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Hampta Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh

Hampta Pass Trek

Moderate ⏱ 5 Days ★ 4.7 (1,450) 📍 Manali, Himachal Pradesh

About

Hampta Pass is a dramatic crossover trek in Himachal Pradesh that links two completely different worlds in just a few days. Starting near Manali at Jobra, the trail climbs the green, forested Kullu side, crosses the 14,100 ft Hampta Pass, and drops into the stark, barren cold desert of Lahaul on the far side.

What makes it special:

  • A true crossover: lush Kullu meadows on one side, Lahaul's moonscape on the other, in a single day
  • Big-mountain scenery — river crossings, glacial valleys and views of Deo Tibba and Indrasan
  • An optional finish at the surreal blue Chandratal Lake, conditions permitting

It's one of the best beginner-friendly high-altitude treks in the country, with the pass-crossing day delivering the kind of contrast no other Indian trek packs into so little time.

Getting There

The trek is based out of Manali; the trailhead at Jobra is a short, hairpin-laced 18 km (about 1.5 hours) drive away. The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali), roughly 50 km south, though flights are limited and weather-dependent; most trekkers reach Manali by overnight Volvo from Delhi (13–14 hours) or via Chandigarh, the nearest major railhead (~310 km).

Camping and forest permits on the route are arranged by operators. Spend a buffer day acclimatising in Manali before the climb. The season runs mid-June to early October — June and early July for snow, September for the clearest post-monsoon views.

FAQs

When's the best window? +
Mid-June to early October. The pass itself (14,100 ft) clears of snow by late June. July–August adds monsoon mist but also greens up the Kullu side beautifully. September is the photographer's choice — golden light, fewer crowds.
What's special about this trek? +
It's a crossover trek. You start in lush Kullu valley (green meadows, rhododendron forests), cross Hampta Pass, and descend into Lahaul's stark cold desert. The change of landscape in a single day is unlike any other Indian trek.
How tough is the pass crossing day? +
The toughest day. 9–10 hours of trekking with the steepest sections both up and down. Start by 5am, push for the pass by mid-morning, descend the other side carefully. Trekking poles are very helpful.
Is Chandratal Lake included? +
Usually a Day 5 add-on if conditions allow. Chandratal at 14,100 ft is gorgeous but the road access can be cut by rain or snow. Confirm with your operator — most include it weather-permitting.
Fitness level needed? +
Solid moderate. Should be comfortable with 6–7 hours of trekking daily, with one long 9–10 hour pass-crossing day. 6 weeks of cardio prep minimum. Knees take a beating on the steep Lahaul descent.