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Deepanshu Negi Invalid date 6 minutes, 8 seconds
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If you are looking for a Himalayan trek that combines natural beauty, changing landscapes, and a bit of adventure, then the Hampta Pass Trek with Chandrataal Lake is one of the best choices you can make. This trek takes you through a wide range of terrains including thick pine forests, wide open grasslands, rocky mountain trails, glacier valleys, and finally leads you to one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in the country, Chandrataal. The journey begins from the green and lively valleys of Kullu and ends in the stark and dry mountain desert of Spiti, offering a complete shift in scenery within a few days. The Hampta Pass, standing at an altitude of around 14,000 feet, serves as a natural gateway between the two regions.
What makes this trek even more special is that it is suitable for beginners who have basic fitness and are looking for their first high-altitude trekking experience. At the same time, it offers enough thrill and scenic beauty to satisfy even experienced trekkers. Walking through quiet mountain trails, crossing cold rivers, camping under clear skies, and finally reaching the magical blue waters of Chandrataal makes this trek a truly memorable adventure in the heart of Himachal Pradesh.
Day 1: Manali to Jobra to Chika (Drive + Trek)
Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera
Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass to Shea Goru
Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru, Drive to Chandrataal (if road is open)
Day 5: Chandrataal to Manali (Drive back)
If you want to know detail itineraries or experience the beauty of India’s most stunning high-altitude lake, book your Hampta Pass and Chandrataal adventure now and start your journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Technically, there is no full-fledged trek to Chandrataal included in the Hampta Pass Trek. From Chatru, trekkers usually drive to the lake. However, if the road is blocked due to snow or landslides, you might need to walk the last few kilometers.
From the nearest point where vehicles can reach, you may need to trek anywhere from 1 to 3 kilometers to get to the lake. The walk is gentle and mostly on a flat path.
If someone wants to do a separate trek to Chandrataal, there are longer routes from Kaza or Kunzum Pass, but they are not commonly chosen unless you are doing a full Spiti circuit.
Chandrataal is a high-altitude lake located at around 4,300 meters or 14,100 feet. The weather here is very cold, even in summer.
Summer (June to September)
This is the best time to visit. Daytime temperatures range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, and nights can go down to 0 to 5 degrees. It is cold, but bearable with proper gear. The skies are usually clear during this time, and the lake appears in beautiful shades of blue.
Monsoon (Late July to August)
Although Spiti valley does not receive heavy monsoon like other parts of Himachal, the approach roads from Manali side can get affected due to landslides. Always check the weather forecast before starting the journey.
Autumn (Late September to Mid-October)
The lake area becomes extremely cold. Day temperatures are between 5 to 10 degrees, and at night it can drop below zero degrees Celsius. After mid-October, snowfall starts and roads close for the season.
Winter (Mid-October to May)
Chandrataal is completely inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. The region remains cut off and is not open for tourism.
General Weather Tips
Carry warm clothing even in summer
Wear layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures
Nights are always cold so a good quality sleeping bag is necessary if you are camping
Always carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm to protect from high-altitude sun and cold winds
Hampta Pass Trek distance is about 26 to 28 kilometers, spread over 4 to 5 days
Chandrataal trek distance is usually 1 to 3 kilometers, if the road is blocked, otherwise it is reachable by road
Chandrataal weather is cold throughout the year. Best time to visit is from June to September
This trek is a great way to experience the diverse beauty of Himachal Pradesh. It begins in the green Kullu valley and ends in the desert-like Spiti valley. The highlight is reaching Chandrataal, a lake so serene and beautiful that it looks like a painting. Make sure you are well-prepared with the right clothing, footwear, and fitness level, and you will have one of the most memorable trekking experiences of your life.
