We leave Khongma Danda before dawn. The trail climbs through rhododendron scrub to a series of ridges past Kauma, then traverses to the Shipton La, at about 4,200 m, named after the British explorer who surveyed this area in the 1950s. Prayer flags mark the saddle, and on clear mornings Makalu, Chamlang and, far to the east, Kanchenjunga line the horizon.
Between the passes the trail drops past small lakes such as Kalo Pokhari, the black lake, then climbs again to the Keke La at about 4,170 m. From there it is a long, steep descent through forest to the lodges at Dobate. Snow can linger here until late April and appear again from November, making the path slippery, so microspikes and poles are useful.
It is a long day of 7 to 8 hours, and cloud often closes in by early afternoon. Our guides decide whether to cross or wait a day at Khongma Danda based on weather and the group's acclimatisation.
Good for
- Groups
- Solo
- Photographers
Questions travellers ask
How high is Shipton La?
Shipton La is at roughly 4,200 m. Altitudes quoted by different maps vary by around 50 m. The neighbouring Keke La is slightly lower, at about 4,170 m.
Is Shipton La passable in winter?
Usually not safely from December to February, when snow and ice can make the traverse dangerous and lodges higher up close. Spring and autumn are the right seasons.
What views does Shipton La give?
On clear mornings, Makalu, Chamlang and Peak 6 nearby, and Kanchenjunga far to the east. Cloud usually builds by late morning, so an early start matters.
