Hampta Pass Trek

An Enchanting Cross-Over from Manali to Spiti

Brief Description

Grade:Moderate
Location: Himachal
Altitude:4200 m
Duration:5 Days

Deep inside the mystic regions of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh lies the enchanting Hampta Pass. It’s a complete trek with its contrasting landscape of flowers, waterfalls, streams, and forests of Kullu valley on one side and a vast expanse of dry and desolate mountains of the Lahaul valley on the other. The journey comprises of 5 days and 22 km with minimal ascends and descends, mild showers, and a surprising change in scenery. In the first two days of the journey, we are accompanied by the gorgeous Rani nallah. On the third day, after a few exciting river crossings, we start ascending towards the pass which is nestled at a height of 4,200 meters. The trek finally ends at the charming high altitude lake that goes by the name of Chandra Tal lake. This turquoise blue lake is situated at a height of 4,250 meters and is best known for its serenity and splendor. The ideal time to do this trek is from June to October when the magic of monsoon rains give life to a wide pallet of flowers and colours.

The landscape is famous for its frequent whiteouts because of the gentle white clouds. Moving through the cotton clouds, camping next to the mellow flow of rivers, lunching on the meadows filled with vibrant flowers, walking on quaint bridges, passing through the snow-covered pass, resting near small waterfalls, and experiencing soothing showers are some of the highlights of Hampta Pass. To know more about the highlights check – Highlights of the Hampta Pass Trek.

The trails of Hampta Pass hold surprises at every step and every stop. When we start walking from the base camp, Jobra, the trails are covered with small shrubs, oak, deodar, and maple trees. After crossing through the first campsite Chikka, the trails gain height. Slush and rocks mark the path here. Finally, the trail extends towards the second campsite Balu Ka Ghera through the flower meadows of Jwara. From Balu Ka Gehra, spanning at a distance of 4 kilometers, the trails incline with snow and boulders and reach the pass. From the pass, the nature of the trail completely changes and descends with a 50-degree steep path towards the third campsite, Shea Goru. From Shea Goru the journey gets easy and continues with a simple descent to Chhatru.

Some of the basic challenges we face in Hampta Pass are the constant rains, trails filled with slush, and steep descents. It requires proper gears and skills to safely move ahead. This Himalayan trek comes under category 4 on the Bikat Rating Scale. This makes it a moderate level trek. It is ideal for both professionals and beginners. But, to face the high altitude weather and terrain, one must complete a level 3 trek like the Kuari Pass trek or a couple of level 2 treks like Beas Kund and Bhrigu Lake before this. This will give you the necessary leg strength and lung capacity to finish the trek comfortably. To know more about the challenges of this trek, check – Who is this meant for?

Scroll down to get more comprehensive information on the temperature, itinerary, FAQs, etc. for the Hampta Pass trek.


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Brief Itinerary

Manali (2,050M) to Chikka (3,048M) via Jobra (2,743M) (Click to View GPS data)
8 Km
4 Hours
3546m
Chikka (3,048M) to Balu Ka Ghera (3,600M) (Click to View GPS data)
8 Km
4 Hours
3546m
Balu Ka Ghera (3,600M) to Hampta Pass (4,200M) to Shea Goru (3,900M)
8 Km
4 Hours
3546m
Shea Goru (3,900M) to Chhatru (3,350M) & drive to Chandratal Lake (Click to View GPS data)
8 Km
4 Hours
3546m
Chhatru (3,350M) to Manali (2,050M)
8 Km
4 Hours
3546m

Detailed Itinerary


Day 1

Manali (2,050M) to Chikka (3,048M) via Jobra (2,743M) (Click to View GPS data)

Distance: 16 kms (Manali to Jobra) + 3 kms (Jobra to Chikka)

Duration: 1 hour drive + 2 hours trek

The first boarding point is the Manali bus stand. The scheduled time to report there is 9 AM. The journey begins at 10 AM. We drive to Jobra through Prini. The 16 kilometers of drive which takes up to 1 hour takes us through sharp curves and bends. Three kilometers from the Manali bus stand, the roads gain height and lead towards the mountains through Prini. As we gain height, we witness the massive Beas River flowing through the vibrant Manali city in the valley below us. The view of Manali soon fades as we drive forward and a stream of smooth clouds envelope the massive landscape around us. While driving through the clouds we can see huge pine and small apple trees accompanying us on both sides of the road. An hour later, we reach Jobra which is situated right next to the famous Allain Duhangan Hydropower Plant.

