Hampta Pass and Chandratal Trek: A Complete Guide for Your Adventure

Hampta Pass Trek Distance: A Complete Guide for Your Adventure

If you have been dreaming of trekking through lush valleys, crossing snow-clad mountains, and exploring stark desert terrain then the Hampta Pass Trek is your perfect escape. This trek is a nature lover’s paradise where you experience the stunning Hampta Valley and the surreal Chandratal Lake. Let’s delve into this Hampta Pass trek guide for everything you need to know about this adventure, including the Hampta Pass trek distance, how to reach Manali, where to stay, the best time to trek, weather conditions, and a detailed 5-day itinerary.

Planning an unforgettable trek to Hampta Pass? Here’s the scoop: The trek spans about 35 kilometers over 5 days which is starting from Manali and offering stunning views of lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains and even the surreal Chandratal Lake. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike, with moderate difficulty and trails that change dramatically with the seasons. You will kick off your journey in Manali where you can acclimatize, enjoy local attractions like Hadimba Temple, and maybe even indulge in some paragliding! The trek itself begins with a drive to Jobri and takes you through mesmerizing spots like the Chikka campsite, Balu Ka Ghera’s sandy meadows, and the iconic Hampta Pass summit. Each stop has its own charm—whether it’s spotting Himalayan wildlife, capturing jaw-dropping landscapes, or stargazing at night. Want to make it even better? Spend extra time exploring Chandratal Lake, extend your adventure to nearby treks like Beas Kund, or savor Himachali dishes along the way. And don’t forget to tread lightly—this pristine region deserves our care. Ready to lace up your boots? Hampta Pass is calling, and it’s a trek you’ll remember forever

How to Reach Manali from Delhi

Manali serves as the base for the Hampta Pass trek and getting there is part of the adventure. You can choose from multiple travel options based on your preferences.

1. By Air

• Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), located about 50 km from Manali.
• Travel Time: A 1-hour flight from Delhi followed by a 2-hour drive to Manali.
• Flight Fare: ₹5,000–₹8,000 (one-way).
• Tip: Flights to Bhuntar are limited and subject to weather conditions, so book early and keep a buffer day in case of delays.

2. By Bus

• Travel Time: 12–14 hours from Delhi.
• Types of Buses:
  • Luxury Volvo buses (₹1,200–₹2,500).
  • Budget-friendly HRTC buses (₹800–₹1,200).
  • 👉 Click here to book Your Volvo Bus and grab best deal!
• Pickup Points in Delhi: ISBT Kashmere Gate or Majnu ka Tila.
• Why Bus? Buses are economical, eco-friendly, and allow you to enjoy the scenery en route.

3. By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar, 162 km from Manali.
• Journey: Take a train to Chandigarh or Ambala, then hire a taxi or board a bus to reach Manali.
• Duration: Train (4–6 hours) + Road (6–8 hours).
• Ideal For: Those who love scenic train journeys.

4. By Car or Taxi

• Distance: ~513 km.
• Travel Time: 10–12 hours.
• Cost: ₹7,000–₹12,000 for a one-way taxi.
• Route: Delhi → Chandigarh → Mandi → Manali (NH3).
• 👉 Click here to book Your Taxi and grab best deal!
• Self-Drive Tips: The highway is well-maintained, but be cautious on hilly roads, especially during monsoons.

Where to Stay in Manali

Manali caters to all budgets offering accommodations that range from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts.

Luxury Hotels and Resorts

1. Span Resort & Spa:
   • Price: ₹12,000–₹18,000/night.
   • Location: Along the Beas River with top-notch amenities.
2. The Himalayan:
   • Price: ₹10,000–₹15,000/night.
   • Highlights: Castle-style architecture and stunning valley views.
3. Manu Allaya Resort:
   • Price: ₹8,000–₹12,000/night.
   • USP: Spa services and fine dining.
   • 👉 Click here to book Hotel and Resort and grab best deal!

