Mountain Passes of Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh, nestled in the Himalayan ranges, boasts numerous mountain passes that serve as vital connections between regions. These passes, varying in height and significance, facilitate trade, travel, and cultural exchange. Here’s a glimpse into some of the notable mountain passes of Pithoragarh:

International Passes to Tibet:

1. Lampiya Dhura: Situated at an elevation of 5,530 meters, Lampiya Dhura provides a route connecting Pithoragarh with Tibet.
2. Lipu-Lekh Pass: With an altitude of 5,450 meters, Lipu-Lekh Pass serves as a crucial gateway to Tibet.
3. Lowe Dhura: Standing tall at 5,562 meters, Lowe Dhura offers passage to the Tibetan Plateau.
4. Mangshya Dhura: This pass, reaching 5,630 meters, is significant for cross-border trade and travel.
5. Nuwe Dhura: At 5,650 meters, Nuwe Dhura is among the highest passes in the region.
6. Kungri Bingri Pass: This pass, towering at 5,564 meters, is vital for transboundary connectivity

Intra-district Himalayan Passes:

1. Ghantesh Baba: Ghantesh Baba Pass, at 5,164 meters, facilitates travel within the district.
2. Nama Pass: With an elevation of 5,500 meters, Nama Pass offers a route between local areas.
3. Sinla Pass: Sinla Pass, standing at 5,495 meters, is integral for intra-district connectivity.
4. Ralam Pass: At 5,630 meters, Ralam Pass is a key passage for local travel and trade.
5. Keo Dhura: This pass, at 5,439 meters, links various parts of the district.
6. Belcha Dhura: Belcha Dhura Pass, with a height of 5,384 meters, is crucial for transportation within Pithoragarh.
7. Kalganga Dhura: Standing at 5,312 meters, Kalganga Dhura Pass plays a significant role in local connectivity.
8. Traills Pass: Traills Pass, also at 5,312 meters, offers access to remote areas within the district.
9. Gangchal Dhura: At 5,050 meters, Gangchal Dhura Pass is among the lower passes in the region.
10. Birejrang Dhura: Birejrang Dhura Pass, at 4,666 meters, is known for its scenic beauty and accessibility.
11. Ghatmila Dhura: The height of Ghatmila Dhura Pass is currently unknown.
12. Unta Dhura: Unta Dhura Pass, at 5,350 meters, provides a route for local transportation and trade.
13. Yangkchar Dhura: With an altitude of 4,800 meters, Yangkchar Dhura Pass is an important passage in the district.
14. Rur Khan: Rur Khan Pass, at 3,800 meters, serves as a lower-altitude route for local travel.
15. Bainti Col: Bainti Col, reaching 5,100 meters, connects different parts of Pithoragarh district.
16. Longstaff Col: Longstaff Col, at 5,910 meters, is one of the highest and most challenging passes in the region.

These mountain passes, with their varying heights and features, contribute significantly to the connectivity and livelihoods of the people in Pithoragarh district. They are not only conduits for trade and travel but also embody the rugged beauty and resilience of the Himalayas.