Haa Valley: A Sweet Spot Tucked In Bhutan

Haa Valley in Bhutan

Haa town is known for its ancient traditions and rituals, and with its thinly populated valley region, this place gives you the tranquilizing feel like a fewer place in the ever would. Lhakhang Karpo (White temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black temple) from the 7th century lie nestled in the foothills of the Meri Puensum mountains.

Although very close, the Haa Valley has not been developed in the same way as Paro and here you will get a feel for the more traditional way of life that is more commonly seen in the eastern part of the country. We love this valley for its picturesque scenery, a sense of utter peace and excellent hiking.

The valley is located in close proximity to Doklam or Zhoglam – a plateau enveloped by Tibet’s Chumbi Valley to the north, Bhutan’s Haa Valley to the east and India’s Sikkim state to the west. This place is of strategic importance to India and China and the armies of both the nation were in news because of the 73-day-long military standoff in Doklam. Talking about the way of life, the valley and surroundings follow the Shamanistic rituals.

Haa is accessed by day trip from Paro (2 hours each way), by road one has to traverse Chele-la Pass at 3988 meters. It is from the valley that you get to feast on the magnificent views of Mount. Chomolhari & Jichu Drakey. Haa is strategically important for India because of its close presence near the Indo-Tibet border and the IMTRAT (Indian Military Training Teams) has its base in the Haa town which is a critical position for India.

Places to Visit in Haa Valley

Lhakhang Karpo

Also known as White Temple is one of the oldest temples around. As per the legend King Songtsen Gampo released a black and white pigeon in order to build temples. The white pigeon landed on mountains of Chenrizi of towering Rigsum. On the other hand black pigeon landed on north – that is Lhakhang Nagpo.

Today the temple is called Nagpo or black built on the site where black pigeon landed. Both the temples are much revered and must visit. The annual festival HAA TSECHU is celebrated here in these temples on the 8th – 10th day of Bhutanese month.

Haa Wangchuklo Dzong

Built in the year 1915, It’s an interesting place. Standing in the midst of lush greenery this beautifully painted building is worth of spending a few hours walking and admiring the very presence of it.

Chele – la – pass

When you drive to Haa valley, you will cross Chele – la – pass. Standing at a height of 3988 meters above sea level, it gives the perfect view of Mount Chomolhari and Jichu Drakey. One of the best places for short walk; It’s good to sit here and sip a hot cup of coffee.