Hampta Pass Weather: A Seasonal Breakdown
Hampta Pass, one of the most famous high-altitude treks in India, offers a mesmerizing experience with its breathtaking landscapes, lush green valleys, and snow-covered trails. Before embarking on this adventure, understanding the hampta pass weather conditions is crucial. Weather in the region varies significantly across seasons, affecting the trekking experience, difficulty level, and scenery.
Spring in Hampta Pass (March to May)
As winter recedes, the Hampta Pass trek begins to welcome adventure enthusiasts. March marks the transition from harsh winter conditions to a milder climate. However, remnants of snow still cover the trails, adding an element of thrill for trekkers.
By April, the valley starts to bloom with vibrant flora, and temperatures range between 5°C to 15°C during the day, while nights remain chilly, often dropping to -5°C. This season is perfect for those who prefer a balance of snow and greenery, as frozen lakes begin to thaw, creating stunning landscapes.
May offers more accessible trails as most of the snow melts. The river crossings become more manageable, and trekkers can enjoy comfortable temperatures. However, occasional snowfall at higher altitudes can still be expected.
Summer in Hampta Pass (June to August)
Summer is the most popular season for the Hampta Pass trek, with June marking the official opening of trekking routes. The weather is generally pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to around 0°C.
The landscapes are at their finest during this time, featuring lush green meadows, crystal-clear streams, and colorful wildflowers. The weather remains relatively stable, making it an ideal period for trekking. However, monsoon starts creeping in by mid-July, bringing sporadic rainfall.
August sees increased rainfall, making the trails muddy and challenging. River crossings become riskier due to the rising water levels, and visibility is sometimes hampered by mist and fog. While the rains add a mystical charm to the valleys, trekkers must be well-equipped with rain gear and waterproof hiking boots.
Autumn in Hampta Pass (September to November)
Autumn is considered one of the best seasons for trekking to Hampta Pass. The monsoon retreats by early September, leaving behind fresh, clean air and lush landscapes. The temperature during the day remains comfortable, around 10°C to 15°C, while nights can get quite cold, dropping to -3°C.
October offers some of the most breathtaking views, with clear skies, golden-hued trees, and crisp mountain air. The trails are stable, making trekking relatively easier compared to monsoon months. By late November, temperatures begin to plummet, and snowfall starts making an appearance, signaling the arrival of winter.
Winter in Hampta Pass (December to February)
Winter is the least favorable season for the Hampta Pass trek, as extreme weather conditions make it nearly impossible to navigate the trails. Heavy snowfall covers the entire region, blocking paths and increasing the risk of avalanches.
Temperatures often drop as low as -15°C, and the daytime offers little respite with sub-zero temperatures. The snow-covered landscapes look mesmerizing, but trekking in such harsh conditions is highly challenging and recommended only for experienced trekkers with proper winter gear.
Best Time to Visit Hampta Pass
The best time to undertake the Hampta Pass trek depends on individual preferences:
Essential Tips for Trekking in Different Seasons
FAQs
How cold does it get at Hampta Pass? Temperatures at Hampta Pass can drop as low as -15°C in winter and range between 5°C to 20°C in other seasons.
Is Hampta Pass accessible in winter? No, heavy snowfall blocks the trails, making it nearly impossible to trek in winter.
What is the best season for beginners to trek Hampta Pass? The post-monsoon season (September to October) offers stable weather and clear trails, making it ideal for beginners.
Does it rain during the Hampta Pass trek? Yes, monsoon months (July and August) bring heavy rain, making the trek more challenging.
What kind of clothing is required for the Hampta Pass trek? Layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking boots, and insulated jackets are essential for different seasons.
Can I see snow at Hampta Pass in summer? Yes, early summer (May to June) still has snow patches at higher altitudes.
Conclusion
Hampta Pass is a mesmerizing trek that offers different experiences in each season. Whether you're drawn to snow-covered landscapes, lush green valleys, or crisp autumn air, understanding the seasonal weather conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable adventure. Choose the best season based on your preferences and come prepared to embrace the magic of the Himalayas.
I could feel it within my veins, my adrenaline had been building up over the last few months and I needed to find release.
I roped in my friend, Simran and together we decide to conquer the Hampta pass.One of the most famous treks within the country, the Hampta pass trek offers stunning vistas of mountain ranges, pine forests and vast meadows in addition to thrilling challenge for anyone with moderate levels of fitness, even first time trekkers.The pass is most accessible from the village of Prini, located in Himachal Pradesh, which is where Simran and I started our adventure along with a few other trekkers who were part of our group.
The path was steep and difficult but our spirits were high and we hiked our way through in about two hours cutting through thick forests, apple orchards and some endearing villages.
I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the sleeping bag.The second day of the Hampta pass trek took us through Chikka, a surreal place, as if right out of one of those stock internet photos.
Huge conical columns of bare rock kissed the sky creating a horizon unlike any I have ever witnessed.
Simran’s jaw was left hanging when she caught her first glimpse.
