The Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most stunning and diverse treks in India, offering lush green valleys, barren mountain landscapes, glacial rivers, and dramatic high-altitude passes. Located in Himachal Pradesh, this trek connects the lush Kullu Valley to the arid landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti, making it a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.
If you are planning to start your Hampta Pass Trek from Delhi, this guide will help you with transportation, itinerary, trek difficulty, costs, and essential tips to ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience.
Where is Hampta Pass Located?
The Hampta Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, situated at an elevation of 4,270 meters (14,100 feet). It lies between Manali in Kullu Valley and Chandra Valley in Lahaul and Spiti.
The trek starts from Jobra (near Manali) and ends at Chatru, with a visit to the breathtaking Chandratal Lake, which is one of the most scenic lakes in India.
Best Time to Visit Hampta Pass Trek
The best time to do the Hampta Pass Trek is between June and September.
- June – July: Best for snow lovers as the trail is covered in fresh snow.
- August – September: The snow starts melting, and you get lush green landscapes with clear mountain views.
- October: The weather gets colder, and trekking becomes more challenging due to the possibility of early snowfall.
Avoid trekking during winter (November to May) as the pass remains completely inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
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How to Reach Hampta Pass from Delhi
Since there is no direct transport to Hampta Pass, you need to reach Manali first, which serves as the base for the trek.
Option 1: By Road (Best for Budget Travelers)
Delhi → Manali (550 km, 12–14 hours)
- The best and most affordable way to reach Manali is by overnight Volvo bus from Delhi.
- Buses are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Majnu ka Tila.
- Ticket Price: ₹900 – ₹1,500 per person (depending on bus type).
From Manali, take a local taxi to Jobra, which is the starting point of the trek.
Option 2: By Air (Fastest but Expensive Option)
Delhi → Bhuntar Airport → Manali
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), 50 km from Manali.
- Flights from Delhi to Bhuntar take around 1.5 hours, followed by a 2-hour drive to Manali.
- Flight Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹7,000 (one way).
- From Manali, hire a taxi to reach Jobra (1.5 hours, ₹2,500 – ₹3,000).
Option 3: By Train (Cheapest but Longest Route)
Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali
- Nearest Railway Station: Chandigarh (310 km from Manali).
- From Chandigarh, take a bus or taxi to Manali (₹1,000 – ₹1,500).
Tip: If traveling in a group, book a shared taxi from Manali to Jobra (₹500 per person) instead of a private one.
Hampta Pass Trek Itinerary
The Hampta Pass Trek is a 4 to 5-day trek, covering approximately 26 km. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the trek:
Day 1: Manali to Jobra (Drive) → Trek to Chika
- Altitude: 10,100 feet
- Trek Distance: 2 km (1-2 hours)
- Difficulty: Easy
Your trek starts from Jobra, a beautiful forested area with pine, maple, and birch trees. After an easy 2 km trek, you reach Chika, a stunning campsite beside the Rani Nallah river.
Day 2: Chika to Balu ka Ghera
- Altitude: 11,900 feet
- Trek Distance: 6 km (4-5 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate
This stretch involves river crossings, scenic meadows, and the first view of snow-capped peaks. Balu ka Ghera is a large open valley with sand and rocks, where trekkers set up their campsite.
Day 3: Balu ka Ghera to Hampta Pass (14,100 feet) → Descend to Shea Goru
- Trek Distance: 8 km (6-7 hours)
- Difficulty: Difficult
This is the most challenging and rewarding day, as you climb to the Hampta Pass. Expect steep ascents, rocky trails, and possible snow patches. After soaking in the panoramic views, you descend to Shea Goru, which has lush green meadows and a cold, windy environment.
Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru → Drive to Chandratal Lake (Optional)
- Altitude: 13,000 feet
- Trek Distance: 5 km (3-4 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate
After descending to Chatru, you can either return to Manali or visit Chandratal Lake, one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in Himachal Pradesh. The drive to Chandratal (14,100 feet) takes around 3 hours and offers breathtaking landscapes of Spiti Valley.
Day 5: Drive Back to Manali
- Drive Distance: 80 km (6-7 hours)
After visiting Chandratal, return to Manali via the Atal Tunnel and take a bus or taxi back to Delhi.
Is Hampta Pass Trek Difficult?
The Hampta Pass Trek is considered moderate, making it perfect for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
Beginners: Can complete the trek with basic fitness and endurance training.
Experienced Trekkers: Will find the trek enjoyable but not too technical.
Challenges:
- Steep ascent to Hampta Pass (Day 3) can be tiring.
- River crossings in monsoon require caution.
- Cold temperatures (as low as -5°C at night in higher camps).
How Long Does Hampta Pass Trek Take?
The trek typically takes 4 to 5 days, covering around 26 km.
For those with time constraints, a shorter 3-day itinerary can be planned by skipping Chandratal Lake.
What is the Price of Hampta Pass Trek?
The cost of the trek varies depending on season, trekking agency, and inclusions.
- Guided Group Trek Package: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 (includes food, tents, guide, and transport from Manali to Jobra).
- Solo Trek (Self-Organized): ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 (excluding guide and food).
Tip: Booking in advance ensures a better deal and availability.
Can Hampta Pass Be Done in 2 Days?
No, Hampta Pass cannot be completed in 2 days unless you are an experienced trekker and skip camping stops.
A minimum of 3 days is required, but a 4 to 5-day trek is ideal for acclimatization and a comfortable experience.
Final Thoughts
The Hampta Pass Trek is one of India’s best Himalayan treks, offering snow-covered passes, lush valleys, glacial rivers, and high-altitude meadows. Whether you are a first-time trekker or an experienced hiker, this trek will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas.
So, are you ready to embark on this breathtaking journey? Plan your trip, pack your bags, and experience the magic of Hampta Pass Trek from Delhi.
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