Basecamp
Jobra
Duration
5 Days
Max. Altitude
14,100 ft.
Distance
24 Kms
Grade
Moderate
Pickup/Drop
Manali
Hampta Pass Overview
The Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most scenic and beginner-friendly treks in Himachal Pradesh, offering a rare blend of lush green valleys, dramatic mountain passes, and high-altitude desert landscapes. Located between the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley, this crossover trail connects two starkly different worlds within just 5 days of trekking, making it ideal for both first-time trekkers and seasoned adventurers.
Starting from Manali, the trek begins at Jobra and passes through charming meadows at Chika, riverside camps, and glacier-fed streams before reaching the alpine base at Balu Ka Ghera. The highlight of the trek is the thrilling ascent to Hampta Pass (14,100 ft), where you witness a dramatic shift from the green Kullu side to the barren, rugged terrain of Spiti and Lahaul. The journey ends at Chatru, with an optional visit to the mystical Chandratal Lake.
This trek is perfect for those seeking an offbeat Himalayan experience that includes easy river crossings, snow patches, and breathtaking views of Indrasan Peak, Deo Tibba, and the Pir Panjal range — all without needing prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Why Choose the Hampta Pass Trek?
Short duration: 5-day trek ideal for long weekends
Beginner-friendly: Suitable for first-time trekkers with moderate fitness
Unique terrain: Crossover from lush Kullu to arid Spiti
Chandratal add-on: Optional trip to the “Moon Lake”
Great for photography: Rivers, forests, snowfields, and desert in one trek
Best season: Mid-June to September (ideal weather and trail conditions)
Hampta Pass Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Manali to Jobra (Drive), Trek to Chika
Drive Distance: 16 km (2 hours)
Trek Distance: 2 km (1–2 hours)
Altitude: Manali (6,700 ft) → Jobra (9,800 ft) → Chika (10,100 ft)
Highlights: Scenic forest trail, riverside camping
Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera
Trek Distance: 5 km (5–6 hours)
Altitude: 10,100 ft → 11,900 ft
Highlights: Meadows, waterfalls, glacier views
Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass, then to Siagoru
Trek Distance: 10 km (8–9 hours)
Altitude: 11,900 ft → Hampta Pass (14,100 ft) → Siagoru (12,900 ft)
Highlights: Snow crossings, mountain pass, dramatic landscapes
Day 4: Siagoru to Chatru (Trek), Drive to Chandratal (Optional)
Trek Distance: 7 km (4–5 hours)
Drive Distance: 70 km (2–3 hours – if visiting Chandratal)
Altitude: 12,900 ft → Chatru (11,000 ft) → Chandratal (14,000 ft)
Highlights: Rocky Spiti terrain, option to visit Chandratal Lake
Day 5: Chatru to Manali (Drive)
Drive Distance: 70–80 km (6–7 hours via Atal Tunnel)
Altitude: 11,000 ft → 6,700 ft
Highlights: Drive through Lahaul Valley and return to greenery
Hampta Pass Detailed Itinerary
Drive Distance: 16 km
Drive Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Trek Distance: 2 km
Trek Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Altitude Gain: Manali (6,700 ft) → Jobra (9,800 ft) → Chika (10,100 ft)
Route: Manali → Prini → Jobra (Drive) → Jobra to Chika (Trek via Rani Nallah forest trail)
The Hampta Pass Trek begins with a scenic drive from Manali (6,700 ft) to Jobra (9,800 ft), covering approximately 16 km in 2 hours. This short yet thrilling drive winds through the lush green slopes of Kullu Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges. You’ll pass through apple orchards, charming Himalayan villages, and dense pine forests before reaching the trek’s trailhead at Jobra.
After reaching Jobra, your Hampta Pass Trek Day 1 continues on foot with a short but beautiful 2 km trek to Chika (10,100 ft). The trail is well-marked and begins with a gentle ascent through a dense forest of deodar, maple, and oak trees. Throughout this short hike, you’ll walk alongside the Rani Nallah, a clear mountain stream that adds a refreshing element to the trail.
