Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Located between Thimphu and Punakha in Bhutan, Dochula Pass is a popular mountain pass offering panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. At an altitude of 3,100 metres, this pass is known for its 108 memorial chortens, Druk Wangyal Chortens. Whether travelling from Thimphu to Punakha or exploring Bhutan, visiting Dochula Pass is essential. The location is also of significant historical and cultural importance in Bhutan. On clear days, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Gangkar Puensum, the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.
Location
Photo: Arian Zwegers / Wikimedia Commons
The pass is about 30 km (18.6 miles) from Thimphu along the Thimphu-Punakha highway. It is at an elevation of 3,100 metres and is part of the Himalayan mountain range. These chortens were built in 2003 by the Queen Mother to honour Bhutanese soldiers who died in a 2003 military operation against Assamese insurgents.
How To Reach
Photo: Douglas J. McLaughlin / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport to this pass is Paro International Airport, which is around 75 km away. The airport connects Bhutan to major international destinations such as India, Thailand, and Nepal. From Paro, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus to reach there.
By Road: Government-run and private buses operate between Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. From Thimphu, you can take a shared taxi or a bus to reach this pass in about an hour.
By Rail: There is no railway station in Bhutan. The nearest railway station is Hasimara in West Bengal, India, about 175 km away. From Hasimara, you can take a taxi to Phuentsholing, the Bhutan-India border town, and continue the journey by road to reach the pass.
Places To Visit In And Around Dochula Pass
Explore the best places to visit in and around Dochula Pass to elevate your experiences during the trip to Bhutan:
1. Druk Wangyal Chortens
Photo: Chirag85 / Wikimedia Commons
The 108 chortens at Dochula Pass were built by Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck to honour Bhutanese soldiers who died in battle. These chortens are arranged in three layers, forming a circular pattern. Each chorten represents an offering for peace and protection. Locals and travellers stop here to pray, meditate, and spin the prayer wheels. The chortens hold deep spiritual significance, and monks often visit for religious rituals. Photography is allowed, and visitors often take photos near these chortens with the Himalayan mountains in the background.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
2. Druk Wangyal Lhakhang
Photo: Dhruba Jyoti Baruah / Wikimedia Commons
Druk Wangyal Lhakhang is a temple built to honour Bhutan’s Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The temple walls have detailed paintings showing the king’s achievements and Bhutan’s military history. The murals inside Druk Wangyal Lhakhang depict modern elements like military operations, helicopters, and King Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s leadership. Locals believe the temple is a symbol of national unity and strength. Visitors can offer butter lamps, sit in the temple courtyard, and listen to monks chanting prayers. The temple is also the venue for the annual Druk Wangyal Festival, where traditional Bhutanese masked dances are performed.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
3. Royal Botanical Park, Lamperi
Photo: anapaulafelic / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Royal Botanical Park, covering 47 square kilometres, is home to over 300 species of plants, including 46 types of rhododendrons. The park is important in Bhutan’s conservation efforts, protecting rare plants and animals. Visitors can explore different walking trails that lead to viewing points, a lake, and a meditation area. The park is also great for spotting birds like the blood pheasant and the Himalayan monal. During spring, the flowers bloom, covering the landscape with bright colours. A small museum inside explains Bhutan’s biodiversity and why conservation is important for the country.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: 100 BTN / ₹100)
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
4. Thimphu
Photo: Dr Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons
Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is about an hour’s drive from the pass. The city is a mix of traditional Bhutanese culture and modern development. Some of its main attractions include the Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. Tashichho Dzong is the fortress that houses Bhutan’s government offices and a Buddhist monastery. Visitors can also explore the National Memorial Chorten, an important religious site for locals who come to offer prayers. The weekend market in Thimphu is a good place to buy local goods such as Bhutanese textiles, incense, and handmade crafts.
Timings: Varies by location
Entry Fee: Varies
Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day – a full day
5. Punakha Dzong
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Punakha Dzong is one of Bhutan’s most important fortresses. Built in 1637, Bhutan’s administrative center until the capital moved to Thimphu. The dzong stands between two rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, and is known for its beautiful wooden carvings and large prayer halls. It is the winter home of Bhutan’s central monastic body, and important religious ceremonies occur here. Visitors can explore the dzong’s courtyards, learn about its history, and see paintings that depict Buddhist teachings. A wooden suspension bridge near the dzong offers a good spot for photography.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: 300 BTN / ₹300
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: Engin_Akyurt / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
There are no hotels directly at Dochula Pass. Although nearby places like Thimphu and Punakha offer accommodations. Options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Popular choices include Dochula Resort, Le Méridien Thimphu, and Hotel Lobesa in Punakha. These places provide a comfortable stay to the visitors, elevating your experiences during the trip.
Where To Eat
Photo: Thejinan / Wikimedia Commons
The Dochula Café, located near the pass, offers tea, coffee, and Bhutanese snacks with stunning mountain views, making it a perfect stop. In Thimphu and Punakha, travellers can find various restaurants serving Bhutanese, Indian, and Continental dishes, catering to different tastes and preferences. Must-try items include Ema Datshi (chilli cheese) and red rice, both staples of Bhutanese cuisine. For those looking to try something unique, Suja (butter tea) is a traditional beverage worth sampling. Many restaurants also use locally sourced organic ingredients, enhancing the authenticity of the dining experience.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Nvvchar / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Dochula Pass is from October to March, when the skies are clear and the Himalayan peaks are visible. During this period, the annual Druk Wangyal Festival is also held, showcasing Bhutanese traditions and cultural performances. Summer (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, making travel difficult.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: David Broad / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to this pass from Thimphu or Paro costs around 2,500 BTN / ₹2,500 for transportation. If staying overnight in Thimphu or Punakha, accommodation costs range from 1,500 BTN / ₹1,500 for budget hotels to 10,000 BTN / ₹10,000 for luxury stays. Meals cost around 500 BTN / ₹500 per person. Overall, the trip cost varies based on travel preferences.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry warm clothing, as temperatures at this pass can be very low.
- Visit early in the morning for the best views and photos at Dochula Pass.
- There are no ATMs at the pass, so carry enough cash.
- The roads can be foggy, so travel with a local driver or guide.
- for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian tourists (who need an entry permit), all other nationalities require a visa arranged via a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
Dochula Pass is a place that connects history, culture, and nature. The 108 chortens, the temple, and the nearby attractions make it an interesting stop on a Bhutan trip. The views, the rich traditions, and the peaceful surroundings attract many visitors. Plan your visit, explore the area, and experience Bhutan’s heritage. Book your trip now with TripXL for a smooth travel experience.
Cover Photo: Göran Höglund (Kartläsarn) / Wikimedia Commons