Trek from Jobra (2,743M) to Chikka (3,048M)

The actual trek for Hampta Pass begins from Jobra. After settling down in Jobra, we start walking through a lush green forest filled with maple, deodar, and oak trees. This day is easy as we cover a distance of 3 kilometers in 2 hours. After a few minutes into the trail, small streams of the Rani nalllah accompany us on our left. Then, we cross a rustic wooden bridge and continue walking beneath the trees for the next 1.5 km. At the end of the forest line, the trail opens up to the valley towards Chikka. From here, the path gradually ascends and is lined with moist logs and boulders on either side. After 2 kilometers, the landscape reveals its many surprises. There are small flowers and shrubs alongside the river and horses by the dozen grazing through the shrubs in free spirit. Our first campsite of the trek, Chikka, is at the end of this elevation (about 3 kms from here).

Day 2

Chikka (3,048M) to Balu Ka Ghera (3,600M) (Click to View GPS data)

Distance: 5 kms

Duration: 7 hours

Today, we cover a distance of 5 kilometers in 7-8 hours and gain a bit more altitude (600 meters). After an early start at around 8 AM, we cross a small wooden bridge and begin our ascent. Because of the persistent and unpredictable rains, the first 2 kilometers of moderate ascend are likely to be filled with mud and slush. A little further into the trail, the flow of Rani nallah changes towards the right-hand side. There’s something very refreshing about water bouncing off the small boulders lined along the stream, its sprinkles hitting us in the face taking away the fatigue that comes with walking on the trail. We experience the first river crossing of the trek after 2.5 kilometers. This river crossing is a gateway to the colorful meadows of Jwara, a huge stretch packed with flowers that boast of all the hues of the colour spectrum. Lunch break at Jwara is equivalent to a picnic at a park. The trail from Jwara gets easy with minimal ascends and runs closer to the river. It turns completely flat 4 kms from here. On the right-hand side of the track, you can spot small pockets of land between the water stream with unusual orchids and small birds. This magical pathway leads us straight towards Balu Ka Ghera, the second campsite.

Day 3

Balu Ka Ghera (3,600M) to Hampta Pass (4,200M) to Shea Goru (3,900M)

Distance: 9 kms

Duration: 7 hours

Day 3 is the longest and toughest day of the trek. Today, we cover a distance of 9 kilometers in 7 hours and gain an altitude of 600 meters. Early in the morning, we leave Balu Ka Ghera at 6:30 AM and walk along the Rani nallah. For 1 kilometer, the trails are paved in a zigzag manner because of the huge boulders. After a while, the valley opens up and a huge frame of the river runs parallel with us. When we cross 2 kilometers, the trails get steeper and steeper with heavy ascents and turns. The higher we climb, the thinner the river becomes. The last source of fresh water and greenery ends at the 3km mark and a dry trail of snow and rock begins. The path on the snow is vigorous and the weather is likely to be unpredictable for the next kilometer. Hampta Pass lies at the end of this trail. The pass is a small stretch that leads us to Lahaul. The trails directly descend with a 50-degree steep slope from the pass. This descent continues for the next 3 km. Loose sand, mud, and big boulders can make the stretch challenging to navigate during rains. The trail offers you some relief once you cross this stretch for the final 2 kms is flat and straight. It leads us directly towards Shea Goru, the third campsite.

Day 4

Shea Goru (3,900M) to Chhatru (3,350M) & drive to Chandratal Lake (Click to View GPS data)

Distance: 5 kms + 70 kms

Duration: 4 hours trek + 3 hours drive

The second river crossing of the trek happens on the glacial stream near the campsite. Crossing through the river from Shea Goru is one of the most adventurous assets of the Hampta Pass trek. On this day, we cover a distance of 5 kilometers in 4 hours. We cross the river around 7 AM and start descending downwards. The powerful Chandra river rushes on our left-hand side. Expect to reach the campsite, Chhatru, around 11 AM.

