Dochu La Pass (Punakha) FAQs In 2024

8 FAQS on Dochu La Pass

What is Dochu La Pass?

Dochu La Pass is a high mountain pass located in Bhutan, which offers travelers a stunning panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range, especially on clear days. It is known for its 108 memorial chortens, known as Druk Wangyal Chortens, and the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple. The pass is a popular spot for tourists who come to admire the natural beauty and spiritual significance of the location.

Dochu La Pass is situated on the road between Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, and Punakha. It's about 22 kilometers from Thimphu and can be reached by car or bus in about an hour under good weather conditions. Most tourists visit Dochu La Pass as part of an organized tour or by hiring a car with a driver who is familiar with the roads.

The best time to visit Dochu La Pass is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the skies are usually clearer, and the views of the Himalayas are most spectacular. The pass might become inaccessible during the winter months (December to February) due to snow.

No, there is no entry fee to visit Dochu La Pass itself. However, tourists visiting Bhutan need to pay a daily tariff which typically covers accommodation, transportation, a guide, and meals. The tariff also includes a sustainable development fee that goes towards free education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Bhutan.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including the highest peak in Bhutan, Gangkar Puensum. They can walk around the memorial chortens, visit the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple, and browse the nearby souvenir shops. It's also a great spot for photography, picnicking, and short hikes. Each December, the Druk Wangyal Festival is held here, featuring traditional Bhutanese dances and performances.

Limited accommodation options are available near Dochu La Pass itself, as it is generally considered a stop-over en route to Punakha. However, there are a few hotels and lodges near the pass catering to tourists. A broader range of hotels and guesthouses can be found in Thimphu or Punakha, which are usually included in the tour packages.

Travelers should be aware of the altitude, as Dochu La Pass is around 3,100 meters above sea level, which might cause altitude sickness. Dressing in layers is advisable due to the unpredictable weather. Respecting local customs and traditions is also important, including etiquette around religious structures. Lastly, tourists should be prepared for winding roads and possible motion sickness while traveling to and from the pass.

Foreign tourists do not require a specific permit to visit Dochu La Pass apart from their Bhutanese visa. Visiting Bhutan, in general, requires that international tourists book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator and arrange a visa in advance. Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals can visit without booking through a tour, but they still require a permit for travel within Bhutan, which can be obtained upon entry or from Bhutanese consulates.

Dochu La Pass Faqs

8 FAQS on Dochu La Pass

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