Hampta Circuit
An Untouched Trail in the Heart of Himachal
Altitude
4200 Meters
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
5 Days
Location
Himachal
Fee
INR 22,000
Overview
Tucked away behind the more popular Hampta Pass route lies a hidden Himalayan gem — the Hampta Circuit Trek. This offbeat, unexplored trail winds through dense forests, sweeping meadows, high-altitude ridgelines, and culminates at the majestic Sethan Dome (4,200 m) — a vantage point few trekkers have ever laid eyes on.
Starting from Jagatsukh, a quiet traditional village just a short drive from Manali, the trail moves through pristine landscapes that have remained untouched by commercial trekking routes. Over five immersive days, you traverse old shepherd trails, alpine campsites, and ridges that offer unfiltered views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges — all without the crowds.
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The Hampta Circuit is not just a variation of the Hampta Pass Trek — it’s an entirely different experience. While Hampta Pass is a crossover into Spiti, the Circuit is a loop that encircles the upper Hampta valley, taking you through lesser-known camps like Bogi, Sarotu, and Kharmandari, and finally up to Sethan Dome — a panoramic high point with 360° views of Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tibba, and the peaks surrounding the Hampta glacier basin.
From thick pine forests and river-fed valleys to windswept ridgelines and high meadows, the Hampta Circuit Trek offers some of the richest visual variety within a compact format. It’s one of the few trails where you can feel completely cut off from civilisation, yet start and end your journey just outside Manali. No road crossings, no tea stalls, no crowd — just pure mountain immersion.
Despite its remote character, the trek is moderate in difficulty and ideal for trekkers who’ve done one or two high-altitude hikes and now crave a rawer, more unfiltered Himalayan experience. With elevations gradually increasing and ample time for acclimatization, this circuit is physically challenging, mentally rejuvenating, and spiritually rewarding.
At Outdoor Whisperer, we bring this remote trail to life with our signature expedition-style format — warm meals, safe camping, experienced mountain teams, and a tight-knit group experience.
HAMPTA CIRCUIT TREK HIGHLIGHTS
Unexplored, Offbeat Route: Walk a trail few have seen — untouched, serene, and free from tourist traffic.
Sethan Dome Summit (4,200 m): Stand atop a high-altitude dome with panoramic views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges.
Diverse Himalayan Landscapes: Experience forests, river valleys, high meadows, rocky ridges, and alpine wilderness in a single circuit.
360° Mountain Vistas: Witness sunrise and sunset over ranges like Deo Tibba, Indrasan, Hanuman Tibba, and the Bara Shigri glacier belt.
Hampta Valley Connection: The trail runs parallel to and overlaps with sections of the Hampta Pass exit route — but gives you a completely different perspective.
Perfect For Beginners: While remote and wild, the trek remains non-technical, with a gradual uphill climb — ideal for complete beginners and intermediate trekkers.
Perfect Pre- and Post-Monsoon Trek: Ideal for summer and post-rain clarity — experience lush valleys in May–June, and crisp skies with golden light in late September–October.
Start and End Close to Manali: Easy access without long transfers or remote permits — trek begins just 7 km from Manali.
Rare Wildlife and Flora: Spotting Himalayan monals, wild foxes, and seasonal alpine blooms adds to the richness of the trail.
Itinerary
Your offbeat Himalayan journey begins in Manali, a bustling mountain town surrounded by pine forests and towering peaks. Participants are expected to arrive by late morning or early afternoon. On arrival, check into your hotel, freshen up, and rest from your journey.
In the afternoon, the group gathers for a detailed orientation session with the trek leaders. You’ll get to know your team, receive gear checks, safety instructions, and a full route briefing. This is also the time to ask questions and mentally prepare for the days ahead.
If time permits, take a short walk around Old Manali or the local market, soaking in the culture and cool mountain air. Dinner is served early, followed by a final packing session and rest. Tomorrow, your forest adventure begins.
Settle into the rhythm of the mountains and prepare to leave the road behind.
Start your offbeat Himalayan adventure with a short drive to Jagatsukh, followed by a gentle ascent through quiet forest trails to the peaceful Bogi campsite.
The day begins with a scenic 30-minute drive from Manali to Jagatsukh, a charming heritage village known for its old temples, apple orchards, and classic Kullu-style houses. From here, you’ll leave behind the road and step into the woods — literally.
The trail to Bogi (2,015 m) begins gently, winding through mixed forest filled with chir pine, cedar, and oak trees. Birds chirp overhead, and small water channels gurgle nearby as you ascend gradually into the wilderness. With very little foot traffic, it feels like walking through your own private forest.
By afternoon, you reach the Bogi campsite — a flat clearing surrounded by lush slopes and views that hint at the elevation to come. This first night under the stars is about soaking in the forest silence, meeting your trail team, and preparing for the journey ahead.
Trek Distance: ~3.5 km
Trek Duration: ~3 hours
Altitude Gain: Manali (2,050 m) → Bogi (2,015 m)
Difficulty: Easy
Trek through pine forests and into open meadows as you leave the lower tree-line behind and enter a high-altitude grazing paradise.
After breakfast, the trail climbs steadily through forest patches before opening into a rolling expanse of alpine meadows. Today is all about gaining altitude and visual perspective — as you climb higher, the valley behind stretches wider and the forest begins to thin.
The route to Sarotu is marked by grazing pastures, wildflowers, and long ridgelines. You may cross shepherds’ trails and spot cattle or horses grazing in the open fields. The views on this stretch are particularly impressive, with early glimpses of the Hampta and Sethan ridges far ahead.
Sarotu is a large, breezy campsite with clear skies and broad views — the perfect place to watch the evening light dance on the surrounding slopes. With its wind-brushed grasses and total isolation, this is one of the most peaceful nights of the trek.
Trek Distance: ~7 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude Gain: Bogi (2,015 m) → Sarotu (~3,200 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trek deeper into the high-altitude backcountry, entering the remote heart of the circuit — a true wilderness experience far from civilization.
Today’s trail is a beautiful blend of quiet meadows, jagged outcrops, and stream crossings. You’ll gradually climb from Sarotu and traverse across varied terrain — some forest patches, open grassy shelves, and sections of moraine and rocky debris.
As you move toward Kharmandari, the landscape begins to feel more rugged and raw. This is true wilderness trekking — far from any road, village, or commercial trail. You'll likely have the entire valley to yourself, except for the occasional eagle circling overhead or distant calls of mountain goats.
Kharmandari campsite is set in a wide bowl beneath towering cliffs, with dramatic clouds often sweeping across the ridgelines. It’s cold, wild, and majestic — the kind of place that makes you feel deeply alive.
Trek Distance: ~6 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude Gain: Sarotu (~3,200 m) → Kharmandari (~3,800 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Awaken beneath vast cliffs in Kharmandari and prepare for your adventure’s final stretch. Today, you’ll descend from this high wilderness, leaving behind the solitude of the upper valley and retracing your steps down to civilization. The trail drops steadily through varied terrain — rugged shelves give way to rolling alpine meadows, then tumble into pockets of forest. You'll cross streams and traverse gentle ridgelines, surrounded by expansive views of snow-capped peaks and the quiet beauty of the Hampta backcountry. As you reach Jobri (2,800 m), the familiar features of the lower valley reappear: scattered huts, grazing sheep, and the comforting sounds of water and birdsong. At Jobri, your trek meets the road, and a waiting vehicle whisks you back to Manali with a scenic drive through winding mountain roads. After reaching Manali, trekkers can freshen up or head straight to the bus stand for their onward journey. Accommodation after the trek is not provided, but arrangements can be made on request. The trek concludes here, with options to depart as preferred.
Trek Distance: ~5 km
Trek Duration: 2–3 hours
Drive Duration: ~2 hours
Altitude Loss: Kharmandari (~3,800 m) → Jobri (~2,800 m) → Manali (2,050 m)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Inclusions
All meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 5 breakfast – Hot, fresh, and nutritious vegetarian meals with egg options, plus tea/coffee and evening soup/snacks.
1 Night Hotel stay in Manali (before or after trek)
3 nights camping in twin-sharing dome tents – Warm sleeping bags, thick insulated mattresses, full weather protection.
Camping infrastructure included – Toilet tents, dining tent with table & stools, kitchen tent.
Essential cutlery provided – Plates, cups, and spoons. You don’t need to carry your own.
Certified trek leader and local mountain guide – Experienced team trained in high-altitude safety and wilderness first aid.
Support team – Mountain cooks, helpers, and porters for logistics and camp setup.
Medical support on the trek – First aid kit, and pulse oximeter carried by team.
Transport included:
→ Manali to Jagatsukh (Day 2)
→ Jobri to Manali (Day 5)All permits – Forest permissions & local charges.
Exclusions
Travel to and from Manali (before the trek and after completion)
Backpack offloading charges (if opted for)
Travel/health insurance – Highly recommended but not included
Personal trekking gear – Backpack, trekking shoes, jackets, poles, etc.
Costs due to weather delays, route changes, or health-related early exits
Anything not specifically mentioned under “Inclusions”
Additional Expenses
Backpack offloading: ₹500/day (pre-booked), ₹800/day (on the spot)
Single tent accommodation: ₹2,000 (entire trek)
Extra night hotel stay in Manali (bed & breakfast): ₹3,700 per room/night
(Can be booked solo or shared with another trekker)Itinerary extension due to weather or trail changes: ₹2,500 per day/person
(Covers additional camping, food, and logistical support)
Food & Cuisine
Food on the Hampta Circuit is more than just nourishment — it’s warmth, comfort, and motivation after a good day’s walk in the wilderness. With no tea stalls or dhabas en route, all meals are freshly prepared on-site by our trained mountain kitchen crew.
We focus on fresh, balanced meals that fuel your body and lift your spirit at altitude — because tasty food in the wild is part of the experience. Here’s what you can expect:
Three hot, fulfilling meals daily
- Breakfasts with parathas, poha, toast, eggs, tea/coffee
- Packed or hot lunches with rice, dal, sabzi, pulao, khichdi
- Evening snacks & soup followed by warm dinners with chapati, sabzi, dal, noodles or pasta, and occasional dessert
Tea/coffee served twice a day – morning and evening
We avoid processed, oily foods and focus on dishes that are easy to digest at altitude, yet still familiar and flavorful. All meals are strictly vegetarian (with eggs served at lower camps). We cater to common dietary preferences when informed in advance.
Accommodation
Accommodation is in a decent hotel in Manali, and throughout the trek it’s in alpine-style dome tents, set up at remote, picturesque campsites like Bogi, Sarotu, and Kharmandari. These are locations chosen for their natural shelter, views, and proximity to water sources.
Since this is a wilderness trek through lesser-known shepherd trails, all nights are spent camping — there are no guesthouses or tea huts en route.
What we provide:
1 Night hotel Accommodation in Manali
3 nights in twin-sharing dome tents during trek
Warm sleeping bags suitable for sub-zero conditions
Thick foam mattresses for insulation and comfort
Toilet tents at every campsite, cleaned and maintained by staff
Dining tent with table and stools, where meals are served and briefings are done
Our team handles full camp setup and pack-down daily. The tents are weatherproof and geared to handle wind and cold conditions comfortably.
If you need accommodation in Manali before or after the trek, we can help arrange it separately.
Fitness & Difficulty
Easy Trek with Gradual Ascents and Raw Trails
The Hampta Circuit Trek is graded as Easy, making it suitable for beginners and nature-lovers looking to step into multi-day Himalayan trekking. The terrain is a mix of forest paths, open meadows, old shepherd trails, and some rocky sections — but it stays walkable throughout.
There are no steep climbs or long trekking days. The highest altitude you’ll reach is Sethan Dome (4,200 m), approached gradually over four days.
What to expect:
3–6 hours of trekking daily
Gradual ascent with time to adjust at each campsite
Trails are mostly soft underfoot — mix of soil, grass, and rock
Some sections may be rugged or overgrown, since the route is lesser explored
Trekkers carry their own backpacks (~8–10 kg), unless offloading is chosen
Suggested preparation:
Regular walking or light jogging (30–40 mins a day)
Climbing stairs or basic hill walks
Leg and core strengthening (basic home workouts)
If you’re able to walk comfortably for 5–6 km on uneven ground, you’ll be fine on this trek. It’s designed to be immersive, not intense.
Dates Available
DATES |
AVAILABILITY |
REMARK |
|---|---|---|
September
|
Slots Available
|
Green trail. Best Everest views around this time.
|
October
|
Slots Available
|
Less Crowded and slightly colder.
|
Trek Fee: On Enquiry
To Confirm Your Spot: Click the Book Now button below to proceed with your booking. You’ll have the option to select your preferred dates and any optional add-ons on the next page.
Something Else In Mind?
We get it — adventures should feel personal. We’re here to co-create a version of this journey that feels right for you.
Start on your preferred dates
Custom inclusions & stay options
Tweak the itinerary or route
Plan a private group experience
Fill out the form or drop us an email at mail@outdoorwhisperer.com with your questions & requirements, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. For a quicker response, feel free to reach us directly at +91-8285967537.
Send Us Your Query
Why Outdoor Whisperer?
We do things a bit differently — and proudly so. We don’t chase numbers; we focus on depth, care, and quality. Each trek is meticulously planned, and organized with warmth, care, and an unwavering focus on your safety. From pre-trek online briefings to carefully curated experiences on-ground, we believe the best adventures are the ones that feel like they were made just for you.
Founder-led Journeys
Every batch is personally led by our founding team — not outsourced. We’re deeply involved in your journey, from planning to trail.
Quality Over Quantity
We run fewer batches on purpose. It lets us focus on doing each trek really well, with attention to detail, better care, and stronger group vibes.
Designed With Heart
We thoughtfully craft each batch to feel personal — with small surprises, better pacing, and meaningful touches that make the journey feel your own.
Safety Comes First
From altitude protocols to evacuation readiness, our on-ground team is WFR-certified, highly experienced, and well-versed with Himalayan conditions.
Pre-Trek Online Briefing
Before every departure, we host detailed virtual briefings so you're mentally and logistically prepped for what lies ahead.
Transparent Pricing & Terms
No hidden charges. No unpleasant surprises. We only offer what we’d want for ourselves — quality, integrity, and care.
What To Pack?
Things to Pack for Hampta Circuit Trek
The Hampta Circuit trek takes you through a mix of forests, meadows, snowy slopes, and cold desert terrain — so packing smart is the key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the journey.
Dress in layers, choose lightweight materials, and avoid overpacking — everything should fit neatly into a single rucksack.
Clothing – Layer Up Smart
2 pairs of thermal base layers (top + bottom) – for sleeping and layering
1 fleece jacket or wool sweater – mid layer
1 down or padded jacket – for cold evenings/mornings
1 waterproof/windproof outer shell jacket
2–3 pairs of trekking pants – avoid denim or cotton
1 pair of thermal leggings or warm tights – for layering or sleeping
2–3 full sleeve t-shirts (quick-dry or synthetic)
1 sun protection shirt (lightweight, long sleeve)
Undergarments (4–5 pairs) + sports bra (for women)
Woolen cap/beanie + sun cap
Buff/scarf/balaclava – for neck and wind protection
Lightweight inner gloves + insulated/waterproof outer gloves
4–5 pairs of trekking socks (blend of wool & synthetic)
Footwear & Accessories
Waterproof, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip
Floaters/slippers – for campsite use
Gaiters (optional, based on snow conditions)
Trekking poles (highly recommended for descent and stability)
UV-protected sunglasses – must-have for snow days
Sunscreen SPF 50+
Lip balm with SPF + Moisturizer
Gear & Packing Essentials
50–60L backpack with good back support & rain cover
Small 20–25L daypack – for optional Chandratal visit or summit day (if carrying own load)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottles (2L total capacity) or hydration bladder
Power bank + charging cable
Dry bags or packing cubes – to keep things organized and dry
Passport-size photos + ID copy (for permits)
Small lock – for hotel luggage or bag security
NOTE: All cutlery, cups, and utensils are provided by us. No need to carry personal lunchboxes or mugs.
Personal Hygiene & Toiletries
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Quick-dry towel or small microfiber towel
Biodegradable soap or soap strips
Toilet paper + tissues
Hand sanitizer + wet wipes
Nail cutter + comb
Menstrual hygiene products (if applicable)
Small pouch for toiletries
Health & Medical Kit
Diamox (Acetazolamide) – for altitude (consult your doctor)
Personal medication (for asthma, diabetes, etc.)
Basic painkillers – Combiflam, Crocin
Band-aids, blister patches
Antiseptic ointment
ORS/Electrolyte sachets
Anti-diarrheal tablets
Antihistamines (if you have allergies)
Extras & Good-to-Haves
Energy bars, dry fruits, OR homemade trail mix
Notebook + pen (great for journaling!)
Playing cards or small game for downtime
Lightweight reading book or Kindle
Eye mask + earplugs (for light sleepers)
Camera + spare batteries/memory card
Climbing Gear? Not Required!
This is a trekking expedition — no personal climbing gear needed. All group logistics like tents, sleeping bags, and kitchen setup are provided by us. You only need to bring your personal gear and wearables.
Common Questions
The Hampta Circuit Trek is a 5-day offbeat hiking route in Himachal Pradesh, starting from Jagatsukh near Manali and looping through alpine meadows, forests, and high ridgelines before ending at Jobri. It is lesser-known, untouched, and perfect for trekkers looking for a raw, quiet mountain experience.
While Hampta Pass is a crossover into Spiti, the Hampta Circuit is a loop that stays within the upper Hampta Valley. It explores different campsites and ridgelines, including Sethan Dome (4,200 m), and is far less crowded.
Hampta Circuit is graded as Easy, making it suitable for beginners with basic fitness. There are gradual ascents, forest and meadow trails, and no extremely steep or technical sections.
The highest point on the Hampta Circuit is Sethan Dome, which reaches an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,800 ft) above sea level.