Day 1: Reach Jobra and Trek to ChikaAltitude: 9,800 Ft. to 10,100 Ft.Time Taken: 2 hrs drive to Jobra from Manali & trek from Jobra to ChikaTrek Gradient: Easy to Moderate trailWater sources: Enough water through the pathOn your first day of Hampta pass trek, you will drive from Manali to Chika via Jobra, as Manali is itself so magnificent and trekking in Manali is already fantastic experience.Therefore from Manali, the journey will start, as Manali is already at an altitude of 6,700 Ft. so it is a good place for acclimatization.From Manali it will take around 2 hrs to reach Jobra, the drive will be of less time but will be so beautiful as you will be able to see the mountains of Himachal and will be able to know how beautiful trekking in Himachal can be for a trekker.On your 1st day, there will be a trek of 2 to 3 hrs that would be easy and not so tiring as well.As you will reach the Jobra, you will start your trek from Jobra to Chika that will take 2 to 3 hrs, during the trek you will be able to notice a variety of trees like maple, deodar, toss, and oak.Later you will reach your campsite of 1st day that will be Chika and take rest.Day 2 : Trek from Chika to Balu-ka-GheraAltitude: 10,100 Ft. to 11,900 Ft.Time Taken: 8.5 Km, 6 hrs trekTrek Gradient: Moderate trail, gradual ascentWater sources: Enough water on the wayOn your 2nd day of Hampta pass trek, you will trek to Balu ka Ghera from Chika campsite.The trail will lead you in the way of the slope of boulders and rough terrains though the path will be easy and one can attain it.You will be able to see the trees in variety; you will be able to see the silver birch, and at the end when sliver birch will start Lessing you will be able to see the stunning view of the Dhauladhar range snow-clad peaks in front of you.You will reach a clear stream waterfall to the left at the distant and can fill your water bottles there.After you cross the waterfall, you will witness a river in your left where you can have a good time the water will be so cold, but the whole scenario will be so unusual there.You will be able to imagine how beautiful this Hampta pass trek will be, as in between you will reach Jwara, the beautiful valley, this incredible scenic beauty will amaze you, capture it in your eyes.You will also find the snow-clad peaks meting piece coming into the River, later you will trek for few hrs, and you will see the tree line decreasing.In the end the after many hrs of trekking you will reach the final destination for the 2nd day that will be Balu Ka Ghera.The campsite for the 2nd day and have rest and enjoy your experience of trekking in Himachal.Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Shea Goru via Hampta PassAltitude: 11,900 Ft. to 14,100 Ft. to 12,900 Ft.Time Taken: 7 Km, 10 hrs trekTrek Gradient: First 1 hrs is gradual ascent then Steep ascent till the passWater sources: No water point on the way (Depends on the snow condition)On your 3rd day of Hampta pass trek, you will head towards Siagoru via Hampta pass, as you will start your trek you will spot the mountains snow chapped that would be so wonderful.You will be able to make a right guess that how amazing the whole Hampta pass trek will be, so moving further you will be able to see the stunning view tiny yellow and orange flowers.The whole trail this day will be along the riverside, initially, you will walk on the base of the River and then you will climb to Hampta pass.As you walk, you will be able to witness the white bed sheet of snow, and only in summer, you can see the fresh snow; therefore, the best time for Hampta pass trek is between mid-June to mid-October.Before teaching Hampta pass you will have to cross two ridges, as you will pass the first ridge, you will be able to see the Hampta pass that will be a few meters from the second ridge.The trail to Hampta pass will be vertical and hard so that it will take time, and you have to be careful while walking.So as you reach the Hampta pass, you may get exhausted but the whole view will make you cherish every moment, and you will be mesmerized by the look of Hampta pass trek.Later when you explore the Hampta pass after it, there will be a descent to the next destination that will be Siagoru after lunch.Day 4: Trek from Shea Goru to Chatru, Chandratal (If Weather Permits) & Return to Chatru, Camp in ChatruAltitude: 12,900 Ft. to 11,000 Ft.Time Taken: 7 Km, 5 hrs trekTrek Gradient: Gradual descent on the moraineWater sources: 2 to 3 water sources of water on the wayOn your 4th day of Hampta pass trek, you will trek from Siagoru to Chatru it will be of 5 hrs trek, the trek will be easy.As you will trek to Chatru the place without vegetation, as you move later, a tricky path will come to your way.Be careful while walking as the path will be rough and tricky, and the route can also be slippery to take it in the consideration while walking.Though the whole trek will not be too challenging as you will get down from the mountains, you will be able to witness the Chandra River flowing below, and a road goes to it.Note: only if the weather will allow you will climb to Chandra River, and on your way, you will witness more than two glaciers, and as you move so after few hrs of walk you will reach Chatru.Chatru is a great camping site; it is a consensus of the three passes, Hampta, Rohtang and Spiti.Day 5: Departure from ChatruAltitude: 85 Km driveTime Taken: 4-6 hrsOn your 5th day of the trek, you will head towards Manali from Chatru as this will be the end of your Hampta pass trek journey.Ride back to Manali it will take 7 hrs to reach Manali in the evening.As the trek will come to an end so you will have an experience of trekking in Himachal, and remember amongst other treks in Himachal, Hampta pass is a beautiful trek.
