Unforgettable Hampta Pass Trek Experience from Manali

I had always dreamed of trekking through the Himalayas, and the Hampta Pass Trek turned out to be one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Starting from Manali, this journey took me through lush green valleys, challenging ascents, and breathtaking views of the Spiti region. The mix of adventure and natural beauty made it a trek to remember.

I chose to go in July, and it was the perfect decision! The landscapes were green, and there were still patches of snow along the trail. The trek is best from June to mid-October. In June and July, you get to witness the melting snow, while August and September offer lush meadows and clear skies. October gives you a wintery experience with a chance of snowfall.

Getting to the trek’s starting point was an adventure in itself! I took an overnight bus from Delhi to Manali, which was an exciting yet tiring ride. After reaching Manali, I had to take a short 2-hour drive to Jobra, the base camp. The scenic drive through pine forests and mountain roads set the tone for the adventure ahead.

Here’s a breakdown of my personal experience during the trek:

• The trek started with a beautiful trail through maple and pine forests.

• It was a short 2-3 hour trek to Chika, my first campsite.

• I spent the evening soaking in the views of the Rani Nallah stream and starry skies.

• This was a long but rewarding trek of 5-6 hours.

• The trail followed the river, with dramatic landscapes surrounding me.

• Camping at Balu Ka Ghera was like being in another world—surrounded by towering peaks and a peaceful atmosphere.

• This was by far the most challenging day of my trek, lasting 8-9 hours.

• The climb to 14,100 ft at Hampta Pass was steep but incredibly rewarding.

• Standing at the top of the pass, I felt like I was on top of the world!

• The descent to Shea Goru was tricky but stunning, with snowfields and rocky paths.

• The landscape changed drastically from green meadows to barren Spiti-like terrain.

• The river crossings and rocky paths made the trek exciting and adventurous.

• Once we reached Chhatru, we had the option to drive to Chandratal Lake—a mesmerizing high-altitude lake with crystal-clear water.

• The drive back to Manali via Rohtang Pass was scenic and filled with nostalgia.

• I couldn't believe how much I had experienced in just five days!

• Reaching Manali felt bittersweet—I was exhausted yet fulfilled.

Packing smartly made my trek more comfortable. Here’s what I carried:

• Clothing: Thermal wear, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, gloves, and extra socks

• Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with ankle support

• Accessories: Sunglasses, trekking pole, power bank, and a water bottle

• Essentials: Sleeping bag, sunscreen, lip balm, and a headlamp

• First Aid: Band-aids, painkillers, altitude sickness tablets, and personal medications

Even though I was a beginner, I found the trek moderately difficult. The daily treks lasted between 4 to 9 hours, and the altitude gain was significant. To prepare, I did basic cardio and leg-strengthening exercises a month before. The key is to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the journey!

The Hampta Pass Trek was not just about reaching the summit—it was about the entire experience. The changing landscapes, the challenges, and the people I met along the way made it a journey of self-discovery. If you’re looking for a Himalayan adventure that will push your limits while rewarding you with unforgettable memories, Hampta Pass is the trek for you!