We begin the day early with a delicious breakfast, ready for the journey ahead. Our drive from Manali to Jobra takes about two hours, filled with stunning scenery, fresh mountain air, and thrilling hairpin bends. Reaching Jobra at 9,800 feet, we are welcomed warmly and briefed about our trek to Chika. The trek is short - just 2 km - and serves as the perfect introduction to the days of adventure that lie ahead.

The trail to Chika is a soothing walk through a lush green landscape, surrounded by birch, pine, and maple trees, with the grand Himalayan hills painting a dreamy backdrop. We pass the sparkling River Rani flowing through wide meadows, with grazing cattle completing the idyllic scene. After reaching Chika (10,100 feet), we set up camp by the river, enjoy a relaxed lunch, followed by evening snacks, group games, and a hearty dinner, wrapping up the day under the starlit sky.

We wake up to a beautiful sunrise, embellishing the vibrant tints of the landscape. Our destination for the day is Baluka Ghera, and it is both, easy and incredibly generous and rewarding with its beauty. We begin soon after breakfast Though you can ’t see the Balu ka Ghera campsite from Chika, you will get a general idea of the direction once the trek commences. The trek to Balu Ka Ghera takes about 5-6 hours to complete, and the path isladen with vibrant rhododendron trees, silver birch and other similar alpine vegetation. We see an arch of the Himalayas commonly referred to as The White Range, and Dauladhar peaks stand tall and mighty before us. If you ’ re following the regular trekking trail, at some point, you will be delighted to encounter a stream-waterfall on your left. This is a great place to stop and refill your water resources. Afterward, we continue onwards and arrive at Balu Ka Ghera, which is a patchwork of flat mountain-land, dotted with snow here and there. Tomorrow, we will cross this patch of land to get closer to our destination, but for now, it is time to rest. Hot lunch is served here, and afterward, trekkers are free to lounge around and enjoy their day in the precious lap of Himachal’ s glory. Dinner is provided, and the camp is set up for the nigh

Today’s trek is packed with thrill and challenge. We leave the green meadows behind and enter the rocky, barren lands of Lahaul and Spiti. The uphill climb to Hampta Pass is steep and tough, broken only by a small plateau and a lovely river. The final stretch demands patience and determination. Temperatures can drop sharply, so dress in layers and use a trekking stick. Reaching the top brings pure euphoria, with breathtaking views of the Spiti and Lahaul valleys and snow-capped peaks.

After exploring Hampta village and a hot lunch, we carefully descend to Siagoru. The trail eases out after the steep parts. After eight hours of trekking, we finally rest at the Siagoru base camp with tea, snacks, and dinner.

Tomorrow, the beautiful Chandratal Lake awaits!

After breakfast, we start a simple descent through Hampta Valley, enjoying views of the Pir Panjal range. We reach Chhatru, a green oasis at 11,100 ft after the barren Spiti lands. After lunch here, we drive 30 km to the stunning Chandratal Lake — a crescent-shaped, crystal blue beauty. Swimming is allowed but freezing! Enjoy prayer flags, wishing stones, and tea with the
Himalayas reflecting in the water.

Tonight is our last under the stars — bundle up, it’s going to be cold!

After a warm meal and some reflection on our Hampta Pass adventure, we start our drive early. The journey is long as we cross Rohtang Pass, passing through the stunning landscapes of Kullu, Lahaul, and Spiti valleys. Once we reach Manali, trekkers part ways according to their travel plans. Our beautiful journey ends here, leaving memories to cherish.