Hampta Pass Trek: Crossing Worlds in the Himalayas

Himachal Pradesh that effortlessly blends lush green valleys with stark, barren deserts, it’s the Hampta Pass Trek. Stretching from the Kullu Valley to the Lahaul region, this crossover trail feels like a journey through two different worlds within just a few days. My experience on the Hampta Pass Trek was as dramatic as the landscapes themselves—thrilling, humbling, and utterly unforgettable.

1. The Beginning at Jobra: Where Forests Whisper

The trek kicks off from Jobra, a short drive from the vibrant town of Manali. Arriving there, I was greeted by thick pine forests and the soothing sound of the Rani Nallah stream. The trail wasted no time in plunging us into nature. With every step, I walked deeper into cedar-scented woods and meadows dotted with wildflowers.

The walk from Jobra to Chika, our first campsite, was gentle but immensely rewarding. We crossed wooden bridges, navigated playful brooks, and shared laughter with fellow trekkers. That evening at Chika, we camped beside the river under a canopy of stars. The night was alive with stories, warm soup, and the thrill of what lay ahead.

2. Balu Ka Ghera: Into the Heart of the Valley

The next morning, we continued to Balu Ka Ghera—a name that translates to “bed of sand.” This stretch of the trek took us across open valleys framed by high cliffs. The scenery here reminded me of something out of a fantasy novel: a glacial river snaking through meadows, giant boulders scattered like ancient ruins, and sheep grazing with zen-like calm.

At Balu Ka Ghera, we pitched our tents in a vast open plain flanked by snowy peaks. As night fell, temperatures dropped sharply, but the sky turned into a glowing dome of stars. That cold, clear air carried the kind of silence that only mountains can offer—a silence that makes you hear your own heartbeat.

3. The Climb to Hampta Pass: Where the Sky Meets the Earth

The most challenging and exhilarating day of the trek was the climb to Hampta Pass itself. Starting before dawn, we made our way up steep ridges covered in loose rocks and patches of snow. With every ascent, the valley behind us grew smaller while the horizon ahead expanded.

Reaching the Hampta Pass felt like standing at the meeting point of two worlds. On one side: the green, fertile Kullu Valley. On the other: the stark, otherworldly terrain of Lahaul. Snow-capped peaks surrounded us in all directions. It was cold, windy, and absolutely magical. We paused here not just to catch our breath, but to take in the vastness—the feeling of being so small yet so alive.

4. The Descent to Shea Goru: Sliding into the Desert

The descent from the pass was steep and icy at times, demanding careful footing. But as we entered Lahaul, everything changed. The greenery faded, replaced by rugged brown hills and open skies. We reached Shea Goru, our next campsite, and found ourselves in a cold desert framed by dramatic mountains.

That night at Shea Goru felt surreal. Gone were the forests and flowers—in their place were dry winds, stony soil, and a silence so profound it echoed in your mind. And yet, the beauty remained. The Himalayas don’t need color to inspire awe.

5. The Final Stretch to Chhatru and the Bonus of Chandratal

The last day’s trek took us downhill to Chhatru, a remote village connected by rough roads to Spiti. After days of trekking, the sight of jeeps and tea stalls felt oddly comforting. Some groups—ours included—opt for a jeep ride to the pristine Chandratal Lake, a high-altitude crescent-shaped lake in the Spiti region.

Reaching Chandratal was the perfect finale. The lake shimmered in shades of blue and green, surrounded by snow-streaked mountains. Sitting there, I felt like the trek had come full circle—from forests to rivers, snow passes to deserts, and finally, to still water reflecting the sky.

Trek Essentials & Tips

• Best time: Mid-June to early October

• Pack layers—temperatures vary wildly

• Trek duration: 5–6 days

• Fitness level: Moderate (includes altitude and steep climbs)

• Go with a guide or trek group for permits and safety

• Keep buffer days for weather or road conditions near Spiti

Hampta Pass is more than a trek; it’s a dramatic shift in landscapes, moods, and perspectives. It’s for those who seek variety in their mountain adventures—where every day feels like a new world, and every view makes you pause, stare, and smile. If the Himalayas are a book, Hampta Pass is one of its most exciting chapters.