This stretch of the trek is ideal for first-time trekkers in Himachal Pradesh, as the route is easy to moderate and allows gradual acclimatization. As the forest thins out, the trail opens into a vast alpine meadow with sweeping views of the valley and snow-capped peaks in the distance.
After trekking for about 1–2 hours, you reach Chika campsite, your first overnight stop on the trek. Located at an altitude of 10,100 ft, Chika is a stunning high-altitude meadow surrounded by rocky cliffs and bordered by the glacial Rani River. The campsite offers a perfect setting for riverside camping in Himachal, with plenty of open space, pristine water sources, and starry skies at night.
Spending the night at Chika helps your body adjust to the altitude, making it an essential acclimatization stop on the way to Hampta Pass (14,100 ft). The combination of a short drive, a light hike, and a serene natural setting makes Day 1 a gentle yet rewarding start to the Hampta Pass Trek itinerary.
Trek Distance: 5 km
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Altitude Gain: Chika (10,100 ft) → Balu Ka Ghera (11,900 ft)
Route: Chika → Jwara → Balu Ka Ghera (Trek via meadows, waterfalls, and stream crossings)
On Day 2 of the Hampta Pass Trek, you leave behind the lush meadows of Chika and continue your journey deeper into the Himalayan wilderness of Himachal Pradesh. The trail climbs steadily along the Rani Nallah, following a scenic route filled with river crossings, flowering meadows, and snow-fed waterfalls. You’ll cover approximately 5 km on foot, which takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on pace and weather.
The first half of the trek from Chika to Jwara is relatively gentle and picturesque. Jwara is a beautiful sheltered valley surrounded by rocky cliffs and misty snow-capped mountains. You may encounter grazing sheep, mountain goats, and local shepherds along this section, adding a touch of local Himalayan culture to your trek.
As you move past Jwara, the trail becomes slightly steeper and more rugged. You’ll begin to notice a stark change in the landscape as the green valley gives way to alpine rocks, loose moraines, and snow patches. The cool breeze becomes colder, and the temperature drops as you gain altitude.
After a few hours of steady climbing, you reach Balu Ka Ghera (11,900 ft), a windswept alpine plain that literally translates to “bed of sand.” This wide, flat campsite is located on glacial deposits next to a stream that originates from the glaciers near Hampta Pass. The campsite offers a surreal experience — flanked by snow-covered peaks and surrounded by open skies, it feels like stepping into a different world.
Balu Ka Ghera is an essential acclimatization point before the steep ascent to Hampta Pass (14,100 ft) on the next day. The high altitude, thinning air, and cold temperature here mark the beginning of high Himalayan conditions. Expect chilly evenings, clear starry skies, and a peaceful, remote environment perfect for stargazing and reflection.
Day 2 is an important phase of the Hampta Pass Trek itinerary, combining natural beauty, gradual altitude gain, and exposure to Himalayan high-altitude terrain — making it both physically rewarding and visually unforgettable.
Trek Distance: 10 km
Trek Duration: 8 to 9 hours
Altitude Gain/Loss: Balu Ka Ghera (11,900 ft) → Hampta Pass (14,100 ft) → Siagoru (12,900 ft)
Route: Balu Ka Ghera → Hampta Pass → Siagoru (Trek via glacial valleys, snowfields, rocky ridges)
Day 3 is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Hampta Pass Trek as you cross the stunning high-altitude Hampta Pass, which sits at 14,100 ft, and descend into the arid, moon-like landscapes of Spiti Valley. This 10 km stretch takes around 8 to 9 hours, testing both your endurance and your spirit.
The day begins early to ensure you cross the pass before weather conditions turn unpredictable in the afternoon. The initial trail from Balu Ka Ghera ascends slowly through a wide valley carved by ancient glaciers. As you climb, the vegetation disappears and snow patches begin to appear, especially in the months of June and early July.
The ascent to Hampta Pass involves navigating boulders, loose moraine, and snowfields. The incline becomes steeper and more technical, requiring a steady pace and careful footing. After a steep final push, you reach the Hampta Pass summit (14,100 ft), the highest point of the trek. From here, you’re rewarded with breathtaking 360° views — on one side, the green valleys of Kullu and on the other, the stark brown and grey ridges of Spiti.
