Located at an elevation of about 3,100 meters (10,200 feet), the Dochula Pass is one of Bhutan’s most scenic and revered mountain passes. Situated on the road between Thimphu and Punakha, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas, especially on clear winter mornings when the snow-capped peaks create a stunning backdrop. One of the most striking features of Dochula Pass is the Druk Wangyal Chortens — a group of 108 memorial stupas built under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, to honor Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives during the 2003 operation to flush out insurgents. Nearby, the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple), built in 2008, stands as a tribute to Bhutan’s beloved fourth King and the armed forces, blending modern artistry with traditional Bhutanese architecture. Surrounded by lush forests of rhododendron and dwarf bamboo, Dochula Pass is not only a place of deep spiritual significance but also a popular stop for travelers to relax, enjoy a cup of tea, and absorb the serene beauty of Bhutan’s highlands.