Hampta Pass Trek, Manali

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.

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DAY BY DAY

Your journey, step by step.

From the green valleys of Manali to the rugged landscapes beyond Hampta Pass, here's what your trek looks like day by day.

Your Hampta Pass adventure begins with a scenic drive from Manali to Jobra. From here, the actual trek starts as you walk through pine forests and open mountain trails along the Rani Nallah. The trail is gentle at first, giving you plenty of time to settle into the rhythm of the trek. By evening, you'll reach the beautiful meadows of Chhika, where you'll spend the night surrounded by the mountains.

NOTE: Please reach Manali one day before the trek to avoid any last-minute travel delays.

After breakfast, we leave Chhika behind and follow the trail deeper into the mountains. The landscape gradually changes as you walk beside the Rani Nallah, crossing small streams and rocky sections along the way. You'll also get beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and high-altitude meadows.

By afternoon, you'll arrive at Balu Ka Ghera, a wide open campsite surrounded by dramatic mountain walls. This is where you'll rest and prepare for the most challenging day of the trek.

Trek Distance: 6–7 km | Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs

This is the most exciting and demanding day of the Hampta Pass Trek. We start early from Balu Ka Ghera and gradually make our way towards the pass. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged, with rocky sections and snow depending on the season.

After a steady climb, you'll reach Hampta Pass at around 14,100 ft. Take a moment to enjoy the incredible views—the lush green landscapes of the Kullu side contrast beautifully with the dry, rugged mountains of Lahaul on the other.

From the pass, the trail descends towards Shea Goru. The change in scenery is remarkable, and by evening you'll reach the campsite where you can relax after a rewarding day on the trail.

Trek Distance: 9–10 km | Trek Duration: 7–8 hrs

After breakfast, we begin our final walk towards Chatru. The trail takes you through the stark and beautiful landscapes of Lahaul, with rocky mountains and wide open valleys replacing the greenery you saw on the Manali side.

Once we reach Chatru, we'll board our vehicle for the drive back to Manali. Depending on the road and weather conditions, the journey may be through the Atal Tunnel or Rohtang Pass. As you descend towards Manali, the dry mountain landscape gradually gives way to greener valleys.

Your Hampta Pass Trek ends in Manali with plenty of memories, photographs, and the satisfaction of crossing one of Himachal's most beautiful high-altitude passes.

Trek Distance: 5–6 km | Trek Duration: 3–4 hrs

Practical info

Frequently asked questions

A few practical notes for the 5-night, 6-day Hampta Pass trek, from the trail out of Manali to the crossing into Lahaul.

For current dates, route conditions or booking details, please contact the trek team.

The trek is graded moderate and reaches about 14,100 ft at Hampta Pass. Expect several days on uneven mountain trails and a longer, steeper crossing day from Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru.

Regular walking and uphill practice are useful preparation. If you are new to multi-day trekking or have a health concern, discuss your experience and suitability with the trek team before booking.

The route climbs from Manali via Jobra and camps including Chhika and Balu Ka Ghera before reaching the 14,100-ft pass. Give yourself time to rest and follow the pace and guidance of your trek leader.

Altitude can affect people differently. Report symptoms such as a headache, nausea or unusual breathlessness to your trek leader promptly. Ask before departure what medical and emergency support is included.

The itinerary stays at camps around Chhika, Balu Ka Ghera and Shea Goru. Camp facilities are basic and differ from hotel facilities in Manali.

Check the confirmed trip details for washroom arrangements and what to bring. Follow camp guidance and carry personal waste out as directed.

The itinerary on this page ends with the drive from Chatru back to Manali; it does not list a Chandratal visit. A separate Hampta Pass and Chandratal option is subject to road and weather access.

Check the final itinerary before booking if you want to include the lake, as access and timing can change with conditions.

The page lists May to October as the usual season. Actual departures depend on snow, weather and trail conditions, which can vary within that period.

Confirm available dates and the expected route conditions with the trek team before making travel arrangements.

Expedition requirements & eligibility

This moderate trek includes consecutive walking days and a pass crossing at around 14,100 ft. Build up with regular walks and uphill practice, and be prepared for uneven ground and a longer day on the trail.

Previous trekking experience can help you judge how you handle long days and altitude. If you have a health concern or are unsure about your fitness, seek medical advice and speak with the trek team before booking.

Questions about preparation? Contact the team via trek support.

Mandatory equipment & packing system

The route moves from the greener Manali side into the more open terrain of Lahaul. Weather can change quickly, so bring warm layers and a waterproof outer layer for the pass and camps.

Pack broken-in trekking boots, a daypack, sun protection, a headlamp and personal medication. Confirm the final kit list, camp facilities and rental availability with the trek 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. This standalone itinerary returns from Chatru to Manali; check the separate Chandratal option if you want to add the lake.

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

Cancellation, rescheduling & refunds

Snow, weather and road conditions can affect the pass crossing and return journey. Review the trip-specific cancellation and change terms before paying, and ask how route changes are handled if conditions shift.

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