DAY 1: Manali – Jobra (1.5hr drive) Chika (3-4hrs Trek)
Altitude : 9,379 ft (2,859 m) to 11,194 ft (3,412 m)
Duration : 3- hours, 3 km
Difficulty : Easy-moderate, Easy walk to Chika for about an hour followed by 2 hours of ascent through a boulder section. Descent for 1-1.5 hours easing off into a level walk.
About: The meadow near Jobra has the Rani Nallah or Rani river flowing in between and on either side, you will see hills with rock faces. Some cows and sheep graze in the meadow which is lined with Maple and Pine trees. Early in the season one may find some snow by the side of the river. You can traverse on the meado or climb up the left hill. The climb makes the path slightly shorter. The river flows right in the middle and water is no issue. You can take a break here – Chika. Look back and you will see the Dhauladhar range with its snow-clad peaks. It makes a pretty picture. You will find a waterfall on to your left. Relax and replenish your water supplies at this spot.
Meal Inclusions : Breakfast, Lunch Snacks and Dinner
DAY 2: Chika to Balu ka Ghera
Altitude: 11,194 ft (3,412 m) to 12,411 ft (3,783 m)
Duration: 6-8 hours, 7 km
Difficulty: Moderate. Short meadow walk followed by boulder section for a couple of hours, leading to a trail on loose rocks all the way. Very gradual incline throughthe day.
About: Walk along the Rani river heading into a rectangular valley. On your way, you will find a variety of tiny flowers – purple, yellow, pink etc. The trees are now left behind. You won’t find them anymore for quite some time. It takes about half an hour to cross the hampta valley. The terrain flattens as you reach Chota Balu ka Ghera where you can rest for a bit and have a quick snack. Then continue further along the river, crossing small snow flows and jumping across rocks.Towards the end, the rocks are quite far apart and jumping across gets tricky. It is level ground and behind you are the mountains you will traverse the next day to cross the Hampta Pass. Pitch your tent and enjoy a beautiful sunset behind the Hanuman Tibba peak. You are now close to 12,500 ft above sea level.
Meal Inclusions : Breakfast, Lunch Snacks and Dinner