Hampta Pass Trek Altitude Guide
The Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most beautiful crossover treks in the Indian Himalayas. Famous for its dramatic landscape changes, this trek takes you from the lush green valleys of Kullu to the cold desert mountains of Spiti. But apart from its beauty, one thing every trekker wants to understand before planning this adventure is the altitude of the Hampta Pass Trek.
Understanding the altitude profile of a trek is extremely important, especially for beginners. It helps you prepare physically, understand how your body may react at higher elevations, and gives you a realistic idea of the difficulty level of the trek.
So let’s understand the day-wise altitude gain of the Hampta Pass Trek and how the elevation changes throughout the journey.
Day-Wise Hampta Pass Trek Altitude
Day 1: Manali to Chika
Manali Altitude: 2,050 m
Chika Altitude: 3,078 m
Altitude Gain: Approx. 1,028 m
The journey begins from Manali, where trekkers are usually picked up early in the morning from the TSS pickup point. From there, a scenic drive of around 25 km takes you to Jobra, the actual starting point of the trek. The trek from Jobra to Chika is an easy 3 km walk through forests, bridges, waterfalls, and riverside trails. Chika campsite is located at an altitude of approximately 3,078 meters (10,098 ft) above sea level.
Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera
Chika Altitude: 3,078 m
Balu Ka Ghera Altitude: 3,800 m
Altitude Gain: Approx. 722 m
On Day 2, the altitude increases significantly as you trek from Chika to Balu Ka Ghera. The trail starts with gradual uphill climbs towards Jwara and then continues through wide valleys surrounded by massive mountains. By the end of the day, you reach Balu Ka Ghera campsite at an altitude of approximately 3800 meters (12,467 ft). At this elevation, the air becomes noticeably thinner, and many trekkers may start experiencing mild tiredness or shortness of breath while walking uphill.
Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass
Balu Ka Ghera Altitude: 3,800 m
Hampta Pass Altitude: 4326 m
Altitude Gain: Approx. 526 m
This is the most important and challenging day of the entire trek.The climb from Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass involves steep ascents through snowfields, rocky ridgelines, and glacier sections depending on the season. Every step starts feeling heavier because of the increasing altitude. The oxygen level drops further, making the climb physically demanding. But once you finally reach Hampta Pass at approximately 4326 meters (14,193 ft), the views become absolutely unforgettable.
Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru, Drive to Chandratal and return back to Chattru
Chandratal Altitude: 4,282 m
Chatru Altitude: 3,350 m
Altitude Loss: 552 m
Day 4 trek begins from Shea Goru campsite and gradually descends towards Chatru.The trail is mostly downhill and covers around 7 km through rugged mountain terrain, glacier streams, and dramatic Spiti landscapes. Since you descend significantly in altitude on this day, breathing becomes easier and your body starts feeling more comfortable again. Chatru is located at an altitude of approximately 3,350 meters (10,990 ft) above sea level.
Day 05: Chatru to Manali
Chatru Altitude: 3,350 m
Manali Altitude: 2,050 m
Altitude Loss: 1300 m
You will start your journey back from Chatru to Manali. The drive offers beautiful mountain views and scenic roads along the way. By evening, you will reach Manali, bringing your amazing Hampta Pass Trek journey to a memorable end.
The altitude of the Hampta Pass Trek is one of the reasons why this trek feels so adventurous and rewarding. Starting from the green valleys of Manali at around 2000 meters and climbing all the way to the majestic Hampta Pass at 4326 meters, the trek offers a complete Himalayan experience within just a few days. Yes, the high altitude will challenge you, especially on summit day, but that’s also what makes the journey unforgettable. With decent fitness, proper preparation, and the right mindset, even beginners can comfortably complete the Hampta Pass Trek and experience the thrill of standing above the clouds in the heart of the Himalayas.
