Haa Valley
A remote, only-recently-opened valley of nomadic herders, ancient temples, and some of Bhutan's least-visited trails.
Overview
Tucked behind the Chele La Pass and only opened to foreign tourists in 2002, Haa remains one of the least-visited valleys in Bhutan. Yak-herding families still move with the seasons here, and the valley's twin temples — the White and Black Lhakhangs — are said to have been built in a single day by legend. It's a place for travelers who want Bhutan's landscapes with almost nobody else around.
Highlights
- Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, the White and Black Temples
- Sweeping Himalayan views from Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan's highest motorable passes
- A working yak-herding valley with genuine nomadic culture
- The lively Haa Summer Festival celebrating highland traditions
- Some of the quietest trails and homestays in western Bhutan
Things to Do
- Drive or hike over Chele La Pass for views of Jomolhari
- Visit the White and Black Temples on the valley floor
- Stay in a local farmhouse or nomadic-style homestay
- Walk between villages through barley and potato fields
- Attend the Haa Summer Festival if visiting in July
Popular Places
Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple)
One of two legendary temples said to have been built in a single day, alongside its dark-walled twin.
Chele La Pass
At around 3,988 m, one of Bhutan's highest driveable passes, strung with prayer flags and framing Jomolhari on clear days.
Katsho & Yangthang Villages
Traditional farming hamlets on the valley floor, good for an easy walk between working farmhouses.
Cooler and more exposed than neighboring Paro, owing to its higher, narrower valley setting. Winters are cold with regular snowfall at the surrounding passes; summers are pleasant and green, ideal for the valley's grazing herds.
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