Visit Chadratal Lake On The Hampta Pass Trek

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The Hampta pass is one of the most popular destinations for mountaineers. The trek trail is on the breathtaking Lahaul and Spiti valley, which will leave you breathless. 

Photo of Visit Chadratal Lake On The Hampta Pass Trek 1/5 by Sam K. Pandepa

The most popular destination on this hike is the stunning Chandrataal lake, perched at 14,100 feet. This enchanting water lake is surrounded by towering desert mountains and is a scenic highlight of the Hampta pass trek. During the trek, you'll be rewarded with a view of the majestic Spiti Valley.

Itinerary

The Hampta Pass is a fantastic Himalayan cross-over trek that begins in Jobra and cuts through forests. From Jobra, you will trek to Chikka and Balu ka Ghera, a small campsite furnished with a carpet of flora and a wildflower meadow, and then passes through the Hamta pass. The route climbs slowly through the forest until you reach the snowy region, where you'll find a series of mountain peaks. After Hampta Pass, you'll come to the Shea Ghoru and then to Chatru, from where you drive to Manali via Rohtang pass.

Photo of Visit Chadratal Lake On The Hampta Pass Trek 2/5 by Sam K. Pandepa

Day 1: Jobra To Chika

Day 2: Chika to Balu ka Ghera

Day3: Balu ka Ghera to Hampta pass Crossing

Day 4: Siagoru to Chatru drive

Day 5: Departure

Photo of Visit Chadratal Lake On The Hampta Pass Trek 3/5 by Sam K. Pandepa

The Hampta Pass trek is a five-day trip that crosses two different landscapes. It begins at Jobra and ends at Chatru.

The entire trip is just 25 km long and requires you to build up strength and flexibility.

During the trek you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful high-alpine landscape while enjoying the spectacular views. The Hamta pass is one of the highest points in the Himalayan range and is worth exploring on foot.

Best time

The Hampta Pass trek is best done in the months of July and August, but it is possible to trek to the top any time from May to October. The temperatures on the mountain are cold and frequently fluctuate throughout the year, so it's essential to be prepared. The frequent climate change might make the trek a bit challenging, but it's worth the effort. However, it's not as difficult as it may sound.

Photo of Visit Chadratal Lake On The Hampta Pass Trek 4/5 by Sam K. Pandepa

The weather conditions are usually temperate and unpredictable, making summers the most pleasant time to trek.

Difficulty Level

The Hampta pass trek is a relatively easy trek for experienced trekkers, but beginners and amateur trekkers should not worry about the difficulties. It's suitable for all levels of mountaineering, from seasoned hikers to beginners. Compared to other Himalayan treks, the Hampta pass trek doesn't have many challenging sections and is relatively easy to conquer. As long as you are prepared for the weather, you'll have a great time trekking to Hampta Pass!

Photo of Visit Chadratal Lake On The Hampta Pass Trek 5/5 by Sam K. Pandepa

It's also a good idea to hire a guide if you're unfamiliar with mountaineering. A guide will ensure your safety and navigate unpredictable conditions. If you don't have any experience or training in hiking, a guide will be very helpful.

How to reach

This five-day trek begins after a couple of hours' drive from Manali to Jobra, the base camp. You can reach Manali by road or by air from Delhi. You can fly to Chandigarh and then take a bus to Manali from there. Reach Jobra from Manali and then continue your trek from there.

Things to Carry

If you are on a DIY trek, you need to carry/rent the tent and other camping essentials as given below:

Camping Essentials

Tents

Sleeping bag

Insect repellent

Firestarter

Pillow

Sleeping mat for tent camping.

Mallet, spare pegs, and puller.

Emergency light

Batteries

Duct tape

Hot water bottle for the winter trek

Tent repair kit.

Kitchen Essentials (for DIY trek)

Utensils for cooking and eating

Portable camping BBQ or stove

Fuel

Lighters or matches

Dishwashing liquid or bar

Sponge

Cutting board

Cooler to keep beverage and food fresh and safe

Pot

Pan

Kettle

Garbage bag

Bowls

Mugs

Tin and bottle opener

Other Essentials

If you are hiring an agency for the trek, then you only need the following items:

Backpack

Trekking pole

Head torch

Water bottle/Thermos

Snacks/Energy bars

First aid kit

Non-cotton T-shirts with Full sleeves

Fleece T-shirts

Fleece jacket

Sweater

Down Jacket

Waterproof Jacket

Thermals

Towel

Sunscreen cream

Hand sanitizer

Moisturiser

Toilet Paper

Wet wipes

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Lip balm

Woolen cap

Balaclava

Sunglasses (U/V protected).

Trekking shoes

Cotton socks

Woolen socks

Waterproof gloves (smart-touch/touchscreen)

Conclusion

The Hampta Pass is an incredible place to hike, and it provides a variety of adventure activities, from camping to glacier-watching. The trek offers panoramic views of several snow-covered peaks. The Hampta pass trek is popular among the starters, but the weather is unpredictable, and the pass can be a challenge, but it's well worth the trouble. Its high altitude and varied environment make it a truly unique experience. A trip to the Hampta pass should be done if you are fit, healthy, and ready for a long hike.

It's a little less popular than the Kedarkantha trek, but it's a fantastic adventure. Located at 14,010 feet, this small corridor is the cross-border between Lahaul and Spiti and is a major hiking destination. It provides breathtaking views of the Lahaul Valley and is one of the best Himalayan hikes.