The Dochula Pass, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, offers visitors a thrilling mix of natural beauty, historical sites and local customs. It is located on the highway from Thimphu to Punakha, at a height of about 10,000 feet. It is a quiet place worth visiting when exploring the Himalayas. The magic and beauty of the region is one of its kind in the world. The 108 stupas built here are quiet and mesmerising. It is truly a paradise for the travellers who visit Dochula Pass, as it offers panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks. Here, we will tell you everything you need to know about Dochula Pass, its attractions, the activities you can enjoy there, how to reach Dochula Pass and much more.
The Beauty And History Of Dochula Pass
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If you plan to visit Bhutan with your friends and family, Dochula Pass has to be on your list. It is no surprise that Dochula Pass is considered the most exciting travel destination in Bhutan due to not only the breathtaking views it offers but also the opportunities for adventure. The panoramic view of Gangkhar Puensum Peak, one of the highest unassailable mountains in the world, is priceless from here.
Dochula Pass has a certain endearing beauty of its own. Under a clear sky, this Pass offers a breathtaking view of snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, including Gangkar Puensum, the highest unclimbed peak in the world. During the Spring season, the Pass is decked with rhododendron, hemlock, and oak trees with vibrant flowers. This serene setting amidst the cool mountain air may turn the Pass into a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Dochula Pass holds great historical significance for the Bhutanese. For ages, the Pass has been an important route connecting Bhutan’s western and eastern parts. The 108 chortens or stupas, known as Druk Wangyal Chortens, were built in 2004 under the royal patronage of Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. The Pass and the 108 Chortens built here commemorate the bravery, sacrifice and victory of the Royal Bhutan Army in the battle waged against the insurgents in South Bhutan in 2003. The Pass’s spiritual importance is also noteworthy since many Bhutanese visit Dochula to show respect and seek blessings.
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Activities At Dochula Pass
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Since Dochula Pass is a stunning mountain pass at an elevation of 3100 metres, being here feels immensely exciting to the visitors. There are several activities that you can do to enjoy your visit here. Some of them are –
Scenic Photography: The incredible beauty of the landscape and the 108 chortens provide many clean opportunities for photography. Clicking the breathtaking views of the Himalayas or the minute details of the chortens will undoubtedly be on your mind during a visit to Dochula Pass.
Meditation and Prayer: Dochula Pass’s serenity makes it ideal for meditation and prayer. Most tourists find shelter in this environment and experience spiritual rejuvenation.
Hiking: Some hiking trails are also possible from this pass. The standard hike available here is to the Lungchutse Monastery, which has a view from the top. You may be able to observe the flora and fauna found in this region closer.
Bird Watching: Dochula Pass and its adjoining forests are a haven for many types of birds. Bird watchers can spot colourful birds like the beautiful Himalayan Monal.
Nearby Attractions At Dochula Pass
It is a considerably vast stretch since Dochula Pass lies on the way from Thimpu to Punakha. There is so much to see around Dochula Pass. We have picked some of the destinations for you.
1. Druk Wangyal Lhakhang
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Druk Wangyal Lhakhang Temple is next to the 108 chortens and is dedicated to the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The internal walls of the temple are decorated with beautiful murals depicting Bhutanese history and mythology. A visit here is a calming spiritual experience. During your visit to the temple, spend some time in the tranquil ambience and feel rejuvenated.
Location: About 350 metres away from the Pass
Time Required To Reach: Just 5 minutes walk
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2. Punakha Dzong
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A little further from Dochula Pass, down the road is one of Bhutan’s most magnificent fortresses—Punakha Dzong. Constructed by Ngawang Namgyal in 1637–38, the dzong is known for its superb architecture and offers scenic views of the confluence of River Pho Chhu and River Mo Chhu. The Dzong is the second oldest and most significant one in Bhutan. You will undoubtedly notice its majestic structure and aura on your visit here.