At Chhatru, we assemble in the nearest roadway and start driving towards the stunning Chandra Tal Lake. It takes 3 hours and 70 kilometers to reach the lake. The incomplete roads, dangerous curves, flowing streams make for a complete off-road driving experience. Throughout the drive, you can witness the marvelous snowcapped Spiti range on both sides of the road. The serene lake is situated at a height of 4,250 meters and after a brief stop, we return to our campsite in Chhatru by night.

Note – The route to Chandra Tal Lake is prone to landslides. In case of any such news, the drive will be canceled.

Day 5

Chhatru (3,350M) to Manali (2,050M)

Distance: 60 kms

Duration: 1.5 hours

On the final day, we pack and leave early for Manali by around 7 AM. The distance between Chhatru and Manali is 60 km and it takes 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the Manali bus stand. On the way, while we exit Spiti, we find many army tents and small check posts. Close to 45 minutes into the drive, we enter the infamous Atal tunnel. We reach the final stop before noon; you may plan your return journey accordingly.

What's Included

  • Veg Food (Day 1 Lunch till Day 5 Breakfast).Three Meals a day
  • Transportation from Manali to Manali with Chandratal Lake
  • Forest Permits/Camping Charges/Permits, Trek Permit Fee/IMF Permission (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
  • Camping tents - Twin sharing, Temp rated sleeping bags, mattress
  • Helmet, Micro spikes and Gaiters, if required
  • Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification
  • Experienced Local guide, cook, helpers
  • Porters or mules for carrying common luggage

What's Not Included

  • Meals during road journeys
  • Offloading of personal bags
  • Emergency Evacuation Cost
  • Any kind of Insurance
  • Any expense of personal nature
  • Any expense not specified in the inclusion list

Are you Eligible for this Adventure?

Hampta Pass Trek is for those who have prior experience in trekking to altitudes higher than 3000 meters.

Moderate
4200 m
35 km

BRS Level Required

BRS 4

Hampta Pass Trek is a level 4 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.

This makes it mandatory for you to have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 3 on the BRS. The altitude, the terrain, and the nature of the climb demand a certain level of endurance and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of the high-altitude environment.

If you do not know what level of BRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

we will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.

Packing List

This is a list of essential items for individuals doing the trek with Bikat Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Bikat Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.

Trekking Gear

  • Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1
  • Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day
  • Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1
  • U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1 Here is how you can choose the best sunglasses for trekking.
  • Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each

Footwear

  • Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes Qty -1
  • Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals Qty -1

Clothing

  • Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty - 2
  • Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking
  • Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking
  • Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1
  • Undergarments. Qty - 1 for every day of trekking
  • Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1
  • Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1
  • Rain wear ( Jacket & Pants ) . Qty-1
  • Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1
  • Woolen cap. Qty-1
  • Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1

Toiletries

  • Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
  • Sun screen lotion small pack. Qty -1 Here is your Sun Protection 101 to stay safe in the bright sunny outdoors.
  • Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1

Utensils

  • Small size, Light weight & Leak proof lunch box. Qty-1
  • Plate. Qty- 1
  • Spoon.Qty-1
  • Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug.Qty-1

Miscellaneous

  • Camera (Optional)
  • Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
  • Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)


Frequently Asked Questions



The Hampta Pass Trek, at BRS 4 is suitable for trekkers with prior experience, having completed at least one level 3 trek or equivalent.

If you can Jog/Run for 4 kms in 30-35 mins, you are ready to take on this trek. Once a week, you can practice running 8 kms in an hour or so to improve your endurance further. In addition to this, you can also add resistance workouts to your schedule like squats, lunges, push ups etc.

If you cannot do the above, there’s no need to worry. It is important to remember that it’s all about practice. Get on a training schedule and we can assure you that you will meet these standards in a matter of a few months.

A certain level of fitness and physical endurance are required to take on any high-altitude trail in the Himalayas. Basic knowledge about Ascending & Descending techniques for mountain trails, how to use a sleeping bag, toilet tents, sleeping tents, and mountain mannerisms will be helpful.

The minimum age limit is 9 years. However, minors between 9 to 17 years of age should be accompanied by their parents/ guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deems you fit for adventure activities like trekking.


Hampta Pass trek is located in the region of Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh. It starts from the village of Jobra, which is located about 2 hours drive from the town of Manali.

