Hampta Pass Trek, Manali - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 30 km from Manali, Hampta Pass is a small passage between the Lahaul Chandra Valley and Kullu Valley in the Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most popular treks which commences from Manali.

Hampta Pass is perched at an altitude of 4,270m on the Pir Panjal range in the Himalayas. The pass derives its name from the tiny hamlet Hampta, snuggled in the laps of the Kullu Valley. As per the legend, Hampta Pass got its name after Hampta Maharishi who meditated there. This pass is frequently used by shepherds of the lower Himalayan region, seeking high altitude grasslands in the summer, when the dry cold desert of Lahaul is barren.

The trek starts from the Jobra base camp, which has campsites and a few lodges for trekkers. Jobra has road connectivity with Manali and can be easily reached by a private vehicle. The trek trail goes through Jobra-Balu Ka Ghera- Siagoru-Chhatru-Manali and can be finished in 4-5 days. The entire trail of Hampta Pass is dotted with dense pinewood forests, endless green meadows, rustling mountain streams, vibrant wildflowers, daunting mountains, beautiful valleys, serene lakes, and pools. Walk past the incredible views of snow-clad mountains decorated with rippling ridges and infinite stretch of green shrouded in mist. The trek is of moderate difficulty level and is preferred by both beginners as well as experienced trekkers.

The last leg of the trek is completely a downhill journey from Siagoru to Chhatru (6 km) in which one has to descend close to 1900 feet that takes almost 5 hours to complete. After so many turns and twists, one will reach the Hampta Pass located at the height of 14,000 feet and cross over to the Spiti side to camp at Siagoru. From there, you may drive down to Manali or you may drive down to Chandratal (4-5 hours) if it is accessible by road.

The best time to do this trek is from mid-June to mid-October.