The gorgeous Kullu Valley on one side and Lahaul and Spiti on the other beautifully blend together. It complemented Hampta Pass Trek, one of the bests of my life. It takes a total of five days i.e four nights and one of the most breathtaking sceneries I was lucky aample enable of 14,010ft climb and 28 km trek. The starting was even better, starting off with a river and lush pine forests, progressing to the glacial valleys to the harsh terrain of a plateau. The difficulty of the trek is moderate which is suited for first time trekkers who are in shape.

Why the Hampta Pass Trek

Varied Ecosystems: One of the biggest draws of the trek is that you complete the loop in the Kullu valley, experiencing 2 drastically different environments: snow-capped almost barren landscapes of Kullu and lush forests of Spiti.

Easy to Navigate: The hampta pass trek is purposeful in its design, it is a great option for first time trekkers. There is moderate elevation which is manageable and perfect for new hikers.

Chandratal’s Extension Possibility: Additionally, many trek organizers have an option for an extra drive to the picturesque Chandratal Lake immediately after being picked up in Chatru.

? Draft Itinerary (5 Days & 4 Nights )

This sample is inspired by TrekYaari’s Guide and works with quality providers.

Day 1 - Manali to Jobra, Trek to Chika

Drive from Manali to Jobra which is 10,100ft above sea level. This is approximately 15km from Manali. Next, a short trek of about 2km. This will take about 2- 3 hours. Chika camp which is 9800ft above sea level will be reached. Camping will be in a riverside meadow where you will acclimatize. You will fitness level mention dinner and overnight in tents.

Day 2 - Chika to Balu Ka Ghera

A trek of 5-6km will take 4-5 hours. The elevation gain is 12000ft. The best part of this trek is Balu Ka ghera campsite, during this you will be passing through streams, forests, meadows and in the streams rhododendrons will be in full bloom. Balu Ka ghera camp are also known as the ‘bed of sand’. Stargazing overnight after enjoying the scenic view from the campsite.

Day 3 - Cross Hampta Pass to Shea Goru

Wake up early in the morning, and for about 8-9 hours be ready to trek 7km. This particular trek is a steep climb towards Hampta pass which rests at 14,100ft. On your way, you will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. The descend towards Shea Goru will take you across rocky terrain. At approximately 12,900ft, camp and relax after a long trek.

Day 4 - Shea Goru to Chatru, Optional Chandratal Lake

After enjoying freshly prepared breakfast, begin the day with an easy 5km trek downhill which will take 3-4 hours to reach Chatru, settling at an elevation of 11,000ft.

There is a chance that after the trek, depending on the season and weather conditions, take an optional drive to Chandratal Lake, camp or explore before returning to Chatru.

Day 5 - Chatru to Manali

The first step for exploring Manali is by driving 6 to 8 hours from Chatru. Normally the route will be through Rohtang Pass.

Arrive by late afternoon or evening; complete journey on a rewarding note.

5-day, 4-night Hampta Pass trek, starting and ending in Manali. Maximum elevation: 14,100 ft, distance :28 km, Trekked on a moderate difficulty scale. Will be picked up from Manali and dropped off at the base camp.

? Pricing & Inclusions

As with most trek operators, TrekYaari offers special offers from time to time, on jacket giveaways, trek vouchers, and even promotional drinks. For standard offers, price ranges seem to be fixed to ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 per head depending on the season and group size. Chandratal extensions seem to cost an additional ₹1,500–₹2,500.

General cost breakdown:

Group Package (~10-15 pax): ₹8,000-₹12,000

Private/Custom Treks: ₹15,000-₹18,000

Premium Small Group: ₹18,000-₹22,000

With Chandratal Visit: add ₹1,500 to ₹2,500.

Typical inclusions:

All meals included during the trek (vegetarian lunch, tea/snack, dinner, and breakfast).

Shared accommodation in tents (triple sharing arrangement with sleeping bags and mats provided).

Transfers included: Jobra and Chatru to Manali, with included Chandratal add-on if applicable.

Forest permits and campsite fees.

Trek leaders with certification, basic safety and first-aid kit, and other safety measures like oxygen support if needed.

Exclusions:

Personal expenses, trekking insurance

Hotel stays before/after

Porter services for offloading gear at 300-500/day if required.

5% GST and additional equipment rentals.

? When to Go

The best season for the hampta pass trek is mid June to early October. There is snow free access to the trails and Chandratal.

Early June is optimal for snow patches – a maw for adventure seekers.

“Avoid May and post-October months: trail permits close and snow/debris risk increase—many reliable operators cease operation after October.”

⚙️ What to Pack

According to Trekyaari and several other operators:

“Clothes: Waterproof Jacket, Waterproof Pants, Fleece, Thermals, and several other warm layers to make. Footwear: Wool socks and a sturdy pair of well ankle supportive trekking shoes. Accessories: protective gear such as gloves, a warm cap, and both sunblock and lip balm.

Gear: Headlamp, powerbank, walking stick, and insulated water bottle.”

Pack: daypack of 20-30L and backpack of 50-75L.

For “personal medic, ID, proof, toilet tissue, and a snack of dried fruits or energy bars” is also to be packed.

? Tips & Safety Notes

"Acclimatize properly: Day 2 and Day 3 come with steep elevation gain, drink lots of water, take everything slow, and stay well hydrated.

Lower descent caution: while the drop from Hampta Pass to Shea Goru is steep, the loose rocks make using trekking poles and sturdy shoes essential.”

“Carry Cache: there is no ATMs past Manali. Ensure you have enough for extra food, and services.”

AMS aware: a guide must be alerted immediately if when “symptoms” of a headache, nausea, and fatigue present.

? Major Points of Interest Along the Trek

Chika Meadow: Riverside camping area with a backdrop of a quiet forest. A soothing calm for a first campsite.

Balu Ka Ghera: A wildflower meadow by the river, surrounded by breathtaking mountains.

Hampta Pass Summit (14,100 ft): Stunning views of the three valleys Pir Panjal, Spiti, and Kullu. The change in landscape is dramatic and breathtaking.

Shea Goru Camp: Whiling away the evening, calm in the sparsely populated mountain stretches.

Chandratal Lake (optional): High-altitude, crescent-shaped turquoise lake that is perfect for stunning photos and camping.

✅ Concluding Thoughts

Trekking Hampta Pass is one of the best adventures in the Himalayas: easy to reach, gorgeous to behold, inexpensive to comprehend, and very enjoyable to trek. Hampta Pass is best for those seeking to trek for the very first time and those wanting to witness unparalleled stunning beauty in a harsh landscape.

The guide to Hampta Pass, Chandratal, and back is breathtaking and with the well structured itinerary, safety along the route, and best-in-class guides (around ₹8k–₹12k with TrekYaari and others) you are bound to have an experience for the ages. Schedule the trip between mid-June to early October and enjoy a full view of Spiti landscape.

With the keyword of 'Hampta pass trek' in your heart and with this guide, you are all set to embark on a journey of a lifetime in the breathtaking Himalayas.