Saturday, May 23, 2015

Bhutan Diaries: Dochula Pass~ Enroute from Thimphu to Punakha



Dochula pass is located enroute Thimphu - Punakha, at 3000 meters above sea level is overlooking the mighty Himalayas. At one of the viewing points, 108 stupas (chortens) were constructed as a memorial built by the queen, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, to honor the victory of the Bhutanese army in the 2003 war of Southern Bhutan.
This is also known as Druk wangyal Chortens
This is a quiet and tranquil location.. 
From the crest, one can get a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of Himalayan mountain range. It was a cloudy day so the view was not so clear for us.
Serene and Surreal 

We visited this place twice. 

It seems that the view from here is very scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.
Clouds jealously hugging the Dochula pass, making the view unviewable.. 

Closeup view of a Chorten
The past and future appears to merge in the details of the lhakhang (temple) and its structure tells the story of a supreme warrior figure, whose vision pierces the distant future in a fine blend of history and mythology.
Heavenly isn't it?

This place has become popular spiritual destination because of this temple which is located on the crest of Dochula pass.
Break with a view enroute Punakha
Bhutan was forced to repel the rebels as failing to do so, India threatened to enter the country to do so themselves. The 4th King led a volunteer army of about 7,000 men to force the rebels to exit the country. That is one of the reasons why Bhutanese love their fourth king (Jigme Singye Wangchuck). He is the one who replaced GDP with Gross National Happiness. Making it as happiest country.
Dochula Pass hosts the Dochula Festival annually on 13 December. Bhutanese Started celebrating this festival from 2011. If you have a plan of visiting Bhutan in December then don't miss it..

Jumping for joy makes our soul happy :P

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