It was evident that the passage of the pass was to be disputed.
"Starting from Dargai, the pass went through a gradually narrowing valley for about two miles; then bending to the northeast for a mile and a half, the hills on the west rising precipitously to a great height.

On reaching the bend, the pass was strongly held on the west side.
"The 4th Sikhs went out on the flank.

The Guides Infantry were directed to ascend the highest point of the western hill and, from this, to enfilade the enemy.

It was a most arduous task, as they had to ascend the highest peak of the range, some fifteen hundred feet.

Here several sangars had been erected by the enemy, who hurled down rocks and stones.
"In the meantime the main force advanced, and could make out the general position of the enemy.