Drive through Dochula Pass

Continued from "Early Morning Stroll in Thimphu"...

We drove from Thimphu to Punakha, excited to get a glimpse of the Himalayan range at the Dochula Pass. On a good day, the Himalayas can be seen from this pass. Our fingers were kept cross, hoping that the weather would be good.

The hill ranges were covered in green vegetation. A farmer was walking his horses; he would walk all the way (some kilometers) to reach his destination. Well, the weather was not cooperating; mist still covered portions of the vegetation. Tough luck to see the Himalayas!

When we reached the Dochula Pass, 108 chortens or stupas greeted us; mist was lifting off to reveal the chortens. This is also know as the Druk Wangyal Chortens. What a spectacular spot! The Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, got the monument built in honor of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

You can romance not only the beautiful scenery but also the silence, at this spot. Just round the corner, road construction work was in full swing. The Pass or the road was open for a few hours in the morning, afternoon, and evening for vehicles to commute; at other times, vehicles had to wait for hours for the road to open again.

When the mist covers the place, please exercise caution while walking at the edge of the cliff. One slip will land you some feet below, and rescuing will be a challenge that is if you are still alive. Lot of birds live in this region; we heard their morning chaos and saw minimum number of birds (due to unclear weather). Carry an umbrella or wear a raincoat; chances of a drizzle or rain is high at this pass. During the tourist season or holidays expect a lot of vehicles and people.

I was thrilled to met two Kannadiga families; chatted with them and got my solo photo clicked, and wished them a safe journey. Exchanged a word or two with a Germany handsome couple, clicked their photo, and bid goodbye.

On route

108 Chortens

Road construction work in progress

I felt a spiritual aura at the Druk Wangyal Chorten. If you visit this place, let me know your experience.

Regards,
Asha (Sep 2014)