadows, snow-clad mountains, and the stark desert landscapes of Spiti. Choosing the right time to undertake this adventure is crucial to maximize your experience based on weather, scenery, and trail conditions.
This guide covers the best time for the Hampta Pass Trek, breaking down the experience season-wise, followed by a detailed day-by-day itinerary to help you plan your perfect Himalayan adventure.
Hampta Pass Trek Season Window
The Hampta Pass Trek is accessible from mid-June to early October. The route is blocked by heavy snow during winter and spring, making the trek unsafe and inaccessible from November to May. Here’s how the experience changes across the months:
June – Early July: Snow Lovers’ Delight
Highlights:
✅ Snow-covered trails and glaciers
✅ Thrilling snow bridge crossings
✅ Lush green Kullu Valley waking up after winter
- June marks the start of the trekking season, with prominent snowfields near Balu Ka Ghera and Hampta Pass.
- Ideal for trekkers who dream of walking on snow.
- Water streams are moderate, and flowers begin to bloom in the meadows.
Recommended For: Adventure seekers and snow lovers.
Mid-July – August: Monsoon Magic
Highlights:
✅ Lush greenery at its peak
✅ Wildflowers in full bloom
✅ Misty valleys, waterfalls, and flowing streams
- The Kullu side turns into a green paradise with dense meadows and blooming flowers.
- Frequent rains make the trail slippery, but cloud play and waterfalls add charm.
- The Spiti side remains dry, offering clear contrasting landscapes.
Caution: Be prepared with rain gear and watch out for slippery sections. Landslides can delay travel.
Recommended For: Nature lovers, photographers, and trekkers who enjoy greenery and dramatic skies.
September – Early October: Golden Landscapes and Clear Views
Highlights:
✅ Crisp blue skies and pleasant weather
✅ Fewer crowds, golden meadows
✅ Clear mountain views and vibrant landscapes
- Considered the best time for Hampta Pass Trek due to stable weather and great visibility.
- Snow patches reduce but may still be seen at higher altitudes.
- The grasslands turn golden, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Recommended For: Photographers, first-timers, and those looking for perfect trekking weather.
Off-Season (November to May) – Not Recommended
- Hampta Pass remains snow-covered and inaccessible during winter.
- Risk of avalanches and extreme cold makes trekking impossible.
- Some winter treks operate till Chika or Balu Ka Ghera but not the full pass.
Best Time Summary Table
| Month | Experience | Snow | Difficulty | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-July – August | Lush greenery, blooming flowers, misty mountains |
Medium | Moderate | Nature lovers, photographers |
| Sep – Early Oct | Clear skies, golden landscapes, stunning views |
Low | Moderate | Best for all trekkers |
| Nov – May | Not recommended (Heavy snow, trail closed) |
Very High | Difficult/Dangerous | Not Recommended |
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary (June to October Season)
Day 1: Manali to Jobra (Drive) | Trek to Chika
- Altitude: 6,725 ft to 9,800 ft
- Trek Distance: 3 km (2-3 hours)
- Highlights: Forest walk, river streams, pine and maple trees
- Stay: Camp at Chika
Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera
- Altitude: 9,800 ft to 11,900 ft
- Trek Distance: 8 km (5-6 hours)
- Highlights: Waterfalls, wildflowers, snow bridges (early season)
- Stay: Camp at Balu Ka Ghera (Base camp for Hampta Pass)
Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass
- Altitude: 11,900 ft to 14,100 ft (Pass) to 12,900 ft (Shea Goru)
- Trek Distance: 10 km (8-9 hours)
- Highlights: Snow crossing, panoramic views of Lahaul-Spiti, glacial streams
- Stay: Camp at Shea Goru — a scenic high-altitude desert valley
Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru | Optional Visit to Chandratal Lake
- Altitude: 12,900 ft to 11,000 ft (Chatru)
- Trek Distance: 7 km (4-5 hours)
- Optional Drive: 70 km to Chandratal Lake
- Highlights: Cold desert terrain, river crossings, lunar landscape of Spiti
- Stay: Camp at Chatru or Chandratal (if road permits)
Day 5: Chatru to Manali (Drive)
- Drive Distance: 85 km (4-5 hours)
- Highlights: Drive via Rohtang Pass, last views of the Himalayas
- Trip ends at Manali by evening
Essential Tips Based on Season
| Season | Tips |
| June – Early July | Carry crampons/micro-spikes for snow, pack extra warm layers |
| Monsoon (July-Aug) | Waterproof shoes & rain gear essential, pack zip locks for electronics |
| Sep – Oct | Sunscreen, sunglasses, and photography gear for clear skies and views |
Cost Estimate
- Trek Package: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 per person (Ex-Manali)
- Includes: Meals, tents, sleeping bags, guides, transport to/from Manali
- Excludes: Personal gear, tips, extra stays in Manali, optional Chandratal trip
Conclusion: When Should You Go?
- For snow adventure and thrill: June to early July.
- For lush meadows, vibrant nature, and dramatic skies: Mid-July to August (prepare for rains).
- For clear skies, golden landscapes, and picture-perfect scenery: September to early October.
Hampta Pass Trek is a visual treat in every season—choose your preferred time based on what experience excites you most!
✅ Ready to Cross Over to Spiti?
Plan your Hampta Pass Trek with the right timing to witness nature’s finest—from snowy trails to meadows, waterfalls to barren valleys, all in a single journey.
“The mountains are calling — when will you answer?”
