One always reads epic fantasy tales where the heroes of the story walk hundreds of miles and finally complete their quest, tired and weary, worthy of a good night’s sleep. It is now possible to live these romantic tales yourself by trekking in the grandiose Himalayan range. Not all treks are do-able by the average Indian and some are only accessible during certain months of the year. Hampta Pass offers none of these deterrents. At an altitude of 14,500 feet, it is lower than other heavy duty treks and thus open more months of the year than the others. A big plus point is that it is a do-able trek by even those who are not professional trekkers or first timers. All you need is your heart set on adventure and adrenaline running high for some magnificent views of mountains, streams, forests and snow.
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Ideally a 5 day trek, the adventure starts from Manali with a short hair raising drive of 40 hairpin bends to the tiny village of Jobra at altitude 9800 ft. Here you start your trek by an easy ascent of 2 hours to the village Cheeka. The walk will make you feel like Frodo and the hobbits walking through the Shire with streams, beautiful Maple and Pine trees and meadows. You camp at Cheeka while enjoying a campfire in the evening to sing some songs and share stories around. Don’t forget to take in the fresh air and enjoy the clear view of the milky way away from any city lights. This stop will also gradually accustom you to the altitude preventing altitude sickness.
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The next day will take you to a height of close to 11000 feet at Balu ka Gera. Start off early from Cheeka after a good breakfast and experience greenery, colourful flowers and waterfalls which will make you feel like you are in New Zealand. As you cross the river at one point, feel the fresh cool water ripple through your toes and enjoy feeling light as far from daily worries and tensions, your mental weight reduces. One can easily get lost in the surroundings and feel completely detached from hectic city life surrounded by various shades of green, fresh air and bird song. Approximately 4 hours of trekking will bring you to Balu ka Gera or bed of sand as it is made up sand brought down by the River.
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The third day brings you to your quest i.e. Hampta Pass and to the toughest climb till now. Fortunately, the trip till now would’ve acclimatised you to the height and the climb. A scenic route studded with colourful flowers and a stream by your side will take you to Hampta Pass. You will now have left the trees behind and will be surrounded by snow and various mountain peaks will be visible. Enjoying lunch at 14000 ft surrounded by chill winds and snow will make you feel as far away from humanity as possible and bring an internal peace and quite mirrored by your outer surroundings.
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The rest of the journey will seem easy compared to all the uphill walking you’ve been doing as you start climbing down right after lunch on third day itself. That night will end camped at Sheagoru crossing with the river bubbling at your right. Walking onwards brings you to Spiti area with barren hills and beautiful lakes. Depending on weather conditions, a visit to Chandaratal moon lake is a bucket list feature. The rest of the journey can be done by car to Manali.
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Trekking brings with it the mind numbing, bone aching tiredness at the end of the day but this also brings the deepest sleep you have had. You feel fresh and awake after a good sleep and ready for the challenges the next day brings. It is important to remember to dress appropriately and take a guide along or take the correct advice before starting your arduous journey. Pack lightly, as after a few miles of uphill walking every gram will feel like a dead weight specially if there are chances of getting wet. Always have energy giving food and drinks handy and a few basic medicines in case of need. All in all, an humbling and awe-inspiring experience.