Chikka Hike on The Hamta Pass Trail: Perfect For Beginners
Chikka Hike on The Hamta Pass Trail is one of the best and most popular trekking routes for beginners who have just started their trekking journey.
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Chikka Hike is a part of the Hamta Pass trek whose final destination is Hamta Pass (14000 ft).
Chikka is the first campsite to stay in the night if you have opted for the Hamta Pass trek otherwise you can return back to Jobra. You can check out the map that we have provided below.
Related: Kareri Lake Tent Camping: An Unforgettable Himalayan Camping Adventure
Anyone can go to Chikka for Hiking and camping but we strongly recommend it to beginners to make a good start in trekking as it is very easy with breathtaking views and the stark contrast of landscape.
We suggest you go for a full trek believe me it will give you a breathtaking experience that you never felt before as soon as you reach Hamta Pass and Chandratal Lake.
About Chikka
Chikka Hike via Jobra is a thrilling trek through the scenic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, starting from Jobra in the Kullu Valley.
The trail winds through diverse terrains—forests, streams, and meadows with wildflowers—culminating at the enchanting Chikka campsite.
Offering moderate difficulty, the trek provides breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks and valleys, making it an ideal adventure for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
The journey is enhanced by crisp mountain air, immersive surroundings, and encounters with local flora and fauna, creating a memorable and picturesque experience.
Related: Hanuwantiya Island Camping
Best Time To Go For Chikka Hike
The best time to embark on the Chikka Hike is during the summer and early autumn months, from May to October.
During this period, the weather in Himachal Pradesh is relatively stable and favorable for trekking activities.
The temperatures are milder, ranging from comfortable to cool, making the hiking experience more enjoyable.
In the summer months (May to June), the Chikka Hike provides pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
This period is ideal for those who prefer milder conditions and wish to witness the blooming wildflowers in the meadows along the trail.
The post-monsoon season (September to October) is another excellent time for the Chikka Hike. During this period, the weather remains clear, and the landscapes are adorned with lush greenery.
Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), providing a refreshing and comfortable trekking environment.
It’s advisable to avoid the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall, colder temperatures, and challenging trail conditions.
Checking local weather forecasts and trail conditions before planning the Chikka Hike is recommended for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Related: 7 Safe and Serene Camping Spots Around Haridwar/Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Detailed Route Map
Reach Manali
Manali, a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are the common ways to reach Manali:
- By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (KUU), also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, is the nearest airport to Manali, situated approximately 50 kilometers away.
- After landing at Bhuntar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali. The journey from the airport to Manali usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the mode of transport.
- By Road:
- From Delhi:
- Manali is well-connected by road, and the most common route is via Delhi.
- You can take a bus from Delhi to Manali. Several private and state-run buses operate on this route. The journey usually takes around 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Alternatively, you can drive or hire a taxi. The road journey from Delhi to Manali takes approximately 12 to 14 hours, depending on the route and traffic.
- From Delhi:
- By Train:
- The nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, but it is not well-connected. The major railway stations near Manali are Chandigarh Railway Station and Pathankot Railway Station.
- From these railway stations, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali. The road journey from Chandigarh or Pathankot to Manali takes around 8 to 10 hours.
- Self-Drive:
- If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take a scenic road trip to Manali. The journey provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas and picturesque landscapes.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to Bhimtal Camping
Book For Chikka Hike
An abundance of operators presents the Hampta Pass Trek, ranging from major entities to smaller enterprises. Among the well-recognized choices are India Hikes and Trek The Himalayas.
While it may not boast the same level of popularity, rest assured that the individual in charge, Sagar Dhingra (Contact: 7807289392), is dedicated to ensuring you savor the finest aspects of the Hampta Pass trek. Immerse yourself in their snug accommodations and relish the breathtaking vistas on offer.
For a less mainstream yet equally enriching experience, consider staying at Holiday Dada and Nirvana Hampta.
Guide Of Chikka Hike on The Hamta Pass Trail
Day 1: Altitude acclimatization
Related: Chopta Valley Camping
Commencing the Chikka trek necessitates an initial arrival in Manali, where acclimatization becomes a priority.
This involves adapting to the local climate, acclimating to the elevation, and familiarizing oneself with the terrain. This preparation is crucial to fully equip for the challenges the trek presents.