Budget-Friendly Options

1. Zostel Manali:
   • Price: ₹500–₹1,200/night (per bed in dormitories).
   • Ideal For: Solo travelers and backpackers.
2. Old Manali Guesthouses:
   • Price: ₹800–₹2,000/night.
   • Features: Home-cooked meals and peaceful settings.
3. Hotel Greenfields:
   • Price: ₹2,500–₹4,000/night.
   • Why Choose? Close proximity to key attractions like Hadimba Temple.
   • 👉 Click here to book Hotel and Resort and grab best deal!

Hampta Pass Trek Best Time

Choosing the right season is crucial for an unforgettable trekking experience. The Hampta Pass trek best time is between June and October with each month offering a unique charm.

1. June to Mid-July

• Trail Conditions: Snow-covered paths and pristine landscapes.
• Hampta Pass Temperature: 5°C to 15°C.
• Why Go? Perfect for snow enthusiasts and photographers.

2. Mid-July to September

• Trail Conditions: Green meadows, wildflowers, and flowing streams.
• Hampta Pass Weather: Mild and pleasant, with occasional rain.
• Temperature: 8°C to 20°C.
• Why Go? Experience lush valleys and vibrant trails.

3. October

• Trail Conditions: Crisp, dry trails with stunning autumn hues.
• Hampta Pass Temperature: 0°C to 12°C.
• Why Go? Best for solitude seekers and serene landscapes.

Hampta Pass Weather and Temperature

MANALI WEATHER

The Hampta Pass weather varies across seasons offering a mix of cool mornings, chilly nights, and unpredictable mountain conditions.

Season	Hampta Pass Trek Temperature Range	Trail Conditions
Summer (June)	5°C to 15°C	Snow-covered trails
Monsoon (July-Aug)	8°C to 20°C	Lush greenery, clear skies
Autumn (Sep-Oct)	0°C to 12°C	Crisp air, cold nights

Acclimatization in Manali

Before hitting the trails, spend an extra day in Manali to acclimatize to the altitude and soak in the local vibe. Trust me it will make the trek more enjoyable. Manali to Hampta Pass distance is approx 18 km.

What to Do in Manali:

• Visit Local Attractions: Explore Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Hot Springs or the charming streets of Old Manali.
• Adventure Activities: Try zip-lining, paragliding, or river rafting to kickstart your adventure spirit.
• Relax: If you prefer a chill day, find a café in Old Manali with views of the Beas River and plan your trek over a cup of hot chocolate.

5-Day Hampta Pass Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Manali to Jobri and Trek to Chikka

• Altitude: Manali (2,050 m) → Jobri (2,800 m) → Chikka (3,100 m).
• Drive Distance: 40 km (2 hours).
• Trekking Distance: 2 km (1.5–2 hours).
• Trail: Dense forest trails with a gradual incline.
• Water Sources: Abundant; streams along the route.
• Difficulty Level: Easy.

Your Hampta Pass trek route begins with a drive from Manali to Jobri where the trek starts. The trail to Chikka is a gentle ascent offering scenic views of waterfalls and pine forests. Hampta pass trek package is available from Viator which is a very reliable tour operator worldwide and provide best offers. We have provided options in this guide for your better experiences.

Day 2: Trek from Chikka to Balu Ka Ghera

• Altitude: Chikka (3,100 m) → Balu Ka Ghera (3,600 m).
• Trekking Distance: 9 km (6–7 hours).
• Trail: Gradual inclines, river crossings, and rocky patches.
• Water Sources: Plenty of streams.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.

The name Balu Ka Ghera literally means “bed of sand,” and this campsite is as serene as it sounds. Adding time here allows you to soak in the relaxing environment fully. This stretch is known for its scenic beauty, with wildflowers, lush meadows, and boulders dominating the landscape. At Balu Ka Ghera you will camp under a canopy of stars.