Spending a few moments at the top is exhilarating — surrounded by massive snow walls and Himalayan peaks like Indrasan and Deo Tibba, you truly feel on top of the world. After soaking in the view and capturing some memorable photos, begin your steep descent toward Siagoru.
The descent to Siagoru (12,900 ft) is sharp and tricky, especially over loose stones or icy patches. Trekking poles and proper trekking shoes are highly recommended for this segment. As you descend, the terrain changes dramatically — from snow-covered ridges to barren rocky slopes, revealing the contrasting geography of Spiti Valley.
Once you reach Siagoru campsite, nestled beside a cold mountain stream, you’ll notice the drastic shift in landscape. The area is dry, with minimal vegetation, and surrounded by towering rock formations and snow-dusted cliffs. The Siagoru campsite offers one of the most peaceful and isolated nights of the entire Hampta Pass Trek.
Despite the long hours and physical effort, Day 3 is the highlight of the trek — an unforgettable day of adventure, crossing from one ecosystem into another, over one of the most accessible and dramatic high-altitude mountain passes in Himachal Pradesh
Trek Distance: 7 km
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Altitude Loss: Siagoru (12,900 ft) → Chatru (11,000 ft)
Route: Siagoru → Chatru (Trek via glacial riverbeds, scree slopes, and rocky terrain)
After the high of crossing Hampta Pass, Day 4 begins with a gentle descent from Siagoru (12,90 ft) to the remote outpost of Chatru (11,000 ft). The 7 km trail takes about 4 to 5 hours and offers a stark contrast in terrain compared to the green valleys of earlier days. The route follows the Spiti side of the Himalayas, where dry, barren slopes and sharp ridges dominate the landscape.
The initial section of the trail descends along the banks of a cold glacial stream. You’ll walk over loose scree, rocky outcrops, and muddy riverbeds. Though the gradient is not steep, careful footing is required throughout, especially during early mornings when the ground may be slippery from frost or moisture.
As you descend, the mighty Chandrabhaga range becomes visible in the distance, and the landscape opens into a vast desert-like valley — a signature of the Spiti region. The route leads you to Chatru, a tiny Himalayan junction where three trails converge: from Hampta Pass, Rohtang Pass, and Spiti Valley.
Chatru is a rugged terrain with a few roadside dhabas (temporary food stalls), ideal for grabbing a warm meal and resting after the trek. The campsite at Chatru is usually set near the riverbed, surrounded by towering cliffs and minimal vegetation. Mobile signals are very weak or absent, offering a real off-the-grid experience.
If the weather is favorable and the roads are open (especially post-June), you have the option to drive to Chandratal Lake, one of the most magical high-altitude lakes in India, located at 14,000 ft. The drive from Chatru to Chandratal is about 70 km and takes 2 to 3 hours. The road is extremely scenic but rough and narrow, accessible only by high-clearance vehicles and local drivers experienced in the terrain.
Chandratal, meaning “Moon Lake,” is a crescent-shaped alpine lake surrounded by barren hills and glaciated peaks. It’s a sacred and photogenic spot, often considered the crown jewel of this trek. Spending some time here (if weather permits) is an unforgettable experience before you return to Chatru for the night.
Day 4 showcases the dramatic landscape transformation from Lahaul-Spiti’s rugged terrain to Himalayan lakes, making it one of the most visually diverse and memorable legs of the Hampta Pass Trek itinerary.
- Drive Distance: 70–80 km
Drive Duration: 6 to 7 hours (depending on road and weather conditions)
Altitude Loss: Chatru (11,000 ft) → Manali (6,700 ft)
Route: Chatru → Chhatru Road Junction → Gramphu → Atal Tunnel → Manali
The final day of the Hampta Pass Trek is a beautiful yet bittersweet journey back from the rugged Spiti Valley to the green hills of Kullu, as you drive from Chatru (11,000 ft) to Manali (6,700 ft) via the Atal Tunnel, one of the longest high-altitude road tunnels in the world.