Location: About 50 km away from the Pass
Time Required To Reach: About 1.5 hrs drive
3. Chimi Lhakhang
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Chimi Lhakhang is the Temple of Fertility, dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley. He had a reputation for eccentricity in the frustrated borders and was hence dubbed the “Divine Madman.” People who do not have children but wish to have them soon come here on a pilgrimage and pray to God to bless them with children. Several couples visit the temple in a day.
Location: About 40 km away from the Pass
Time Required To Reach: About 1 hour drive
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Local Delicacies
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No one can go to Dochula Pass without tasting some delightful local Bhutanese foods. Try Ema Datshi, a combination of chilli and cheese enjoyed with steaming rice. It is a delicious Bhutanese main course dish, also known as Bhutan’s national dish. The okra from the winter garden is the best that the cook prepares with quinoa from the bowl. Phaksha Paa is a pork dish prepared with radish and dried chillies.
Jasha Maru is a spicy chicken preparation combined with tomatoes and ginger. Momos are Bhutanese dumplings that may be filled with either meat or vegetables. They are served during lunch, along with a spicy dipping sauce. You can enjoy all these delicious snacks with Butter Tea, one of the traditional dishes. This dish includes tea leaves, yak butter, and salt, which helps keep warm in the cold mountain climate.
Best Times To Visit Dochula Pass
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Dochula Pass is at its best during the Spring and Autumn months, as in winter, the terrain becomes difficult to reach due to heavy snowfall. Though the Pass is open all year round, it may be closed for some time in winter due to adverse weather conditions.
Spring (March to May): This is the best time to visit, as the weather is generally pleasant and the biodiversity is in its prime. Rhododendrons and other flowers are in full bloom, brightening the landscape with various colours.
Autumn (September to November): Skies are generally clear this season, making it the best time to view the Himalayas. The cool and dry weather also makes it ideal for trekking and other outdoor activities.
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How To Reach Dochula Pass
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Reaching the scenic Dochula Pass in Bhutan is not that difficult as the pass has good connectivity from the airport and other vital areas of Bhutan. With our guided trip, you will not have trouble visiting the Pass.
By air: Dochula Pass can be reached by air since Paro International Airport in Bhutan is the nearest airport. This is an international airport, and you can get there from major cities in India. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport and reach Dochula Pass, passing through Thimphu, about 55 km from Dochula Pass. Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan.
By Road: This place lies on the main road between Thimphu and Punakha. From Thimphu, Dochula is almost 30 kilometres away, equivalent to a one-hour drive. The road is good; it offers quite a scenic journey through forests and mountain landscapes.
By Train: However, no direct railway station serves Dochula Pass; the closest one is Hasimara, India. As such, one can hire a taxi or catch a bus that will take them to Thimphu and then proceed to Dochula by road.
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Dochula Pass has splendid natural beauty and historical and cultural significance. On top of this, it takes one close to the artistic and spiritual aura of the place. From adventurous trek to finding solace, Dochula Pass is a great place to experience Bhutanese culture, enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas and the beauty of 108 Chortens. So, plan your visit to experience this first-hand and book your trip to Bhutan with us today.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass can be visited at any time of the year with ease?
One can go to Dochula Pass all year round but it is recommended that one choose spring and autumn in order to get the best weather and views of the mountains.
A tourist visa and a travel permit to visit Dochula Pass?
When crossing into another country from any other Bhutanese entry point, a tourist visa as well as a travel permit to Dochula Pass are both mandatory.
Are there guest houses in Dochula Pass?
While Thimphu and Punakha are the nearest towns to Dochula Pass, they both provide diverse hotel types and guesthouses.
Can Dochula Pass be reached and returned to Thimphu on the same day?
Yes, it is the nearT and the most popular day trip from Thimphu, for which reason it is the most suitable choice given the limited time that tourists have to explore the area.
What to pack for Dochula Pass?
During winters, come with warm clothes, really comfy walking shoes, your camera to take memorable shots, and always be ready as a member may need first-aid due to his/her health status.
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