Hampta Pass & Chandratal Trek

A Himalayan journey that changes with every step.

Hampta Pass is one of Himachal Pradesh's most scenic crossover treks, taking you from the lush valleys of Manali to the rugged landscapes of Lahaul.

The trail combines forests, open meadows, mountain streams, high-altitude terrain and the spectacular Chandratal Lake, making it an ideal introduction to Himalayan trekking.

View complete itinerary

DAY BY DAY

Your journey, step by step.

Here's what your Hampta Pass Trek looks like from arrival to departure.

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Manali to Jobra, followed by a pleasant trek through pine and oak forests alongside the Rani Nallah stream. Surrounded by beautiful mountain views, reach the lush meadow of Chhika by evening and settle into your campsite for a peaceful night in the Himalayas. NOTE: Please arrive in Manali at least one day before the trek begins to avoid any travel delays.

After breakfast, continue your trek towards Balu Ka Ghera, gradually ascending through beautiful mountain landscapes, wildflower-filled trails, and rocky terrain. Along the way, cross glacial streams and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
By afternoon, reach Balu Ka Ghera, a picturesque campsite nestled amidst towering mountains and open alpine surroundings. Spend the evening relaxing and taking in the peaceful beauty of the Himalayas. Trek Diastanve: 6-7 km | 5-6 hrs.

Today is the highlight of the trek as you make your way towards the majestic Hampta Pass. The trail takes you across rocky terrain, snow patches, and breathtaking high-altitude landscapes. Upon reaching the pass at 14,100 ft, enjoy spectacular views of the lush Kullu Valley on one side and the dramatic barren mountains of Spiti on the other.
After spending some time at the pass, begin your descent towards Shea Goru, a beautiful campsite surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.

After breakfast, continue your descent through the stunning landscapes of the Lahaul Valley towards Chatru. Upon arrival, take a scenic drive to the breathtaking Chandratal Lake, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and spectacular mountain backdrop.
Spend some time exploring this magical Himalayan lake before returning to Chatru for your final night in the mountains. Trek Distance: 7 km | 5 Hours NOTE: Visit to Chandratal Lake is subject to road and weather conditions.

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Manali, passing through the dramatic landscapes of Lahaul. Drive via Rohtang Pass or the Atal Tunnel, depending on road and weather conditions, and watch the scenery transform from rugged mountain terrain to the lush green valleys of Kullu.
As your adventure comes to an end, take back unforgettable memories of Hampta Pass, the breathtaking beauty of Chandratal Lake, and an incredible journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas.

Practical info

Frequently asked questions

Planning this 5-night, 6-day route? Here are a few practical details about the Hampta Pass crossing, mountain camps and the optional Chandratal visit.

For questions about your dates or the current route, please contact the trip team.

The itinerary grades this trek as moderate, with the route reaching Hampta Pass at about 14,100 ft. Expect several walking days, uneven trails and a longer, steeper pass-crossing day.

Regular walking and uphill training can help you prepare. If you have limited trekking experience or a health concern, discuss your suitability with the trip team before booking.

The route begins around Manali and climbs through camps such as Chhika and Balu Ka Ghera before crossing Hampta Pass at about 14,100 ft. Take the ascent at the pace set by your trek leader and allow time to rest.

Altitude can affect people differently. Tell the trip leader if you feel unwell and ask before departure what medical and emergency support is included.

The itinerary includes camps at Chhika, Balu Ka Ghera, Shea Goru and Chatru. Facilities in mountain camps are simpler than in town and can vary by location and conditions.

Check the final trip details for campsite facilities and what to bring. Follow your crew's instructions and pack out personal waste where required to keep the trail clean.

The itinerary plans a drive from Chatru to Chandratal after the pass, but access depends on road, weather and local conditions. The visit may need to change or be skipped if the route is not safely accessible.

Check current access with the trip team close to departure and follow local instructions at the lake.

Snow, rain and stream levels can change the character of the Hampta Pass trail. Conditions at the pass and access to Chandratal vary through the season.

Bring layers and rain protection, and expect the itinerary to adapt if weather or road conditions affect safety. Confirm planned dates and inclusions with the trip team.

Expedition requirements & eligibility

This route combines several walking days with a climb to Hampta Pass at 14,100 ft. Prepare with regular walks and uphill training, and be ready for uneven terrain and a longer pass-crossing day.

Previous trekking experience can help. If you have a health concern or are uncertain about the altitude, seek medical advice and discuss your experience with the trip team before booking.

Questions about preparation or suitability? Contact the team via expedition support.

Mandatory equipment & packing system

The route moves from the greener Manali side toward the more open landscapes of Lahaul. Mountain weather can change quickly, so pack warm layers and a waterproof outer shell for exposed sections and camps.

Bring broken-in trekking boots, a daypack, sun protection, a headlamp and personal medication. Confirm the final packing list, camp arrangements and any rental options with the trip team.

FOOTWEAR Sturdy Trekking Boots Choose well-fitting boots with reliable grip and break them in before the trek.

BACKPACK Daypack + Rain Protection Carry water, warm layers and essentials in a comfortable pack protected from rain.

INSULATION Warm Insulating Layers Use layers that can be added or removed as temperatures and activity levels change.

HARDWARE Headlamp & Trekking Poles Pack spare batteries; poles can be useful on uneven ascents and descents.

Pricing, schedules & payment terms

Before booking, review the written itinerary for the final price, transport, accommodation, meals, permits and other inclusions. Chandratal access depends on road and weather conditions, so confirm how itinerary changes are handled.

For current dates, availability and payment details, please contact the trip team.

Cancellation, rescheduling & refunds

Snow, weather and road access can affect the pass crossing and the Chandratal visit. Review the trip-specific cancellation and change terms before paying, and ask what alternatives apply if conditions disrupt the itinerary.

For help with a date change or cancellation, contact the team via trip support.