After breakfast at the Chatru campsite, pack up and board your vehicle for a 70–80 km drive that takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The initial stretch of the route from Chatru to Gramphu is rough and unpaved, with rocky patches, landslide-prone areas, and icy stream crossings that add adventure even to this final leg. It’s crucial to have experienced local drivers for this section.
From Gramphu, the road connects to the Leh–Manali Highway, and soon you enter the modern marvel — the Atal Tunnel, which is over 9 km long and cuts down travel time drastically between Lahaul and Manali. As you emerge from the tunnel, the stark, dry terrain of Spiti gives way to the lush pine forests and vibrant mountain villages of Kullu Valley.
The transition in landscape is striking: from brown, barren slopes to green forests and bustling towns. It’s a moment of reflection and satisfaction as you roll back into Manali, completing one of the most scenic and diverse high-altitude treks in Himachal Pradesh.
Back in Manali, you can relax in a cozy café, explore the local market, or simply enjoy a hot shower after five days of raw Himalayan adventure. For many, Hampta Pass Trek becomes a memory of their first real mountain pass crossing and a gateway into the world of trekking in the Indian Himalayas.
Hampta Pass Package Cost Includes
Transportation
Manali To Manali in shared private vehicle (Tempo Traveller/Bolero)
Pick-up and drop points: Manali
Accommodation
Day 1 : Stay in homestay/guesthouse (twin/triple sharing)
Day 2 to 4 : Alpine tents (2/3 person sharing)
High-quality sleeping bags, foam mattresses, and snowproof tents provided
Meals (Veg & Nutritious)
All meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 breakfast
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner + Hot Soup
Tea/Coffee served twice daily
Simple, hygienic, and energy-rich food (dal, rice, roti, vegetables, khichdi, pasta, upma, poha)
Trekking Equipment
Waterproof alpine tents
-10°C sleeping bags
Thick foam sleeping mats
Gaiters and crampons (during snow season)
Trekking poles and headlamps (limited on request)
Experienced Trek Team
Certified Trek Leader (Wilderness First Aid trained)
Experienced local guides with terrain knowledge
Trained support staff and porter for common gear
Safety & First Aid
Oximeter, basic first-aid kit, and altitude sickness protocols
Oxygen cylinder available (emergency only)
Backup plan for emergency evacuation (extra cost if needed)
Permit & Forest Fees
Entry fee for Hampta Pass
All applicable local forest permits, camping charges, and taxes
Hampta Pass Package Cost Excludes
Travel from your home city to Manali and back
Meals during transit Manali Day 1 & Day 5)
Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, gloves, headlamps, ponchos, etc.)
Backpack offloading/mule charges (₹300–₹500 per day)
Tips and gratuities for trek leaders, guides, and staff
Bottled water, snacks, energy bars, and personal medicines
Hot water buckets and mobile charging (if available)
Any extra stay or hotel in Manali before or after the trek
Travel or trek insurance (not included in package)
Emergency evacuation, medical costs, or ambulance service
Any expenses due to natural calamities, roadblocks, or bad weather
Anything not mentioned under the “Inclusions” section
Hampta Pass Package Cost
Manali To Manali
₹ 6,500/- PP
₹ 4,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Manali
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Chandigarh To Chandigarh
₹ 9,500/- PP
₹ 7,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Chandigarh
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Delhi To Delhi
₹ 11,500/- PP
