Hamta Pass & Chandratal Lake Trek [Premium]
The Hamta Pass & Chandratal Lake Trek is one of the most scenic and adventurous Himalayan treks, offering a perfect blend of lush green valleys, dramatic mountain passes, and the stunning Chandratal Lake. This 6-day trek takes you from the forested trails of Manali to the barren landscapes of Spiti, crossing the majestic Hamta Pass (4,268m).
Ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers, this trek provides breathtaking views of Mt. Indrasan (6,220m), Mt. Deo Tibba (6,001m), and the rugged beauty of Lahaul & Spiti. The experience is further enriched with a visit to Chandratal Lake, one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in India.
Join TrekNomads for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that blends nature, thrill, and high-altitude beauty.
Location
Highlights
✅ Trek across the iconic Hamta Pass (4,268m) – A dramatic transition from lush Kullu Valley to the cold deserts of Spiti.
✅ Visit Chandratal Lake (4,250m) – One of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in Himachal Pradesh.
✅ Experience the changing landscapes – From dense forests and meadows to barren Spiti terrain.
✅ Stay in twin-sharing tents & scenic campsites – Immerse yourself in the wilderness.
✅ All-inclusive trek with local guides, expert cook, and mule support – Ensuring a seamless and comfortable trekking experience.
✅ Trek with breathtaking views of Mt. Indrasan (6,220m) & Mt. Deo Tibba (6,001m).
Itinerary
Short Itinerary
📍 Day 1: Arrive in Manali & Stay Overnight
📍 Day 2: Drive to Sethan & Trek to Chikka (3,100m) – 3-4 hours
📍 Day 3: Trek from Chikka to Balu Ka Ghera (3,700m) – 5-6 hours
📍 Day 4: Trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Hamta Pass (4,268m) & Shea Goru – 6-7 hours
📍 Day 5: Trek from Shea Goru to Chatru & Drive to Chandratal Lake – 5-6 hours
📍 Day 6: Drive from Chatru to Manali & Stay Overnight
📍 Day 7: Departure from Manali
Day 1: Arrival in Manali & Acclimatization
- Altitude: 2,050m (Manali)
- Travel Distance: 0 km (Arrival)
- Travel Duration: NA
- Trek Duration: NA
Arrive in Manali (2,050m), the starting point for your Hamta Pass & Chandratal Lake trek. Check into your comfortable hotel and relax to acclimatize to the altitude.
Explore the local attractions, including Mall Road, Hadimba Temple, and the picturesque markets.
A pre-trek briefing session will be conducted by the TrekNomads team to go over the trek details, safety measures, and required preparations.
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2: Drive to Sethan & Trek to Chikka (3,100m)
- Altitude: 2,700m (Sethan) to 3,100m (Chikka)
- Travel Distance: 15 km (Manali to Sethan)
- Travel Duration: 45 minutes
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, drive to Sethan Village (2,700m) and begin your trek to Chikka (3,100m). This trek takes you through dense pine forests, wooden bridges, and open meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Arrive at Chikka campsite, nestled in a lush green valley, known for its waterfalls and serene surroundings.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Trek from Chikka to Balu Ka Ghera (3,700m)
- Altitude: 3,100m (Chikka) to 3,700m (Balu Ka Ghera)
- Trek Distance: 7-8 km
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Start your day with a scenic walk along the Hamta River, crossing several small wooden bridges. As you gain elevation, the trek will take you through alpine meadows with panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Peaks.
Reach Balu Ka Ghera, a beautiful campsite surrounded by snow-covered peaks and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Hamta Pass (4,268m) & Shea Goru
- Altitude: 3,700m (Balu Ka Ghera) to 4,268m (Hamta Pass) to 4,150m (Shea Goru)
- Trek Distance: 8-10 km
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Begin your trek with a gradual ascent that steepens as you approach Hamta Pass (4,268m). As you reach the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mt. Indrasan (6,220m) and Mt. Deo Tibba (6,001m).
Descend into Shea Goru and witness the change in landscape from lush green valleys to the barren, rugged terrain of Spiti.
