Bhutan offers travelers a rare glimpse into a world that feels like it’s gently paused in time. Among its many treasures, Dochula pass quietly stands out.
A Breath of Fresh Air at Dochula Pass
Driving up from Thimphu to Punakha, you’re winding up the road, through dense pine forests, trees swaying, mist hanging low… and then suddenly, the prayer flags flutter and the view opens up to 108 chortens standing proud in the mist. It’s quiet, but the kind of quiet that feels sacred. Perched at 3,100 m (10,200 ft), Dochula Pass is one of Bhutan’s most serene and historically significant landmarks. But Dochula Pass isn’t just a pitstop—it’s a place that makes you pause, breathe deeply, and fall a little more in love with Bhutan.
The View
On a clear day, the pass gifts you a full sweep of the eastern Himalayas. Snow-capped giants like Gangkar Puensum, Masang Gang, Jejekangphu Gang, and Terigang stretch across the horizon like a living painting. If you’re really lucky, you might even spot Chomolhari, standing tall and proud, miles away. At 7,570 meters (24,836 feet), Gangkar Puensum is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. Sacred and untouched, it’s a symbol of Bhutan’s deep reverence for nature and the spiritual world.
But even on cloudy days, the pass doesn’t disappoint. Mist curls around the chortens, softening the edges of reality. It’s like stepping into a dream.
Druk Wangyal Lhakhang: A Temple with Stories on Its Walls
A short walk from the chortens leads to Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a temple built in honor of Bhutan’s fourth King. Inside, the murals are like storybooks on the walls—vivid depictions of Bhutan’s history, spiritual life, and even scenes from the military operation that led to the creation of the chortens. Even if you don’t usually linger in temples, this one is different. It draws you in.
A Place for Every Season
In winter, snow covers everything, turning Dochula Pass into a peaceful wonderland. Come spring or summer, and the hills bloom with rhododendrons and wildflowers. No matter when you visit, Dochula Pass feels like a new experience each time.
Unexpected Moments
You might come across a monk offering prayers. Or a photographer chasing the perfect light. Or maybe you’ll just find a quiet moment for yourself, surrounded by clouds, mountains, and the hush of something greater.
Whether you’re on a spiritual journey, a scenic road trip, or simply searching for a beautiful moment, Dochula Pass will surprise you. It’s not loud or flashy. But it lingers with you—in the quiet, in the clouds, and in the calm it brings to your heart.
Excellence