₹ 9,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Delhi
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Hampta Pass Fix Departures
November
10 Nov - 14 Nov
15 Nov - 19 Nov
22 Nov - 27 Nov
25 Nov - 29 Nov
Available
Available
Available
Available
December
1Dec - 5 Dec
5 Dec - 9 Dec
8 Dec - 12 Dec
10 Dec - 14 Dec
15 Dec - 19 Dec
18 Dec - 22 Dec
22 Dec - 26 Dec
25 Dec - 29 Dec
26 Dec - 30 Dec
27 Dec - 31 Dec
28 Dec - 1 Jan
29 Dec - 2 Jan
30 Dec - 3 Jan
31Dec - 4 Jan
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
January
2 Jan - 7 Jan
5 Jan - 12 Jan
8 Jan - 13 Jan
10 Jan - 15 Jan
13 Jan - 18 Jan
15 Jan - 20 Jan
18 Jan - 23 Jan
20 Jan - 25 Jan
22 Jan - 27 Jan
24 Jan - 29 Jan
25 Jan - 30 Jan
28 Jan - 1 Feb
30 Jan - 4 Feb
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
February
2 Feb - 7 Feb
5 Feb - 9 Feb
9 Feb - 14 Feb
11 Feb - 18 Feb
15 Feb - 19 Feb
19 Feb - 24 Feb
21 Feb - 26 Feb
25 Feb - 1 Mar
28 Feb - 4 Mar
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
March
3 Mar - 8 Mar
5 Mar - 10 Mar
9 Mar - 14 Mar
11 Mar - 16 Mar
15 Mar - 20 Mar
18 Mar - 23 Mar
22 Mar - 27 Mar
26 Mar - 1 Apr
30 Mar - 3 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
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April
1 Apr - 6 Apr
10 Apr - 15 Apr
12 Apr - 17 Apr
18 Apr - 23 Apr
25 Apr - 30 Apr
Available
Available
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How To Reach Hampta Pass
Step-by-Step Guide to Reach Hampta Pass Trek
1. Reach Manali (Himachal Pradesh) – Nearest City to the Trek Base
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (KUU), about 50 km from Manali
Connected to: Delhi, Chandigarh (limited flights)
From the airport, take a taxi or bus to reach Manali (2–3 hours)
By Train:
Nearest Railway Stations: Chandigarh (270 km), Joginder Nagar (145 km – narrow gauge)
Recommended Station: Chandigarh Railway Station
From Chandigarh, travel to Manali by bus or private cab (8–10 hours)
By Bus/Car:
Overnight Volvo and HRTC buses available from Delhi (Kashmere Gate ISBT) and Chandigarh
Travel Time:
Delhi to Manali: 12–14 hours
Chandigarh to Manali: 8–9 hours
2. Manali to Jobra (Hampta Pass Trek Starting Point)
Distance: ~16 km
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours by road
Mode: Cab or Tempo Traveller (usually arranged by your trek operator)
The road to Jobra is narrow and scenic, offering views of pine forests and streams
Trek to Chika campsite (2 km) begins from Jobra
3. End Point: Chatru to Manali (Return via Atal Tunnel)
Trek ends at Chatru in the Spiti Valley
Return journey to Manali via Atal Tunnel (Rohtang)
Distance: ~70–80 km
Travel Time: 5–7 hours
Most trekking companies arrange transport from Chatru to Manali
Optional: Visit Chandratal Lake before return (weather and road conditions permitting)
Summary – How to Reach Hampta Pass Trek
| Route | Mode | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Manali | Train / Flight / Bus | ~530 km – 12 to 14 hours (overnight) |
| Manali to Jobra | Road (cab/tempo) | 16 km – 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Jobra to Hampta Pass | On foot (trek begins) | Trek distance ~26–30 km over 4 days |
| Chatru to Manali | Road (return drive) | 70–80 km – 5 to 7 hours |
From Delhi to Hampta Pass Trek:
Delhi → Manali (overnight Volvo/train+bus) → Jobra → Trek starts
From Mumbai to Hampta Pass Trek:
Mumbai → Delhi or Chandigarh (flight/train) → Manali (bus) → Jobra
From Bangalore to Hampta Pass Trek:
Bangalore → Delhi (flight) → Manali (Volvo or shared cab) → Jobra
Hampta Pass Booking Policy
- Booking is confirmed only after receiving a minimum 30% advance payment
Balance amount to be paid at pickup time.
