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Hampta pass

Hampta pass

Published on August 23, 2025

High in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh lies Hampta Pass, a breathtaking crossover between two completely different landscapes — the lush, green Kullu Valley on one side and the stark, barren mountains of Lahaul on the other. At an altitude of around 14,000 feet (4,270 meters), this spectacular mountain pass is a favorite among trekkers and adventure seekers who want to witness the dramatic contrasts of nature within just a few days of trekking.

If you’re looking for a trek that combines meadows, forests, rivers, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks all in one trip, Hampta Pass is one of the best choices in India.

Where is Hampta Pass Located?

Hampta Pass is situated in Himachal Pradesh, near the popular hill station of Manali. The trek to Hampta Pass begins from Jobra, a scenic campsite about 20 km from Manali. From here, trekkers make their way through dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts, eventually crossing the pass and descending toward Chatru in the Lahaul Valley.

Why is Hampta Pass Special?

The Hampta Pass trek is known for its diverse and ever-changing scenery:

  • Kullu Valley Side: Verdant forests, colorful flowers, and lush meadows with streams.

  • Lahaul Side: Rocky mountains, arid deserts, and dramatic glaciers.

  • The Pass Itself: Panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks like Indrasan and Deo Tibba.

This trek gives you the rare opportunity to experience two contrasting worlds — the greenery of Kullu and the rugged wilderness of Lahaul — in just 4 to 5 days.

hampta pass trek

The Journey to Hampta Pass

The adventure begins in Manali, a popular base for trekkers. From Manali, a short drive takes you to Jobra, the starting point of the trek. The typical trekking route is:

  1. Manali to Jobra (Drive) – Around 1.5 to 2 hours by road.

  2. Jobra to Chika (Trek) – Easy 2 km walk through pine and maple forests along the Rani Nallah stream.

  3. Chika to Balu ka Ghera – Moderate trek with stunning views of meadows and streams.

  4. Balu ka Ghera to Hampta Pass to Shea Goru – The most challenging day with steep climbs to the pass, followed by a descent to the Shea Goru campsite.

  5. Shea Goru to Chatru – Trek down to the Lahaul Valley. From Chatru, most travelers drive back to Manali via the Atal Tunnel.

Trekking Experience and Difficulty

  • Duration: 4 to 5 days.

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate — suitable for beginners with basic fitness.

  • Altitude Gain: From 9,800 feet at Jobra to 14,000 feet at Hampta Pass.

  • Terrain: Forest trails, rocky paths, river crossings, snow patches (depending on the season).

While it is not an extremely tough trek, it requires stamina, good shoes, and some preparation, as the climb to the pass can be steep and weather conditions can change quickly.

Best Time to Visit Hampta Pass

The ideal months are mid-June to October:

  • June to July: Expect snow patches on the higher reaches — perfect if you want to walk on snow.

  • August to September: Meadows are green and filled with flowers. Clear skies make for great photography.

  • October: Crisp air and clear views of the mountains, though it gets quite cold.

Winters (November to May) are not recommended as the area receives heavy snowfall, making the trail inaccessible.

Camping on the Trek

One of the best parts of the Hampta Pass trek is the campsites:

  • Jobra: Surrounded by pine and maple trees, close to the Rani Nallah stream.

  • Chika: A beautiful riverside meadow.

  • Balu ka Ghera: A sandy patch with views of snow-covered mountains.

  • Shea Goru: A high-altitude desert campsite on the Lahaul side.

Camping under a sky full of stars with the sound of streams and the crisp mountain breeze is an experience you’ll never forget.

Chandratal Lake – The Bonus Detour

Many Hampta Pass trekkers also take a short road trip from Chatru to Chandratal Lake, a high-altitude lake in Lahaul known for its deep blue waters and perfect reflections of surrounding peaks. This detour adds an extra day to the trek but is well worth it for its beauty.

hampta pass tour package

What to Pack for Hampta Pass

Because the trek covers different terrains and unpredictable weather, packing the right gear is essential:

  • Clothing: Warm layers, a down jacket, thermal inners, waterproof jacket.

  • Trekking Gear: Good trekking shoes with strong grip, trekking pole, backpack with rain cover.

  • Essentials: Gloves, caps, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, personal medication, and a small first aid kit.

  • Other items: Power bank, headlamp, snacks for quick energy, and identity proof.

How to Reach Hampta Pass Trek Starting Point

  • By Road: Manali is well connected to Delhi and Chandigarh by buses and cabs.

  • By Train: Nearest railway stations are Joginder Nagar or Chandigarh, followed by a drive to Manali.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), about 50 km from Manali.

From Manali, you can take a cab to Jobra, where the trek officially begins.

Who Should Do Hampta Pass Trek?

This trek is perfect for:

  • Beginners: It’s challenging enough to feel rewarding but not too tough.

  • Nature Lovers: Every day brings new scenery — forests, valleys, snow, and high mountains.

  • Adventure Seekers: It includes river crossings, camping, and high-altitude trekking.

  • Photographers: The landscapes are diverse and incredibly photogenic.

In Conclusion

Hampta Pass is more than just a trek — it’s a journey through changing worlds. In just a few days, you walk from the green, flower-filled valleys of Kullu to the rugged, dramatic mountains of Lahaul. Whether you’re camping under the stars, crossing icy rivers, or standing at the pass gazing at the mighty peaks, the experience will stay with you forever.

If you’re looking for an adventure that’s beautiful, varied, and beginner-friendly, Hampta Pass is one of the best Himalayan treks you can do. Pack your bags, put on your trekking shoes, and get ready to explore one of nature’s finest masterpieces.