Excited College Friends, an Adventurous Hampta Pass Trek and a New-Found Freedom!
"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes."
— Marcel Proust
This quote perfectly describes the story of this group of friends, who were seeking not only new places but also new perspectives and experiences.
Fresh out of high school and just stepping into the exciting world of college, Het Pandya and his friends had been planning a trip for a long time. They wanted to celebrate their new-found freedom with a trip that would be memorable for years to come.
Among the suggestions was an exciting trek to Hampta Pass in Manali. After exploring literally-every-possible video on YouTube, binge-watching reels, and shuffling through countless travel websites, they stumbled upon Thrillophilia’s Hampta Pass Trek itinerary. A recommendation from a friend of a friend further piqued their interest, and soon they were on Thrillophilia's website.
And…the stunning visuals, attractive prices, glowing reviews just sealed the deal!
Train of Thoughts…
The adventure kicked off with a train ride to Delhi. The anticipation was ELECTRIC.
Het couldn't sleep; his mind racing with excitement about the trek. In fact, all of their minds were filled with the adventures that lay ahead. It was their first solo trip without the safety net of parents, and the thrill of it all was giving them butterflies in the stomach.
From Delhi, they headed to Manali, where their real adventure began. The journey from the busy city to the tranquil mountains offered a sudden contrast, but a welcome escape from the everyday grind.
They had no idea then that this journey would be etched in their memories forever.
Sights to Behold
The trek started with a drive from Manali to Jobra. Arriving at the base camp, the air was already filled with a mix of nervous energy and excitement.
As they started their ascent from Jobra to Chika, the reality of the trek began to sink in. It was indeed challenging but incredibly rewarding. The initial stretch was a walk through lush green forests, a serene introduction to the adventure that lay ahead.
One of the standout moments for them was the view from Balu ka Ghera, on the next day of their trek. The sight was nothing short of breathtaking.
They were greeted by the chilly mountain air, which was soon warmed by the sun peeking through the clouds, casting a golden shade over the landscape. It felt like a ray of hope, a moment of pure magic.
The trek to the summit was another highlight.
The snow walk started getting challenging, marking each step as a test of endurance. Though, this one dialogue from a popular Bollywood movie kept igniting their inner drive:
“Main udna chahta hoon, Daudna chahta hoon, Girna bhi chahta hoon. Bas Rukna nahi chahta…”
And, the sense of accomplishment they felt upon reaching the summit was indescribable. The view from the top was a reward like no other, an entire panorama of snow-capped peaks and vast expanses of pristine white - whoa!
And then there was ChandraTal Lake, a place Het described as “heaven on earth.” The crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky, surrounded by rustic mountains, was a sight to behold.
"OMG, I loved it," Het exclaimed, perfectly capturing the awe and wonder they all felt.
Moments, Conversations and a Slice of Heaven
The nights were equally memorable. Every night, huddled in tents, all of these friends shared meaningful conversations - the kind of talks that only happen under a blanket of stars, miles away from the distractions of everyday life.
It was during these nights that they bonded, sharing dreams, fears, and life goals.
Reflecting on the trip, it’s clear that the Hampta Pass trek was more than just a travel experience for Het and his friends. It brought them closer, challenged them in ways they hadn't expected, and left them with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
As reviewed by Het, the seamless organization by Thrillophilia also played a huge part in making this trek unforgettable.
A Vote of Thanks
In the words of Het, “The stays during the trek were surprisingly comfortable. Neat, tidy, and clean, they offered a welcome respite after long days of trekking. The food served was a pleasant surprise too, tasty and nutritious, perfect for fueling the adventurous days ahead.”
The entire arrangement of activities was spot-on. It was clear that Thrillophilia had put a lot of thought into the planning.
They also said that the guides and local support staff were nothing short of amazing. Their knowledge about the area was extensive, and they were always ready to answer questions and provide insights.
Tips for Future Travelers Like You
For any teenager or young adult considering this trek, Het has one piece of advice: go for it.
The Hampta Pass trek is challenging but not overly difficult, making it perfect for beginners. It's a journey of self-discovery, pushing your limits and conquering your fears.
Also, it is recommended to travel light, carrying only the essentials. And a crucial tip: avoid smoking and alcohol. You'll need all your energy and stamina for the trek.
So, for anyone on the fence about taking this journey, go for it. Embrace the adventure and let the mountains work their magic.
Read More: Thrillophilia Himachal Trek Reviews