The Hampta Pass trek is a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experience that makes it one of the most popular trekking routes in the Indian Himalayas. It takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Indian Himalayas, including lush green valleys, rocky terrain, snow-capped mountains, and meandering rivers. The trek offers a chance to experience the local culture of the region, including the unique lifestyle and traditions of the people living in the remote villages along the way. For more details on the highlights of this trek, read Highlights of Hampta Pass Trek

The Hampta Pass trek is known for its scenic beauty and unique challenges, which can make the journey both exciting and demanding. The trek involves stream crossings, ascending to a high altitude, steep ascents, descents, and unpredictable weather conditions. Trekkers need to be physically fit and mentally prepared for a strenuous climb. For more details on the challenges of this climb, read Who is this trek meant for?

The best months for this trek are June to October.

On the trek we have twin-sharing tents. In case you want an individual tent, you can add that to your booking request for an additional cost.

The temperatures during the day are moderate, ranging from 10-15°C, while the nights are cold, with temperatures dropping to 0-5°C.

The Hampta Pass trek is considered to be a moderate level trek in terms of technical difficulty. While the trail can be steep and rocky at times, it does not require any specialized technical skills such as mountaineering or rock climbing. With proper preparation and guidance, most people with reasonable fitness levels can complete the trek.


The trek starts from Manali, which is a very popular tourist destination and hence extremely accessible. If you need guidance on how to get to this high-altitude backpacking centre, read How to reach Manali

Manali has impeccable connectivity of all phone networks. None of the campsites have any cellular range at the moment. There is no network after you cross the last village Sethan. However, the signal strength may be weak, and the connectivity may not be consistent.

You will find plenty of ATMs in the main market place in Manali. Once we head out of Manali, there are no more ATMs on the way.

Pick up point for Hampta Pass Trek is Manali Bus Stand, by 09:00 am to reach Chikka (the starting point of the trek). Payment for the same will be divided between the number of participants and made on the spot.

In case you are travelling with us, expect to reach Manali before noon. Payment for the same will be divided between the number of participants and made on the spot.

At an elevation of 2,050M, the scenic landscape and ease of access make Manali a popular tourist destination. In addition to that, Manali is a playground for all levels of adventure enthusiasts. It is rich in sports other than trekking as well, like Paragliding, Ziplining, River Rafting, Biking, Cycling, and much more, in addition to tourist attractions like temples, valleys, and waterfalls. Some of the most popular tourist places are Hidimba Temple, Jogini Falls, Naggar castle etc. You can visit Sissu town and sangam of Chandra and Bhaga river via Atal tunnel. In short, Manali is not short on things to keep you busy. While the town itself has much to offer, you can also check out other trekking trails which start from here. Some of the shorter ones are Beas Kund and Bhrigu Lake. Read, Things to do in Manali - A complete Guide


All the common gear like tents, sleeping bags, mattresses etc. are provided. All the technical climbing equipment (as required) are also provided to you. Safety equipment used for rescue is carried by our trek leaders.

You can rent trekking shoes, trekking pole, a fleece jacket and a rucksack from us. In case you have any other requirements, you can talk to our representative and we will be happy to assist you in any way that we can.

You will receive your rented equipment at Chikka, on Day 1.

Our trek leaders will collect the rented equipment from you at the end of the trek on the last day.

For a detailed list, check the Packing List section on this page.

Manali is a popular backpacking destination. It is also a starting point for some of the most popular trekking routes and climbing peaks. You will find shops in the main market of Manali to buy/rent equipment as needed.


Although not recommended, you can off load your bag at an additional cost. Add a request while making your booking for the trek and it can be arranged.

(Note: We don’t recommend offloading because the extra resources on a trail - ponies or porters depending on the trail - means extra load on the environment which can easily be avoided. It also goes against the spirit of trekking by eliminating a level of endurance and discomfort from the experience which are factors at the very heart of an outdoor adventure activity.)

Yes, you can hand over your extra luggage at our office in Jagatsukh (Near Manali) before we head out for the trek or you can leave your extra luggage in the Bus Stand cloakroom on Day 2. You can collect your luggage from the same place after completion of the trek. The best way to reach Jagatsukh from Manali is by hiring an auto rickshaw or boarding a public bus. It’s 8 kms and takes about half an hour. Please do not leave any valuable items in your luggage such as watch/mobile phone/wallet etc.