Overnight stay in Shea Goru campsite, surrounded by high-altitude desert terrain.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Trek from Shea Goru to Chatru & Drive to Chandratal Lake (4,250m)
- Altitude: 4,150m (Shea Goru) to 4,250m (Chandratal Lake)
- Trek Distance: 6-8 km
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
- Drive Distance: 35 km
- Drive Duration: 1 hour
On this day, you’ll descend towards Chatru, crossing glacial streams. After reaching Chatru, a scenic drive to Chandratal Lake (4,250m) awaits.
Chandratal Lake, also known as the “Moon Lake,” is one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in India, famous for its crystal-clear water and surrounding alpine scenery.
After exploring the lake, return to Chatru campsite for an overnight stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Drive from Chatru to Manali (205 km)
- Altitude: 4,250m (Chandratal Lake) to 2,050m (Manali)
- Drive Distance: 205 km
- Drive Duration: 7-8 hours
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive back to Manali via the Atal Tunnel, a major engineering marvel. The journey will offer stunning views of the rugged Himalayan ranges and the green valleys of Lahaul.
Check-in to a comfortable hotel in Manali for a restful night.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7: Departure from Manali
- After a relaxing breakfast in Manali, you’ll be ready to depart for your onward journey.
- Meals Included: Breakfast
Inclusions
- Transportation to & fro from Manali to Manali
- 2 nights 3-star hotel stay at Manali with dinner and breakfast
- 4 nights tented accommodation during the trek
- Mules/Porter for your personal luggage - 1 Bag (Max 5-6 kgs)
- Trek equipment: Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Utensils, Ropes
- Tents: Trekkers tent (twin/triple sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent
- Entry Permit Fee, Guide Fee & Driver Bata
- Standard vegetarian food for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner during trek days
- 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader
- Local Guide (Number of guides depending on the group size)
- 1 High Altitude chef & support staff
- Porters for carrying common equipments (like rations/tents/utensils/groceries)
- The facility of keeping extra luggage at Mussoorie when leaving for the trek
- Insurance, meals, transportation and daily salary of guide & porter
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Personal accident insurance
- All government, local taxes and service charges
- 15% discount coupon on Gokyo Trek Apparel and Gear
- 10% discount coupon on Fast&Up products
- 20% discount coupon on BMore products
- Personalized Dri-Fit T-shirt
- TrekNomads goodies
Exclusions
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guide, chef, porter, etc. (calculated per person)
- Excess baggage/porter charges
- Local sightseeing and entrance fees, camera fees, etc
- Mineral water or any type of soft drinks
- Hot water for shower, etc, during the trek
- Extra meals apart from inclusions
- Food during travel days
- Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions
- Any other tickets like cable chair, cable car, etc.
- All personal, medical, evacuation and emergency expenses like extra day stay out of itinerary, helicopter services and vehicle charges due to delays, landslides and evacuation
- Expenses incurred for guide or porter during extra days stay, transport, flight, helicopter service, etc (divided amongst the group which utilises the services of guides/porters on extra days)
- Expenses incurred for accommodation, travel, food, etc due to the closure of trek route by government officials, defence personnel and the tourism department based on weather conditions, security concerns, etc
Treknical Details
Other Details:
- Trek Gradient: Easy
- Trek Distance: 28+ Km
- Highest Altitude: 4,268m (14,000 ft)
- Assembling Point: Manali
- Travel Distance: 60+ Km
- Best Months to trek: June to September
Trek Gradient
Easy
FAQ's
FAQs – Hamta Pass & Chandratal Lake Trek
1. What is the best time to do the Hamta Pass & Chandratal Trek?
The best time for the Hamta Pass Trek is from June to September when the weather is stable, and the trails are accessible.
- June-July: Snow-covered trails, ideal for adventure seekers.
- August-September: Clear skies, lush green meadows, and stunning post-monsoon views of Chandratal Lake.
2. How difficult is the Hamta Pass Trek?
The Hamta Pass Trek difficulty level is moderate, making it suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers. The trek includes gradual ascents, river crossings, and a steep climb to Hamta Pass at 4,268m. Good fitness levels and endurance are required.