Day 3: Trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Gohru via Hampta Pass

• Altitude: Balu Ka Ghera (3,600 m) → Hampta Pass (4,270 m) → Shea Gohru (3,700 m).
• Trekking Distance: 8 km (7–9 hours).
• Trail: Steep ascents to the pass, followed by sharp descents.
• Water Sources: Limited after Hampta Pass—carry sufficient water.
• Difficulty Level: Challenging.

Brace yourself for a tough climb to the Hampta Pass altitude (Hampta Pass Trek height) of 4,270 meters. The trail is rocky with snow patches depending on the season. The panoramic views from the pass are worth every step. Reaching the Hampta Pass summit is the highlight of the trek. Instead of rushing through why not plan for more time to explore this iconic spot?

Things to Do at the Summit:

• Photography: The panoramic view of Hampta Valley and Spiti Valley deserves your attention (and lots of clicks!).
• Snow Play: Depending on the season you can enjoy some playful moments in the snow.
• Snack Break: Bring a packed lunch or snacks to enjoy as you sit back and admire the scenery.

Day 4: Trek from Shea Gohru to Chatru and Drive to Chandratal

• Altitude: Shea Gohru (3,700 m) → Chatru (3,200 m) → Chandratal Lake (4,250 m).
• Trekking Distance: 6 km (4 hours).
• Drive Distance: 70 km (2–3 hours).
• Trail: Downhill trek through glacial streams and rocky terrain.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.

Activities in Chatru:

• Village Walks: Interact with locals and learn about the lifestyle of people in the high-altitude deserts.
• Spiti Valley Extension: If time permits explore Spiti Valley further—head to Key Monastery or Kaza for a deeper cultural experience.

The descent to Chatru is relatively easy followed by a drive to the stunning Chandratal Lake. Known as the “Moon Lake,” Chandratal Lake offers an otherworldly experience. A quick visit to Chandratal Lake is nice but spending a full day here is magical. Adding this extra time lets you fully appreciate the beauty of this crescent-shaped wonder.

What to Do at Chandratal:

• Trek Around the Lake: The Chandratal trek distance is approximately 4–5 km and the trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Capture Reflections: The lake’s mirror-like surface creates stunning reflections making it a dream for photographers.
• Chandratal Lake Temperature: Since Chandratal Lake temperatures can dip below freezing at night prepare for a cozy evening by the fire sharing your trekking stories.

Day 5: Drive from Chatru to Manali

• Altitude: Chatru (3,200 m) → Manali (2,050 m).
• Drive Distance: 63km (2 hours).

This scenic drive marks the end of your trek. You will pass through breathtaking landscapes including the Hampta Valley and waterfalls. Manali to chandratal distance is approx 133 km.

Things to Carry for the Hampta Pass and Chandratal Trek

Packing wisely ensures a hassle-free adventure. Here’s your checklist:

Clothing

• Thermal wear, fleece jackets, and waterproof outerwear.
• Trekking pants and quick-dry T-shirts.
• Woolen gloves, socks, and a beanie.

Gear

• High-ankle trekking shoes with good grip.
• Backpack (50L–60L) with a rain cover.
• Sleeping bag (if not provided by your trekking company).

Other Essentials

• Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses.
• Headlamp with extra batteries.
• First-aid kit with altitude sickness medicine.

Conclusion: Ready to Answer the Call of Hampta Pass?

From the lush green valleys of Manali to the stark beauty of Chandratal Lake, this trek is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride through some of nature’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned trekker the mix of diverse terrains, mesmerizing views and rich cultural experiences make it an adventure worth every step.

So, are you ready to lace up your trekking boots and embark on this unforgettable journey? Trust me, the trails, the valleys and even the challenges along the way will leave you with stories to tell and memories to treasure. Hampta Pass isn’t just a trek—it’s an experience that’ll stay with you long after you’ve descended those peaks.

Pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to answer the call of the mountains. Adventure awaits, my friend, and it’s going to be incredible!

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