Hampta Pass & Chandratal Lake Trek
Experience the dramatic transition from the lush green Kullu Valley to the stark, arid landscapes of Spiti. This moderate trek offers breathtaking views, high-altitude challenges, and the magical Chandratal Lake - a true Himalayan gem.
Location
Himachal Pradesh, IndiaDuration
5 Days / 4 NightsDifficulty
ModerateBest Time
June to September
Trek Highlights
Dramatic valley transitions (Kullu to Spiti)
High-altitude pass crossing (14,100 ft)
Chandratal Lake - the mystical moon lake
Crossing glacier rivers and alpine meadows
Panoramic views of snow-capped ranges
Unique geographical and ecological study
Detailed Itinerary
Morning: Arrival at Manali Base Camp
• Arrive at Manali Base Camp by 9:00 AM
• Briefing session by trek leaders
• Drive to Jobra village (16 km) - the trek starting point
Afternoon: Trek to Chika
• Trek through forested trails with maple & deodar trees
• Cross alpine meadows (3 km trek, 3 hours)
• Reach Chika campsite at 10,100 ft
• Overnight stay with dinner under the stars
Morning: Begin Trek to Balu Ka Ghera
• Trail winds along the river with wooden bridge crossings
• Navigate rocky patches and ascend gradually
Afternoon: Reach Balu Ka Ghera
• Complete 8 km trek in approximately 5 hours
• Arrive at Balu Ka Ghera ("bed of sand") at 12,100 ft
• Set up camp near a glacial stream
• Explore the area - a bear hibernation zone in winter
Early Morning: Summit Attempt
• Early start to scale the Hampta Pass
• Steep ascents with panoramic views of Lahaul Valley
• Witness the dramatic geographical transition
Mid-Day: Cross Hampta Pass
• Reach Hampta Pass summit at 14,100 ft
• Experience the shift from lush greenery to stark, arid landscapes
• Celebrate the achievement with breathtaking views
Afternoon: Descend to Shia Ghoru
• Descend to Shia Ghoru campsite (12,900 ft)
• Complete 12 km trek in approximately 8 hours
• Enjoy sunset views over Hanuman Tibba Peak
• Overnight stay in tents
Morning: Trek to Chhatru
• Trek 5 km to Chhatru village
• Reach the junction of Hampta Pass, Rohtang, and Spiti
• Prepare for the journey to Chandratal Lake
Afternoon: Visit Chandratal Lake
• Drive 49 km to Chandratal Lake (weather permitting)
• Explore the legendary moon-shaped lake
• Learn about the mythical belief of Yudhishthira's ascent to heaven
• Marvel at the azure waters nestled between barren mountains
Evening: Return to Chhatru
• Return to Chhatru campsite for the night
• Reflect on the day's experiences
• Total time for day's activities: 8-9 hours
Morning: Drive Back to Manali
• Morning drive back to Manali via Atal Tunnel
• 83 km journey taking approximately 4.5 hours
• Descend from 12,300 ft to 6,730 ft
Afternoon: Arrival in Manali
• Arrival in Manali by afternoon (~5 PM)
• Trip ends with incredible memories, stories, and photos!
Overall Educational Value
Geography
Alpine & Trans-Himalayan transitions, glacial formations, and high-altitude ecosystems.
Ecology
Flora, fauna, glacial rivers, and diverse mountain ecosystems across altitude zones.
Adventure & Survival Skills
Trekking techniques, camping, altitude awareness, and mountain safety.
Cultural Insight
Local legends, Himalayan villages, ancient routes, and mythological significance of sites.
Trek Information
Duration
5 Days / 4 Nights
Max Altitude
14,100 ft (Hampta Pass)
Trek Distance
Approx. 28 km
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Season
June to September
Pricing
Inclusions
- Accommodation on triple sharing in alpine/dome camps
- All meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 5 breakfast
- Crampons and gaiters for snow trekking
- Professional certified trek guide
- Transportation from Manali to Manali
- Forest permits and camping charges
- First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder
Exclusions
- Personal trekking gear (trekking pole, shoes, etc.)
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Rescue charges in emergency
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Essential Trekking Gear
Participants should bring:
- Trekking shoes
- Backpack (40-60 liters)
- Warm layers and waterproof jacket
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries