Hampta Pass is a stunning mountain trail located in Himachal Pradesh, connecting the Kullu Valley to the Lahaul region. It is a popular trekking destination for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. Delhi, the capital city of India, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to Hampta Pass.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Hampta Pass. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect on arrival. Whether you prefer trains, buses, or driving, this article covers everything you need for a smooth journey.

Getting from Delhi to Hampta Pass – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Delhi to the nearest railway stations is a comfortable and economical choice. It is suitable for travelers who want to avoid long road journeys and enjoy scenic views en route to Himachal Pradesh.

• The closest major railway stations to Hampta Pass are Joginder Nagar and Pathankot, with Delhi Junction and New Delhi as starting points. The train journey takes about 8 to 12 hours depending on the train chosen.

• Train fares range from ₹300 to ₹800 for sleeper and second-class seats, making it budget-friendly for most travelers heading towards the mountains.

• Trains run frequently, but it is advisable to book tickets through IRCTC well in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons from May to October.

• During winter months, fog can cause delays on the Delhi to Pathankot route, so plan accordingly and check live train status before departure.

• From the railway station, you will need to arrange local transport to Manali or Jobra, the base points for Hampta Pass trek, which adds 4 to 6 hours of road travel.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to reach the base towns near Hampta Pass. State-run and private buses connect Delhi to Manali and other nearby towns.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates Volvo and deluxe buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Manali, taking around 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and weather.

• Bus fares range between ₹700 and ₹1500, with Volvo buses offering more comfort and air conditioning for the long mountain journey.

• Buses depart mostly in the evening and night, allowing you to travel overnight and reach early morning, saving daytime for trekking preparations.

• During monsoon season, landslides and roadblocks on NH3 and NH205 can cause delays, so check weather and road conditions before booking.

• From Manali bus stand, local taxis or shared cabs are available to reach Jobra or other Hampta Pass starting points, which is about 40 km away.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Hampta Pass base points is ideal for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The route offers beautiful views but requires careful planning due to mountain roads.

• The distance from Delhi to Manali is approximately 550 km via NH44 and NH3, taking about 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Driving yourself or hiring a private taxi allows you to stop at popular places like Chandigarh, Mandi, and Kullu for rest and meals.

• Expect toll plazas on NH44 and NH3, with toll charges totaling around ₹500 to ₹700 for the round trip.

• Mountain roads near Manali are narrow and winding; driving in daylight is safer, especially during monsoon and winter when landslides and snow are common.

• Parking is limited near trek starting points like Jobra, so plan to leave your vehicle in secure parking areas or with local guesthouses.

Flight

While there is no direct flight to Hampta Pass, flying to the nearest airport and then continuing by road is a fast option for many travelers.

• The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, about 50 km from Manali and 90 km from Jobra, the Hampta Pass base.

• Flights from Delhi to Bhuntar take about 1 hour and are operated by small regional airlines with fares ranging from ₹3000 to ₹6000.

• Bhuntar Airport has limited flights and can be affected by weather, especially in winter, causing cancellations or delays.

• From Bhuntar, taxis and buses are available to reach Manali or Jobra, taking about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Booking flights well in advance is recommended during peak trekking seasons to secure seats and avoid last-minute price hikes.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Delhi to Hampta Pass. It covers key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or HRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles and secure preferred travel times.

• Pack trekking essentials and warm clothes as mountain weather can change quickly; carry water and snacks for long road journeys.

• Reach the railway station or bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to manage crowds and find your platform or bus easily.

• On arrival at Manali or Jobra, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and reliable local transport to your trek starting point.

• Register your trek with local authorities or guides to ensure safety and get updated trail information, especially during monsoon or winter seasons.

• Carry some cash as many remote areas near Hampta Pass have limited digital payment options and poor network connectivity.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure in crowded places like Delhi railway stations and bus stands to avoid pickpocketing, which is common during peak travel times.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during the journey and while trekking to prevent stomach infections common in mountain regions.

• Book tickets online and confirm your travel schedules a day before departure to avoid surprises caused by sudden cancellations or route changes.

• Use local shared taxis or buses for short distances near Manali and Jobra to save money and experience local travel culture.

• Pack light but include rain gear and thermal wear, as weather in the mountains can be unpredictable even in summer months.

• Check weather forecasts regularly during monsoon and winter seasons to avoid traveling during heavy rains or snowfall that can block roads.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Hampta Pass is between May and October when the weather is pleasant and roads are mostly clear. Winter months can be harsh with heavy snowfall blocking access.

Monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rains and landslides, causing delays and sometimes cancellations of buses and trains. Early morning departures are recommended to avoid afternoon fog and traffic jams.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi as trains and buses are overcrowded and prices surge.

• Summer months offer clear skies and moderate temperatures, ideal for trekking and road travel.

• Winter travel is challenging due to snow and cold; many roads near Hampta Pass are closed from December to March.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic jams on NH44 and NH3, especially near Chandigarh and Mandi.

Arrival at Hampta Pass & What to Expect

When you arrive at Jobra or Manali, the main base points for Hampta Pass, you will find several guesthouses, trekking agencies, and local guides ready to assist you. The atmosphere is lively during trekking season with many travelers preparing for their adventure.

Local transport options include shared taxis, private cabs, and buses. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Manali but may be limited in smaller towns. It is best to confirm your return transport in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Hampta Pass from Delhi depends on your budget and comfort preference. Taking a train or bus to Manali followed by local transport to Jobra is economical and popular. For more flexibility, driving or flying to Bhuntar Airport and then continuing by road works well.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for mountain travel will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Delhi to Hampta Pass and look forward to an unforgettable trekking experience.