​ Dochula Pass

Dochula pass lies on the way to Punakha, about 30 km away from Thimpu. It is popular amongst tourists for offering the magnificent panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. This mountain pass is famous for 108 chortens, known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens, constructed by the eldest queen mother, her majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk in the honour of Bhutanese soldiers who were killed while fighting the Indian rebels in 2003. The pass is also popular for the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple). The temple was built in the honour of his majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. For tourists this is a perfect location to capture the mesmerising views of Himalayas and enjoy themselves exploring and clicking chortens. Dochula Pass hosts the annual Dochula Festival on 13 December, the festival which was started in 2011 to mark the victory of Bhutan over Indian insurgent in the south.