Homestays
A night with a Bhutanese family in a village farmhouse, sharing their meals, their fire and their daily routine.
Haa Valley
A quiet valley west of Paro, over the Chele La pass, known for its twin temples, farmhouse life and the Haa Summer Festival.
Overview
Haa was only opened to foreign visitors in 2002, and it still sees far fewer travellers than neighbouring Paro. The drive in crosses the Chele La pass, with views of the high Himalaya on clear days.
The valley is known for Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, the White and Black Temples, and for village traditions that include buckwheat dishes such as hoentey dumplings.
Places to visit in Haa Valley
- Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo
- The White and Black Temples, traditionally said to date from the 7th century, the same period as Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro.
- Chele La
- A high road pass between Paro and Haa, lined with prayer flags.
- Haa Panorama trail
- A hiking trail with views over the valley and its hilltop monasteries.
Things to do in Haa Valley
- Cross the Chele La pass for mountain views
- Visit Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo
- Stay in a farmhouse and try hoentey buckwheat dumplings
- Walk the Haa Panorama hiking trail above the valley
- Time your visit for the Haa Summer Festival
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn bring the clearest views from Chele La. The Haa Summer Festival, held each year in summer, celebrates the valley's nomadic and farming traditions with food, games and dances.
How to get there
Haa is reached by road from Paro over the Chele La pass. It makes a day trip or an overnight stay from Paro.
Food in Haa Valley
Hoentey, buckwheat dumplings filled with turnip leaves, are a Haa speciality, traditionally made for the Lomba new year celebrations.
Travel tips
- Bring warm layers for the Chele La pass, which is cold and windy even in summer
Festivals in Haa Valley
- Haa Tshechu
Experiences
More in Western Bhutan
Plan a journey that includes Haa Valley
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