Exploring the Kingdom of Bhutan is akin to discovering a long lost land with a rich cultural heritage and exquisite natural beauty. Located on the eastern end of the renowned Himalayan mountain range, the Kingdom is home to one international airport in Paro. The Paro Valley, therefore, is the best place to commence an excursion into the recesses of the state in one’s quest for discovering its iconic sites of heritage and breathtaking panoramic views.
Formerly an isolated state, the Government of Bhutan is actively making an effort to facilitate tourism and introduce the unique traditions of Bhutan to the rest of the world. However, this is so provided that tourists travel via guided packages or on a custom designed programme to ensure that tourism does not negatively affect the environment or culture of the Kingdom. A good choice would be to stay at a Bhutan hotel which offers tours of the region. An ideal option in this regard is Uma by COMO, Paro, Bhutan which features packages based on the number of nights, and the places of interest one wishes to visit.
While places such as the capital of the Kingdom, Thimpu, and the famed Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, are must visits when touring Bhutan, there are a number of other places of interest that might be worth investigating. One such attraction is Dochula Pass which can be visited when travelling from Thimpu to Punakha.
Dochula Pass is iconic in that it offers tourists a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Known also as the Druk Wangyal Chortens, the pass also has religious importance for locals. The pass hosts 108 chortens built in honour of His Majesty, Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuk and was commissioned by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk.
Dochula Pass is certainly worth a visit, especially on a clear day, for the panoramic view of snow-capped mountains and the Himalayas is a memory one would certainly wish to return back home with.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
