Why to visit Dochula Pass

This mountain route is famed for the Druk Wangyal Chortens, which were built in 2003 by the eldest queen mother, her majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, in memory of Bhutanese soldiers died while fighting Indian separatists. The Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, which is located on the pass, is also well-known (temple). Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth Druk Gyalpo, was honoured with the construction of the temple. For travellers, this is an ideal site to capture the mesmerising Himalayan views while also discovering and photographing chortens.

On December 13, Dochula Pass holds the annual Dochula Festival, which began in 2011 to commemorate Bhutan's triumph over Indian insurgents in the south. The hills are also adorned with colourful religious flags representing the five natural elements: blue for the sky, red for fire, green for water, white for clouds, and yellow for soil. These flags are symbols of veneration for the local Buddhists, and the inscriptions of prayers on each banner symbolise peace and prosperity for Bhutan.

Hiring a car from Thimpu is the most convenient way to get to Dochula Pass. From Thimpu to Dochula Pass, the journey takes about 2 hours. If guests are feeling ambitious, they can climb to Dochula Pass, which is regarded as one of Bhutan's most scenic highways.

Special Tip

Due to the sheer high altitude, you might run out of oxygen, therefore individuals with asthma or respiratory problems should bring some medical supplies with them. If you're going for the view, a clear and sunny winter day is a good time to go.

By Atharva Yeshwardhan