Hampta Pass Trek — 5 Days, 14,000 Feet

Arrive in Manali, a hill station settled at 6,725 feet, and transfer to your lodgings. The town's position and gentle summer weather make it a natural gateway for trekking into the western Himalayas. After lunch and a brief rest, begin your hike toward Chika on the Hampta Pass trek. The route climbs through coniferous forest—deodar, spruce, and fir—passing the villages of Prerni and Jobri, and crossing Aleo Nallah stream as you ascend. Chika sits at approximately 10,250 feet, a picturesque valley with lush grass-covered terrain, gentle surrounding slopes, and a river flowing through its expanse. The day covers moderate terrain over 6–8 kilometers. Settle into your accommodation at Chika for the night.

After breakfast, continue your Hampta Pass trek toward Bhalu ka Ghera, a high valley situated at 11,480 feet. The name translates to "bear's territory"—during winter months, brown bears descend from higher elevations to hibernate here, though encounters are rare during trekking season. The initial section requires crossing a makeshift bridge constructed from logs over a rapidly flowing river. Exercise caution on this crossing, as water volume can be substantial depending on snowmelt conditions. Beyond the bridge, keep left and begin a sustained climb with increasingly steep terrain. As you gain altitude, the landscape transforms: alpine meadows give way to open moorland, and wildflowers dot the wilderness throughout your ascent. A second stream crossing occurs mid-morning. Cross here rather than later in the day—as the sun strengthens, accelerated snowmelt from higher peaks swells the water flow, making afternoon crossings more hazardous. Bhalu ka Ghera itself is a scenic, treeless valley enclosed by high mountains. Clouds frequently drift at ground level here, creating an atmospheric contrast to the forested terrain of lower elevations. The open landscape offers expansive views across the moorland. This stage covers approximately 8 kilometers and takes 4–5 hours of walking time. Upon arrival, locate your campsite and settle for the night.

An early start marks the longest and most demanding day of the trek. The route proceeds through a tranquil open valley toward Hampta Pass, which lies at approximately 14,000 feet above sea level. The pass marks the border between Himachal Pradesh and the Lahaul and Spiti districts—keeping left as you ascend ensures entry into Lahaul proper. Terrain transitions gradually from meadow to sparse alpine moorland. At this elevation, seasonal snow patches may remain visible even in summer months, and permanently snow-covered peaks are visible in the distance. During summers, the pass comes alive with lush green grass and high-altitude grazing animals that roam without concern. Wild flowers add colour to the landscape, and small water streams flow through the terrain. Numerous rest spots punctuate the climb, offering respite during this gruelling phase. After crossing the pass, the descent begins through easier, flatter terrain as the route enters the Lahaul region. A steep log bridge crossing occurs during descent—a technical section requiring balance and caution due to its steepness. Once crossed, the trail eases and descends gradually to Siagoru, an alpine meadow situated at approximately 13,000 feet and ideal for camping. The full day involves roughly 14 kilometres of mixed terrain trekking. On arrival, transfer to your campsite and retire for the night.

After breakfast at the Siagoru campsite, begin the next section of the Hampta Pass trek by crossing the river visible from camp. The day's first stretch is straightforward—a long, gentle descent through sloping terrain that gradually opens into the Chandra River valley. As you lose elevation toward 11,000 feet, the landscape widens around you, carved by the river over centuries. Along the route, particularly as you approach Chatru, makeshift stalls dot the hillside, offering simple meals and refreshments to trekkers. The settlement of Chatru sits cradled in this valley, marking the day's end. You'll cover approximately 8 kilometers in around 5 hours of mostly downhill walking. Settle into the campsite here for the night.

A vehicle drive from Chatru ascends to Chandratal Lake (approximately 14,000 feet), a high-altitude alpine lake in the Chandra River watershed. The lake reflects surrounding peaks and sky. Time is allocated for observation and photography. Return to Manali follows the descent via vehicle, retracing the lower route via Chatru and the valleys below, arriving in Manali by late afternoon.