This is a 5-day trek, including the drive from Manali to Jagatsukh and return from Jobri. You spend 4 nights camping in the mountains.
The best season is from mid-May to early October, when the trail is snow-free, the meadows are green, and weather is relatively stable.
The entire circuit covers approximately 30–32 kilometers, spread over five days with daily trekking ranging from 3 to 6 hours.
Yes, it's an excellent choice for beginners looking to explore the wild side of Himachal with moderate effort and no crowds.
The trail passes through forests, open grasslands, rocky patches, shepherd routes, and soft meadows. The path is raw and unpaved in parts, but always walkable.
No prior high-altitude trekking experience is required. However, good physical condition and a love for the outdoors are essential.
Altitude gain is gradual, and the highest camp is below 4,000 meters. Most trekkers acclimatize well. Drinking plenty of water and walking at a steady pace helps.
If you can walk 6 km in one stretch or climb stairs for 30–40 minutes without getting exhausted, you're fit enough for this trek.
The trek starts from Jagatsukh (near Manali) and ends at Jobri, from where a vehicle drives you back to Manali on Day 5.
You’ll stay in twin-sharing hotel room in Manali and alpine dome tents during the trek with warm sleeping bags and insulated mattresses. All camps are in remote, scenic locations.
All meals during the trek are included — vegetarian food with optional egg dishes, freshly cooked and served hot at campsites.
Yes, drinking water is available at all campsites and sourced from nearby natural streams. It's boiled or filtered before use.
Toilet tents with dry-pit systems are set up at every campsite. Basic hygiene and privacy are ensured.
There is no network after Jagatsukh. The trail and camps are completely out of coverage. It’s a full digital detox experience.
No. There is no electricity or charging facility on the trail. Carry a fully charged power bank if you wish to use your phone or camera.
Highly unlikely. This is a rarely-explored, non-commercial trail. In most cases, you’ll have the route entirely to your group, making it a very private trekking experience.
No buffer day is scheduled by default, as the itinerary is compact and weather windows are generally stable. However, if the group is delayed due to weather or trail issues, an extra day can be added at ₹2,500 per person, per day.
If you’re unable to continue due to fatigue or health, our trek leader will assess the situation and either arrange a safe descent or keep you at the previous campsite with support staff.
Yes. You can opt for backpack offloading at ₹1,500/day (pre-booked) or ₹1,800/day (on the spot). You'll still need to carry a small daypack for essentials.
Yes, it’s safe for solo trekkers, including women. Our groups are small and managed by experienced guides and support staff trained in high-altitude safety.
Children above 10 years can join, provided they’re active, well-prepared, and accompanied by a parent or guardian. Families often find this a great introductory Himalayan trek.
We provide high-quality tents, sleeping bags, insulated mattresses, toilet tents, and dining tents. All kitchen and camp gear is managed by our team. Personal gear must be brought by you.
Yes. Trekking poles, ponchos, jackets, and shoes (non-technical) can be rented from us in Manali on prior request.
A 50–60L backpack is ideal for carrying your gear. If you're offloading, carry a 20–25L daypack for water, snacks, and warm layers.
Depending on the season (especially in May–June or late September), you might encounter short snow patches near Sethan Dome, but no technical snow crossings are involved.
No. The trail doesn’t require crampons or snow gear. The terrain is natural and manageable with standard trekking shoes.
Day temperatures stay between 10–18°C, while nights can drop to 0 to -3°C, especially at Kharmandari or Sethan Dome campsites. Good layering is essential.
Layering is key. Thermal base layers, fleece/mid-layer, down jacket, and a waterproof shell will keep you warm and dry. Details are in the packing list provided.
Not recommended. The trail is not marked, there are no facilities, and weather can change rapidly. We strongly advise going with a professional team.
You may spot Himalayan monals, foxes, eagles, and herds of sheep or goats. The area is rich in alpine flora and occasionally used by local shepherds.
No. From Jagatsukh onward, there is no mobile network or internet. You’ll reconnect only after returning to Manali on Day 5.
Yes. You can leave extra luggage securely at our hotel in Manali before the trek begins. You’ll collect it once the trek ends.
Yes, trekkers can leave excess luggage at the base camp or designated storage areas in Manali before starting the trek.
While not mandatory, travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation is highly recommended for added security.
We understand that plans can change, and we try to keep our cancellation policy fair and transparent. Depending on how close to the departure date you cancel, partial refunds are possible, and we also offer options to transfer your booking to a future trip in certain cases.
For the full breakdown of timelines, conditions, and refund details, please check out our complete cancellation policy here: