HAA (1000-5600MTS)

Haa is located to the South West of Paro and covers an area of roughly 1,706 sq. km, it is one of the smallest Dzongkhags in the country. This tiny region is one of the most beautiful and isolated areas in the kingdom, adorned with pristine alpine forests and tranquil mountain peaks. However, there are many things to do in Haa and amazing sightseeing places to visit in Haa valley. It is the ancestral home of the Queen Grandmother and the illustrious Dorji family. This valley remains one of the least visited areas in the country and retains the air of an unspoiled, primeval forest. A visit to Haa allows you to delve into the age-old tradition and Nomadic Lifestyle. It takes you away from the bustle of towns into the sacred world of Mysticism, Spirituality, and Nature. Here, the modern change has been minimal; remnants of the past are so strikingly visible and the connection with nature is vibrant. It has many legends, myths, and stories to tell. As an added bonus one can also come across the rare White Poppy. Or relish Hoentay ( a local delicacy in the form of a Dumpling) which is endemic to Haa and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

FACTS ABOUT HAA

It is one of the smallest Dzongkhag in the country.

Haa is the least visited areas in the country and retains the air of an unspoiled, primeval forest

It is an alternate name for ‘hidden-land rice valley’

The land is 78% covered with forest

The northwest boundary of Haa meets the Tibet

Alongside Buddhist practices, the Haaps also continue their old Shamanistic tradition

The wooded hills here provide an ideal location for hiking and mountain biking.

Haa Summer Festival is held in mid of July

The famous Nub-tshonapatta Lake is located here

Top things to do in Haa includes hiking, biking, and homestay

DOBJI DZONG

Dobji Dzong, built in 1531 by Ngawang Chogyal, is considered Bhutan’s first model dzong. Its name, meaning “white border,” refers to the “Five White Boulders” in Dogar village. Once used as a jail due to its strategic location, it has been restored as a religious site and school managed by the central monastic body. Legend holds that Ngawang Chogyal chose the site for its sacred spring, originating from beneath Jetsun Milarepa’s throne in Tibet.

LHAKHANG NAGPO

Lhakhang Nagpo, or the Black Temple in Haa Valley, is one of two temples built by Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. Legend says he released two doves to find auspicious sites—the black dove led to Lhakhang Nagpo, and the white dove to Lhakhang Karpo. Built atop a lake, the temple features a doorway believed to lead to the water spirit’s underworld and a shrine to the local deity Dado Chen. Steeped in myths, it is one of Bhutan’s oldest temples and can be reached by a pleasant 15-minute walk from Lhakhang Karpo, making it a must-visit in Haa Valley.

JUNGNEY DRA

Jungney Dra Lhakhang, perched on a rocky cliff in Haa Valley, is a visually striking and spiritually significant temple. Its name means “Source of Hidden Treasure,” as it is believed to be where Guru Rinpoche’s hidden teachings will be discovered. The 45-minute hike begins through a Bhutanese village, past the Mani Dangrim stupa, and up a pine path to the cliffside temple. The temple houses an ancient statue of Guru Rinpoche and Machig Labdron’s right footprint, accessed through a natural stone entryway. Uncrowded and serene, it is one of the best places to visit in Haa Valley.

CHELALA PASS

Chele La Pass, at 3,988 meters, is one of Bhutan’s highest road points, offering stunning views of the mountains between Paro and Haa valleys. The drive from Paro passes through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, with blooming colors in spring and fragrant daphne in the air. About 10 km from the pass, you can spot Kila Nunnery, and crossing the tree line, alpine meadows with grazing yaks appear. The pass is marked with colorful prayer flags and, on clear days, provides breathtaking views of Mt. Jomolhari and the Himalayas. Descending the pass leads into the remote Haa Valley, rich in cultural and natural experiences.

KARPO LHAKHANG

There are legends of the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo setting out two birds (white and black) to locate auspicious sites for the construction of temples during the 7th century. The place where the white bird landed is where the Lhakhang Karpo (meaning the white temple) was built. It has been renovated and extend recently.

VILLAGES OF HAA

The villages of Haa retain a strong sense of tradition, with modern influences subtly present. Picturesque and charming, they are framed by three prominent tapering mountains. Notable villages to visit include Lenchunna, Yangthang, and Jangangkha, offering activities like hiking, biking, homestays, local sports, and hot stone baths.