Interior View of Dochula Chorten

Dochula Chorten

Buddhist temple

One of the Best Places To Visits in Lhoongtsho_Tashigang


Address

FQR2+53F, Trashigang-Semtokha Highway, Hungtso, Bhutan

Rating on Google Maps

4.70
(669893 reviews)


Working Hours

  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

Visitor Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Dochula (46) Pass (31) Bhutan (28) built (28) chortens (28) pass (23) beautiful (19) soldiers (19) memorial (14) Druk (14)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Mansing B. 1 year ago on Google • 279 reviews
    We visited this place in November 2023 . On our road trip Pune - Bhutan .This is one of stupas builtin memory for 108 people who lost life while fighting against evil terrorists. From this place one can see Himalayas starting range. Has cool cafe on top.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kaushik Ahmed R. 2 years ago on Google
    Often a violent history and dark times encourage people to create something inspiring and beautiful, and this is exactly what the people of Bhutan did. They created Dochula Pass, Bhutan in honor of 108 Bhutanese soldiers who died in a 2003 military operation. Dochula Pass—a beautiful mountain pass, which is about 20 km from Thimphu is a concentration of 108 memorial stupas known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens.” It’s not just a place of historical and religious importance, but also a popular tourist attraction that any traveler would want to witness on their journey through Bhutan. The best time to visit Dochula Pass, Bhutan is from September to February for picturesque and closer views of the snow-laden Himalayas. Dochula Pass altitude: 3,100m
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Abdul Awal T. 2 years ago on Google
    Visitors to Bhutan should never miss out visiting the Dochula Pass. It is a magnificent pass that cuts through the snow covered Himalayas on the road which connects Thimphu to Punakha. The pass is dotted with several memorable landmarks, one of the most famous of which is the Druk Wangyal Khang Zhang Chortens. The pass also enjoys an immense popularity with the tourists since it provides a 360 degree view of the Himalayas. On days when the weather is clear, the view is one that easily wins your heart.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dorji D. 2 years ago on Google
    Dochula Pass is a beautiful mountain pass located between Thimphu and Punakha in Bhutan. Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the eldest Queen Mother of Bhutan built 108 memorial chortens known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens” at Dochula Pass in honour of the fourth king, His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The chortens were built adjacent to the country’s first Royal Botanical Park. The Dochula Pass is a historical landmark built to honour the bravery and sacrifices of the fourth king and the soldiers who perished during the battle against Assamese insurgents in 2003. It particularly marks the victory of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck who dislodged the rebels from their camps (there were 30 camps) in Bhutanese territory from where they raided Indian territory of Assam. After the war, the King went back to Thimphu on 28 December 2003. Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck commanded for the 108 chortens to be built. The construction of the chortens was completed in mid-June 2004 and formally consecrated and sanctified with religious rites on 19–20 June 2004. 108 memorial chortens at Dochula Pass The chortens were built in three layers; the first lowest layer has forty-five chortens, the second has thirty-six and the top layer has twenty-seven built around the main chorten. The construction of these chortens was done as per religiously ordained ritualistic procedures. As the height of the chortens attained 1m, a pit was excavated in the ground in the centre, and symbolically offerings of grains and bronze utensils filled with butter were placed in the pit. At the next stage, as the height of chortens increased, images of Buddhist gods made of clay stuffed with papers inscribed with prayers were interred. Following that, which is considered the "vital stage", the fixing of the sokshing meaning "the life tree of the chorten" was erected. The sokshing, which is believed to provide a link between heaven and earth within a chorten, is in the form of a long square wooden pole made from a juniper tree made by an individual who has appropriate qualities from an astrological point of view. The pole was painted in red colour and inscribed with sacred hymns and banded with religious paraphernalia such as gilded images of gods, prayer bells, small clay stupas, and also precious stones and jewellery. The sokshing was then wrapped around by silk cloth and then fixed in the partly built chorten on an auspicious day. Breathtaking view from Dochula Pass Dochula Pass is one of the main highlights for many tourists. You can never take a bad photo at the stunning Dochula Pass. In fact, if you are lucky, you can even see the Himalayan range in full view on a clear day from the mountain pass. Gangkar Puensem at 7,158 metres (23, 484 ft), the tallest unclimbed mountain in the world, can be seen from Dochula Pass. If you are going to Punakha (the old capital) from the current capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, you’ll definitely pass through Dochula Pass. The pass was part of an ancient trail between Thimphu and Punakha, such as the Dochu La Nature Trail [1.2 kilometres (0.75 mi)] which begins at the Dochu La cafe and meets the present road at Lamperi, and the Lumitsawa Ancient Trail [4.7 kilometres (2.9 mi)] that connect the main road at Lumitsawa. Both trails are sections of the original route. What is the best time to visit Dochula Pass The weather at the pass generally remains foggy and chilly. However, between October and February, panoramic views of the Bhutan Himalayas can be seen. The Dochula Pass remains beautiful in all seasons. Sometimes, you may even see snowfall at Dochula Pass and capture the chortens majestically covered in snow.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex D. 2 years ago on Google
    Evening View Of Dochula Pass Is A Scenic Mountain Pass Adorned With A Temple Atop A Hill And 108 Miniatures Stupa’s In Between The East West High Way In 🇧🇹 Bhutan.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Dan M. 3 months ago on Google • 966 reviews New
    Nice place to visit.

  • 5/5 Bharathi M. 2 months ago on Google • 921 reviews New
    These are 108 stupas built at Dochula pass as a memorial to the Bhutanese soldiers lost in the war in 2003. It's a very scenic place surrounded by majestic peaks. There is a restaurant nearby which has clean restrooms. A board also explains the various peaks. It was a bit cloudy but we could see some peaks

  • 5/5 Animekh M. 1 month ago on Google • 813 reviews New
    An iconic place with an interesting history. It is worth visiting. Tourists can click good photos. There is a dedicated parking area for this place, and public washroom is available.

  • 5/5 Shaik M. 2 months ago on Google • 448 reviews New
    Built in honour of 108 lives of soldiers lost in 2003 war, these Chortens have been built in their memory. It is located at an altitude of 3,100m, the highest point on the Pass. Very beautiful monument not to be missed.

  • 5/5 Babu Y. 2 months ago on Google • 367 reviews New
    Starting around 9 am from Thimpu got us to this place at appropriate time to have beautiful vistas of Himalayas. One can spend easily and hour here enjoy the temple, Chorten, the time to pay tributes to memorial etc.

  • 5/5 C G. 8 months ago on Google • 357 reviews
    Visiting Dochula Chorten in Bhutan is a mesmerizing experience that blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Nestled at an altitude of 3,100 meters, this site features 108 stupas, known as Druk Wangyal Chortens, built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers who perished in a 2003 conflict. As you arrive, the serene atmosphere immediately captivates you, offering a peaceful respite from everyday hustle and bustle. 🌄 The panoramic view from Dochula Pass is simply breathtaking. On clear days, you can see the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop for your photos. Each stupa is intricately designed, and the whole arrangement is a testament to Bhutanese craftsmanship and devotion. Walking around, you can't help but feel a deep sense of tranquility and awe. 📸 What makes this place even more special is the spiritual energy it emanates. Many locals and tourists come here to meditate and find solace. The Dochula Chorten is not just a visual delight but also a place for introspection and connection with nature. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling to Bhutan, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural splendor. 🌟

  • 5/5 Akashdeep D. 8 months ago on Google • 334 reviews
    I recently visited Dochula Chorten in Bhutan, and it was an incredibly moving experience. The site, located at the Dochula Pass at an altitude of 3,100 meters, features 108 memorial chortens known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens. These chortens were built by Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck in honor of Bhutanese soldiers who died in a 2003 military operation. The chortens are beautifully set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas, offering stunning panoramic views. The site is adorned with colorful prayer flags that flutter in the wind, adding to the spiritual ambiance. Despite the often cold and windy conditions at the pass, exploring the chortens and reflecting on the history they commemorate is a deeply enriching experience. Adjacent to the chortens is the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang, a monastery built to celebrate 100 years of the Bhutanese monarchy. The walls of the temple are decorated with fascinating paintings depicting Bhutanese history, including unique contemporary elements like monks with laptops and a Drukair plane. The Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival, held annually on December 13th, is a unique event performed by the Royal Bhutan Army to honor the leadership of the Fourth King and the army's efforts in protecting the country. The festival's setting against the majestic Himalayan range makes it an unforgettable experience. Overall, visiting Dochula Chorten is a must for anyone traveling to Bhutan. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual atmosphere makes it a truly special place. Make sure to wear warm clothes as it can be quite chilly, and take some time to enjoy the views and the serene environment.

  • 5/5 A. M. 3 months ago on Google • 310 reviews New
    Visiting Dochula Pass was a peaceful and refreshing experience. The 108 chortens, built to honor Bhutanese soldiers, stood tall and added a sense of spirituality to the beautiful surroundings. The cool air and mist made the place feel almost otherworldly. The clouds were too much on the day I visited and hence we did not have a chance to see the mountains clearly. When the clouds cleared for a short moment, the view of the Himalayan mountains was breathtaking. It felt like I was standing between the earth and the sky, in a spot filled with both natural beauty and cultural meaning. The coffee shop next door served some simple drinks and snacks with a clean rest room.

  • 5/5 Sherab T. 6 months ago on Google • 280 reviews
    Group of stupas built on the highest elevation of Dochula pass road in dedication to lives lost during 2003 war. You don't need tickets for this tourist attraction, and if the weather is good, you get to enjoy the beautiful views of distant mountains range and valleys. During winter, it will be more beautiful with snow and misty environment. If you want to get a tea or snacks, there is Druk Wangyel Cafe and Dochula Resort is also a few meters away from Dochula.

  • 5/5 Arun G. 3 months ago on Google • 279 reviews New
    It was an unforgettable experience for me and my wife to visit this incredibly beautiful monument, atop a gently sloping hillock, with stunning natural beauty all around, at a height of 10200 feet at Dochula Pass, on our way to Punakha from Thimpu in Bhutan. The monument comprises 108 Chortens (also called Stupas) in three layers of reducing numbers as you go up, with a single central Chorten on the top. It was built to honor Bhutanese soldiers. The entire complex is so beautiful and peaceful... with classic use of local materials and architecture. With partial clouds and partial blue sky... it was a perfect day for us to click pictures. We were a part of a group tour for Senior Citizens, and we all comfortably took a few gentle steps to reach atop the Chorten. There is a nice cafe across the road, with a clean washroom facility. We spent total about 90 minutes at the Pass. We liked the place so much that on our return journey as well, we had a halt at this beautiful place.

  • 4/5 정진형 6 months ago on Google • 278 reviews
    시킴 지역의 반군을 토벌한 후 만든 108개 + 가운데 하나 총 109개의, 일종의 승전기념탑입니다. 여름에 와서 아침 일찍오나 오후에 오나 언제나 안개나 구름이 가득했습니다. 여기가 3천미터 정도 되는데 이 고개를 넘어 다시 내려가면 구름 싹 걷히고 맑아지기도 합니다. 겨울 시즌에는 구름한점 없이 맑을 땐 부탄과 중국 국경의 히말라야 설산들, 특히 부탄 최고봉도 다 볼 수 있다고 합니다. 주의해야 할 게, 부탄 1주일 다니면서 이 일대가 가장 길이 힘들었습니다. 산길이 가장 꼬불꼬불하고 팀푸쪽은 조금 나으나 푸나카 가는 길 쪽은 상당합니다. 멀미약 꼭 챙겨오시길. 부탄의 메인 도로가 하나뿐이라 쉽지 않았습니다.

  • 3/5 Bugale B. 1 month ago on Google • 257 reviews New
    Just a temple

  • 4/5 Salai arun C. 2 months ago on Google • 243 reviews New
    This place is built in honour of soldiers who died in the 2003 war against insurgency from Assam. You can visit this place while traveling from Thimphu to Punakha. Nothing much to see here. You can spend few mins for photo.

  • 5/5 Sani V. 2 months ago on Google • 212 reviews New
    The place is a monument, dedicated to martyrs. Besides the beautiful monument, it is also a very scenic place - providing views of misty clouds/snowcapped mountain when clouds aren't there. There is also a good restaurant here with washroom facilities. It gets very cold here but the restaurant is heated, providing some relief. Overall, it's unavoidable to avoid the place if you are traveling between Thimphu and Punakha, but do take a deliberate stop here. and enjoy!

  • 5/5 Nusrat 7 months ago on Google • 192 reviews
    I recently visited Dochula Chorten in Bhutan and found it to be a profoundly beautiful and serene experience. The site features 108 chortens, each intricately designed, set against the backdrop of the stunning Himalayan mountains. The panoramic views from Dochula are breathtaking, especially on clear days when the peaks are visible. The peaceful ambiance and spiritual significance of the chortens make it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.

  • 4/5 Murali S. 9 months ago on Google • 109 reviews
    Dochula pass is on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. It's a good place to take pics. It has a story of why it's built. It's basically a memorial for the war soldiers. Additionally, there are small caves above the Dochula pass, 15 min uphill will take you there. Explore it if you have time.

  • 5/5 _b_5689 11 months ago on Google • 103 reviews
    Memorial Chorten / Dochula Chorten / Druk Wangyal Chorten . . The Dochula Chorten located at the dochula pass. Here 108 memorial stupa built in honor of bhutanese soldiers who lost their life in conflicts. Or tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during Terriorist attack. It was built in 1974 by third king of bhutan by second queen

  • 5/5 Girish B. 5 months ago on Google • 102 reviews
    No tickets required here

  • 5/5 jasmine s. 1 month ago on Google • 101 reviews New
    Dochula chorten pass is a beautiful monuments have been built in a memories of 108 live soldiers lost in 2003 .These stupas are located about an 3000 m altitude the highest point .This is the ultimate spot of amazing view of the Himalayan range of the Bhutan .Very beautiful and spiritual place and truly amazing worth visiting place.

  • 5/5 prasad k. 3 months ago on Google • 75 reviews New
    Lovely place, must visit in your Bhutan Itenary.

  • 5/5 Patrick S. 2 months ago on Google • 70 reviews New
    A place to go!!! Go there and found out yourself

  • 5/5 Richa Gupta T. 1 month ago on Google • 64 reviews New
    Beautiful place ..you will get spectular views of Himalayas. Made in the remembrance of soldiers. Its a good photo point

  • 5/5 Ramya S. 7 months ago on Google • 61 reviews
    Beautiful place with nice views. Calm and lovely time spent here.

  • 5/5 raghvendra s. 5 months ago on Google • 57 reviews
    Very amazing place …

  • 5/5 Tshering D. 1 year ago on Google • 56 reviews
    The Dochula Chortens, located at the Dochula Pass, are a set of 108 memorial stupas built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in conflicts. These chortens, or stupas, adorn the mountain pass and provide a poignant and scenic tribute to the sacrifices made by the country's military. The site not only serves as a memorial but also offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, making it a significant and picturesque landmark in Bhutan. Cheers 🥂

  • 5/5 Flora T. 1 year ago on Google • 55 reviews
    When I came across here for the first time on our way to Punakha, it was rainy and cloudy, so we couldn't see any views. But when we came for the second time on our way back to Thimpu, luckily the sky was clear, and we had the chance to see the beautiful view from here. The wind is quite strong and cold, so make sure you're well dressed!

  • 5/5 Titus Chemmassery A. 7 months ago on Google • 37 reviews
    The most well known pass in Bhutan, Dochula Pass is located about 30 km away from the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. The 108 chortens were built by Queen Mother to honor the Bhutanese soldiers

  • 5/5 ASTER T. 8 months ago on Google • 7 reviews
    Beautiful sites you should remember to stop and explore. You will be amazed by view once you reach at the top.

  • 4/5 Sonu G. 3 years ago on Google
    108 stupas, very serene place. On a sunny day, one can see Himalayan ranges from here

  • 5/5 Pema T. 2 years ago on Google
    The Dochu La (Dochu Pass, la means pass in Dzongkha) is a mountain pass in the snow covered Himalayas within Bhutan on the road from Thimphu to Punakha where 108 memorial chortens or stupas known as "Druk Wangyal Chortens" have been built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother.Apart from the chortens there is a monastery called the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple), built in honour of the fourth Druk Gyalpo (head of the state of Bhutan), Jigme Singye Wangchuck; the open grounds in its front yard is a venue for the annual Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival. The pass with 108 memorial chortens is adjacent to the country's first Royal Botanical Park.

  • 5/5 Temsu J. 2 years ago on Google
    What an amazing place. I felt at peace when I visited this place

  • 5/5 Sorwa Bhutan T. 7 months ago on Google • 3 reviews
    The must-stopover Dochula pass at over 3000 masl offering spectacular view over snow-capped mountains during clear day!

  • 4/5 Kinga W. 3 years ago on Google
    It's one of the most beautiful place in the country and must for tourists to visit if you are in bhutan. You will not only enjoy the view but also get opportunity to see some of the highest mountains in the country.

  • 5/5 Chartviboon C. 5 years ago on Google
    108 stupas on a small hill make this place looked mystery and worth to stop by. You will get many nice photos no matter it is sunny or cloudy day. There are 2 coffee shops near the monument both of them have great mountainous view.

  • 4/5 Vaibhav P. 1 year ago on Google
    A memorial of 108 Bhutan soldiers who sacrificed their life while fighting with the terrorist. A cafeteria is also available here. Washrooms are available in cafeteria. A souvenir shop is also available next to cafeteria. Overall must visit place.

  • 5/5 Sajo J. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful place and a must visit spot. If you’re in Thimpu or Paro this place is a must visit and definitely go by and enjoy some serene beauty around this place. Monuments are build in memory of the soldiers died years back due to the insurgents so it is kind off a important place for the locals. You do also see the Himalayan range from here however when we visited it was cloudy and we couldn’t see anything

  • 5/5 Kapeesh G. 1 year ago on Google
    Dochula Pass is a beautiful mountain pass located between Thimphu and Punakha in Bhutan. Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the eldest Queen Mother of Bhutan built 108 memorial chortens known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens” at Dochula Pass in honour of the fourth king, His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The chortens were built adjacent to the country’s first Royal Botanical Park. The Dochula Pass is a historical landmark built to honour the bravery and sacrifices of the fourth king and the soldiers who perished during the battle against Assamese insurgents in 2003. It particularly marks the victory of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck who dislodged the rebels from their camps (there were 30 camps) in Bhutanese territory from where they raided Indian territory of Assam. After the war, the King went back to Thimphu on 28 December 2003. Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck commanded for the 108 chortens to be built. The construction of the chortens was completed in mid-June 2004 and VISITEDthis place 0n 14 sep 2023

  • 5/5 Sree R. 1 year ago on Google
    This is one of stupas builtin memory for 108 people who lost life while fighting against evil terrorists. From this place one can see Himalayas starting range. Has cool cafe on top.


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