Hampta Pass Trek Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown.

Hampta Pass Trek: A Complete Itinerary Guide

The Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most picturesque trails in the Indian Himalayas, offering a unique crossover experience from the lush green valleys of Kullu to the barren landscapes of Spiti. This 5-day trek is perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers looking to immerse themselves in ever-changing landscapes, dramatic mountain views, and thrilling river crossings.

In this in-depth guide, we break down the Hampta Pass Trek itinerary day by day so you know exactly what to expect on this unforgettable journey.

Day 1: Manali to Jobra (Drive) | Trek to Chika

• Altitude: 6,725 ft (Manali) to 9,800 ft (Chika)
• Distance: 16 km drive + 3 km trek
• Trek Time: 2-3 hours
• Highlights: Scenic drive, pine forests, river views, easy acclimatization

Itinerary Details

Your adventure begins in Manali, where you meet your trek leader and fellow trekkers. After a quick briefing and gear check, you drive to Jobra, the starting point of the trek. The drive is scenic, offering views of the Beas River, apple orchards, and pine forests.

From Jobra, a short trek takes you through dense forests of pine, maple, and deodar trees, following the Rani Nallah stream. The gradual trail is perfect for warming up your legs. You set up your first campsite at Chika, a beautiful open meadow surrounded by rocky hills and flowing streams — a perfect introduction to the Himalayas.

Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera

• Altitude: 9,800 ft to 11,900 ft
• Distance: 8 km
• Trek Time: 5-6 hours
• Highlights: Waterfalls, grazing meadows, wildflowers, dramatic scenery

Itinerary Details

After breakfast, the trail leads you deeper into the valley along the Rani Nallah. Expect multiple river crossings on wooden bridges or hopping over stones, adding adventure to the journey.

As you climb steadily, you’ll pass grazing sheep, cascading waterfalls, and wide-open meadows. During summer, the trail is lined with colorful wildflowers. The day’s trek ends at Balu Ka Ghera, which translates to “Heap of Sand.” It is a vast plain at the base of the pass, surrounded by towering mountains and glacier moraines. This campsite offers a panoramic view of the snow-covered peaks and is perfect for stargazing.

Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass

• Altitude: 11,900 ft to 14,100 ft (Hampta Pass) to 12,900 ft (Shea Goru)
• Distance: 10 km
• Trek Time: 8-9 hours
• Highlights: Hampta Pass crossing, snow patches, breathtaking views of Lahaul Valley

Itinerary Details

Day 3 is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You start early as you ascend toward Hampta Pass, gradually entering rocky terrain and snow patches. Reaching the Hampta Pass (14,100 ft) is exhilarating — you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Kullu Valley on one side and the barren Spiti Valley on the other.

Spend some time soaking in the vastness of the mountains before starting your descent. The downhill trail towards Shea Goru is steep and requires careful footing, especially on slippery sections. The landscape transforms dramatically, with Spiti’s barren mountains replacing the green meadows of Kullu. You camp at Shea Goru, a stunning valley with a stream running by. It’s one of the most beautiful campsites on the trek.

Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru (Drive to Chandratal Lake – Optional)

• Altitude: 12,900 ft to 11,000 ft
• Distance: 7 km trek + 70 km drive (optional to Chandratal)
• Trek Time: 4-5 hours trek + 3-4 hours drive
• Highlights: Spiti landscapes, river crossings, optional visit to the moon-shaped Chandratal Lake

Itinerary Details

The final stretch of trekking takes you through Spiti’s rugged landscape toward Chatru, a small settlement at the confluence of three valleys — Hampta, Rohtang, and Spiti.

You’ll cross glacial streams and rocky paths, all while witnessing how the green Kullu Valley gives way to the cold desert landscape of Spiti. Upon reaching Chatru, if the roads and weather permit, you’ll drive to the breathtaking Chandratal Lake (14,000 ft). The crescent-shaped lake, surrounded by the Chandrabhaga range, offers surreal reflections and picture-perfect views.

Note: The Chandratal visit is weather-dependent and may not be included in every itinerary.

Day 5: Chatru to Manali (Drive)

• Altitude: 11,000 ft to 6,725 ft
• Distance: 85 km drive
• Drive Time: 4-5 hours
• Highlights: Rohtang Pass views, last glimpses of the mighty Himalayas

Itinerary Details

After breakfast, you drive back to Manali via the famous Rohtang Pass. This scenic drive marks the end of your incredible journey, leaving you with a heart full of memories and a camera full of stunning photographs. Expected arrival in Manali by afternoon or early evening.

Optional Add-Ons

• Chandratal Lake overnight camping (if weather and road conditions permit)
• Photography sessions at scenic spots
• Cultural walk in Manali before/after the trek

Quick Trek Summary

Pro Tips for Trekkers

• Acclimatize in Manali for a day if possible before the trek starts.
• Carry waterproof trekking shoes with good ankle support.
• Keep a rain jacket or poncho handy — weather is unpredictable.
• Pack light but don’t miss essentials like a headlamp, sunscreen, and personal medicines.
• Always follow your trek leader’s instructions, especially during river crossings and snow walks.

Conclusion

The Hampta Pass Trek is truly a journey through nature’s contrasts — lush valleys, wildflowers, snowy mountain passes, and barren desert landscapes. In just 5 days, you experience a diverse range of terrains and vistas that few treks in India offer.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first Himalayan trek or an experienced trekker chasing new adventures, Hampta Pass promises beauty, thrill, and memories that will last a lifetime.

So, are you ready to cross over from Kullu to Spiti?