Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake

Region

Himachal Pradesh

Duration

5 Days

Grade

Easy to Moderate

Max Altitude

14,100 Ft

Trekking Km

26km

Pickup & Drop Point

Manali

Base Camp

Manali

Food

All Meals (Veg + Egg)

Stay

Guest house & Camping

Best Season

June to September

Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake

Starting from

₹ Price on Request

Best Price Guaranteed
Transport Included (Manali to Manali)

Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake – Overview

The Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake is one of the most spectacular crossover treks in the Indian Himalayas. This unique journey begins in the lush green valleys of Kullu and ends in the barren high-altitude desert of Lahaul-Spiti, offering an incredible contrast of landscapes in just a few days. From dense pine forests and flower-filled meadows to glaciers, rocky terrain, and the surreal beauty of Chandratal Lake (Moon Lake), every step of the trek is filled with breathtaking views.

Organized by Trek Soul, this trek perfectly blends thrill, serenity, and cultural experiences. Trekkers witness dramatic terrain changes—from the vibrant greenery of Manali and Jobra to the rugged landscapes of Shea Goru and Spiti. This transition from one ecosystem to another makes the Hampta Pass Trek one of the most diverse and rewarding treks in Himachal Pradesh. ...

Location & Region

The trek is located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, connecting the Kullu Valley to the Lahaul-Spiti region in Himachal Pradesh. It starts near Manali (Jobra/Sethan) and ascends to the Hampta Pass (14,100 ft), before descending towards Chhatru and finally reaching Chandratal Lake, situated at the same altitude.

Trail Highlights

The trail begins with scenic forests of pine, deodar, and maple, gradually opening into vast alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. The crossing of Hampta Pass offers the most dramatic moment of the trek, showcasing a striking contrast between the lush Kullu Valley and the barren Lahaul Valley. The final journey to Chandratal Lake feels surreal, with its turquoise waters reflecting snow-clad peaks.

Flora & Fauna

The lower regions are rich in vegetation, including pine, oak, birch, and rhododendron forests. During summer, meadows bloom with Himalayan flowers like blue poppies and daisies. Wildlife sightings may include Himalayan monals, snow pigeons, marmots, and grazing mountain goats.

Chandratal Lake – The Moon Lake

Chandratal Lake, meaning “Lake of the Moon,” is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in India. Its crescent shape and ever-changing shades of blue and turquoise create a magical setting. Camping near the lake under a sky full of stars is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Difficulty Level

The Hampta Pass Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it ideal for beginners with good fitness levels as well as experienced trekkers. The trek includes gradual ascents, river crossings, and one steep climb to the pass.

Cultural Experience

The journey also offers glimpses of Himachali and Spitian culture. Starting from the vibrant villages of Manali with apple orchards and wooden houses, the trek gradually moves into the Buddhist-influenced landscapes of Lahaul-Spiti, where monasteries and prayer flags define the region.

Highlights of the Trek

  • Crossover trek from Kullu Valley to Spiti Valley
  • Reach Hampta Pass at 14,100 ft
  • Visit the stunning Chandratal Lake
  • Walk through alpine meadows and wildflower valleys
  • Experience glaciers, rivers, and dramatic landscapes
  • Camp under star-filled Himalayan skies
  • Witness diverse cultures and terrains in one trek

Conclusion

The Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake is more than just a trek—it’s a journey through two completely different worlds. From green valleys filled with life to stark, silent mountains of Spiti, every day offers a new experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, photography, or peace, this trek delivers it all in one unforgettable Himalayan journey.

Itineraries

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Manali → Jobra → Chika

Drive: Manali to Jobra (16 km)
Trek: 2–3 km (2 hrs)
Altitude: 10,100 ft

Scenic drive followed by a short forest trek along Rani Nallah to reach the beautiful Chika campsite.

Trek: 8–9 km (5–6 hrs)
Altitude: 11,900 ft

Gradual ascent through meadows and river crossings to reach the base camp of Hampta Pass.

Trek: 9–10 km (8–9 hrs)
Altitude: 14,100 ft (Pass)

Summit day with stunning views; cross Hampta Pass and descend into the Spiti side at Shea Goru.

Trek: 7–8 km | Drive: 3–4 hrs
Altitude: 14,000 ft

Descend to Chatru and drive to the stunning Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley.

