Hampta Pass Diaries: Meghavi’s Thrilling Himalayan Quest with Thrillophilia
In 2022, I did something that was on my bucket list for ages— embarked on the Hampta Pass trek. It was me and my best friends, just the three of us, ready to conquer the mountains, make memories, and embrace the beauty of nature. We were buzzing with excitement as we started preparing for the trip, but little did we know, this trek would change us in ways we never expected.
Now, years later, as I sit down to write this, I’m flooded with memories of that incredible adventure. The highs, the lows, the laughs, the tears, and the friendships we made along the way. It was a journey that brought us closer, not just to each other, but to nature and to ourselves.
So here’s a glimpse of our journey that’ll make you feel like you were right there with us, trekking through the majestic landscapes of Hampta Pass.
Day 1: Jobra to Chika (10,100ft)
Our journey began in Jobra, a small village that felt like the gateway to heaven. We had just reached the base camp and the excitement was palpable.
“Are we really doing this?” I asked my friend as we looked at the towering peaks in front of us. We were all a bit nervous, but the thrill of the unknown was too exciting to hold us back.
As we started our first leg of the trek to Chika, the path was relatively easy, but the views were nothing short of spectacular. Lush green valleys, clear streams, and the occasional sight of Himalayan wildlife. We walked, chatted, and sang along to the beats of our playlist, feeling on top of the world.
The trek was smooth, but the altitude was starting to show its effects. We were all feeling a bit breathless, but the trek leaders were amazing at keeping our spirits high.
By the time we reached Chika, the sight of the camp surrounded by snow-capped peaks was worth every step. We ended the day with a bonfire, hot tea, and laughter that echoed through the valley.
Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera (11,900ft)
The second day was a bit more challenging. We were trekking through rocky terrain and the altitude was starting to make its presence known. But nothing could stop us.
One of the most memorable moments of the day was when we reached a river crossing. The water was icy cold, and we had to wade through it. "You can do it, just one step at a time!" said Akash, my favourite trek leader, and that encouragement pushed us to keep going. It was moments like these that reminded us of the beauty of the trek— challenging, but so worth it.
Finally, we reached Balu Ka Ghera, and it felt like a victory. The sight of the vast meadows surrounded by snow-covered peaks was like something out of a dream. We had a hearty meal, and spent the evening playing games with fellow trekkers.
Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Siagoru (12,900ft)/ Crossing Hampta Pass (14,100ft)
Day 3 was the day we had been waiting for— the day we would cross Hampta Pass. The anticipation was building up as we started the trek from Balu Ka Ghera to Siagoru. The climb was steep, and the air was getting thinner.
“We’re almost there!” my friend shouted, and that pushed us to keep going. The trek leaders were constantly checking on us, making sure we were hydrated and well-rested.
When we finally reached Hampta Pass, I felt like I was on top of the world. The view was surreal— snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and valleys that stretched as far as the eye could see.
We celebrated with high-fives, photos, and a feeling of pure exhilaration. The trek leaders took a moment to explain the significance of Hampta Pass, and it was humbling to know that we had just crossed one of the most beautiful and challenging trekking routes in the world.
Day 4: Siagoru to Chatru (11,000ft)/ Drive to ChandraTal
The last day of the trek was bittersweet. We were descending from Siagoru to Chatru, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness that the trek was almost over. The journey had been so much more than just a physical challenge— it had been a bonding experience. “We’ve made it through the toughest parts,” my friend said, and I couldn’t agree more.
As we reached Chatru, we were greeted by the sight of our vehicles waiting to take us to ChandraTal, the ‘Moon Lake.’ The drive was breathtaking, with the mountains towering over us. When we reached Chandra Tal, the sight of the turquoise blue lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks was beyond words. We sat by the lake, took in the beauty, and reflected on the incredible journey we had just completed.
The End of an Epic Journey
As we sat around the bonfire on our last night, I felt a mix of emotions. We had completed the Hampta Pass trek, but more than that, we had created memories that would last a lifetime. The trek had been challenging, yes, but it had also been a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and adventure.
As I looked up at the stars that night, I thought of all the moments that had made this trek so special. The laughter, the struggles, the views, and the friendships. It was a journey that had changed me, and I knew I would carry it with me forever.
We were alive, we had lived, and we had made it through the Hampta Pass together!
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