“Dolpa, the district covering the total area of 7889 sq. kilometers houses 70% of Trans Himalayan territory and 4 % of nival Region. The incredible geographical diversity Dolpo houses as it gains altitude are worthwhile exploring and witnessing during the treks in Dolpo.”

We have always claimed that treks in Dolpo are definitely not for novice trekkers, who are not used to high altitude walking or it is not for those who have health issues. Most of the treks in Dolpo are categorized moderately challenging to strenuous.

In today’s post, we have listed five most frequented 5000m plus high passes in Dolpo trek. These high passes are the prime reasons that make Dolpo Treks strenuous and the very challenging endeavor.

Shey La Pass 5010m

East of Shey Gompa, the elevated pass that joins Shey and remote highland settlement Namgung is Shey La Pass. The summit of the pass caters incredible views of Himalayas of Nepal & Tibet. The panorama of Tibetan landscapes to north and the incredible Mustang to south are also the wonderful delights from the acme of Shey La Pass. This pass is encountered during the Upper Dolpo Trek and the trek that joins two incredibly beautiful ancient kingdoms Dolpo & Mustang.

Kang La Pass 5360m

The elevated pass that nestles between two most important landmarks of Dolpo- Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa is Kang La Pass. Treading along the beautiful tropical forest beyond Phoksundo Lake, the trek slowly gains altitude along the rock-strewn trails to the summit of Kang La Pass. The Pass is probably the most trodden Pass in Dolpo as it comes across in most of the moderate to challenging treks of Dolpo. The summit of the pass caters the striking views of Himalayan peaks and the deep deserted valleys blended with the lush vegetation of Phoksundo National Park.

Baga La Pass 5170m

Initially the trail to Baga La Pass rom Danighar gains elevation rapidly. The elevation of 600m is gained so rapidly that, this part of trek really demands extra efforts. As we arrive to the top of the pass, we witness the scared chortens. Norbung Lang Peak looms right before our eyes along with other peaks on the ridgeline, which is one of the most beautiful views of entire Dolpo. This pass encounters during our popular treks Phoksundo Nature Experience and Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek.

Numa La Pass 5310m

From the trading center of Dolpo, Dho Tarap the trail to the top of Numa La Pass is not easy as trekkers gain elevation along the rugged trail, which is electrifying and maddening experiences of equal measures. However, the demanding trek also rewards with the majestic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Churen Himal. In addition, the view of fantastic snowcapped peak Norbung Kang dominates the trail. After the effortful trek, we arrive to the top of Numa La Pass 5310m. The top of Numa La Pass has quite a spacious saddle with prayer flags fluttering with winds. During Lower Dolpo Circuit and Upper Dolpo Trek, the pass is the major highlight as well as the major challenge.

Ghami Pass 5694m

To the south Dolpo en route to Mustang Ghami Pass stands tall catering one last challenge while treading from Dolpo to Mustang. The pass that is higher than many mountains of the continents other than Asia is truly a challenging pass to traverse during the adventurous escapade from Dolpo to Mustang. From the top of the pass, trekkers can savor the magnificent view of Dhaulagiri and its close siblings.