Hampta Pass Trek, Manali

The weather at Hampta Pass varies distinctively at different times of the year. Summers experience pleasant weather conditions with day temperatures ranging from 20-25 degrees Celsius. Nights are generally cold with average temperatures ranging from 5-10 degrees Celsius. Monsoon months of July-September experience rainfall and winters are chilly with occasional snowfall. 

The Hampta Pass trek is about 25 km long and takes you to the beautiful segments of the Dhauladhar range. The trek begins from Manali and takes you to the Chikka which is located at an elevation of 10,100 ft. above the ground. On the second day, you can head to Balu ka Khera for about 5 hours where you can take a look at the snow-laced displays. On the final day, you will be heading to Shea Goru which will be your final camping destination. From here you can drive to Chadar Tal and gape at the constellations along with the stellar views of nature.

The total trekking distance of the Hampta pass trek is about 25 km which is to be covered on foot. The circuit of the trek is as follows: Manali - Jobra - Jwara - Balu ka Gera - Hampta Pass - Shea Goru - Chatru - Manali. For this trek, you will need four active days in which you can complete the entire trek. Make sure that you cross-check with the local guides as they can tell you the best about weather conditions and routes.

Hampta Pass Trekking is considered as a moderate trek. The major reason for this is the atmospheric pressure that changes as you trek higher. The weather conditions are also one of the reasons for the moderate difficulty of the trek. On this trek, you would be climbing up to 14,100 ft and will pass through several rivers, valleys, and thick jungles.

• Since the trekking route to Hampta Pass required you to trek for almost five days straight, a proper body built and high level of fitness will be required from everyone.
• You can start training as soon as you book your package and can begin with running for 30 minutes on a daily basis. 
• To be mentally prepared, you need to understand that all the hustle to the top is totally worth it. 
• Make sure that you pack only the essentials so that it becomes light for your back. 
• From proper shoes to a walking stick and from extra woolens to protein-rich snacks, various items need to be carried beforehand.

The trekking shoes offered by Quechua and Woodland are among the best shoes you can find anywhere in India. From their grip to their comfort, everything is just perfect. While choosing the perfect pair of shoes, ensure that you check for its grip, flexibility, ankle support, and water resistance.

Yes, the Hampta Pass Trek is a safe trek as no accidents are reported till now. Apart from this, there are slight rains that make trekking a little difficult but is doable. In the winter months, the trek is not safe as it is covered with deep snow and the routes are all blocked. Also, this is a safe trek for solo travelers as the routes are well-defined and you need not worry about avalanches or any other harm from the wildlife.

No, the Hampta Pass Trek is not doable in the winter months as the entire valley is snow-covered and the roads are all blocked. Whether it is the road connectivity or the route to the peak, both are inaccessible.

• An adjustable backpack and a rain cover
• A Walking stick 
• Head torch 
• A bottle of water must be having a capacity of more than 2 L 
• A personal medical kit that includes all your personal medications if any 
• Some snacks which must be rich in protein like energy bars, dry fruits et cetera 
• Woolen wear includes caps, sweaters, socks, and hand gloves 
• Neck pillow to easier sleeping position 
• Sunscreen, lip balm, toothpaste and a toothbrush, sanitizers, microfibre towel, toilet paper, and wet wipes. 
• Thermal inners, T-shirts, comfy bottoms, and fleece jackets

You can go for the Hampta Pass trek all through the year as it is a year-round experience. The months of July to August experience moderate to heavy rain which makes the trail slippery and difficult for trekking. However, if you wish to witness the monsoon beauty of Himachal, you can always go trekking with extra precautions. Hampta Pass trek prices also go down during this time due to less tourists and cheaper accommodation. 

Yes, Hampta Pass Trek is a great trek for beginners. Considered to be one of the few moderate treks in the Himalayas, the Hampta Pass trek is located at an elevation of over 4,000 metres above the sea level.

The different terrains, changing weather conditions and low pressure might sometimes make it difficult for a beginner, but it is definitely do-able. 

Hampta Pass is famous for its stunning natural beauty and exhilarating trekking experience. Trekkers flock to this Himalayan gem for its picturesque trails, including lush green valleys, towering snow-capped peaks, and the crescent-shaped Chandratal Lake. The trek offers a unique journey through diverse terrain, providing adventurers with challenges as well as serenity.

Trekkers opt for the Hampta Pass trek usually in the summer months of the year. However, it is a year-round experience and can be undertaken at any time of the year depending on one’s own schedule and preference. In the monsoons, rainfall makes the trail a bit difficult but on the other hand offers some of the best views of the Himalayan Valleys. Costs also go down during this time making the overall experience a lot more affordable. 

Yes, you can go for the Hampta Pass Trek in August. It is during this month that the snow completely melts away in the region, and lush green flora replaces the white blanket of snow. You can also see the bloom of the wildflowers on either side of the trail during this month. The cloudy skies add to the stunning backdrop and experience as well. 

1. Jogini Falls: One of the most breath-taking waterfalls in Manali, the Jogini Falls is located on the way to the Vashisht Village and is famous for offering solace and tranquillity in the midst of nature. It is here where you can enjoy trekking and hiking, as well as quiet picnics with your loved ones. 
2. Solang Valley: Tucked between the Solang Village and Beas Kund, this stunning valley is the abode of numerous festivals in the region, one of which is the famous Winter Skiing festival. Whether it is camping or skiing, or enjoying strolls amidst nature, you can do it all here. 
3. Arjuna Cave: Said to be the cave where Arjuna (one of the Pandavas) meditated to gain the powers of Pashupati Astra from Lord Indra, the Arjuna Cave is a popular mythical tourist destination in Manali. In addition to meditating, you can also head over to the nearby Gauri Shankar temple for a visit. 
4. Van Vihar: Managed by Manali’s municipal corporation, Van Vihar is known for its lush greenery, thick deodar forests and wildlife sightings. This garden is great to take respite after a busy day, while soaking in serene views of the sunset at the lake. 

