Dochula Pass is one of the best locations to sight the high rise snow capped Himalayan ranges of Bhutan in the far distance. At an elevation of 3,150 meters /10,200 feet, it is about an hour drive from Thimphu to reach the Pass and a must stopover Enroute to Punakha and further to the eastern parts of Bhutan. From Thimphu the road gently winds up through the pine forests and settlements of Hongtsho and Yusipang. At the Pass one can visit the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang/temple built in honor and to pay homage to the Monarchs of Bhutan who have championed in shaping Bhutan as we see today. On a small hill, 108 beautifully constructed chortens (mini-stupas) sits adorning the landscape opening into the panoramic view of the great Snow Capped Himalayan ranges of Bhutan. The mini-stupas were built in dedication to the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck who led the Bhutanese army to victory against the militant insurgents from Assam, India in 2003 and in memory of lives lost on both the sides.

Bhutanese families come to the Pass for weekend getaways with picnic lunches and on auspicious days to light butter lamps and circumambulate the chortens. You can also drop in at the Dochula café for coffee and snacks, or to stretch your legs before continuing your journey for the day. From the Pass there is also the option to hike to Lungchutse temple where the view of the mountains and valleys are even more impressive. The hike is about 2.5 hours along forests of pine and Rhododendrons in full bloom in the spring.