Hampta Pass Manali

Hampta Pass is the eastern most pass on the Pir Panjal range which divides the valleys of Lahoul, Spiti and Kullu. This trek route is the shortest line between the Chandra and Beas rivers, and it was the favored route to approach the correlated valleys even before the road over the Rohtang Pass was constructed. Hampta Pass trek is surrounded by magnificent Himalayan peaks, Deo Tibba, Indra Asan and Indra Kila. Hampta Pass is a popular destination for trekkers & campers accessible on foot from Sethan about 3/4 days. This is one of the most beautiful and feasible trek for all trekkers which leads through the alpine meadows of flowers, Conifer forests, oak, Rhododendron trees to the harshest places at the top with freezing wind blowing fiercely. On the Hampta pass at 4227 m. one can comprehend the aridness and ruthless weather conditions faced to conquer the Pass. The trek is done from the month of May end to October.

First reach Manali, drive to Prini. Trek starts through Prini village, ascending to Jobdi nala via taxi. The road offers extensive view of the Kullu valley. Easy walk of two hour to the campsite just after the road head. The trail begins by flat from Jobri nala to Chhika walking through the forest of Mapple, Silver Fir, Pine and Oak, paved by the grass and stone and fields of the wild flowers. One can have à cup of tea in a small teahouse on the way, which will refresh you. A gentle ascending walk of an hour ends at the first days camp site- Chhika(3500m.). A pleasant meadow between high bluffs, just above the tree line: common to see a couple of Gujjar encampments there. Stay at beautiful campsite in Chhika. As we start on the following day, after an hour we once have to cross the river than hiking through zigzag uphill on snow and moraines brings you to the Balu ka Gera camp site after full day trek.

Balu ka ghera offers magnificent evening and twilight views that one cannot forget. High altitude valley often have great lights in the evening and mornings. Next day the trail begins to ascend towards the mighty Hampta pass from Balu ka Gera. As we go higher to 4000m. the oxygen level starts to decrease and weather can cause any situation. The trail comes steep incline till the pass on ice, snow, along glacial lakes and rocky valley. After the incline and reaching over the Hampta pass (4227m.), one can enjoy the view of magnificent Himalayan peaks, Deo Tibba, Indra Asan, Indra Kila. The view of the north Lahoul and Spiti is Amazing. 2000 feet straight below is the Hampta stream, emerging from the Hampta glacier to the east and flowing north wards to the Chandra valley. After spending quality time at the pass we climb back via same route to the campsite at Balu ka Gera. As we reach the camp one can have a hot cup of tea at his lounge. We will halt a night in the tents at Balu Ka gera. Next morning wake up early and have breakfast, then start trekking down towards road head. We will trek the same route via Juara Nala, Chhika and then by vehicle till Manali. as approached at Manali one can leave to their preferred destinations.