Kullu Valley to Lahaul · Himachal Pradesh
Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal
A thrilling crossover from lush Kullu valleys to the rugged landscapes of Spiti, ending with the stunning blue waters of Chandratal Lake.
Duration5D / 4N
Highest pointApproximately 14,000 ft
DifficultyModerate to Challenging
Trail lengthAwaited
Base villageManali
Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal
The Hampta Pass Trek is one of Himachal Pradesh's most dramatic Himalayan trekking experiences. The route begins in the lush green landscapes of the Kullu Valley and gradually enters the rugged, high-altitude terrain of Lahaul after crossing Hampta Pass. The trek combines dense forests, alpine meadows, river crossings, rocky mountain terrain and spectacular Himalayan landscapes. The journey is further extended with a drive from Chatru to the beautiful Chandratal Lake before returning to Manali through the Atal Tunnel.
Trail highlights
Manali to Jobra
Scenic mountain drive through the beautiful Kullu Valley to the trek’s starting point.
Riverside Camping
Spend the night surrounded by peaceful mountain landscapes and the sound of flowing streams.
River Crossings
Experience exciting stream crossings along the changing terrain of the Hampta trail.
High-Altitude Camps
Camp under open Himalayan skies with dramatic peaks rising around you.
Spiti Landscape
Witness the stark beauty and rugged terrain as the trail enters the Spiti region.
Atal Tunnel Drive
Return towards Manali through the impressive Atal Tunnel after completing the trek.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1Manali to Jobra – Trek to Chikka
The Hampta Pass adventure begins from Manali with a scenic drive towards Jobra, the starting point of the trek. The road climbs through the beautiful Kullu Valley and mountain forests before reaching Jobra. From Jobra, begin the trek towards Chikka. The trail initially passes through forested terrain with pine, maple and deodar trees before opening into beautiful mountain meadows. The Rani Nallah accompanies sections of the route, adding to the scenic surroundings. Reach Chikka campsite by afternoon or evening. Settle into the campsite, relax and enjoy the peaceful Himalayan surroundings. After dinner, rest well for the next day's trek deeper into the Hampta Valley. Overnight stay: Chikka Campsite.
Day 2Chikka to Balu Ka Ghera – Trek
After breakfast, begin the trek from Chikka towards Balu Ka Ghera. The trail continues deeper into the Hampta Valley, gradually leaving the dense forest behind and entering more open mountain terrain. The route passes through meadows, rocky sections and streams, with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and the snow-covered higher mountains become more prominent. Reach Balu Ka Ghera by afternoon or evening and settle into the campsite. This is an important resting point before the challenging pass-crossing day. Enjoy dinner at the campsite and prepare for an early start the following morning. Overnight stay: Balu Ka Ghera Campsite.
Day 3Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass to Shea Goru – Trek
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Hampta Pass Trek. Start early after breakfast and begin the steep ascent towards Hampta Pass. The trail gradually becomes more rugged as you climb towards the pass. Depending on the season, snow and challenging sections may be encountered near the higher reaches. After completing the climb, reach Hampta Pass at approximately 14,000 ft. From the pass, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. One of the most remarkable features of this day is the dramatic change in scenery — the lush green landscapes of the Kullu side give way to the dry and rugged terrain of Lahaul. After spending some time at the pass, begin the descent towards Shea Goru. The descent can be steep and rocky in sections, so careful walking is required. Reach Shea Goru by evening, settle into the campsite and relax after the longest and most demanding trekking day. Overnight stay: Shea Goru Campsite.
Day 4Shea Goru to Chatru – Drive to Chandratal & Return
After breakfast, begin the descent from Shea Goru towards Chatru. The landscape is now distinctly different from the green Kullu Valley, with barren mountains, rocky terrain and the dramatic scenery of Lahaul surrounding the trail. Continue towards Chatru, where the main trekking section of the Hampta Pass route comes to an end. From Chatru, board the vehicle for the journey towards Chandratal Lake. The road to Chandratal passes through the rugged high-altitude landscape of the Lahaul-Spiti region. After reaching the designated point, continue on foot towards the lake and spend time enjoying the spectacular surroundings of Chandratal, also known as the 'Lake of the Moon.' After exploring Chandratal, return by vehicle to Chatru for the night. The Chandratal extension is road- and weather-dependent, so the exact access can vary with conditions. Overnight stay: Chatru Campsite.
Day 5Chatru to Manali via Atal Tunnel – Drive Back
After breakfast, begin the return journey from Chatru towards Manali. The drive takes you through the dramatic mountain landscapes of Lahaul before continuing towards the Atal Tunnel. Passing through the tunnel, the route reconnects with the Manali side and gradually returns to the greener landscapes of the Kullu Valley. Reach Manali by afternoon or evening, marking the completion of the Hampta Pass and Chandratal adventure. Carry back memories of forest trails, high-altitude meadows, the Hampta Pass crossing, the rugged Lahaul landscape and the beautiful Chandratal Lake.