Drive: 120 km (6–7 hrs)

Return drive via Batal and Rohtang Pass, ending the trek in Manali.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Manali (6,725 ft) → Jobra (9,800 ft) → Chika (10,100 ft)

Route: Manali – Prini – Sethan – Jobra – Chika
Trek Distance: 2 km (1.5–2 hrs)
Drive Distance: 20 km (1.5 hrs)
Altitude Gain: 3,375 ft

Highlights:
● Scenic drive through pine forests
● Rani Nallah riverside trail
● First campsite in lush meadow

Day Overview:
The journey begins from Manali, the gateway to Himalayan treks. After breakfast and a short briefing, drive to Jobra through dense deodar and oak forests with views of apple orchards and the Beas Valley.

From Jobra, begin an easy trek through thick forests of pine, maple, and birch. The trail follows the Rani Nallah stream, creating a peaceful and refreshing start to the trek.

Within 2 hours, reach Chika campsite — a wide green meadow surrounded by towering peaks. Settle into your tents and enjoy the evening.

Evening Highlight: Stunning sunset views of Indrasan and Deo Tibba peaks.

Route: Chika – Jwara – Balu ka Ghera
Trek Distance: 6 km (5–6 hrs)
Altitude Gain: 1,800 ft

Highlights:
● Alpine meadows & wildflowers
● Waterfalls & stream crossings
● View of Hampta Pass ridge

Day Overview:
The trail gradually ascends through meadows and rocky sections. After a few hours, reach Jwara — a beautiful valley filled with wildflowers and melting snow streams.

Beyond Jwara, the trail becomes steeper as you approach Balu ka Ghera, a sandy campsite formed by glacial deposits and located at the base of Hampta Pass.

Snow patches become visible on higher slopes, signaling the upcoming high-altitude crossing.

Evening Highlight: Reflections of snowy peaks on Rani Nallah at sunset.

Trek Distance: 8 km (7–8 hrs)
Altitude Gain: +2,200 ft | Descent: 1,200 ft

Highlights:
● Summit crossing of Hampta Pass
● 360° Himalayan views
● Transition from Kullu to Spiti

Day Overview:
The most exciting day begins early. The climb to Hampta Pass involves snow patches, rocky terrain, and steep ascents.

At the summit (14,100 ft), witness a dramatic contrast — lush Kullu Valley behind and barren Lahaul Valley ahead. Peaks like Indrasan and Deo Tibba dominate the skyline.

After spending time at the pass, descend carefully to Shea Goru through snowfields and loose gravel.

Evening Highlight: Crystal-clear starlit sky in the Lahaul Valley.

Trek: 7 km (4–5 hrs) | Drive: 70 km (2–3 hrs)

Highlights:
● Rocky descent & glacial streams
● Entry into Spiti landscape
● Chandratal Lake experience

Day Overview:
Descend through rocky terrain to Chatru, where greenery fades into Spiti’s barren landscape.

From Chatru, drive along the Chandra River via Batal to reach Chandratal Lake — a stunning crescent-shaped high-altitude lake.

Evening Highlight: Magical sunset and stargazing at Chandratal.

Drive: 120 km (6–7 hrs)

Highlights:
● Scenic mountain drive
● Rohtang Pass crossing
● Return to lush Kullu Valley

Day Overview:
Begin with a beautiful sunrise at Chandratal before driving back to Manali via Batal, Gramphu, and Rohtang Pass.

Witness dramatic landscape changes from Spiti’s cold desert to the green valleys of Kullu.

Evening Highlight: Arrival in Manali with unforgettable memories of the trek.

Included

  • Transport Includes from Manali to Manali
  • Meals during trek (veg, breakfast/lunch/dinner + tea)
  • Accommodation ( Tents only)
  • Trek permits & forest entry fees
  • Gaiters & crampons
  • Trek equipments: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent (twin sharing), kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent
  • First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder.
  • Trek leader & guide, support staff, mules/porters for camping gear

Excluded

  • Meals during transit (Day 1 & Day 5 on road)
  • Personal porter/mule for backpack (extra cost)
  • Personal expenses (snacks, bottled water, tips)
  • Any king of Insurance
  • Any emergency evacuation / medical expenses
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions

Best Time to Visit

Mid-June to Mid-October is the ideal window for this trek.
In June and July, trekkers encounter snow near the pass, adding to the adventure.
August to September offers lush meadows, blooming flowers, and clear skies.
October brings autumn colors and crisp weather before the trails close for winter.

How To Reach

Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake is located in Parvati Valley, near Barshaini village, in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The trek starts from Barshaini, about 22 km from Kasol.

By Air

Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu–Manali Airport)
Distance to Barshaini: ~50 km
Travel Time: Around 2 hours by road

How to Reach from Airport:
From Bhuntar, you can take a taxi or local bus to Kasol → Manikaran → Barshaini.

Alternative Airports:
Chandigarh Airport: ~270 km (8–9 hrs by road)
Delhi Airport: ~520 km (12–13 hrs by road)

By Train

Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
Distance to Barshaini: ~125 km
Travel Time: 5–6 hours by road

Alternative Major Station: Chandigarh Railway Station (~270 km)
Better connectivity with major Indian cities.
From Chandigarh, take a bus or taxi to Bhuntar → Kasol → Barshaini.

By Bus/Road

From Delhi:
Distance: ~520 km
Route: Delhi → Chandigarh → Mandi → Bhuntar → Kasol → Barshaini
Time: 12–13 hours (by private car or bus)
Volvo and HRTC buses are available up to Bhuntar or Kasol.

From Kasol to Barshaini:
Distance: ~22 km
Options: Local taxi or bus (approx. 1 hour)
Trek Route:
The actualHampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake starts from Barshaini.
Trek Distance: ~12 km
Duration: 4–6 hours depending on pace.

Things to Carry

Smart packing is the secret to making the most of your Himalayan adventure. The mountains challenge both your stamina and your readiness, so every item in your backpack should be intentional and essential. Here’s why each one counts:

● Clothing:

  • 3 warm layers (fleece + padded jacket + thermal)
  • Waterproof gloves, woollen socks, balaclava, cap
  • Trek pants (quick-dry), thermal inners

● Trek Gear recommended to check:

  • Trekking shoes (waterproof, good grip)
  • Backpack (40–50 L with rain cover)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries

● Other Essentials:

  • Sunglasses (for snow blindness)
  • Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 40+)
  • Reusable water bottle/thermos

Foods During Trek

Breakfast

Beverages
Tea (Regular / Masala / Ginger)
Coffee
Fresh Juice (Orange)

Breads & Light Items
Bread with Butter & Jam
Veg Sandwiches

Eggs
Omelette (Plain / Cheese / Masala)

Indian Breakfast Specials
Aloo Paratha with Curd & Pickle
Chole Bhature
Aloo Poori

Healthy & Light Options
Mix Veg Poha with Lemon
Mix Veg Vermicelli (Upma Style)
Porridge (Oats or Semolina)

Lunch

Main Course
Roti
Mixed Vegetable Sabzi
Paneer Bhurji / Paneer Butter Masala
Dal Makhni / Yellow Dal Tadka
Rajma Masala / Chole Masala
Vegetable Pulao / Jeera Rice / Peas Pulao

Sides & Complements
Curd / Raita (Boondi or Vegetable)
Pickle (Mango / Lemon)
Green Salad (Cucumber, Tomato, Onion, Lemon)
Papad

Refreshments & Extras
Banana / Apple / Orange
Biscuits (Digestive / Marie / Glucose)
Chocolate Bars / Energy Bars

Evening Tea/Snacks Menu

Beverages
Tea (Regular / Masala / Ginger)
Coffee (Hot / Cappuccino)
Hot Chocolate

Soups
Mix Veg Soup / Tomato Soup / Sweet Corn Soup

Snacks & Savories
Bread Pakoda with Green Chutney
Veg Pakoda (Onion / Paneer / Spinach)
Maggi (Plain / Vegetable)
French Fries
Samosa
Popcorn (Light and Crunchy)

Dinner

Main Course
Mattar Paneer / Shahi Paneer
Rajma with Jeera Rice
Roti / Paratha with Seasonal Sabzi
Tadka Daal (Yellow Daal)
Aloo Gobhi / Aloo Methi
Masur Daal / Chana Daal
Mix Veg Manchurian with Fried Rice or Noodles

Desserts
Gulab Jamun
Sooji Halwa / Gajar Halwa

Beverages
Bournvita with Hot Milk
Herbal Tea (Optional for Digestion)

Note:This is a tentative menu. Trek Soul reserves the right to change or update the menu without any prior notice.

Why Choose Trek Soul ?

Trek Soule ensures that your Hampta Pass with Chandratal journey is not just a trek, but a complete Himalayan experience. With professional guides, safe camping equipment, nutritious mountain meals, and a strong focus on responsible trekking, Trek Soule provides the comfort and safety every trekker deserves.

The team’s expertise allows trekkers to enjoy the route worry-free—whether crossing icy streams, walking through meadows, or admiring the Milky Way over Chandratal. The focus is always on creating meaningful mountain memories while respecting local culture and preserving the environment.

Booking Process for Trek Soul

Hampta Pass Trek with Chandratal Lake 📍
BOOK FROM WEBSITES:
Trek Cost Per Head

Trek: 6499/-
Includes 5% @ GST
( Manali To Manali)
Duration: 5Days, 4Nights

Payment mode
Googlepay, PhonePe, Bhim :
Name of the Bank - :
Account Holder-:
Account Number- :
IFSC Code- :
Branch- :

1.Inquiry
• Reach out via the official website, WhatsApp, or call to inquire about trek availability and details...

2.Availability Confirmation:
• Check the trek dates availability on website

3. Booking & Payments
• 1000/ Per Person In advance payment is required at the time of booking.
• Balance to be paid at least 3 days before departure.
• Payment accepted via bank transfer, UPI, or authorized payment gateway.

4. Booking Confirmation:
• Upon receiving the deposit, Trek Soul will send a booking confirmation invoice on WhatsApp or mail

5. Balance Payment
• The remaining balance is to be paid 2 days before the trek date.
• Payment can be made via bank transfer, UPI, or other approved methods.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation 30Days or More Before the Start of the Trip: Refund options Voucher / REFUND
5% deduction of the trek fee
100% cash voucher for any trip, valid for one year
Transfer the trek (any trek, any date) to a friend


Cancellation Between 20 Days and 10 Days Before the Start of the Trip:
Participants can select from the following refund options:
30% deduction of the trek fee
100% cash voucher for the same trip, valid for one year.
100 % cash voucher for any trip, valid for one year.
Transfer the trek (same trek, any date) to a friend


Cancellation Between 10 Days and 01 Days Before the Start of the Trip Refund options include:
50% deduction of the trek fee.
100% cash voucher for the same trip, valid for one year.
50% cash voucher for any trip, valid for one year.
Transfer the trek (same trek, any date) to a friend.


Cancellation Less Than 5 Days Before the Start of the Trip: Refund options are limited to:
full Trek cost will be not refundable
20% cash voucher for the same trip, valid for one year

Rental Gear

Trekking Jacket

₹ 500

Hiking Pants

₹ 300

Trekking Shoes

₹ 500

Woollen Socks

₹ 200

Hand Gloves

₹ 200

Head Torch

₹ 150

Woollen Cap

₹ 150

Poncho

₹ 200

Walking Pole

₹ 200

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

What is the difficulty level of the Hampta Pass Trek?

The Hampta Pass Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It is suitable for beginners with good fitness levels as well as experienced trekkers. The trek includes gradual ascents, river crossings, and one steep climb to the pass.

The best time to do the Hampta Pass Trek is from June to September. During this period, trekkers can experience lush green valleys, blooming flowers, and accessible routes to Chandratal Lake.

The highest point of the trek is Hampta Pass at 14,100 ft (4,298 meters). Chandratal Lake is also located at a similar altitude.

The trek typically lasts 4 to 5 days and covers a distance of approximately 25–30 km, depending on the route and itinerary.

Yes, most itineraries include a visit to Chandratal Lake after reaching Chatru. The lake is accessible by road and is one of the major highlights of the trek.

Prior trekking experience is not mandatory, but it is recommended to have basic fitness and stamina. Beginners should prepare with regular walking, cardio exercises, and short hikes before the trek.

Accommodation is usually in tents on a twin or triple sharing basis at designated campsites like Chika, Balu ka Ghera, Shea Goru, and near Chandratal.

Yes, the trek is considered safe when done with experienced guides and proper planning. However, trekkers should follow safety guidelines, stay hydrated, and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude-related issues.

Accommodation is usually in tents on a twin or triple sharing basis at designated campsites like Chika, Balu ka Ghera, Shea Goru, and near Chandratal.

Essential items include trekking shoes, warm layers, waterproof jacket, gloves, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medicines, and a backpack. Carrying proper gear is crucial for comfort and safety.

Temperatures can range from 15°C during the day to -5°C at night, especially near Hampta Pass and Chandratal. Proper layering is essential.