Hampta Pass trekking is a moderate trek in the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 4270 m, the trek is pretty interesting as the rough terrain varies while you walk ahead. Also, the weather conditions and the low air pressure make the trek a little difficult. If there is snow present, you may have some difficulty in walking through it. But, a lot of seasoned trekkers, as well as beginners, succeed in finishing this trek.

Here is the list of best treks in Himachal that you can book from Thrillophilia:

1. Kareri Lake Trek
2. Bhrigu Lake Trek
3. Beas Kund Trek
4. Prashar Lake Trek
5. Churdhar Trek
6. Pin Parvati Trek
7. Buran Ghati Trek

Restroom facilities during the Hampta Pass trek are available in eco-friendly toilet tents at campsites. These include dry pit toilets with a shovel for waste disposal. On higher campsites, such facilities may be unavailable, so trekkers must follow Leave No Trace principles. It’s advisable to carry your own toilet paper, as wet wipes are discouraged. Facilities may vary for organized and independent trekkers.

Yes, you can rent trekking gear at the Hampta Pass base camp or in Manali. Several operators offer rentals for equipment like trekking shoes, jackets, trekking poles, and rucksacks. Rental prices range from ₹150 to ₹750. Some operators, such as Barefoot Trekians, offer gear directly at the base camp, with a security deposit of ₹500–₹1,000. You can also rent gear in Old Manali before your trek. It's advised to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons, and inspect gear for damage before use.

Charging electronic devices during the Hampta Pass trek can be challenging, as there are limited power sources. Some campsites may have solar chargers or generators, but they may not always be reliable. It's advisable to carry a power bank with enough charge for the entire trek. Charging opportunities are limited, especially in remote areas.

For the Hampta Pass trek, pack the following clothes and equipment:

• Clothing:
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Thermal wear (top and bottom)
• Fleece jacket or sweater
• Trekking pants and shorts
• Hat, gloves, and scarf
• Woolen socks and trekking shoes
• Equipment:
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp/torch with extra batteries
• Rucksack (40-50L)
• Water bottle and purification tablets
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• First aid kit

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is generally considered more challenging than the Hampta Pass trek for several reasons:

1. Altitude: EBC reaches 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), significantly higher than Hampta Pass (4,270 meters or 14,010 feet). The higher altitude at EBC increases the risk of altitude sickness.
2. Duration and Terrain: The EBC trek typically takes 12–14 days, while Hampta Pass can be completed in 5–7 days. EBC involves more gradual ascent, but it's longer and at higher altitudes.
3. Weather: EBC faces colder temperatures and harsher conditions due to its proximity to the Himalayas, while Hampta Pass offers milder conditions.

In short, EBC is physically demanding due to higher altitude, longer duration, and colder weather. Hampta Pass is a great option for those seeking a challenging trek without the extreme altitude of EBC.

The Hampta Pass trek usually takes 5–7 days, with daily trekking durations ranging from 5 to 7 hours. Here’s a typical itinerary:

Day 1: Manali to Jobra (2,740 m)

• Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 10 km
• Details: Drive to Jobra and begin the trek to the camp.

Day 2: Jobra to Chikka (3,050 m)

• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Distance: 8 km
• Details: Trek through forests and meadows.

Day 3: Chikka to Balu ka Ghera (3,600 m)

• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Distance: 7-8 km
• Details: Ascend through the river valley with scenic views.

Day 4: Balu ka Ghera to Hampta Pass (4,270 m) and Back to Balu ka Ghera

• Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
• Distance: 10-12 km
• Details: Summit Hampta Pass, then descend back to Balu ka Ghera.

Day 5: Balu ka Ghera to Jobra (2,740 m)

• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Distance: 10-12 km
• Details: Descend back to Jobra and drive back to Manali.

Optional Day 6–7:

If you choose a more relaxed pace, you can add an extra day to explore or rest in between the trek.

Yes, you can trek Hampta Pass in May, but it's challenging. Snow covers the trail, making navigation difficult, and temperatures can drop to 0°C at higher elevations. The risk of landslides increases due to melting snow. Proper gear and fitness are required. The best time for this trek is mid-June to October when the trail is more accessible and safer.

The shortest time to complete the Hampta Pass Trek is 5 days. The itinerary includes:

• Day 1: Drive to Jobra, trek to Chikka.
• Day 2: Trek to Balu ka Ghera.
• Day 3: Trek to Hampta Pass, return to Balu ka Ghera.
• Day 4: Trek back to Jobra.
• Day 5: Drive back to Manali.

This fast pace requires good fitness and proper acclimatization.

Trekking to Hampta Pass independently is possible but not highly recommended for everyone. The trail can be challenging with snow coverage and unclear paths, making navigation difficult. Weather conditions can change suddenly, and trekking without support increases risks like altitude sickness, injury, or getting lost. You’ll also need permits. While experienced trekkers might manage alone, it’s safer to go with a guide or support team for a more secure and enjoyable experience.

Yes, you can trek to Hampta Pass solo, but it’s not recommended for beginners. The trail can be tricky, especially with snow, and sudden weather changes may pose risks. Without a guide or support, navigation and safety become more challenging. Solo trekking requires experience, good fitness, and preparedness. Ensure you have the necessary permits and be ready to handle emergencies on your own.