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Mangsha Dhura Pass

Explore Mangsha Dhura Pass in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. Learn location, trek route, how to reach, best time to visit, and its cultural and scenic importance.


Mangsha Dhura Pass is one of the high-altitude mountain passes of Uttarakhand, located in the Pithoragarh district near the Indo-Tibetan border. At an elevation of about 5,490 metres above sea level, it is among the lesser-known but strategically important Himalayan passes. This pass connects India with Tibet and has been historically used as a traditional trade route by local villagers and traders.

The word “Dhura” in the local Kumaoni language means mountain pass. Like many other Himalayan passes, Mangsha Dhura is surrounded by tall snowy peaks, vast glaciers, and stunning landscapes. Today, it is less used for trade but holds great importance for trekking, exploration, and military strategy.

Mangsha Dhura is not a popular tourist spot like Nainital or Mussoorie. Instead, it is an adventurous and remote destination suitable for trekkers, researchers, and people interested in high-altitude Himalayan geography.

Where is Mangsha Dhura Pass Located?

Mangsha Dhura Pass lies in the Johar Valley region of Pithoragarh district, close to the border of India and Tibet (China). It is part of the Kumaon Himalayas and falls on the trade route that once connected the Johar Valley villages of Uttarakhand with the Tibetan markets of Taklakot.

Nearby important locations include:

  • Milam Glacier – One of the largest glaciers in Kumaon, located close to the pass.
  • Martoli and Milam villages – Old villages in the Johar Valley that were once centres of trade.
  • Gunji and Kalapani – Other well-known areas in Pithoragarh, also close to international borders.

How to Reach Mangsha Dhura Pass?

Reaching Mangsha Dhura Pass is not easy. It requires both road travel and a long trek. Here is a step-by-step guide:

  1. By Road to Pithoragarh:
    • First, you have to reach Pithoragarh town, which is well connected by road from Haldwani, Kathgodam, Tanakpur, and Almora.
    • From Delhi, it takes about 12–14 hours by road to reach Pithoragarh.
  2. Travel to Munsiyari:
    • From Pithoragarh, you need to travel around 120 km to Munsiyari, which is the starting point for many treks in the Johar Valley.
    • Munsiyari is a beautiful hill station, also known as the “Gateway to Johar Valley”.
  3. Trek through Johar Valley:
    • The trek to Mangsha Dhura begins from Munsiyari.
    • The trail passes through villages like Lilam, Bogudyar, Martoli, and Milam.
    • From Milam, one can trek towards the Milam Glacier and then continue to reach Mangsha Dhura Pass.

Best Time to Visit Mangsha Dhura Pass

Mangsha Dhura Pass is located at a very high altitude, where the weather is extremely cold and unpredictable. Snow covers the region for most of the year. Hence, it is accessible only during specific months.

  • Best Season:
    • May to June – The summer months when the snow starts melting and the trek becomes possible.
    • September to October – Post-monsoon months when the skies are clear, the weather is stable, and the views are spectacular.
  • Avoid Monsoon (July–August):
    • The region receives heavy rainfall which can cause landslides, road blockages, and dangerous trekking conditions.
  • Avoid Winter (November–April):
    • The pass remains completely covered with snow, making it inaccessible. Temperatures can drop to –20°C or even lower.

Mangsha Dhura Pass in Pithoragarh is a hidden jewel of the Kumaon Himalayas. It is not a regular tourist spot but an adventurous destination for those who love trekking and exploring untouched mountains. The journey to this pass offers unforgettable experiences – from walking through ancient trade villages to standing on the icy heights of the Himalayas.

If you are seeking an offbeat adventure, Mangsha Dhura Pass is a place that promises thrill, beauty, and a deep connection with the history of the region.

Related Uttarakhand Tourism Posts - Passes of Uttarakhand

1. Auden's Col Mountain Pass 2. Balcha Dhura Pass 3. Bali Pass 4. Bamsaru Khal Pass 5. Barmai Pass 6. Bhyundar Khal Pass 7. Bishali Col Pass 8. Borasu Pass 9. Danu Dhura Pass 10. Darwa Pass 11. Dharansi Pass 12. Dhumdhar Kandi Pass 13. Fachu Kandi Pass 14. Gupt Khal Pass 15. Junargali Pass 16. Kalindi Khal Pass 17. Kanakata Pass 18. Kankul Pass 19. Kuari Pass 20. Kunth Khal Pass 21. Lamkhaga Pass 22. Lampiya Dhura Pass 23. Lipu Lekh Pass 24. Mahapanth Col Pass 25. Mana Pass 26. Mangsha Dhura Pass 27. Mayali Pass 28. Nalgan Pass 29. Nama Pass Pithoragarh 30. Niti Pass 31. Panpatia Col Pass 32. Ralam Dhura Pass 33. Rupin Pass 34. Sin La Pass Pithoragarh 35. Singha Ghati Pass 36. Traill’s Pass 37. Tunjun Pass 38. Unta Dhura Pass 39. Yeonbuk Col Pass


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