he most noteworthy highway in the country is the Lateral Road or East-West Corridor, which links Phuentsholing with Trashigang and passes along Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. Bhutan is mostly linked via passes or "La" such as Trumshingla Pass, Dochula Pass etc. Driving a car in your personal way and stopping in amid to appreciate beautiful landscapes is the best way to enhance your travel experience.
Being a hilly region, the roads in the country are curved, steep and uneven. Most of the roads are very narrow, with the valley on one side. So the drivers need to be tremendously cautious while driving on such routes. However, the highways are in better condition and can be easily used to travel from one town to another.
The best part about driving your own car in Bhutan is the incredible view of lush valleys, high mountains and pristine rivers which come along the way and make the journey more prestigious and memorable. The fact that Bhutan is a gorgeous country with the most beautiful of views is not hidden from anyone. So, naturally, it offers a lot of opportunities for scenic drives which you can enjoy.
1. Yutong La Pass
Glorified with innumerable number of colourful flags and a chorten, Yutong La Pass in Trongsa is truly a blissful sight. The weather here is quite cold and the chilly winds against your face create an extraordinary mark. The stunning chorten is located in the middle of the road.
However, this should be avoided in the winter months as the weather gets really rough, which can actually ruin the journey rather than making it better. The road is under construction for quite a long time, so sometimes it might take a bit longer to pass.
The remarkable view of the surroundings, the greenery and the cold weather make for a must-visit site and it is best enjoyed while driving in a car.
2. Chele La Pass
Elevated at a height of 4000 metres above the sea level, Chele La Pass links Paro to Haa Valley and make for one of the most beautiful sights in the country. With hundreds of colourful flags on both sides of the road, it delivers a picturesque view of impenetrable forests.
Mount Jomolhari can also be spotted from all the way up here, and observing the country's highest peak in front of your eyes gives a matchless thrill. Another great part is that the national flower, Blue Poppy also blooms here and in the spring season, they can easily be found. Tiger's Nest Monastery can also be observed from here on a clear day. To sum up, a drive-through Chele La Pass is a splendid experience in itself!
3. Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass lies on the way to Punakha from Thimphu or Paro. The main highlight of this place is the presence of 108 chortens in three layers, constructed in the remembrance of brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect the country against the invasion of Assamese refugees.
On a clear day, the Himalayan Mountain Ranges are clearly visible from here. Having pine forests all around, the fresh air soothes one's mind and a sip of hot coffee brightens the day by ten times.