Payment Options
Online payment via UPI / Bank Transfer / Net Banking / Debit & Credit Cards
Payment receipt will be shared via email or WhatsApp for confirmation
Hampta Pass Cancellation Policy
- 90% refund if cancelled 30+ days before trek date
- 70% refund if cancelled 15–29 days before trek
- 50% refund if cancelled 7–14 days before trek
- No refund if cancelled less than 7 days before trek or no-show
Hampta Pass Trek Essentials
The Hampta Pass Trek ranges from 6,700 ft to 14,100 ft, so carrying the right gear is crucial. Pack layered clothing for cold temperatures, a rain jacket, high-ankle trekking shoes, and thermal wear. A backpack (50–60L), trekking pole, headlamp, water bottles, and sunscreen are must-haves.
Connectivity ends after Jobra, so carry a power bank, first aid kit, and offline maps. Keep your backpack light, as this is a crossover trek ending in Spiti. Being properly equipped ensures a safe and comfortable experience in this diverse terrain.
Base Layer (thermal innerwear – top and bottom)
2–3 Full sleeve quick-dry T-shirts (avoid cotton)
2 Insulating Layers (fleece/wool sweaters or light down jacket)
1 Heavy Feather Jacket / Padded Jacket (for summit day)
2 Trek Pants (quick-dry; avoid jeans)
1 Windproof & Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
Thermal Track Pants (for nights)
Warm Innerwear & Undergarments (at least 2–3 pairs)
1 pair of high-ankle trekking shoes (snow/water-resistant)
1 pair of slippers / sandals for campsite use
Optional: Gaiters (for heavy snow)
Trekking backpack (40–50L) with rain cover
Daypack (10–15L) for summit day
Trekking pole (highly recommended)
Headlamp / torch with spare batteries
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration bladder
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Power bank
Ziplock / dry bags for organizing
Optional: Camera or GoPro
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Biodegradable soap / face wash
Lip balm (essential for cold cracks)
Cold cream / moisturizer
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Quick-dry towel
Toilet paper / tissues
Hand sanitizer
Menstrual hygiene products (as required)
Wet wipes (optional but useful)
Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
Diamox (only after doctor’s advice)
Band-aids / blister patches
Antiseptic cream
Crepe bandage
Personal medication
ORS / Glucose / Electrolyte powder
Original Government ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID)
Medical fitness certificate (if required by trek operator)
Trek disclaimer form (provided by operator)
Trek booking confirmation / permit copy (if applicable)
Hampta Pass Fitness
Fitness for Hampta Pass Trek – Are You Trek-Ready?
The Hampta Pass Trek is classified as a moderate trek, suitable for fit beginners and experienced trekkers alike. However, the combination of high altitude (up to 14,100 ft), long walking hours, and varying terrain requires good physical and mental preparedness.
Basic Fitness Requirements
Age Group: 12–60 years (physically active individuals)
Trek Readiness: Ability to walk 7–10 km/day on uneven, steep terrain
Endurance: Comfortable with 6–9 hours of trekking daily
Health Condition: No major breathing, heart, or mobility issues
Mental Fitness: Ability to cope with cold, altitude, long days, and camping
Why Fitness Matters on Hampta Pass Trek
Altitude: Trekking up to 14,100 ft leads to reduced oxygen levels and risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)
Terrain: Includes river crossings, glacier sections, rocky patches, and snow-covered trails
Summit Day: The longest and most demanding day covers over 10 km, crossing Hampta Pass and descending steeply
Weather: Sudden changes and cold winds require strong endurance and adaptability
Pre-Trek Fitness Preparation Plan (Start 3–4 Weeks Before)
1. Cardiovascular Endurance (4–5 days/week)
Brisk walking or jogging – 4–6 km per session
Stair climbing – 4–5 floors, 3–4 sets
Cycling or swimming – Optional but helps build stamina
2. Strength Training (3–4 days/week)
Bodyweight squats – 3 sets of 15
Lunges – 3 sets of 10 each leg
Planks – Hold for 45–60 seconds
Core work – Crunches, leg raises, and side planks
3. Flexibility & Recovery
Daily stretching – Focus on calves, hamstrings, lower back
Yoga – 10–15 mins for breathing and relaxation
Rest – At least 1–2 rest days per week to avoid injury
Quick Tips for Trek Fitness
Practice hikes: Do at least one day-hike with a 5–7 kg backpack
Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and during the trek
Avoid smoking/alcohol: At least 2 weeks before the trek
Acclimatization: Spend a day in Manali (6,700 ft) before the trek begins
Medical clearance: If you have asthma, high BP, or altitude-related issues
Who Should Avoid Hampta Pass Trek
People with serious heart or lung conditions
Those recovering from major surgery or injury
Individuals with uncontrolled diabetes, epilepsy, or hypertension
Hampta Pass Trek FAQ's
What is the best time to do the Hampta Pass trek for snow and greenery?
The best time to do the Hampta Pass trek for snow and lush greenery is mid-June to early July. During this period, you’ll see fresh snow at the pass and vibrant meadows near Chika and Balu Ka Ghera — a rare combination of snowy trails and blooming landscapes.
Is Hampta Pass trek suitable for beginners with no trekking experience?
Yes, the Hampta Pass trek is perfect for fit beginners. It’s a short, moderate-difficulty trek with gradual altitude gain and well-paced itineraries, making it ideal for first-time trekkers looking for a high-altitude adventure.
How difficult is the river crossing on the Hampta Pass trek?
River crossings on the Hampta Pass trek are moderate and safe when guided. Most crossings are ankle to knee-deep and done with ropes or group support. Good trekking shoes and timing (early in the day) help ease the challenge.
Can I do the Hampta Pass trek solo without a guide?
While solo trekking is allowed, it’s not recommended without a guide due to changing weather, high-altitude terrain, and lack of network connectivity. For safety and permits, it’s best to trek with a registered operator.
What is the altitude gain in Hampta Pass trek day by day?
The trek starts at Jobra (9,800 ft) and reaches the highest point at Hampta Pass (14,100 ft) on Day 3. The daily gain is gradual, helping with acclimatization. This makes it a great crossover trek for beginners.
Is Chandratal Lake included in all Hampta Pass trek packages?
No, Chandratal Lake is an optional add-on in most Hampta Pass trek itineraries. Its inclusion depends on weather and road conditions. Many trekkers choose the Chandratal extension for its surreal beauty and stargazing.
What should I pack for the Hampta Pass trek in July or August?
You’ll need warm layers, rain gear, waterproof shoes, and a good backpack. July and August bring occasional rain and snow, so pack ponchos, quick-dry clothing, and an extra pair of socks.
How is Hampta Pass trek different from other Himachal treks?
Hampta Pass is unique because it offers a crossover experience—from the lush green Kullu Valley to the arid Spiti Valley—within just 5 days. Few other treks offer such a drastic landscape shift in a short span.
How cold does it get during the Hampta Pass trek at night?
At higher camps like Balu Ka Ghera and Siagoru, temperatures can drop to 0°C to -5°C at night, especially in June and early July. Proper thermal wear and sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures are essential.
Is a fitness level required for the Hampta Pass trek?
Yes, moderate fitness is recommended. You should be able to walk 6–8 km daily with a backpack. Basic cardio preparation (like jogging or brisk walking for 3–4 weeks) can help make the trek easier.
What kind of shoes are best for Hampta Pass trek?
Use water-resistant trekking shoes with ankle support and good grip. The trail includes snow, loose rocks, and river crossings, so durable shoes with quick drying and traction are ideal.
Is Hampta Pass trek safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Hampta Pass is considered safe for solo female trekkers when done with a reliable trekking company. Choose groups with certified trek leaders, verified reviews, and proper emergency response measures.
How to prepare for high altitude on Hampta Pass trek?
Acclimatize properly by arriving a day early in Manali and staying hydrated throughout the trek. Avoid alcohol and practice deep breathing to adapt to altitude changes safely.
Are toilets and washrooms available on the trek?
There are portable toilet tents at all major campsites. These are eco-friendly dry toilets. Washrooms are available at Jobra, Chika, and Chatru in basic forms.
Can I carry my own backpack or should I hire a porter?
If your backpack weighs more than 8–10 kg, hiring a porter or mule is recommended. Trekking with a heavy bag can slow you down and increase fatigue, especially during the climb to Hampta Pass.
Which is best travel company for Hampta Pass trek?
HAMPTA PASS TREK PHOTOS
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