Beginners Guide for Hampta Pass Trek

For Beginners who are looking ahead to start their trek experience with Hampta Pass BanBanjara, then to confirm further this is your best decision. Hampta is a high-altitude trek and is located in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh. The trail route of this trek is predominantly occupied by a narrow path bordered by two elevated valleys namely Kullu and Lahaul Valley. This summit is as high as 14,010 ft. above sea level and needs a set of preparations to be taken before heading out. Advisably, this trek should be taken between the month of June to September, lest it could be risky due to snowfall. Although the inevitable beauty of Hampta is enough to convince you for this trek, this is also an adventurous trek that is going to be mind-blowing while trailing.

Pre-Trek Preparation

Assumably, this trek is not going to trouble you much only if you are well-prepared and be cautious with your physique.

Things to Carry:

1. a) Do carry Trek pole, Microspikes, and gators in shoes, will make your trek convenient.
2. b) Advised to carry camping tent to save money and if you are associating with a Trekking group then do not have to worry about that.
3. c) Due to high altitude sickness you may face AMS, so you need to carry enough water with you. Furthermore, if you are prone to AMS then you can also resort to the Diamox course.
4. d) Make sure to carry your cameras and fast charging power banks.
5. e) Do not forget to carry your rainwear, warm padded jackets, and cardigans, if required quilts.

• Lastly but important research well and either find a guide for yourself or join a trekking troop, as this is your first time so it could get troublesome without a guide. 

The Trek Route

1. To reach the first trekking point you need to arrive at Manali, and then take a cab or if available a bus to Jobra.
2. From Jobra, the trek starts the same day to Chika for 2 hours at an altitude of 10,100 ft. Here lies your first base camp to stay for the night after an easy trek which could be termed as an arm up for the upcoming trial. The short stay here is a delight to the soul as you camp near the Rani Nallah river.
3. The trek from Chika to Balu ka ghera is comparatively not so easy as the last day but neither as challenging as the next day. In this trail you will be required to stride a river crossover as well as a slightly steeper ascend passing through lush green meadows crammed by mountainous sheep.
4. New dawn arrives with the excitement to ascend up to the major destination, Hampta Pass. This day is marked by the trail from Balu ka ghera to Sheagoru via Hampta Pass. The trail to the spectacular valley of Lahaul and Spiti, either side of which lies the barren terrain and lush green meadow. After descending to Sheagoru, stay there for the day.
5. The nest day is the interesting part of this trek, in spite of already accomplishing the highest peak you get to explore Chandratal after a trail from Sheagoru to Chatru. 2 hours from Chatru campsite you can encounter a beautiful and enchanting Chandratal lake that is adorned with scenic mountains on all sides.
6. A ride back to Manali from Chatru marks the end of this trek.

Quick tips to the Beginners out there:

• Follow your guide and stay with your fellow trekkers.
• Do not attempt this alone, try seeking guidance.
• Be careful at every step of your trail as this is the first time you are trekking.
• It is a 5-day trek as per the standard itinerary, so you need to be prepared accordingly from beforehand.
• Do not panic if it rains slightly because it will not last long. Although it is a monsoon trek, the rainfall is hardly going to bother you.
• The campsites before reaching Hampta would be comparatively colder, thus covering yourself with thick layers and hot drinks are suggested.
• Do not miss out on the scenic view of the rainshadow region in Lahaul, which arrives after descending the Hampta pass.