A dramatic crossover trek from the lush Kullu Valley to the stark Spiti desert. Hampta Pass offers alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and the thrill of crossing a 14,100 ft high-altitude pass — all in just 5 days.
Region: Crossover from Kullu Valley to Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Max Altitude: 14,100 ft (Hampta Pass)
Start Point: Jobra (near Manali)
End Point: Chatru
Best Time: Mid-June to September
Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
If you’ve ever dreamt of walking from one world to another — lush green valleys to stark, high-altitude deserts — Hampta Pass is the trek to choose. Starting from the pine forests and apple orchards of Kullu Valley, this trek takes you through alpine meadows, gushing streams, wildflower-covered slopes, and finally across the dramatic Hampta Pass into the moon-like desert of Spiti.
Perfect for first-time trekkers and seasoned hikers alike, Hampta offers an unforgettable adventure that captures the heart of Himachal Pradesh's two most contrasting landscapes in just a few days.
Highlights
✅ Start from the green forests and meadows of Jobra near Manali
✅ Walk through lush valleys filled with wildflowers, waterfalls, and river crossings
✅ Camp at stunning locations like Chika, Balu Ka Ghera, Shea Goru, & Chatru
✅ Cross the thrilling Hampta Pass at 14,100 ft for a 360° view of the Himalayas, including peaks like Indrasan and Deotibba
✅ Witness the dramatic shift from the green Kullu Valley to the barren Spiti landscapes
✅ Detour to the crystal-blue Chandratal Lake, a jewel of Spiti (optional as add-on)
✅ Ideal trek for beginners looking for their first high-altitude Himalayan experience
Itinerary
📅Day 1: Drive from Manali to Jobra → Trek to Chika (10,100 ft)
– Drive: ~2 hrs | Trek: ~3 km / 2–3 hrs
– Short scenic hike through forests and streams
– Overnight camping at Chika meadow
📅Day 2: Trek from Chika to Balu Ka Ghera (11,900 ft)
– Distance: ~9 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs
– Beautiful trail through river crossings and wildflower fields
– Steep ascent to the pass, then descent into the Spiti side
– Spectacular views of Lahaul & surrounding glaciers
– Camp at Shea Goru by a glacial stream
📅Day 4: Trek from Shea Goru to Chatru (10,800 ft)
– Distance: ~7 km | Duration: 4–5 hrs
– Easy descent into the valley
– Drive to Chandratal Lake (optional as addon, only if weather permitting)
– Camp or stay in Chatru
📅Day 5: Drive from Chatru to Manali
– Drive: 5–6 hrs via Atal tunnel
– End of trek and return journey
Note: Chandratal Lake is an optional addon with the trek with extra fees and visit is possible only when road conditions permit (usually after mid-July).
How to reach
🧭 How to Reach Manali (Base for Hampta Pass Trek)
✈️ By Air
Nearest airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) – 50 km from Manali
You can take a cab or local bus to reach Manali from the airport
🚆 By Train
Nearest major railway station: Chandigarh Railway Station
From Chandigarh, take a Volvo bus or private cab to Manali (~8–10 hrs)
🚌 By Road
From Delhi: Overnight Volvo buses (12–14 hrs) regularly ply to Manali
From Chandigarh: 8–10 hrs by cab or bus
Manali is well-connected and has frequent bus services
✅ Travel Tip: Arrive in Manali a day before the trek for better acclimatization and to avoid delays.
💡 Did You Know?
✅ Hampta Pass was once a traditional route used by shepherds to cross from the green valleys of Kullu to the dry grazing pastures of Spiti.
✅ The name “Hampta” comes from the tiny village of Hampta near Sethan, which lies on the trail.
✅ Chandratal Lake, an optional add-on to the trek, is one of the highest altitude lakes in India and is often called the "Moon Lake."
✅ Though relatively easy, Hampta Pass offers one of the most dramatic crossovers in the Indian Himalayas — perfect for first-time trekkers!
✅ The trek gives you a glimpse of both Himachal’s rich greenery and the barren beauty of Spiti — all in one short, accessible adventure.