Hampta Pass Trek: The Ultimate 4-Day Himalayan Crossing
Why Hampta Pass is the Perfect First Himalayan Trek
If you've never done a high-altitude trek in the Himalayas but the idea calls to you, Hampta Pass (4,270m / 14,000 ft) is where you should start. In just 4 days of walking, you cross from the lush, green Kullu Valley — with its pine forests and wildflower meadows — into the stark, moonscape terrain of Lahaul, a region that looks like it belongs on another planet.
The contrast is so dramatic it feels like walking through a portal. And unlike many Himalayan treks, Hampta Pass is accessible enough for fit beginners while still offering the genuine thrill of crossing a real mountain pass.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Manali → Jobra → Chika (3,050m)
Distance: 6 km | Time: 3-4 hours | Difficulty: Easy
A short drive from Manali to Jobra (the trailhead), then a gentle walk through a forest of towering deodar and blue pine to the campsite at Chika. The Rani Nallah stream runs alongside, and the meadow campsite is surrounded by mountains on three sides. Perfect for settling into trek rhythm.
Day 2: Chika → Balu ka Ghera (3,600m)
Distance: 10 km | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Today the landscape begins to change. You cross the tree line and enter a world of alpine meadows, boulder fields, and glacial moraines. The trail follows the Hampta Nallah through increasingly dramatic terrain. "Balu ka Ghera" means "sandy place" — the campsite sits on a sandy riverbank at the foot of the pass.
This is the acclimatization day: Your body is adjusting to altitude. Drink extra water, walk slowly, and enjoy the views.
Day 3: Balu ka Ghera → Hampta Pass → Shea Goru (3,500m)
Distance: 11 km | Time: 7-8 hours | Difficulty: Hard
The big day. You climb 670m to the pass through steep switchbacks over snow, scree, and loose rock. The final approach to the pass is the steepest section — some patches require careful footing on ice and snow, even in summer.
At the pass (4,270m): The view opens up dramatically. Behind you, the green Kullu Valley. Ahead, the barren brown and grey landscape of Lahaul, with snow-capped peaks in every direction. This moment — standing on the pass with one foot in each world — is why people trek.
The descent into Lahaul is steep and fast, dropping 770m in about 4 km to the campsite at Shea Goru beside a glacial stream.
Day 4: Shea Goru → Chatru (3,360m)
Distance: 6 km | Time: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy
A short, flat walk along the Chandra River to the roadhead at Chatru, where vehicles wait to drive you to either Manali or Chandratal Lake.
Optional add-on: Many trekkers add a night at Chandratal Lake (4,300m), a stunning turquoise lake about 20 km from Chatru.
Best Season
June to September is the trekking window.
Difficulty Level
Moderate. You need:
Not suitable for: People with heart/lung conditions, children under 10, or anyone who gets severe altitude sickness below 4,000m.
Gear Checklist
Booking a Trek
Leave No Trace
The Hampta Pass trail sees heavy traffic in peak season, and the environmental impact is real. Please:
