My Journey Through Hampta Pass : Postcards from the Heart

Where valleys whisper ancient tales and mountains cradle the spirit, the Hampta Pass trek in Himachal Pradesh offered me more than just a challenge—it gifted me perspective, peace, and a sense of timelessness. Every landscape felt like a living postcard, each with its own story….

Highlights of the Trek:

Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Highest Altitude: 14,040 feet
Total Trek Distance: 25km
Trek Duration: 5 days
Best Time to Visit: June to September

Manali- The Dreamy Town

Stepping off the bus in Manali, I was greeted by a cold breeze that wrapped around me like a grandma’s hug—warm, and comforting. The uphill roads, towering trees, and majestic mountains instantly melted all the fatigue of the journey. Visiting Manali in August was a delight; ripe apples hung in every courtyard, adding a sweet charm to the already dreamy town. It truly was the cherry—or should I say, apple—on the cake.

Manali to Jobra, Trek to Chika: The Trail Begins

Morning in Manali was crisp, scented with pine and anticipation. As our jeep ascended toward Jobra, the Beas River shimmered below like a silver ribbon intertwining through the valley. Jobra itself felt like a dream—serene and surreal.

With determination and excitement, we began our trek. The trail walked us through forests where sunlight filtered in golden streaks. After 3–4 hours of walking, crossing a cold, gushing river, and soaking in the beauty around us, we arrived at our first campsite—Chika.

Chika welcomed us with open meadows, grazing horses, and a river that sang melodious songs. That night, lying in my tent, I listened to the wind flowing through the mountains. It felt as if the mountains were whispering their secrets just to me.

Chika to Balu ka Ghera

The next step of the journey was tougher that needed more determination. The trail narrowed, and the river roared louder as we climbed. Rain showers drenched us, turning the path into slippery mud. Watching the weather shift dramatically was like watching a magic show—clouds moved across the peaks, creating moments so surreal they felt like dreams.

Drenched in sweat and rain, we finally reached Balu ka Ghera, our second campsite. Dropping my heavy backpack, I stood in silence-soaking up the accomplishment. The mountains didn’t just test my endurance; they helped me rediscover myself.

Ascent to Hampta Pass and Descend to Shea Goru

This was the day I’d been waiting for. The climb was steep; the air was chilled and the climb challenging. At one point, we crossed a frozen river, its surface shimmering under the sun. After ascending for 5-6 hours, we reached Hampta pass, the landscape changed in an instant. The green valleys of Kullu vanished and we could now see the barren, dramatic slopes of Lahaul. Standing at 14,100 ft, I felt small and infinte all at once. The wind howled like a hymn and the sky stretched endlessly. I silently whispered a Thank you to the mountains.

Reaching Hampta Pass felt like arriving at the edge of a dream, and the heart urged to stay more but we had a long way to go upto our next campsite- Shea Goru. The path from here onwards comprised of a steep descent towards Shea Goru Campsite that can be seen far off in the distance. Tired yet with grit we descended the zigzag mountain trails. Once we were down into the valley the gradient turned almost flat for the rest of the way to Shea Goru campsite. We reached the campsite in another 30-40 minutes of walking on flat terrain.

The next morning on the campsite was refreshing indeed! The river flowed with a roar next to our tents. The mountains surrounded us as if watching us play in their lap- The lap covered with thousands of colourful flowers. The views of Indrasen and Deo Tibba peak was something I still crave for.

Shea Goru to Chattru

We started our day by crossing a cold raging river. The experience indeed to be remembered lifetime! The gradient increased as we rush downhill towards Chattru that lies on the Manali – Kaza road. Enjoying the rich flora and fauna of Himalayas we kept walking the dreamy trails.

An hour short of our destination we got a clear view of the road that lied on the opposite bank of the raging Chenab River. That was the moment we could see vehicles for the first time in 4 days. Watching the alpine meadows with hundreds of sheep grazing quietly, we reached our last campsite- Chattru —where the journey paused, but its echoes stayed.

Drive to Chandratal- A journey to the Moon Lake

Next day drove to Chandratal, a journey that took us another 3 hours to an altitude of 4,260 meters. Chandratal Lake sat quietly in the middle of the rocky Spiti Valley, glowing like a bright blue gem. The water changed colors—from light blue to deep blue—sparkling gently in the sunlight. It was a place that didn’t just offer a view—it offered stillness.

We drove back to Chhatru and then to Manali- via Atal Tunnel. Packing a ton of memories and a heart filled with joy and emotions, we concluded our trek back in the courtyards of Manali.

Hampta Pass Trek isn’t just a trail- it’s a story unfolding at every camp. Connecting the dots in short of this magical story-