Dochula Pass

Places to See in and around Dochula Pass

There are many beautiful places to see in and around the famous Dochula Pass. Some of the most visited touristy places are-

Druk Wangyal Chorten

Built during the year of 2005, Druk Wangyal Chorten is made with 108 memorial Stupas. These 108 memorial chortens were built in the memory of the brave Bhutanese soldiers who had sacrificed their lives during the mission "Operation All Clear". The first-ever mission of Bhutan was conducted by the Royal Bhutan Army against the rebels of India. Thus, due to its historical significance, Durk Wangyal Chorten has become one of the reasons to visit Dochula Pass.

Druk Wangyal Lhakhang

Built-in the honor of the former Bhutanese King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, Druk Wangyal Lakhang is a temple at Dochula Pass. The temple offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayan Mountains. Moreover, the temple is a fine example of traditional Buddhist culture meeting the 21st century.

After entering the main building, you can see many beautifully drawn wall murals such as Druk Airplanes, a monk with a laptop, the royal family, Jigme Singye Wangchuck leading the army against the Assamese rebels, etc.

Punakha Dzong

One of the oldest Dzong in the entire Bhutan, Punakha Dzong is a must-visit place near Dopchula Pass. Built by Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong is unarguably one of the most beautiful Dzongs in Bhutan. Constructed beside the shimmering Mo Chu River, it is a fine example of ancient architectural excellence.

Punakha Suspension Bridge

Punakha Suspension Bridge is another sightseeing place to visit Dochula Pass. Built over the famous Mo Chu river, walking on this Suspension Bridge will give you a thrilling experience. The bridge was usually built to connect two villages such as Samdingkha and Wangkha by the kings of Wangchuk. The shaking of the bridge, while the wind blows, is what you will enjoy the most.

Things to See in Dochula Pass

As Dochula Pass is a famous tourist destination, there are many things to see at Dochula Pass. Some of the most attractive things are-

• 108 Memorial Chorten: 108 Memorial Chorten is the best thing to see in Dochula Pass. These 108 stupas were built to commemorate the memory of the brave soldiers who died during the war against some of the rebels from India.
• Druk Wangyal Monastery: Druk Wangyal Monastery is also one of the attractive things to see in Dochula Pass. A fine example of 21st-century architecture, this monastery is an ideal place to enjoy a breathtaking vista of the snow-clad mountains.
• Mount Gangkhar Puensum: A fascinating 360-degree view of the Mount Gangkhar Puensum is another best thing to see in Dochula Pass. The jaw-dropping view of this snow-clad mountain will surely lure you are again to visit it.

Things and Activities to Do in Dochula Pass

You can visit Dochula and can do a bunch of activities. Some of the popular things and activities are:

• Picnicking: Due to its tremendous surroundings, Dochula Pass is an ideal place for having a great picnic with your family. It is one of the reasons to visit Dochula Pass who love to enjoy the tranquility of nature while spending some quality time with their near ones.
• Mountain Biking: Those who seek a thrilling adventure can do the Mountain Biking activities in Dochula Pass. Have an intense ride from Thimpu to Dochula through the hilly trail of Bhutan.
• Trekking: Trek in the forest enclosing Dochula Pass. It can be one of the ideal and enjoyable things to do.
• Hiking: Hike to the Durk Wangyal Monastery to witness a panoramic view of the surroundings.

Best Time To Visit Dochula Pass

April-June: During this time of the year, visitors can witness the view of valley enclosing Dochula Pass covered beneath the vibrant vista of blooming rhododendron.

July-September: During this time of the year, visitors can witness the astounding phenomenon of moisture-laden monsoon clouds descend from the heavens to the lower valley, especially early in the morning and late in the afternoons.

October-March: Winter season is the best time to visit Dochula Pass as during this time of the year, sky remains clear and it offers the unhindered view of snow capped mountain ranges looming over the scenic gorge and hills located adjacent to Dochula Pass.

How To Reach Dochula Pass

The most convenient way to reach Dochula Pass is by hiring a car from Thimphu. It is an overall 2hrs ride from Thimphu to Dochula Pass. If travelers are feeling adventurous they can also hike their way to Dochula Pass as the route leading to Dochula is reckoned for being one of the most pictorial roads in Bhutan.

Distance: The distance between Thimphu to Dochula Pass is 30 kilometers.

Information Related to Dochula Pass

Here are some of the things you should know about Dochula Pass before having a trip there

• The Height of the Pass is 3100 meters or 10,300 ft. The height of the Dochula Pass makes it an ideal place to enjoy the scenic mountain peaks in the background.
• The temperature of Dochula Pass varies from season to season. During the season of winter, the temperature stays a minimum 2-degree Celsius. However, the temperature rises up to 10-degree Celsius in the summer.
• The Distance between Dochula Pass and Paro is more than 64 km. It usually takes approximately 2 hours to reach Paro from Dochula.
• Snowfall is very rare in Dochula Pass but it happens sometimes.
• Visiting Dochula Pass does not need any special permit. But you need a permit to enter Punakha because Punakha falls under the restricted area.

Packages We Offer to Visit Dochula Pass

We offer plenty of customizable Bhutan tour packages to witness 108 Memorial Chorten and Druk Wangyal Monastery. Some of the best Bhutan tour packages including Dochula Pass are:

• 8 Days exclusive Bhutan Tour Package to cover most of the touristy places.
• 5 Days Bhutan Tour Plan including Thimpu, Paro, and Punakha.
• 7 Days Bhutan Holiday Packages including all the sightseeing places in Thimpu, Paro, and Punakha.
• 6 Days Complete Bhutan Trip Plan to enjoy most of the attractions of Bhutan.