Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal

Quick Facts

Region

Himachal

Duration

5 Days/4 Nights

Difficulty

Moderate

Max Altitude

14,100 ft

Trek Distance

25 kms

Best Season

June to September

Base Camp

Manali

Nearest Airport

Bhuntar & Chandigarh

Railway Station

Chandigarh

Overview

A crossover trek from the green valleys above Manali into the rocky Chandra Valley, with an optional drive to Chandratal, the Moon Lake.

Hampta Pass is the classic crossover trek — in five days it carries you from the lush green valleys above Manali over a 14,100 ft pass into the rugged, rocky landscape of the Chandra Valley, and the contrast between the two sides is what makes it memorable. The route begins with a short drive from Manali to Jobra, then an easy two-kilometre walk to the Chika campsite at 10,100 ft. From there it follows alpine meadows and streams beneath the Dhauladhar range to Balu Ka Ghera at 12,400 ft, a broad expanse of sand and rock. The crossing itself is the hardest and finest day: a climb to Hampta Pass with panoramic views of towering peaks and glaciers, followed by a steep descent to Shea Goru. After dropping to Chatru and the Chandra Valley, road and weather conditions permitting, a drive reaches Chandratal — the Moon Lake — at 14,100 ft. Graded Moderate, 25 kilometres, June to September.

Highlights

• Cross the 14,100 ft Hampta Pass into the Chandra Valley
• Panoramic views of towering peaks and glaciers from the pass
• Alpine meadows and streams beneath the Dhauladhar range
• Camp at Balu Ka Ghera, an expanse of sand and rock at 12,400 ft
• Optional drive to Chandratal, the Moon Lake, at 14,100 ft
• Return drive through the Spiti Valley and over Rohtang Pass
• 25 km across 5 days, graded Moderate
• A summer season trek, June to September

Gallery

Day-wise Itinerary

1. Day 1

   Manali to Chika via Jobra

   • Chika 10,100 ft.
   • Drive 16 km
   • Trek 2 km
   • Drive 1 hour; Trek 1 hours

   Pickup: Manali.

   Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Manali to Jobra. This 16 km drive takes approximately an hour and offers stunning views of the lush green valleys and snow-capped peaks. Upon reaching Jobra, the trekking journey commences. The trek from Jobra to Chika is relatively short, covering 2 km and taking around 1 hour. This gentle trek leads you through picturesque meadows and forests, eventually arriving at the Chika campsite situated at an altitude of 10,100 ft. Spend the night camping under the stars, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.

   • Reporting Time : 10:00 AM

2. Day 2

   Chika to Balu Ka Ghera

   • 12,400 ft
   • Trek 9 km
   • 5-6 hours

   After breakfast, set off on a 9 km trek from Chika to Balu Ka Ghera, a journey that takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail meanders through beautiful alpine meadows and streams, providing stunning views of the Dhauladhar range. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged and the air crisper. Balu Ka Ghera, situated at 12,400 ft, is a vast expanse of sand and rocks, resembling a riverbed. It serves as an ideal camping spot, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

3. Day 3

   Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass

   • 14,100 ft
   • Trek 7 km
   • 8-9 hours

   This day is the highlight of the trek, as you cross the Hampta Pass. The trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru covers 7 km and takes around 8 to 9 hours. The ascent to Hampta Pass at 14,100 ft is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic views of the towering peaks and glaciers. After crossing the pass, descend towards Shea Goru. The descent is steep and requires careful navigation. Shea Goru, nestled in a valley, is a tranquil campsite with a river flowing beside it. Rest here and soak in the natural beauty after a long day of trekking.

4. Day 4

   Shea Goru to Chatru and Drive to Chandratal

   • Chatru 11,000 ft.; Chandratal 14,100 ft
   • Drive 50 km
   • Trek 7 km
   • Trek 4-5 hours; Drive 4-5 hours

   Begin the day with a 7 km trek from Shea Goru to Chatru, which takes about 4 to 5 hours. The trail descends further, passing through rocky terrains and scenic landscapes. Upon reaching Chatru, you will be greeted by the stunning views of the Chandra Valley. From Chatru, embark on a 50 km drive to the mesmerizing Chandratal Lake, which takes around 3 hours to reach and 2 hours to return. Chandratal, also known as the Moon Lake, is a high-altitude lake located at 14,100 ft. Spend some time exploring the lake's pristine beauty before heading back to Chatru for the night.

5. Day 5

   Chatru to Manali

   • Drive 65 km
   • 3-4 hours

   Drop: Manali.

   On the final day, drive from Chatru back to Manali, covering a distance of 65 km. The drive takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, passing through the scenic landscapes of the Spiti Valley and the Rohtang Pass. Reflect on the incredible journey as you make your way back to the bustling town of Manali. Upon arrival in Manali, the trek concludes with memories of breathtaking views, challenging trails, and the serene beauty of the Himalayas.

   • Note : You can visit Chandratal if road and weather conditions permit us. Drive from Chatru to Chandratal and back to the campsite, either on day 4 or day 5 (depending on road and weather conditions)

What's Included

Things To Carry

• Rucksack (50-70 Ltr.)
• Trekking Shoes (Ankle Shoes)
• Jacket
• Fleece/Woolen Clothes
• Thermal Inner Wears (Both Upper and Lower)
• Gloves, Cap & Neck Cover
• Trek Pants & Trousers
• Sunglasses
• Water Bottles
• Moisturizer & Sunscreen
• Raincoat & Ponchos
• Power banks
• Personal Toiletries Kit
• Toilet paper roll and sanitizer
• Tiffen Box
• Personal basic medical kit
• Government Photo Identity Card (Passport, Aadhaar Card, Driving license or Voter ID)

• A small hiking bag is used only if the main bag is given to a porter or mule. It is also needed on the final day of the summit climb.

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