On all trek days, we provide 3 full meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in addition to evening snacks and tea. The meals are vegetarian and the menu is pre-decided for all days of the trek. We do provide eggs as well on certain days. If you have any specific food-related allergies or restrictions, you can let our local staff (during the trek) know, and your requests will get accommodated. We try to provide a variety of food across meals so as to avoid repetition as well as cover all nutritional needs.

On campsites, our team will dig dry pits and assemble a toilet tent to provide for safe and secure quarters. A shovel will be provided within the toilet tent as well. Using water in the toilet tent is restricted; you will need to carry your own toilet paper. On the more difficult expeditions, toilet tents are not carried to the higher camps (above base camp) due to restriction of space (to pitch the tent).

In case you get your period on the trail and don’t have sanitary napkins, our trek leaders can provide them to you. If you need any other kind of assistance, you can let our trek leaders know. Irrespective of gender, our leaders are gender sensitised and equipped to assist you in any way you need them to.

Our team carries a first aid kit and all the basic medicines required during the trek. They are equipped to be the first responders in case of any injury or health-related issues. For higher expeditions, we also carry a HAPO Bag and oxygen cylinders to tend to any altitude-related health conditions.

You leave the last charging point behind at your hotel in Manali. From here on, we will be camping in the wilderness with no access to electricity.


A copy of your ID Proof and Medical Certificate are the mandatory documents required for this trek. (Soft copies for all of these are to be sent to us & originals should be on your person while on the trek.)

Yes, insurance for any high-altitude activity is highly recommended to cover for the cost of rescue, evacuation and any other emergency service required as well as to cover for medical cost in case of injury or illness during the trek. You can buy it on your own. Alternatively, if you want us to buy it on your behalf, you can speak to our post-booking team and they will arrange it for you. They will send you a payment link once the insurance has been purchased.

Yes, there are multiple permits required for this. We obtain the permits on every trekkers’ behalf. All the permit costs are included in your trek cost.


Yes, you will receive e-certificates (of completion) after the trek. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek. In case you were unable to finish the trek, you will get a certificate of participation.

On completion of the trek, the certificate will show up on your dashboard on our website. You can download it directly from there.


Hampta Pass Trek is in India. If you are coming from outside, you will need a visa to enter the country. You should be able to find the rules for obtaining a Visa based on your home country on the internet. This information is easily available.

This does not apply to you if you are an Indian citizen. In case you don’t hold an Indian passport, you will need to check online for Visa application rules based on your home country.

If you are not an Indian citizen, you will need Travel Medical Insurance to travel to the country. Please make sure that your insurance policy is valid for the altitude you are going to and the activity you are undertaking, to cover risks during the trek. The insurance policy provided by Bikat Adventures does not cover foreign nationals. So, please do not purchase it while making the booking from our website.

The Himalayas house the tallest mountains in the world and have long been a treasure trove for all adventure enthusiasts. The variety in terms of beauty, terrain, landscape, geography, culture and opportunity for adventure in the Himalayas, remains undisputedly unmatched.

You can make the booking any time depending on availability of slots in our fixed departure batches. You will get this information at the top of this page.


A Basic Mountaineering Course certification from one of the five recognized mountaineering institutes in India is a minimum requirement to join our team. Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response. We also conduct on-ground training for our staff once a year as a refresher for old skills and to learn some new ones. During this training that we call APW (Adventure Professional Workshop), our leaders learn close to 25 topics and techniques of rescue which are not covered in the BMC and AMC courses. For practical training, we simulate on-ground situations to prepare them for quick thinking and quick response during emergencies.

We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts on the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. The interview process to bring a trek leader on-board is close to 6 months long where we assess various skills as well as personality traits of an individual. They also go through an on-field assignment as part of the hiring process. Trek leaders also progress in time from leading easier treks before advancing to the more difficult ones where the stakes are higher. For detailed information on our selection process, please visit Forerunners - The Making Of A Trek Leader

It absolutely is. We recognize, value and embody the ideology that the world of outdoor adventure can benefit from diversity. We make it our mission to create outdoor spaces as equally accessible and safe for all genders as possible. We also encourage women leaders in the outdoors and all of our staff (irrespective of gender) is gender sensitised. As for accommodation, in case there are no other women on the trek, a solo female trekker is provided with a separate single-occupancy tent.

Our batch sizes for Hampta Pass Trek are capped at 15 with the trek leader to trekker ratio of 1:8.

