Hampta Pass:

Co-ordinates:32.2704° N, 77.3466° E

Maximum Temperature: 20°c

Minimum Temperature: 12°c

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Maximum Altitude: 14,035ft.

This is a crossover trek that begins amidst the lush green surroundings of Kullu and takes you to an overhang with a drastically different landscape. From the overhang, the dry, arid and imposing landscape of Lahaul makes for a breathtaking sight. The sudden change in scenery is probably the most drastic than offered at any other trek trail. In fact, each day of the trek brings new terrains. Expect to see wildflowers laden routes, meadows strewn with rocks and mountains dressed in waterfalls. Walk along beautiful terrains with the Dhauladhar Rnages playing peek-a-boo with you all throughout.

Duration: 6 days

Route: Manali –Jobra– Jwara — Balu Ka Ghera — Hampta Pass — Shea Guru — Chhatru — Chandratal — Manali

Itinerary

Day 1: Manali – Jobra – Chika

We head to Jobra from Manali, the starting point of the trek. The trek begins from Allain Guhugal Hydel Project site, from where a narrow trail leads you to a pine forest. You will find trees such as pine, deodar, oak and maple. After this thick forest, a little while later, a clearing will open up. From here, you can see a meadow with Rani Nallah flowing from the middle. After a gradual ascent, we will reach Chica campsite. Overnight stay in tents.

Day 2: Chika – Balu-Ka-Gera (11,000 ft.)

Today’s trek involves water crossings, climbing over boulders, walking along Rani river and a valley blanketed in flowers. The verdant trail suddenly turns brown as we near Balu Ka Ger, from here, the trail becomes steep closer to Hampta Pass. Surrounded by glacial melts and torrential winds, this is a site where you would want to stay warm and cozy inside your tents. Overnight camping at Balu Ka Gera.

Day 3: Balu-Ka-Gera – Hampta Pass – Shea Goru

We start early morning, before the weather becomes unpredictable. The trek begins at a partially dried up glacial river bed. From hereon, the climb up till Hampta Pass is fairly challenging. You will cross the pass and enter Lahaul, where the landscape undergoes a drastic change. The trail then heads downwards but is also steep; at some spots it is almost unidentifiable. After trekking for a while, you will spot the Shea Goru campsite. Overnight stay here.

Day 4: Shea Goru – Chatru – Chandratal

The trek to Chatru is easy with only descent. After this, you will see a river Chandra and then enter Chatru. From here, head to Chandratal by road. Chandratal is a high-altitude lake located at 14,000 ft.. After Chandratal,  head back to Chatru and stay overnight.

Day 5: Chatru – Manali

Return to Manali by road.

Best time to undertake: July – October