The Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most dramatic and visually diverse treks in the Indian Himalayas. Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, this trek connects the lush green valleys of Kullu Valley with the stark, high-altitude desert landscape of Lahaul Valley.
The trek derives its name from Hampta Pass, a high mountain pass situated at an altitude of approximately 4,270 meters (14,010 ft). Crossing this pass is the highlight of the journey, offering trekkers a thrilling experience as they move from one completely different landscape to another within just a few days.
What makes the Hampta Pass Trek truly unique is the sudden and striking change in scenery. The trek begins near the popular mountain town of Manali, surrounded by dense pine forests, waterfalls, and vibrant green meadows. As trekkers ascend through valleys and river crossings, the landscape slowly transforms.
On one side of the pass lies the lush Kullu region, filled with forests, grasslands, and streams. Once trekkers cross the pass, the scenery changes dramatically into the barren, rugged terrain of the Lahaul region, characterized by rocky mountains, glacial valleys, and desert-like landscapes similar to nearby Spiti Valley.
This contrast between green alpine valleys and high-altitude desert terrain makes Hampta Pass one of the most fascinating treks in the Himalayas.
The adventure begins from the scenic mountain town of Manali, located in the beautiful Kullu Valley. Trekkers are picked up in the morning and driven through winding mountain roads to Jobra, the starting point of the trek.
The short drive passes through dense pine forests and picturesque mountain landscapes before reaching Jobra, a quiet spot surrounded by towering deodar trees.
From Jobra, the trek begins with a gentle walk through a beautiful forest trail. The path gradually opens into lush green meadows, with the sound of the Rani Nallah stream flowing beside the trail.
After a short and pleasant trek, trekkers arrive at Chika Camp, a stunning campsite located beside the river and surrounded by wide alpine grasslands. The campsite offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and open valleys.
The evening is spent relaxing near the river, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains before settling into tents for the night.
The second day of the trek introduces trekkers to more dramatic Himalayan landscapes. The trail gradually climbs higher along the valley, following the glacial streams that originate from the surrounding mountains.
Trekkers walk across rocky terrain, grassy slopes, and occasional stream crossings while enjoying views of towering peaks and hanging glaciers.
As the altitude increases, the landscape becomes more rugged and alpine in character. The lush green meadows slowly give way to wide rocky valleys and snow patches.
By afternoon, the group reaches Balu Ka Ghera, which translates to “bed of sand.” This campsite is located in a broad valley surrounded by massive mountains and glacial formations.
This area often has snow patches even during summer, giving trekkers a glimpse of the high-altitude environment near the pass. The night is spent camping here under a sky filled with stars
This is the most challenging and exciting day of the trek as trekkers cross the famous Hampta Pass.
The climb begins early in the morning as the trail ascends steadily toward the pass. The terrain becomes steeper and often covered with snow, especially in early summer.
After a few hours of climbing, trekkers finally reach Hampta Pass, standing at 4,310 meters. From the top, the views are absolutely breathtaking.
On one side lies the lush green valley of Kullu, while the other side opens into the stark and barren landscape of the Lahaul Valley. This dramatic contrast between the two regions is one of the most fascinating features of the trek.
After spending time at the pass and capturing photographs, the trail descends steeply towards Shea Goru, a campsite located in a wide valley surrounded by rocky mountains and glacial streams.
The campsite offers a completely different landscape compared to the previous days, marking the transition into the cold desert terrain of Lahaul.
The trek continues downhill from Shea Goru towards Chhatru, following a scenic trail along the Chandra River valley.
The terrain is mostly rocky and barren, typical of the high-altitude desert landscape found in the Lahaul and Spiti regions.
Upon reaching Chhatru, the trekking portion of the journey concludes. From here, trekkers travel by vehicle toward the breathtaking Chandratal Lake.
Also known as the “Moon Lake,” Chandratal is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water and dramatic setting surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. The lake lies in the remote Spiti Valley region and is considered one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in India.
The final day begins with a scenic drive from Chhatru back to Manali.
The journey passes through the rugged landscapes of the Lahaul region before entering the famous Atal Tunnel, one of the longest highway tunnels in the world built at such a high altitude. The tunnel connects the Lahaul valley with the Kullu valley, significantly reducing travel time between the two regions.
As the vehicle emerges from the tunnel, the scenery changes once again from barren mountains back to lush green forests and valleys.
Trekkers usually reach Manali by around 1:00 PM, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure through one of the most dramatic crossover treks in the Himalayas.
Transportation: Dehradun to Dehradun as per the itinerary
Meals: All meals from Day 1 onwards during the trek and at guesthouses
Accommodation: Guesthouse stays and high-quality camping arrangements
Camping Equipment: Tents, mattresses, and sleeping bags suitable for high-altitude conditions
Toilet Facilities: Dry pit-style toilet tents at campsites
Kitchen Setup: Dedicated kitchen tent with all equipment and rations
Trek Leadership: Certified trek leader assisted by an experienced assistant trek leader / local guide
Support Team: Trained high-altitude support staff
Cook & Helpers: Experienced mountain cook and camp helpers
Logistics Support: Porters / mules for carrying common equipment and supplies
Qualified Leadership: Mountaineering course–certified trek leader for technical sections
Local Expertise: Local support team providing on-ground geographical and route intelligence
Technical Gear: Crampons or micro-spikes provided to trekkers if required
Personal Luggage: Mules or porters for carrying individual personal luggage
Emergency Evacuation: Any costs related to emergency evacuation, rescue, or medical services
Early Exit from Trek: Expenses incurred if a participant leaves the trek before completion due to personal reasons, health issues, or any other cause
Personal Requests: Any additional services such as a personal guide, special meals, personal porter, or private vehicle
Unspecified Items: Anything not explicitly mentioned under the “Inclusions” section
Insulated Jackets:
1 Fleece jacket
1 Down feather jacket
Warm Innerwear
Gloves:
1 Pair woollen gloves
1 Pair waterproof gloves
Trekking Pants: 2 pairs (comfortable for full-day trekking)
T-Shirts: 4 in total
2 Full-sleeve
2 Half-sleeve
Sweaters:
1 Fleece
1 Woollen
Socks: 5 pairs
3 Cotton
2 Woollen
Rain Protection: Raincoat or poncho
Personal Items: Handkerchiefs and towels
● Poncho – Rs. 200
● Gloves – Rs. 200
● Head torch – Rs. 150
● Trekking Shoe – Rs. 500
● Gopro – Rs. 2500
● Winter jacket- Rs. 500
● Trekking pole – Rs. 200
● Trek pant – Rs. 400
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport (DED) serves Dehradun and is located approximately 25 km from the city.
There are daily direct flights from Delhi to Dehradun.
By Train
You can take an overnight train from Delhi to Dehradun. Recommended options include:
Nanda Devi Express (Train No. 12205)
Departure: 11:50 PM | Arrival: 5:40 AM
Dehradun Express (Train No. 12687)
Departure: 9:10 PM | Arrival: 5:00 AM
By Bus
Regular bus services operate from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi to Dehradun.
We strongly recommend using government buses only from ISBT Kashmere Gate.
Private buses operating outside ISBT are not considered reliable.
Buses usually drop passengers at Dehradun ISBT. From there, proceed to Dehradun Railway Station.
Pickup Point: Dehradun Railway Station
Pickup Time: 7:00 AM
Transport Provider: Hiking Trail vehicles
Pickup Cost: Included in the trek fee
Expected Arrival at Sankri: Around 6:00 PM