In addition to their qualification, our trek leaders are trained to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on ground. During our recce stage, we study the trail in great detail and map out rescue routes before opening it up for our trekkers. We also have local support staff stationed in each area to arrange for emergency services at the place of need as quickly as possible.

We mobilise road rescue efforts where our trek leaders bring the person to be rescued down to the trailhead of the trek from where a car can take them to the nearest healthcare facility. The cost of rescue is not covered in the trek fee that we charge. It must be borne by the participant. However, if you opt for the insurance the cost of rescue operations can be claimed from the Insurance company on production of valid proof e.g. doctor’s prescription & hospital bills etc. Please note that Bikat Adventures is only a facilitator & not a party in the Insurance policy. You need to raise the claim request directly with the Insurance company. Bikat Adventures is not responsible for any rejection of claim. You can call the insurance provider directly for any clarifications related to the Insurance policy. Although not mandatory, we recommend buying the insurance. You don’t necessarily have to get the insurance we provide, you can pick an Insurance company of your choice and get a policy directly from them. If you need more information on the terms and conditions of the insurance policy, get in touch with our customer support team.

All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality and is overall top notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.

That will depend on the nature of your medical condition. Do give us a call, and one of our people will help you understand what is best for you. If not this, we are sure there would be plenty of other options you can choose from our vast portfolio to pick as your next adventure.


We have rolling camps on all our trails. To know why we are strictly against the concept of Fixed Camping, read Reasons to Ban Fixed Camping in Himalayas

This is a complex question and has a compound answer. The simple response is that because it is bad for the environment which we dearly love but if you are interested in a more detailed response to this question, please read Reasons to Ban Fixed Camping in Himalayas

There are a number of measures that we take to prevent overcrowding on some of the most popular trails. Some of them are capping our group size at 15, capping the number of trekkers on a trail to 250 per season, constantly looking for newer trails and routes to spread the crowd around and providing incentives to our trekkers to try unexplored territories with us. We put in place the system of dynamic pricing, which is the first of its kind in the trekking industry, which incentivises trekkers to choose less crowded trails by offering higher discounts. We have noticed, since we started this system, that this has helped in a big way to spread out the crowds between trekking routes. We are also going international so as to relieve some of the stress on the Himalayan landscape as well as explore newer ranges and design newer experiences for our community. If you want a more detailed description of all our measures in this regard, please read Simple solutions to overcrowding on Himalayan Treks

Some basic things to remember are: do not use water, do not dispose of anything non-biodegradable inside the pits, carry your own roll of toilet paper and remember to cover up after yourself to leave a clean toilet for your fellow trekkers. Everything else is much the same like using an Indian style home toilet!

Most wet wipes are not biodegradable which means it could take 100 years or more for them to decompose – not the best thing if you are trying to ‘Leave No Trace’, right?

This is quite a tricky situation but not a hopeless one. Since most of our sanitary waste is not biodegradable, we recommend that you pack your pads/tampons neatly, store it in a zip-lock bag and bring it back down with you where there are better options to dispose of them. In case you do not have zip-lock bags, ask our trek leaders for them and they should be able to provide them to you.

Each trekker is responsible for the use and hygiene of their own eating utensils. And as a measure to maintain proper hygiene, we do not provide plates and spoons. Also, dipping your hands in cold water to wash your own utensils adds something to the overall joy of high-altitude living, wouldn’t you think?


On making the payment, you will receive a booking confirmation along with the packing list and a copy of the undertaking form via email. You will subsequently receive emails detailing documents required, how to prepare physically and mentally for the trek, information on pick-up location on the first day etc. Please add info@bikatadventures.com in your trusted emails list to make sure our emails don't go to your spam folder.

A Whatsapp group will be formed a few weeks before departure. Members from our team are on those groups as well. Feel free to seek any clarifications you require in regards to the trek, on the group itself. Updates related to transportation/pickup point/pickup timing, accommodation etc. will be shared on the Whatsapp group as well.

Yes, we create a Whatsapp group a few weeks before the departure date so that the flow of information remains smooth and transparent.

Yes, it is one of the mandatory documents you will need to submit before the trek starts. The soft copy is to be sent to us & the original should be on your person while on the trek.

Yes, we will provide you an undertaking form through email which will need to be filled up by you and submitted to us post booking.

