Day 1: Arrival in Manali
Arrival and Acclimatization: Reach Manali by bus, private vehicle, or flight.
Spend the day relaxing and acclimatizing to the altitude.
You can explore Manali’s local attractions like Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, or the Old Manali area.
Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 2: Manali to Jobra – Start of the Trek
Drive from Manali to Jobra (2,480 meters, 8,140 feet): A 1.5 to 2-hour drive through scenic roads.
Trek from Jobra to Chika (2,700 meters, 8,858 feet): 3-4 hours of trekking through dense forests, crossing streams, and passing meadows.
Chika is a beautiful campsite with views of the peaks.
Overnight at the campsite.
Day 3: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera
Trek from Chika to Balu Ka Ghera (3,600 meters, 11,811 feet): A 5-6 hour trek with steep ascents and traversing through alpine meadows and boulder-strewn paths.
The views become more dramatic as you get closer to the pass.
Balu Ka Ghera offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks and is a great camping site.
Overnight at the campsite.
Day 4: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass and Descend to Shea Goru
Trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass (4,270 meters, 14,010 feet): A 4-5 hour trek involving a steep ascent to the pass.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Lahaul and Kullu valleys, with snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes.
Descend to Shea Goru (3,600 meters, 11,811 feet): After crossing the pass, descend for another 3-4 hours to the campsite at Shea Goru, located on the other side of the pass in the Lahaul Valley.
Overnight at Shea Goru campsite.
Day 5: Shea Goru to Chatru
Trek from Shea Goru to Chatru (3,000 meters, 9,843 feet): A 4-5 hour trek through barren landscapes, crossing streams, and passing through a narrow gorge.
Chatru is a small settlement in Lahaul Valley, and you’ll be able to enjoy views of the Bara Shigri Glacier.
Overnight at Chatru (or take a drive from here to Manali, depending on the trek package).
Day 6: Drive from Chatru to Manali
Drive back to Manali: From Chatru, you can hire a vehicle for a 6-7 hour drive back to Manali via Rohtang Pass. The journey is scenic, and you can rest and relax after the trek.
Evening arrival in Manali.
Day 7: Departure
Depending on your travel plans, you can explore Manali or directly depart to your next destination.
—
Key Highlights of the Hampta Pass Trek:
Scenic Contrasts: From lush, green valleys to barren landscapes.
Hampta Pass: A high-altitude pass that offers jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas.
Alpine Meadows: Beautiful meadows like Balu Ka Ghera and Chika.
Diverse Ecosystems: Cross through different ecological zones, from dense forests to alpine regions.
The Lahaul Valley: The trek ends with the stark beauty of Lahaul’s barren land and snow-covered peaks.
Tips for the Trek:
1. Fitness: It’s a moderately challenging trek, so make sure you’re in good physical condition and prepared for altitude.
2. Clothing: Pack warm clothing (layers) as temperatures can dip sharply, especially at higher altitudes.
3. Carry Water & Snacks: Stay hydrated and carry energy foods, as some sections of the trek have limited availability of water.
4. Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits for trekking in Himachal Pradesh.
5. Weather: The trek is best done between June and September to avoid heavy snow and landslides.
This itinerary gives you a detailed, immersive experience of the Hampta Pass trek while allowing enough time to enjoy the views and acclimatize.