Today is extremely gorgeous, as we cross four high passes with breezy traverses and dramatic ridge sections that provide near-constant vistas of snow-capped peaks. If you go trekking in April, be prepared for snow. There is one lonely tea store on the Shipton La, but you won't have lunch until you reach Dobate, so bring plenty of snacks and water with you (you may be given a packed lunch today). After about an hour of climbing through rhododendron bushes, you'll reach your first pass of the day, the 3,890m Khongma La. If the weather is clear, you'll be able to view Makalu and Chamlang from there. If the weather is clear, you'll be able to view Makalu and Chamlang from there. Before rising to your second pass, you drop for a little while. As you climb an airy slope, you'll get views of Kangchenjunga. Sano Pokhari Danda, at 4,105m, is reached via steep stone steps with Sano Pokhari Lake below. It takes around an hour to get here from the Khongma La, though it may take longer if you have to navigate through snow. More undulations lead to the Shipton La, the highest pass at 4,200 meters. During the season, a tin shelter/tea store serves thirsty, exhausted hikers and pilgrims. Near the shelter, a mani wall and cairn adorned with prayer flags mark the pass.
At 4,080m, you reach Kalo Pokhari Lake by a less steep descent. During the Janai Purnima Festival, it is decorated with prayer flags and visited by Hindu pilgrims. The last pass of the day, the Keke La at 4,170m, is a gentler climb from the lake. Finally, following a 45-minute descent, you'll arrive at your Dobate lodge, which will be a wonderful sight after your four-pass toil! Here is a nice, clean lodge with a pleasant and welcoming proprietor. As a reward for your efforts today, the dal bhat will be extremely tasty.