Day 1: Arrival in Manali
Your adventure begins in the picturesque town of Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the fresh mountain air and the majestic views of the Himalayas. Check into your hotel and spend the day acclimatizing and exploring the charming streets of Manali. Visit the local markets, enjoy some local cuisine, and prepare for the trek ahead.
Evening Briefing
In the evening, there will be a briefing session where you will meet your fellow trekkers and the trek leader. The trek leader will provide an overview of the trek, safety guidelines, and essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Get a good night’s sleep, as the real adventure begins the next day.
Day 2: Manali to Chika
After an early breakfast, you will drive to Jobra, the starting point of the trek. The drive itself is an adventure, with winding roads and stunning views of the Kullu Valley. Upon reaching Jobra, you will begin your trek to Chika, which is a moderate ascent through dense forests of pine, maple, and oak trees. The trail is dotted with vibrant wildflowers and offers occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks.
Overnight at Chika
After a few hours of trekking, you will arrive at the campsite in Chika. The campsite is set beside a gushing river, surrounded by towering mountains. Spend the evening exploring the area, enjoying a warm meal, and relaxing by the bonfire under the starlit sky.
Day 3: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera
Today’s trek takes you deeper into the valley, following the river and crossing several streams along the way. The trail gradually ascends, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the lush green meadows. You will also come across grazing sheep and shepherds tending to their flocks.
Balu Ka Ghera
After trekking for about five to six hours, you will reach Balu Ka Ghera, a vast meadow that serves as the base camp for the Hampta Pass. The campsite is situated at an altitude of 11,900 feet and offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar range. Rest and rejuvenate at the campsite, as the next day involves a challenging climb to the Hampta Pass.
Day 4: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass and Descend to Shea Goru
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. After an early breakfast, you will begin the steep ascent to the Hampta Pass. The trail is rugged and involves navigating through boulders and patches of snow. The climb is physically demanding, but the breathtaking views at the top make it all worthwhile.
Hampta Pass
At an altitude of 14,100 feet, the Hampta Pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Take a moment to soak in the beauty and capture some memorable photographs. After a brief rest, you will begin the descent towards Shea Goru, a dramatic change in landscape from lush greenery to the arid, barren terrain of Spiti.
Overnight at Shea Goru
The descent is steep and requires careful navigation. Upon reaching Shea Goru, you will set up camp beside a river, surrounded by stark, rugged mountains. Enjoy a hot meal and rest under the clear night sky, with the stars shining brightly above.
Day 5: Shea Goru to Chatru and Drive to Chandratal
Today’s trek is relatively easy compared to the previous days. You will follow the river downstream, crossing rocky paths and glacial streams. The landscape continues to change, becoming more barren and rugged as you approach Chatru.
Drive to Chandratal
Upon reaching Chatru, you will take a thrilling drive to Chandratal, also known as the Moon Lake. The drive itself is an adventure, with narrow, winding roads and breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley. Chandratal is a high-altitude lake situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet, known for its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning surroundings.
Overnight at Chandratal
Set up camp near the lake and spend the evening exploring the area. The serene beauty of Chandratal is mesmerizing, with the reflection of the surrounding mountains in the clear waters creating a picture-perfect scene. Enjoy a peaceful night at the campsite, with the sound of the gentle breeze and the shimmering stars above.
Day 6: Chandratal to Manali
After an early breakfast, you will drive back to Manali, retracing the scenic route through the Rohtang Pass. The drive offers one last chance to soak in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced.
Farewell Dinner
Upon reaching Manali, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the evening, join your fellow trekkers for a farewell dinner, sharing stories and memories of the trek. Celebrate the successful completion of the Hampta Pass adventure and the new friendships formed along the way.
Day 7: Departure from Manali
Your unforgettable journey through the Himalayas comes to an end today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport or bus station for your onward journey. Take with you the memories of the stunning landscapes, the challenging trails, and the camaraderie of the trek.
Conclusion
The Hampta Pass trek is more than just a journey through the Himalayas; it’s an adventure that challenges you physically, enriches you culturally, and rewards you with some of the most breathtaking views in the world. With its diverse landscapes, from lush green valleys to stark desert mountains, this trek offers an experience like no other. Join us on the Hampta Pass adventure and discover the beauty and thrill of trekking in the heart of the Himalayas.