Why Bikat?

Small Group Size


Our batch sizes are capped at 15 for smaller treks with the trek leader and trekker ratio of 1:8. This ratio, in our years of experience, has proven to deliver the best trekking experience for individuals as well as groups. Capping the size of the group ensures individual attention to each trekker so that no signs of distress or need during the trek go unnoticed. It also helps to form a more cohesive cohort with better group energy which helps define the rhythm and pace of days on the trek.

As you go higher up on the BRS scale, since the stakes are higher, expeditions have an even smaller group size with the ratio of expedition leader to climber set at 1:2.


Qualified Trek Leaders


We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts in the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. In addition to their qualification, they also go through practical and situational training to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. Being unpredictable is the core nature of the mountains but being ready for any circumstance as best as possible is a controllable asset that we try to nurture.

Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response.

Watch: Forerunners - The Making of A Trek Leader At Bikat Adventures


Guided Progression


Since Bikat Adventures is a learning-based organization, we help you climb up the ladder of difficulty within the sphere of outdoor adventure systematically. Our on-ground training modules are designed to handhold you through the upskilling process so that you are ready to take on bigger challenges.


Equipment Quality and Check


All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.


Support Systems


Along with the staff you see on-ground, we have a team of superheroes working in the background to give you the best experience possible. Our background team also comprises local staff from each area who know the region best. Having local support helps with studying the area, pre-planning, execution, and in receiving timely support in case of emergencies in these remote locations.


Communication


Our on-field staff is in constant contact with our teams based in primary locations so as to eliminate any avoidable delay in reaching additional help and support when required. We try to use the best tools for communication available, including satellite phones, in regions where they are not restricted.


What our customers Say

Cancellation Policy


Cash refund

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date

5% deduction

Cancellations between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure date

50% deduction

Cancellations within 15 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Voucher refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date

No Deduction

Cancellations within 5 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Please Note:
  1. Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers
  2. This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

Blog Posts

Informative
Highlights of the Hampta Pass Trek
If there is a Himalayan mirror to tell us which is the most unique Mountain Pass of them all, it would be the versatile Hampta Pass. The Hampta Pass is a mini haven that holds all the surprises a trekker will ever need. Be it a forest filled with oak...
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Informative
Hampta Pass – Who is this trek meant for?
Just like an assorted box of chocolates filled with delectable surprises at every bite, Hampta Pass is a tantalizing trek in Himachal Pradesh with landscapes set to astonish you at every step and stop. Straddling the verdant greens and lush colors of...
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Experiential
The Classic Assets of Hampta Pass – A Photo Story!
If the Himalayan Mountains are a significant asset of India, the Hampta Pass occupies an indispensable spot on the Himalayas. Positioned at a height of 4200 meters, this wonder holds a variety of spectacles with the lush Kullu valley on one side cont...
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Informative
Hampta Pass: The Variant Topography
Hampta Pass, the moment you hear this name, you start picturing beautiful landscapes, a snow pass and countless streams and waterfalls.  But wait, there’s more... Having now personally trekked Hampta Pass in June, there is no doubt that ...
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Trekkers' blog
A woman consumed by Wanderlust- Hampta Pass
(12th Aug- 17th Aug’16) Region: Manali Mountain Range: PirPanjal Max Altitude: As per the records 14009 ft, but to do the math since one starts from 6725 ft hence you reach a max of 7284 ft from Jobra Distance by foot: 30Km (That’s wh...
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Trekkers' blog
Four days in the wild - Hampta Pass Trek
“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt,” John Muir Escaping the summers and running away to the mountains is a dream of every Mumbaikar, and my friends and I planned to make this dream come true. We booked t...
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Trekkers' blog
Solitude ki maa ki aankh - hampta pass trek
I prefer solitary treks. I prefer walking alone. That being said I prefer company of likeminded people who do understand that. The hampta-pass trek kind of underlines the fact that no matter how weird you are..there are likeminded weirdos. Starting o...
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Informative
Hampta Pass Without Rain? No Chance
 HAMPTA PASS WITHOUT RAIN? NO CHANCE   2 days of sunshine and I was already framing the title of my upcoming blogs on Hampta: ‘Hello Sunshine from Hampta Pass’, ‘Sunkissed Hampta Pass’ were some considerations, but...
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