Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass in Bhutan is a popular tourist attraction connecting Punakha and Thimphu. It is settled 3,150 m above sea level and offers 360-degree views of the majestic lifetime. This region will have vibrant prayer flags and 108 stupas (Druk Wangyal). These stupas are created in honor of Bhutanese soldiers who died in a 2003 military operation. Enjoying breathtaking vistas, knowing about the culture, and reconnecting with nature are the best things to do here.
This mountain pass has a historical and religious significance that will leave you in awe-inspiring mode. By strolling in this pass, you will get to know about the story of spirituality, courage, and culture. In wintertime, you can see the snowfall here and enjoy the chilling weather. Moreover, from here, you can get panoramic views of several Himalayas peaks, including Jejegangphugang, Masaganang, Kangphugang, and Tsendagang. To know more about this mountain pass, you can check out the details below.
Overview of Dochula of Pass
| Location | East-West Road from Thimphu to Punakha |
| Best Time to Visit | Throughout the year |
| Famous For | Beautiful Landscapes, Scenic Views |
| Elevation | 3,100 m |
| Range | Himalayas |
| Average Time | 2 hours |
Highlights
- Enjoying the 360-degree views of the Himalayan peaks.
- Stroll around the stupas and get insightful knowledge about the past stories from locals.
- Enjoy picnic time with your closed ones and feel the peaceful ambiance.
- Admire the architecture of Druk Wangyal Chortens and know the back story.
- Visiting a monastery in this region indeed adds a layer of spirituality.
- Attend festivals to immerse yourself in the Bhutanese culture.
Recommended for
It is one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Bhutan where thousands of tourists visit throughout the year to feel the nature, enjoy hiking, and practice meditation. If you are in for any of these activities, you should definitely visit this pass.
Ticket Price for Dochula Pass
There is no entry fee to visit Dochula Pass in Bhutan. However, you will have to pay a little cost to visit the top level of temples.
About Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass is a popular tourist attraction that is settled in the snow-covered Himalayas. The 108 memorial chortens (stupas) are also known as Druk Wangyal Chortens. These stupas were built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk to pay honor to those who lost their life in the war. Apart from these stupas, Druk Wangyal Lhakhang is a popular must-visit destination that you should visit. This mountain pass is a must-visit stop-over point for tourists and locals. To know more about this Dochula Pass, scroll down and plan your trip here.
History of Dochula Pass
In 2003, King Jigme Singye Wangchuk's army engaged Insurgents of Assamese from India in combat and won. Hence, the Bhutanese army's defeat and Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk advised building these stupas to honor the 108 soldiers who died in the war.
Chortens of Dochula Pass
These chortans are shrines in Buddhist culture and are dedicated to Buddha. On 23rd December 2003, the king returned to Thimpu and passed the order to built these structures. And in June 2004, the stupas were completed. These stupas have three layers; the first has 45 stupas, the second layer has 36 stupas, and the third layer has 27 stupas. While visiting this place, you will feel a pleasant atmosphere and learn about the cycle of death and life from the perspective of Buddhist culture.
Druk Wangyel monastery
This monastery is home to a huge statue of Buddha and some other deities. It is located in front of the chortens and has excellent spiritual significance in this region. In this monastery, you will see various paintings depicting the several stories of Buddha and others. Moreover, the view is stunning and will blow your mind. On top of that, you can admire the 108 stupas from different angles.
Dochula Cafes
Enjoying the coffee with the blue sky above and mountain views in front of your eyes is a magical experience. The cold weather and hot coffee make a perfect combination that is just something else. In addition, the backdrop of the Himalayas will allure to click pictures and make memories that last forever.