How to Reach Manali
How to Reach Manali
Manali is the recommended starting point for the Hampta Pass Trek. The trekking route begins with a drive from Manali towards Jobra, from where the trekking section starts.
Best Time to Visit
The Hampta Pass route is seasonal, and conditions around the pass and Chandratal can vary considerably. The trekking season is generally concentrated in the warmer months, while access to higher areas can depend on snow, road and weather conditions.
Trek Difficulty
The trek is generally considered moderate to challenging, with Day 3 being the most demanding because of the ascent to Hampta Pass and subsequent descent to Shea Goru.
Inclusions & exclusions
Inclusions
- From evening snacks of Day 1 to last day breakfast
- Professional trek team including guide, chef and support staff
- Camping gear including stools, toilet seats, sleeping bags, microspikes and gaiters
- Forest entry fees and necessary trek permits
- Triple & Quad Sharing
- Well-equipped medical kit for emergencies
Exclusions
- Personal expenses such as tips, snacks, beverages and phone calls
- Any extra costs caused by bad weather, trail obstacles or medical evacuation
- Porter or mule services and mule charges unless specifically included in the package
- Travel insurance and personal trekking gear
How to prepare
Preparation details were not included in the supplied PDF.
Things to carry
Clothing
Thermals, fleece, down jacket, shell, trek pants, cap and gloves.
Footwear
Trekking shoes, socks and Crocs.
Essentials
Backpack, headlamp, bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen and trek pole.
Personal care
Medicines, toiletries, lip balm, ORS and reusable waste pouch.
Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal gallery
Gallery images will be added after they are provided.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hampta Pass suitable for beginners?
It can be undertaken by reasonably fit beginners with proper preparation, but the pass-crossing day is demanding and requires good stamina.
Which is the toughest day?
Day 3 — Balu Ka Ghera → Hampta Pass → Shea Goru — is generally the longest and most challenging section.
Will there be snow?
Snow conditions depend heavily on the season and current weather. Higher sections around Hampta Pass can retain snow depending on conditions.
What makes Hampta Pass special?
The major attraction is the dramatic landscape transition from the lush green Kullu Valley to the dry, rugged terrain of Lahaul after crossing the pass.
Is Chandratal included in the trek?
Chandratal is an extension reached by road from Chatru rather than part of the core Hampta Pass trekking trail. Access depends on road and weather conditions.
What should I carry?
Carry proper trekking shoes, warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, gloves, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medicines, a water bottle, headlamp and a small backpack.
Booking & cancellation policy
Booking Terms
Choose full payment or reserve your seat with a fixed ₹500 booking amount per person. The remaining balance should be paid on Day 1 upon arrival. Trek slots remain subject to availability until payment confirmation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Advance Payment | ₹500 per person is required to reserve the trek seat. |
| Remaining Balance | Pay the remaining amount on Day 1 upon arrival. |
| Seat / Slot Status | Subject to availability until final booking confirmation. |
| Required Documents | Government-issued ID such as Aadhaar or driving licence, plus personal and guardian contact numbers. |
| Package Route | Current displayed package is Dehradun to Dehradun. |
Important: Final operational decisions on departure flow, weather handling, and on-ground safety remain with the trek leader and operating team.
Cancellation Terms
Cancellation charges may apply depending on the date of cancellation and arrangements already blocked. Last-minute cancellations, no-shows, and unused services are generally non-refundable.
| Cancellation Window | Indicative Policy |
|---|---|
| 30+ days before departure | Low cancellation charge or transferable credit as per operator policy. |
| 15-29 days before departure | Partial cancellation charge may apply. |
| 7-14 days before departure | Higher cancellation charge likely due to blocked arrangements. |
| 0-6 days / No-show | Usually non-refundable. |
Important: Final operational decisions remain with the trek leader and operating team.
Weather & Operational Changes
Treks in the Himalayas are subject to weather, trail conditions, and local administrative regulations. The operator reserves the right to modify timings, route flow, campsite usage, trek pacing, or support logistics in the interest of safety and successful trip execution.
| Factor | Operational Impact |
|---|---|
| Weather Changes | Departure timing, campsite plan, or route order may change. |
| Road Block / Snow | Travel timing may be delayed or rescheduled based on conditions. |
| Administrative Rules | Permissions or movement plans may change as per local instructions. |
| Safety Decision | Final call remains with trek leader and operating team. |
Important: Final operational decisions on departure flow, weather handling, and on-ground safety remain with the trek leader and operating team.
Health & Safety
Every participant should disclose any relevant medical condition before departure. The trek team may refuse participation if conditions are considered unsafe for the guest or group. Personal responsibility, hydration, pace discipline, and following guide instructions are essential during mountain travel.
| Safety Point | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Medical Disclosure | Relevant conditions should be informed in advance. |
| Fitness Readiness | Participants should arrive with basic trek fitness and stamina. |
| Gear Responsibility | Warm clothing, shoes, and essentials should be carried properly. |
| Trek Discipline | Follow guide, stay with group, and avoid risky individual movement. |
Important: Final operational decisions on departure flow, weather handling, and on-ground safety remain with the trek leader and operating team.