My Travel Experience of Hampta Pass Trekking

Sometimes, all it takes is one decision to flip your mood, challenge your limits, and fill your soul with stories. For me, that moment came on a random Tuesday evening when I was scrolling through my phone, exhausted from the routine. You probably know that feeling too, when everything starts to feel repetitive and lifeless.

That’s when I stumbled upon a weekend trek to Hampta Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass in Himachal Pradesh, India. The images looked surreal, green valleys, snowy trails, and a view from the top that could make your heart skip a beat. I thought to myself, “Can I really squeeze this into a weekend?” And without overthinking, I booked it.

Looking back, that decision became one of the best weekend escapes of my life. If you’re ever considering Hampta Pass for a quick yet epic getaway, let me walk you through what it actually feels like, not just the beauty, but the struggle, the joy, and the transformation it brings.

The Rush Before the Calm

I still remember the rush of emotions I felt as the departure date approached. There was a mix of excitement, nervousness, and a little fear. What if I couldn’t keep up with the group? What if the altitude messed with me? What if I forgot something important?

But then I remembered why I chose this in the first place, to disconnect, to breathe, and to feel alive again.

I packed light but smart. Good trekking shoes, thermals, rain gear, a backpack with essentials, and a heart ready for adventure. The plan was to leave for Manali to Delhi on a Thursday night and return by Monday. That gave me three full days on the trail, which is just enough time to feel the magic without needing a long vacation.

The overnight bus journey to Manali wasn’t luxurious by any means, but it served its purpose. I reached early morning, rubbed my sleepy eyes, and stepped out into cool, fresh mountain air that instantly made me feel like this was the right choice.

Meeting the Crew and Getting Started

I met my trekking group and guides in Manali. There were about 12 of us, people from all over the country, each with a different reason for being there. Some were escaping work stress. Some were first-time trekkers looking for a challenge. A couple was celebrating their anniversary on the trail. And then there was me, just needing to feel something real again.

The energy was warm and welcoming. Nobody cared about titles or backgrounds. We were just hikers now, all chasing the same view.

After breakfast, we drove to Jobra, which is the starting point of the trek. The road twisted and turned through dense forests, opening up to views of valleys below. You might want to keep your camera ready, but I suggest putting it away sometimes. There’s something special about just looking out the window and soaking it all in.

At Jobra, we adjusted our backpacks, stretched a bit, and hit the trail.

Day 1: Jobra to Chika - Where the Real Journey Begins

The first day was more of a warm-up. The trail from Jobra to Chika is relatively easy and just a couple of hours long. But that doesn’t mean it lacks beauty.

As we walked through pine forests, crossed wooden bridges, and followed the stream alongside us, I started to feel that slow but powerful shift inside. My thoughts were quieter. My breath deeper. I was walking through nature, but it felt like I was walking into myself.

We reached Chika by late afternoon. It’s a small, flat campsite surrounded by tall cliffs and a gentle river. The tents were set up, and we had some time to explore before sunset. I dipped my hands in the freezing cold water, sat on a rock, and let the stillness speak to me.

Dinner was simple, hot dal, rice, and vegetables. But up there, it tasted like a feast. Maybe it’s the hunger. Maybe it’s the altitude. Or maybe it’s the fact that you’ve earned it. After dinner, we gathered around to chat, shared stories, and watched the stars slowly take over the sky.

That night, I lay in my sleeping bag, a little cold, a little sore, but completely content.

go. Take that weekend. Pack that bag. And find yourself somewhere between Jobra and Chandratal.

I did. And I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.

Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera - When the Trail Starts Testing You

The second day took things up a notch. The trek from Chika to Balu Ka Ghera was about 5 hours long, and while not too technical, it was definitely more demanding than the first day.

We began the day early, walking through lush meadows dotted with sheep and horses. I remember one particular moment when a herd of sheep walked right past us, and for a while, it felt like we were part of some old mountain painting.

Then came the river crossings. Let me be honest - they’re as cold as they look. We had to remove our shoes, roll up our pants, and step into water that felt like ice straight from the glacier. My feet went numb within seconds, and I let out a few choice words. But once I was across, I felt like a mountain warrior.

The trail then got steeper, and snow patches started appearing. By the time we reached Balu Ka Ghera, the green meadows had given way to a more rugged, rocky landscape. It looked like we had crossed into another planet.

Balu Ka Ghera, which means “bed of sand,” is surrounded by barren mountains and has a raw, untouched feel. We rested, refueled, and braced ourselves for the biggest day coming next - the day we would cross Hampta Pass.

Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass to Shea Goru - The Climax

We woke up before sunrise. It was cold, really cold. My fingers were stiff, and I could see my breath in the air. But excitement pushed me forward.

This was it. The day we had all been waiting for.

The climb to the pass was steep and challenging. Every step felt heavier. My lungs were working overtime. The trail wound through snowfields and rocky sections, and the altitude was starting to play its tricks. Some of us had headaches. Some had nausea. I just focused on my breath and kept moving.

And then, finally, we reached Hampta Pass.

Standing there at 14,000 feet, surrounded by towering peaks, I felt an emotion I can’t really describe. It wasn’t just joy. It was awe, gratitude, and a little disbelief. I had made it.

The view from the pass is unforgettable. On one side, the lush valleys of Kullu; on the other, the stark deserts of Lahaul. It’s like nature’s version of a plot twist - completely unexpected and absolutely beautiful.

We stayed at the pass for a while, taking pictures, hugging, laughing, and just breathing in the moment. Eventually, we began our descent toward Shea Goru, a beautiful campsite nestled between snow-covered ridges and grassy slopes.

My knees were aching by the time we reached, but Shea Goru was pure magic. The sound of the river, the smell of the fresh air, and the glow of the setting sun made me forget everything else.

That night, we celebrated. It wasn’t fancy. Just a warm meal, a few jokes, and the bond of having conquered something difficult together.

Day 4: Shea Goru to Chhatru - The Last Stretch

The last day was bittersweet. Part of me wanted to go home, rest my body, and take a hot shower. But another part didn’t want it to end.

We began our descent toward Chhatru, the final stop of the trek. The trail was rocky, and we had to be careful with our footing. But the views kept us company.

Once at Chhatru, we were picked up by vehicles, and those who opted for the Chandratal Lake visit got a chance to witness one last marvel. I was lucky enough to go.

Chandratal is a crescent-shaped lake in the Spiti Valley, and it looks like something out of a dream. The water is so clear, it reflects the sky. The silence there feels sacred. I sat by the lake for a while, just watching the ripples and thinking about everything I had seen and felt in the last few days.

Lessons from the Mountains

The Hampta Pass trek gave me more than views and photos. It gave me perspective. It reminded me of a few things we often forget in the rush of daily life.

• Nature heals - not just your body, but your spirit.

• Struggle is beautiful - because it shows you what you're capable of.

• Disconnection is necessary - to reconnect with what really matters.

• Shared experiences build real bonds - faster than small talk ever could.

• You don’t need much - to feel alive. A trail, a pack, and a purpose are enough.

Final Thoughts About My Journey

If you're reading this and wondering whether it's worth it to spend your weekend trekking through cold, tough trails instead of chilling in bed with Netflix, I get it. But let me say this.

Your bed will always be there. But that feeling of standing at the top of Hampta Pass with the wind in your face, the world below your feet, and your heart racing, that only comes if you choose to step out.

This isn’t just a trek. It’s a memory that stays with you long after your legs have stopped aching. It’s a reminder that you’re more than your deadlines and more than your fears.

So go. Take that weekend. Pack that bag. And find yourself somewhere between Jobra and Chandratal.

I did. And I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.