While in Manali, take the opportunity to explore its vibrant streets and admire the majestic mountain vistas.
Allocate time to organize your gear and procure any additional supplies essential for the journey. Utilize lockers to store non-essential items, ensuring your backpack carries a maximum of 8 kg, emphasizing the importance of efficient and strategic packing.
Otherwise, you can reach to Rumsu village for that you need to get off the bus at PatliKuhal (15km before Manali).
It depends on your tour operator. In Rumsu village you reserve a day for acclimatization and for socializing with fellow trekkers.
Related: Tirthan River Valley Camping
Day 2: Commencing the hiking: Jobra to Sethan Village (9,800 feet)
Distance – 30 km (road) & 9 km (trek)
Duration (approx) – 1 hour (drive) & 5 hours (trek)
Embarking on Day 2 of the Chikka hike, adventurers are set for an exhilarating journey, steering through the challenging terrain from Manali to Jobra, conquering 34 hairpin bends.
This leg of the expedition, although brief, consumes roughly an hour, paving the way for the commencement of the actual trek from Jobra, nestled at an elevation of 9,500 feet.
The trek from Jobra to Sethan village spans 9 kilometers and demands 5 hours of traversing.
Sethan village marks the concluding human settlement along this route, and from this juncture onward, all camping accommodations transition into tented abodes, as the realm beyond is untouched by civilization.
Navigating through this segment of the trail entails negotiating steep ascents and descents within dense forests, unveiling awe-inspiring panoramas of the encircling mountains and valleys.
Enveloped by the invigorating mountain air, trekkers traverse amidst luxuriant greenery, tracing the path upstream. The journey unfolds amidst apple orchards that grace the entire route.
Ultimately, as the sun sets on a day rich with trekking endeavors, weary trekkers find solace in Sethan village.
Here, amidst the tranquil surroundings, they recharge and brace themselves for the promising adventures of yet another remarkable day on this unforgettable expedition.
Day – Sethan Village to Chika Camp Trek (10,800feet)
Distance – 8 km
Duration (approx) – 4 Hours
Embarking on Day 3 of the Chikka Hike, the journey unfolds with a serene trek from Sethan village to the enchanting Chika campsite.
Covering a distance of 8 kilometers, this leg of the hike demands 4 hours of exploration. The trail, characterized by its ease of navigation, meanders gently, with clear streams dotting the path, providing opportune moments to replenish water bottles.
Situated at an elevation of 10,800 feet, the Chika campsite stands as the final waystation before entering the alpine zone.
Beyond Sethan village, the absence of electricity underscores the importance of charging essential devices like phones and cameras before venturing forth.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Chika is celebrated for its natural splendor. The locale is cloaked in lush greenery, with the crystalline Rani River gracefully coursing through its heart.
Camping in Chika offers an immersive encounter with nature, with several campgrounds nestled near the riverbanks, providing breathtaking vistas of the encircling mountains. It’s an idyllic setting to soak in the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills.
Equipment List You Must Have
We providing you with a list of equipment that you must have as we had carried during our Hampta Pass trek.
- Trekking shoes: Carry the best trekking shoes, not the cheap ones.
- Camping tent: It is good to have your own camping tent. You can check our recommendation for the best camping tents.
- Trekking Poles
- Sleeping bag and sleeping pad.
- Camp Shoes/Sandals: Your feet will need some rest and relaxation after a long day of trekking.
- Backpack: Go for only good backpacks of at least 50 – 60 liters. You can go by our recommended backpack as I have already used it Hampta Pass trek.
- Three layers of warm clothes: Carry two or three-layer jackets, fleece jackets, and a padded jacket.
- Two/Three trek pants: Carry light cotton trek pants.
- Two/Three t-shirts (collared/dry-fit): Wear full-sleeved shirts to prevent sunburn on the neck and arms. Pack one or two dry-fit t-shirts for comfort.
- Top and bottom thermals.
- Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from snow glare.
- Woollen Cap and Wool socks.
- Waterproof hand gloves
- Headlamp/LED torch: Very important
- Raincoat/Ponchos
- Lunch box and water bottle
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Hand Sanitizer, Wet Wipes, Sunscreen and Lip Balm.
- Essential Medicines
- Insect Repellent
- Camera and Accessories
- Cash and Documents
