Overview
The charming Hampta Pass is located deep within Kullu, Himachal Pradesh’s ethereal areas. With the enormous stretch of dry and barren mountains of the Lahaul valley on one side and the contrasting scenery of flowers, waterfalls, streams, and woods of the Kullu valley on the other, this walk is complete. It is a 22-kilometer, five-day trip with few ups and downs, little rain, and an unexpected shift in scenery. During the initial two days of our voyage, the stunning Rani nallah travels with us. After a few of thrilling river crossings on the third day, we begin climbing toward the 4,200-meter-high pass.At the enchanting high altitude lake known as Chandra Tal Lake, the walk comes to a conclusion. At 4,250 meters above sea level, this turquoise blue lake is renowned for its beauty and tranquility. The best months to complete this hike are June through October, when a plethora of vibrant blooms and colors come to life due to the wonders of the monsoon rains.
Because of the soft white clouds, the area is well-known for its regular whiteouts. Highlights of Hampta Pass include hiking through cotton clouds, camping beside gentle river currents, having lunch on colorful flower meadows, strolling across charming bridges, crossing the snow-covered pass, stopping at little waterfalls, and taking relaxing showers.
The trails of Hampta Pass hold surprises at every step and every stop. When we start walking from the base camp, Jobra, the trails are covered with small shrubs, oak, deodar, and maple trees. After crossing through the first campsite Chikka, the trails gain height. Slush and rocks mark the path here. Finally, the trail extends towards the second campsite Balu Ka Ghera through the flower meadows of Jwara. From Balu Ka Gehra, spanning at a distance of 4 kilometers, the trails incline with snow and boulders and reach the pass. From the pass, the nature of the trail completely changes and descends with a 50-degree steep path towards the third campsite, Shea Goru. From Shea Goru the journey gets easy and continues with a simple descent to Chhatru.
Some of the basic challenges we face in Hampta Pass are the constant rains, trails filled with slush, and steep descents. It requires proper gears and skills to safely move ahead. This Himalayan trek comes under category 4 on the Bikat Rating Scale. This makes it a moderate level trek. It is ideal for both professionals and beginners. But, to face the high altitude weather and terrain, one must complete a level 3 trek like the Kuari Pass trek or a couple of level 2 treks like Beas Kund and Bhrigu Lake before this. This will give you the necessary leg strength and lung capacity to finish the trek comfortably.
