Discover the Serenity of Dochula Pass
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Dochula Pass, a serene historical landmark in Bhutan, surrounded by stunning Himalayan views.
A brief summary to Dochula
- FQQ2+XGQ, Punakha Highway, Dochula, BT
Dochula Pass, a historical landmark in Bhutan, is a captivating destination that enchants visitors with its serene beauty and cultural significance. Situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters, this pass is renowned for its breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, especially on clear days when the peaks are visible in all their glory. The landscape is adorned with 108 chortens, or stupas, known as Druk Wangyal Chortens, which were built to honor the soldiers who lost their lives in the 2003 military operations against insurgents. These intricately designed stupas are not only a tribute but also an integral part of Bhutan's rich spiritual heritage. Visitors to Dochula are greeted by vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, adding a splash of color to the tranquil atmosphere. The site serves as a peaceful retreat for those looking to meditate or simply bask in the natural beauty surrounding them. The nearby restaurant and café offer delicious local cuisine, allowing tourists to savor the flavors of Bhutan while enjoying the breathtaking views. Hiking trails in the vicinity provide opportunities for adventurous souls to explore the lush landscapes and diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the region. As you make your way to Dochula Pass, take time to appreciate the unique architecture, rich history, and the warm hospitality of the locals. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment, adventure, or simply a moment of peace in nature, Dochula Pass promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Bhutanese culture and the spirit of the Himalayas.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best views of the Himalayas.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and the beautiful chortens.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike the trails around the pass.
- Try local snacks at the nearby café to enhance your cultural experience.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Dochula from Sarpang District by car, start your journey on the Sarpang-Punakha Highway (NH2). Drive north towards Punakha. After approximately 30 km, you will reach the Dochula Pass. Look for the signs indicating Dochula, as the road is well marked. The journey will take around 1 hour, depending on traffic. Ensure you have a valid driving license and vehicle registration. Fuel stations are available along the way, so fill up before you start.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a local bus from Sarpang to Punakha. Buses leave regularly from the Sarpang bus terminal. The fare is typically around 100-150 Ngultrum (approx. USD 1-2). Upon arrival in Punakha, take a taxi or shared vehicle to Dochula for about 500-600 Ngultrum (approx. USD 6-8). The taxi ride will take about 30 minutes. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, you can hire a private taxi from Sarpang to Dochula. This option provides flexibility and comfort. The fare will be around 1500-2000 Ngultrum (approx. USD 18-25) and the trip lasts about 1 hour. Arrange for the taxi in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Attractions Nearby to Dochula
- Dochula Pass
- Dochula Chorten
- Meditation Caves Park
- Druk Wangyel Monastery
- Lungchutse Goemba
- Mendrelgang zimchung
- Omley Tshozhaw
- Atthatplace Bhutan Tours
- Simtokha Dzong སེམས་རྟོགས་ཁ་རྫོང་།
- Thimphu Valley
- Walking Buddha Statue
- Centenary Park བརྒྱ་འཁོར་སྐྱེད་ཚལ།
- Centenery Childrens Park
- Centenary Farmers Market
- Department of Tourism, Bhutan