3. What is the total trekking distance of Hamta Pass & Chandratal Trek?
The total Hamta Pass Trek distance is approximately 26-28 km, spread over 4 trekking days, covering:
- Day 2: Manali to Chikka (3,100m) – 3-4 hours trek
- Day 3: Chikka to Balu Ka Ghera (3,700m) – 5-6 hours trek
- Day 4: Balu Ka Ghera to Hamta Pass (4,268m) & Shea Goru – 6-7 hours trek
- Day 5: Shea Goru to Chatru & drive to Chandratal Lake
4. What are the major attractions of this trek?
The Hamta Pass Trek highlights include:
- Crossing Hamta Pass (4,268m) – A transition from lush Kullu Valley to the cold deserts of Spiti.
- Visit to Chandratal Lake (4,250m) – A breathtaking high-altitude glacial lake in Lahaul-Spiti.
- Scenic Campsites – Stay at Chikka, Balu Ka Ghera, and Shea Goru surrounded by Himalayan peaks.
- Spectacular Views – Witness Mt. Indrasan (6,220m), Mt. Deo Tibba (6,001m), and the Pir Panjal range.
- River Crossings & Alpine Meadows – Trek through lush green valleys, waterfalls, and rocky terrains.
5. What is the altitude of Hamta Pass and Chandratal Lake?
- Hamta Pass Altitude: 4,268m (14,000 ft)
- Chandratal Lake Altitude: 4,250m (13,940 ft)
6. What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?
- Day 1 & Day 6: Stay in a comfortable hotel in Manali.
- During the trek: Stay in twin-sharing high-altitude tents with sleeping bags and carry mats.
7. What is the temperature like during the Hamta Pass Trek?
The Hamta Pass Trek temperature varies depending on the season:
- June-July: Day: 12°C to 18°C | Night: -2°C to 5°C
- August-September: Day: 15°C to 20°C | Night: 0°C to 6°C
- At Chandratal Lake: Nights can be cold, ranging from -5°C to 5°C, so proper layering is essential.
8. Is prior trekking experience required for Hamta Pass?
No, Hamta Pass is a beginner-friendly trek, but a basic level of fitness is required as the trek involves steep ascents, high-altitude conditions, and long walking hours.
9. What is the fitness requirement for this trek?
To complete the Hamta Pass Trek successfully, trekkers should:
Be able to walk 6-7 km per day with a backpack.
Train with cardio exercises, strength training, and endurance workouts at least 1 month before the trek.
Practice hiking on uneven terrain to get used to mountain trails.
10. What permits are required for the Hamta Pass Trek?
Trekkers need forest permits and camping permissions from the Himachal Pradesh government. TrekNomads takes care of all necessary trek permits and documentation.
11. What should I pack for the Hamta Pass & Chandratal Trek?
Must-have items for the trek:
- Layered clothing (thermal, fleece, waterproof jacket)
- Waterproof trekking shoes with ankle support
- Backpack (40-50L) with rain cover
- Trekking poles, gloves, beanie, and sunglasses
- Headlamp, personal medical kit, and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottles & hydration packs
12. Is there mobile network connectivity during the trek?
No network coverage after Jobra (starting point of the trek).
BSNL & Jio networks work best in Manali & Chatru.
13. Will there be electricity and charging facilities during the trek?
No electricity at the campsites – Carry a power bank for your devices.
Charging is available in Manali & Chatru campsites (solar-powered).
14. What kind of food is provided during the trek?
Nutritious vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) including soups, rice, chapati, dal, vegetables, and snacks.
Hot beverages (tea, coffee, energy drinks) will be provided.
15. How do I reach Manali for the trek?
By Bus: Take an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi/Chandigarh to Manali.
By Flight: Fly to Bhuntar Airport (50 km from Manali) and take a taxi to the hotel.
By Train: Nearest railway station: Chandigarh (310 km from Manali).
16. What safety measures are in place for the trek?
Certified trek leaders & experienced local guides.
First aid kits, oxygen cylinders & medical support at all campsites.
Emergency evacuation plan in case of altitude sickness or injuries.
17. Can I customize the trek for a private group?
Yes! Private departures and customized group treks are available for families, friends, and corporate groups.
18. How do I book the Hamta Pass Trek?
For inquiries, call/WhatsApp: +91 9886444809 | +91 8762623333
Type of Trek
Himalayan Treks