Hampta Pass Trek

Life is unpredictable and we understand that sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and we endeavour to make it as easy as possible for you. However, please understand that we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and rations in advance. Therefore, any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of the programme. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below -

• Cancellations before 30 days from the start of the event: Get a monetary refund with 15% of cancellation charges.

• Cancellations between 30 days and 15 days to the start of the event: 50 %refund.

• Cancellations less than 15 days to the start of the event: No refund.

• Cancellations will be accepted only by email.

Note: The Himalayan Daredevils reserves the right to cancel a program before departure in the event of logistical problems arising due to natural calamities, strikes, wars or any other circumstances that make the event inadvisable. In this case, we will refund 50% of the event fees.

Itinerary Changes &Trip delays:

We plan itineraries based on the information available at the time of planning and in rare circumstances, they are subject to change. If the itinerary is changed or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, transportation delays, government intervention, landslides etc., we will always aim to give you the best experience possible. However, The Himalayan Daredevils not be held responsible for the cost of delay or changes.

For Bookings made from Third Party Websites:

• The client is responsible for communicating with a third party (booking website) for cancellation.

• Cancellation / Refund is done by a third party based on their policies. 

The Hampta Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh is a top hike. It quickly moves from green lands to dry, tough hills. Based in the Pir Panjal range of the big Himalayas, this hike links the green Kullu Valley with the dry, bear lands of Lahaul. It shows trekkers two very different worlds in a day. The pass is high, around 14,100 feet, and acts as a gate between these places. The hike starts from the little town of Jobra near Manali. It takes hikers through deep pine trees, open lands, and big rivers. The path then goes up to the lovely campsite of Chika and next to Balu Ka Ghera by a cold stream from the ice. From there, trekkers go to Hampta Pass, which gives a great view of peaks, valleys, and ice. Going down, trekkers see the wild, open lands of Spiti and Lahaul, stopping at Chatru. A short way from there will take you to the bright Chandratal Lake, a moon-shaped gem in the dry hills of Spiti.

What makes the Hampta Pass Trek stand apart is how fast it shows both types of land and views, usually in 4 to 5 days. The hike is not too hard; it’s good for new and old hikers. You might cross ice bridges, rivers, face changing weather, and always see new sights, making each step a fresh experience. In summer, the valley is full of wildflowers and green, and by late September, it turns golden and brown. Great for lovers of nature, photo fans, or thrill-seekers, the Hampta Pass Trek lets you deeply feel the beauty of the Himalayas. Being close to Manali makes it easy to start, mixing fun with ease. Whether it's your first or more time in the Himalayas, the Hampta Pass leaves a deep mark, filling you with wonder, happiness, and a new bond with the great outdoors.

History of the Hampta Pass Trek

Now a loved path for hikers, the Hampta Pass Trek has a rich history and culture beyond the views. High up in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, it has long been a key link between the green valleys of Kullu and the high, dry lands of Lahaul and Spiti. In the past, the Hampta Pass was used for trade and moving sheep by local people. The Gaddi shepherds from Chamba and Kangra in Himachal, a nomadic group, were among the first to use this path. Each year, they moved with their sheep and goats across it to find better grass. The fields in the Kullu Valley had rich grass in summer, and the dry, cold Lahaul land was used in other months. This move was key to their life and deep in their culture. The name "Hampta" comes from the small town of Hampta in the Kullu Valley, a starting point for traders, pilgrims, and shepherds going over the pass. In old times, when roads weren't there, passes like Hampta were key paths that moved goods, ideas, and people between areas cut by tough mountain paths. With new roads and ways to travel, the old trade and movement use of the pass fell. Yet, it began to draw those who wanted to explore and see nature. From the mid-20th century, brave people began hiking this lesser-known path.

Its reputation grew more with the start of trekking in India after the 1980s. Today, it’s known for its mixed lands, easy reach, and a not-so-hard path. Trek groups started guided hikes in the early 2000s, and its fame has grown with social media and travel blogs showing its wild views from the wooded sides of Kullu to the moon-like lands of Lahaul and Spiti. Even with new fame, the Hampta Pass path still shows hints of the past. Shepherds can be seen moving their flocks across the high fields, and old paths used by villagers and traders move with the main trek path. Many local guides who help hikers today come from families rooted in these mountains for ages, and their knowledge of the land is deeply rooted in tradition. In short, the history of Hampta Pass is one of change from a useful mountain path for shepherds and traders, to a loved trail that makes a deep link to the Himalayan wild and its rich culture. It stands as a living sign of how mountain people adapt and the strong pull of the high Himalayas.

Nearby Places to Explore Around the Hampta Pass Trek

• Manali: Manali, where the Hampta Pass Trek starts, is a pretty hill town in the Kullu Valley. Known for cool air, nice sights, and lively local life, it's a place for those who love adventure. Not just a trek start point, it boasts spots like Solang Valley, Hidimba Devi Temple, and Vashisht hot springs, along with chances to paraglide, raft, and ski in winter.

• Chandratal Lake: Often seen when done with the Hampta Pass Trek, Chandratal Lake is a stunning high-up lake in Spiti. Also called "Moon Lake" for its shape, it sits at 14,000 feet with bare mountains and bright blue skies around. It's liked for camping, star gazing, and its clear reflections, giving it a magical feel.

• Lahaul Valley: On the other side of the Hampta Pass, Lahaul Valley shows stark, rough land and Buddhist life. Now open even in winter due to the Atal Tunnel, it houses sweet villages, old monasteries, and icy rivers. It's great for those who seek rare Himalayan views.

• Spiti Valley: A quick trip from Chatru leads to Spiti Valley's large, dreamy land. Named "Little Tibet," Spiti has old monasteries like Key and Tabo, special villages like Kaza and Kibber, and bold lands. Its deep culture and cold, dry land pull those seeking spirit and snap.

• Solang Valley: Close to Manali, Solang Valley hosts exciting sports like paragliding, skiing, ATV rides, and zip-lining. With snowy peaks around, it is best for thrilling acts both before and after your trek. In winter, it changes to a snowy place for ski fun.

• Rohtang Pass: Though not the main way now due to the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang Pass is still key. It links Kullu Valley to Lahaul and shows off ice glaciers, mountain views, and valleys. A trip there lets trekkers see big shifts in weather and land within short spans.

Best Time to Visit Hampta Pass Trek

• June to July: This marks a top time to trek here, for those keen on snow. In early June, paths still hold old snow, put near the pass, making exciting walks over snow and ice. Low camp spots like Chika and Balu Ka Ghera are full of growing wildflowers and lush lands, mixing green views with white snow. It's nice out, though at times wet with sudden rain.

• August to Mid-September: This time turns the valley very green after the rains. Waterfalls rush down hills, rivers grow with melting snow, and all paths are bright and alive. It's best for nature fans and camera folk to catch the rich plants and big skies of clouds. While Kullu may get light rain, the Lahaul side stays dry, showing two different sights. Walkers should watch for slick paths and some waits due to weather.

• Mid-September to Early October: Post-rain, this season is good for clear weather, open skies, and sharp mountain views. The green fades to gold brown, and the cold air hints at winter coming. This time gives great photo chances with bright light and wide views of the Pir Panjal and Spiti ranges. Paths are dry and firm, making the walk a bit easier for new trekkers.

• Off-Season (October to May): The Hampta Pass Trek shuts from late October to early June due to a lot of snow and tough weather. Paths turn risky, and camp spots can't be reached. In these months, snow blocks the path, and risks like snow slides and deep cold rise. Trekking then is not advised except if in a pro winter group with the right gear and skills for high cold.

How to Reach Hampta Pass Trek

• By Airport: Bhuntar is the closest airport to the Hampta Pass trek, around 50 km from Manali. It gets some planes from big places like Delhi and Chandigarh. From Bhuntar, grab a cab or get on a bus to Manali. You can also fly to Chandigarh or Delhi to find more planes, and then drive to Manali.

• By Railway Station: The closest small rail stop is Joginder Nagar, about 145 km from Manali. It's not much linked to big places. Most walkers go by train to Chandigarh, which is well to all big cities in India. From there, take a bus or hail a cab to Manali; the road trip is 8–10 hours.

• By Road: Manali is easy to get to by road from big cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Take many Volvo or deluxe buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi, and Chandigarh. The bus ride from Delhi takes about 12–14 hours. You can also drive or hire a cab on your own.

Why Book with escape2explore

When exploring the Hampta Pass Trek and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:

• Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure you that your experience will be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees that you will always be in safe hands.

• Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.

• Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Our tour packages are thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.

• Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions.