Hampta Pass Trek: Complete travel Guide

Introduction

The Hampta Pass, located in the foothills of the Himalayas between Kullu Manali and Lahaul in Himachal Pradesh, is situated between two distinct types of terrain. As the landscape changes dramatically, you’ll trek through alpine forests, cross rivers, climb giant boulders and walk on glaciers. Lastly, Chandratal Lake is one’s paradise. Apart from its rich flora and fauna, this trail also offers beautiful views of mountain ranges like Dhauladhar Range, Chandra Bhaga and Mulkila Ranges. The Hampta Pass trek offers a wide range of experiences, making it an “all in one” adventure. The Hampta Pass Trek offers a glimpse into the incredible landscape, climate, flora, fauna, cultures and lifestyles.

From Manali to Lahaul, the Himalayan region can be reached by a trek of 6 days. The first and second half of the walk are quite different. With breathtaking views of mountains and peaks in both sections, at least some mini-adventures await you. Owing to its accessibility, exclusivity and difficulty, Hampta Pass is one of the most visited of all the multi-day treks. A walking tour to Hampta Pass is one that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Hampta Pass Location

Located at 14100 ft (4298 m), Hampta Pass is located in the Pir Panjal ranges of the Himalayas. It is known for its geographical importance located at the unique crossover of two different localities. Hampta Pass Trek is a total of 35 kms, divided into 5 days. The entire trek is divided into two parts, and the main thing that is common throughout the trek is the banks of the rivers. The trail runs through the Pir Panjal ranges and the Lahaul valley along the Kullu valley and a tributary of the Chandra River in the initial two days.

Climate, flora and fauna

The climate of the region, due to the diversity in the landscape, varies greatly throughout the 5 day trek. At the beginning of the season, you can see snow in the higher reaches of the trek; However, by August, the snow melts completely. The Kullu Manali region has the highest chance of rain, but the sun shines brightly over the Spiti Valley during the season. The Hampta Pass is mostly covered with snow, with the temperature dropping to -15 degrees at the beginning of the season.

When to visit Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass is open for tourists between June and October. The best time to visit would be the early season to witness the snow-capped mountains at the higher altitudes of the trek, around June. One of the highlights of the trek is these snow-capped landscapes, which you can visit only during the initial months. By mid-August the snow has almost completely melted and some small grasses and flowers have grown.

difficulty level

The journey of Hampta Pass lasts for 5 days from easy to difficult and can be said to be of moderate level in difficulty. With very easy trails on some days and steep, walk-through glaciers and bridges on others, it offers a variety of adventures.

It is suitable for age groups of 15 years to 40 years old and beginners. However, a certain fitness level is necessary as some parts of the trek can be difficult for those who do not have much experience in it. Preparation can be done by doing regular exercise, mainly cardio, for a few weeks before the trek.

Things to carry

For a moderate level, such as a multi-day trek, the Hampta Pass, there are a few things that you should definitely carry with you. However, it is advisable to pack extremely light to carry those bags every day.

Essential Items for Hampta Pass Trek

• Warm clothing (sweater/gloves, beanies, socks, jacket)

• Raincover (raincoat/ponchos/cover for your backpack/rainproof jacket)
• Proper trekking gear (trekking shoes that help you walk smoothly on all different surfaces like damp forests, in rain, through rocks, in snow, etc).

• Lunchboxes and water bottles (which you can fill with freshwater streams running along the trails)
• torch
• Mobile Phone/Camera (With clever visuals you won’t want to miss the chance to capture them in your camera for a lifetime and cherish all the memories you create. However, the network is hardly available anywhere. Height of the trek. 
• Some Cash (For a fact throughout Himachal, ATMs are hard to find at close distances, so it’s always advisable to carry some cash with you whenever you’re travelling to Himachal, including this trek.)

Travel budget

If you want to book through any of the travel agencies that operate these treks, the trek budget is certain, ranging from Rs. 7000 to Rs. 10000 depending on the agency you go for. This usually includes all meals leading up to the last day, a trained guide, accommodation in tents, and travel from nearby cities such as Delhi or Chandigarh. They also provide some trekking gear in case one doesn’t have one. Camping treks are generally safe and reliable.

Highlights of the trip

The less appreciated drive from Manali to Jobra is not only beautiful but also takes you from the hustle and bustle of a hill station to a serene secluded campsite in the lap of nature. 

You can have a real nomadic experience at Balu Ka Gera and Shia Goru Camping Areas. They are situated on the banks of the river with snow-capped peaks and rugged views