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Often a violent history and dark times encourage people to create something inspiring and beautiful, and this is exactly what the people of Bhutan did. They created Dochula Pass, Bhutan in honor of 108 Bhutanese soldiers who died in a 2003 military operation.

Dochula Pass—a beautiful mountain pass, which is about 20 km from Thimphu is a concentration of 108 memorial stupas known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens.” It’s not just a place of historical and religious importance, but also a popular tourist attraction that any traveler would want to witness on their journey through Bhutan. The best time to visit Dochula Pass, Bhutan is from September to February for picturesque and closer views of the snow-laden Himalayas.

Dochula Pass altitude: 3,100m
Dochula Pass weather & temperature: Cold winds. Minimum 2°C and maximum 8°C

3 reasons to visit Dochula Pass, Bhutan

1. It is one of the most beautiful mountain passes you’ll ever see

Chortens built on Dochula Pass Road

Dochula Pass, Bhutan is not the highest mountain pass, but it surely is one of the most beautiful passes in the world. Decorated with small chortens on lush green hillside, this place tells an interesting story of spirituality, bravery, and Bhutanese culture.


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2.Feel the chill in 2°C temperature at a height of 3,100 m

snowfall at Dochula Pass

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We all are excited to see winter in mountains with the temperature radically changing and the soft snow falling down on our faces. Anyone who loves winter will be excited to experience the chilly weather and sometimes snowfall at Dochula Pass at a dizzying height of 3,100 m. This is reason enough to drive all the way from Thimphu to Dochula.

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3. The 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas and some other mighty peaks

snow capped mountain views from Dochula Pass

A 50-minute drive on well-maintained roads from Thimphu takes you to Dochula Pass. One can witness the most splendid views of the snow-covered Himalayas from here. On a clear day the high mountain peaks including Masaganang (7,200m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Tsendagang (6,960 m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), and Terigang (7,060 m) can be seen from Dochula Pass in Bhutan.

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Attractions around Dochula Pass

1. Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple

a gorgeous Bhutanese temple at Dochula Pass

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Other than the 108 chortens, Dochula Pass in Bhutan is also home to an incredibly beautiful Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple built in honor of His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The temple is so beautifully built that lovers of ancient art and architecture come from far and wide to see this piece of beauty. The intricate design and structure of the temple present a marvellous blend of history and mythology.

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2. Great photography spots on the way to Punakha

foreigners with a Bhutanese man outside a temple

The 108 chortens, Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, and the snow-clad mountain peaks make Dochula Pass among the most wonderful places to capture the beauty of Bhutan. The colourful prayer flags tied to the trees and temples also add a hint of spirituality and beauty to Dochula. And the mighty Himalayas behind the veil of thick mists look like a spectacular painting.

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3. The colourful Druk Wangyal Lhakhang Festival

a Bhutanese woman performing dance

Druk Wangyal Lhakhang Festival is an annual festival celebrated in memory of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo on 13th of December. Celebrated amid breathtaking vistas, this festival is an experience that lets you witness the beauty of Bhutanese culture and art. If you ever plan a visit to Bhutan in December, do not miss this fest.

Dochula Pass, Bhutan is a place that excites everyone who loves mountains, especially the Himalayas. Should you ever plan a trip to Bhutan, make sure you visit Dochula. You can explore some of these Bhutan tour packages and let the travel experts create an unforgettable travel experience for you.

Further Read: Everest Base Camp Trek: A Guide To A Journey Of A Lifetime

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