Hampta Pass, Himachal Pradesh
Kullu-Manali · Beas Circuit

Hampta Pass

About

Hampta Pass (4,270 m) is one of the most dramatic and rewarding crossings in the western Himalayas — a 4–5 day trek that begins in the lush, green Kullu Valley and arrives in the starkly beautiful Lahaul landscape. The pass itself is a knife-edge crossing with sheer drops on both sides, ice bridges to cross, and views of some of the Himalaya's most impressive peaks. The trek is typically extended by a day-trip to Chandratal (Moon Lake) — an impossibly turquoise glacial lake at 4,300 m that has become one of Himachal's most iconic images.

Highlights

  • starThe pass crossing — ice bridges, glaciers, 360° mountain views
  • starDramatic landscape transition from lush Kullu to barren Lahaul
  • starChandratal (Moon Lake) extension — 4,300 m turquoise glacial lake
  • starAlpine camping at Balu ka Ghera and Siagoru

Nearby Attractions

Manali

Trailhead base

Hire trek equipment and guides

Chandratal

2 hrs from Chatru (end point)

Sacred glacial lake

Gallery

Hampta Pass gallery 1
Hampta Pass gallery 2
Hampta Pass gallery 3

Local Experiences

  • exploreCrossing a high Himalayan pass — ice axe use may be required in June
  • exploreCamping at 4,000+ m with unobstructed stargazing
  • explorePhotographing the Indrasan and Deo Tibba peaks from the pass

Food & Drink

  • restaurantAll food must be carried; no shops beyond Chika
  • restaurantTrek operators provide all meals if booked as a package

Where to Stay

  • hotelTrek operator tent camps at Chika, Balu ka Ghera, Siagoru
  • hotelBasic guesthouses in Chatru on Manali-Kaza highway (descent side)

Travel Tips

  • lightbulbHire a registered Himachal Trek Operator from Manali — solo trekking discouraged
  • lightbulbThe pass has snow year-round — carry crampons or hire from Manali in June
  • lightbulbChandratal extension adds 1 day and requires separate camping setup
  • lightbulbReturn from Chatru is by shared jeep to Manali or continue to Kaza (Spiti)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Quick Info

terrain
Altitude
4,270 m (14,009 ft) at pass
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Best Season
Jun–Sep (snow conditions vary)
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Nearest Airport
Kullu-Bhuntar (50 km from Manali)
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From Delhi
~540 km to Manali + trek
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Trip Duration
4–5 days trek + travel days
directions_carBook Cab to Hampta Pass

Multi-stop journeys supported