Haa
Western Bhutan
Tucked beyond the high ridge of Chele La, Haa is one of Bhutan’s quieter western valleys. The road from Paro climbs through pine and rhododendron forest to the pass, where prayer flags stream in the wind and, on clear days, the Himalayan peaks come into view. From there, the road descends into a broad valley of fields, villages and wooded hills. Haa feels distinctly rural and quaint, with a slower pace and a close connection to village life.
Haa can also be reached by road directly from Thimphu, passing through Dobji and other villages. Another road links the valley south toward Dorokha and Samtse. These routes make it possible to explore Haa as part of a wider journey through western Bhutan, though road conditions and travel times can vary.
The small town of Haa is the district centre, but much of the valley’s appeal lies in its villages and surrounding countryside. Traditional homes and cultivated fields follow the river, while forested slopes rise toward the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore on foot or by bicycle, visit local farmhouses, or take walks to small temples and monasteries.
Two important landmarks are Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, known as the White and Black Temples. Local tradition connects their origins to the 7th-century Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo and the story of two sacred pigeons that helped identify auspicious sites for temples. The temples remain active places of worship and are central to Haa’s spiritual heritage. Nearby, the three peaks known as Meri Puensum are associated with the bodhisattvas of wisdom, compassion and power.
Haa’s living culture is celebrated at its local festivals. The annual Haa Tshechu brings the community together for religious ceremonies and masked dances at Lhakhang Karpo. The Haa Summer Festival showcases local food, traditional sports, songs and dances, as well as the customs of highland herders. Regional specialities include buckwheat dishes such as hoentay dumplings, khuley pancakes and puta noodles.
Whether approached from Paro over Chele La, from Thimphu via Dobji, or from the south through Dorokha, Haa offers a rewarding change of pace. Its mountain scenery, sacred sites and quiet village atmosphere reveal a more rural side of Bhutan.
- Best time to visit
- March to May, September to November
- Getting there
- By road from Paro over Chele La pass, about 2.5 to 3 hours
- Suggested stay
- 1 to 2 nights
Places in and around Haa
Groups always run in this order. Inside each group, the must-see picks come first; hikes and places to stay follow the order Windhorse recommends.
Sights and attractions in Haa
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Temples & Monasteries
Lhakhang Karpo and Nakpo
These two temples/monasteries are probably the most important site in Ha valley. Lhakhang Karpo (white chapel) is the official residence of Ha monastic body (Rabdey).
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Temples & Monasteries
Chhundu Lhakhang
This is one of several temples dedicated to the Ha valley's protective deity,'Ab Chhundu'.
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Temples & Monasteries
Juneydrak Hermitage
From Katsho village, a 1 hour hike uphill leads to Cliffside retreat that contains the foot print of Maching Labdrom (1055-1132), a female Tibetan yogin, student of famous…
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Nature & Viewpoints
Cheli la Pass
Chele la is regarded as one of the highest motorable pass in Bhutan.
Nothing matches these filters in Haa yet. Choose another type or a lower star rating.
Where to stay in Haa
7In the order Windhorse recommends-
Homestay
Chimi Homestay
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Heritage hotel
Haa Heritage Hotel
Haa Heritage Hotel located at Kajana, Way to log cabin, Haa, Bhutan. The hotel is well-organized and well-planned on the highway just 5.5km from downtown Haa valley.
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Hotel
Hotel Lhayul
Nestled in the heart of Haa Valley, Hotel Lhayul is an icon of hospitality with the majestic view of Meriphunsum Mountains.
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Hotel
Jampel Yang Hotel
Jampel Yang Hotel, a three-star property lies at the base of a sacred three distinctive sister hills (Meri Pun Suem), known as the hidden land of Rice Valley.
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Homestay
Pema Wangmo Home Stay
Pema Wangmo Home Stay is a complete traditional art and crafts pride itself as a doorway to the essence of Bhutanese hospitality, where the warmth and comforts of…
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Farmstay
Ugyen Farm House
Ugyen farm house is run by a family for tourist visiting Haa valley to experience Bhutanese rural life in villages with a taste of authentic Bhutanese culture.
Nothing matches these filters in Haa yet. Choose another type or a lower star rating.
Trips that visit Haa
- Bhutan Village TourDay 5: Thimphu – Haa Valley 9 days
- Bhutan Country WalksDay 3: Thimphu to Haa 7 days
- Ancient Bhutan Trail HikesDay 2: Drive across Chele La Pass to Haa Valley 10 days