Treks are a really adventurous way to rejuvenate at a location of your choice in the lap of nature. The Himalayas being one of the most famous mountain ranges in the world have some amazing trails to trek on with views that are magnificent destinations that make us admire the beauty of nature all around. One of those happens to be the Hampta Pass trek.
The Hampta pass trek is one of the treks that is a breathtaking crossover between different landscapes as it provides a view of the Spiti Valley while going through the pass which is an amazing experience and an absolute must have if you love going on treks and are just fond of natural beauty, in general. The duration of this trek could be early and it is of moderate difficulty level. The best time to visit is around June to September.It is located in Himachal Pradesh and is about 14,000 feet high.
In the Pir Panjal range in the Himalayas, Hampta Pass is located at an altitude of 4720m and is a way connecting Chandra and Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh which is a very stark and dramatic connection. Hampta Pass is named after a village called Hampta located on the route. On the trail one encounters a lot of wildflowers and other types of flora and fauna to admire, glaciers, pristine water bodies including streams, brookes and tiny rivers and waterfalls, open meadows, green pastures, rocky terrain, tall trees, bushes, desert land and so much more to enjoy for nature lovers.
Start and end
The trek usually starts in the lush green Kullu valley and crosses over, through the Hampta Pass, to the drier barren region of Lahaul.
Altitude
The Hampta Pass is located at an altitude of 14000 feet above sea level. There are no steep climbs but gradual ascents to the destination that are not too difficult.
Difficulty level
The trek is relatively in the easy to moderate category since the altitude is not high. No heavy training is required. The trek can be done by beginners and it is equally enjoyable for experts as well owing to the natural beauty all around.
Duration
About 6 days are to be given to this trek to go on a trail on the Hampta Pass.
Distance
The whole trek through the pass stretches on for about 25 kilometers.
Sights
Lush green pastures, meadows, clear streams and rivers with pure water and a view of the landscape of Spiti Valley where you can take in the breathtaking views and admire beauty in all its pureness.
Accommodation
Tents or lodges are usually provided as living arrangements for each day of the trek starting from the base camp.
Safety measures
- Demarcations at every checkpoint throughout the terrain and trail.
- Most of the climbing is not steep except the one steep ascent to Hemkund Sahib
- All exit points are easy
- The routes are explored but with minimum human intervention
- The campsites are located at distances that are ample to trek
- A good amount of acclimatization
- No technical aid required
- No particular training required since the trail is not the most challenging
- Proper gear to be used
Who can visit?
Anybody who is generally physically fit must provide a medical certificate for permission purposes. Basic training is to be done to maintain fitness level but nothing specific. People with chronic conditions are supposed to check with their doctors first and have written consent. They should be able to manage their condition in case any complication arises. Proper acclimatization is essential in order to let the body adjust to the altitude changes at every gradual step.
Beginners can go on this trek as a first time trek with proper gear and precautions.
Best time to visit
June to September is a good time to go on this trek since it offers fantastic views and likely good weather enough to trek through safely. However, the monsoon months ensure rain and hence the trail can get slippery.
The Hampta trek is chosen by a lot of trekkers every year to experience the serenity and the dramatic change on the two ends of the pass that presents a stark change in landscape and terrain. It is enjoyable and safe for beginners but make sure to follow your trek leaders and listen to their instructions carefully and implement them so that it is easy, enjoyable and safe for all.
