Have you ever wanted to break away from the usual tourist circuit and take the road less traveled? Consider heeding the call of the little-known Haa Valley. This remote part of Bhutan can be easily accessed from Paro by crossing over the high-altitude pass of Chele La, but it’s only been open to international travelers since 2002. This means that tourism is virtually in its infancy here, and high-end amenities are still something of a rarity. That’s exactly why we recommend the Haa Valley to discerning travelers who want an authentic experience of rural Bhutan in all its pastoral charm. The rustic beauty of this timeless region guarantees its place as one of Bhutan’s best hidden gems.

Haa is the smallest of Bhutan’s dzongkhas, or districts. It’s also one of the least populated; in fact, the region has earned a reputation among travelers as the “Hidden Valley” of Bhutan. Most tourists catch a quick glimpse of Haa’s sprawling green fields from the top of Chele La before turning back to Paro, but this enchanting paradise truly rewards visitors who take the time to understand its enduring rhythms. As the seasons come and go, the Haa Valley is flushed with green growth in both its cultivated fields and forested hillsides. An exploration of this verdant landscape is especially rewarding for nature lovers, trekkers, and cyclists—but there are also a number of cultural highlights you won’t want to miss.

The Haa Valley is not currently accessible by plane, and you’ll have to travel in by road. But this only adds to the valley’s remote charm, and there are a number of scenic points of interest on the drive from Paro. Talk to us today if you’d like to include the Haa Valley on your itinerary!

Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo:

Discover the Haa Valley’s most important cultural touchstones by visiting the seventh-century temples of Lhakhang Karpo (The White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (The Black Temple). These two sites are just 10 minutes apart; popular legend holds that they were built when the 33rd Tibetan king released two doves: one white and one black. The doves landed here in the Haa Valley, and these temples were erected on the spot. Visitors to these important lhakhangs can enjoy brightly painted murals, statues of important religious icons, and peaceful alpine scenery.

Haa Dzong:

The stout walls of the Haa Valley’s small fortress were constructed in 1895 to repel Tibetan invaders. Also known as Wangchuck Lo Dzong, it was later converted to function as an administrative centre for the entire district. The fortress was rebuilt in 1915 after a devastating fire and now serves as a training ground for Indian military personnel. This colourful background makes the fortress especially interesting to history buffs, but access is limited because of its association with the Indian army. Although tours are sometimes possible, this is one highlight of the Haa Valley that’s often enjoyed from afar.

Festivals:

The peaceful Haa Valley is transformed into a place of revelry when summer arrives. Villages are bedecked with colourful prayer flags, the hillsides blossom with bright flowers, and locals begin a season of celebration. When you visit the Haa Valley in summer, you’ll want to attend one of Bhutan’s famous festivals, or tsechus. The Haa Summer Festival is perhaps the most popular—and for good reason. This is a multi-day affair celebrating nomadic culture, with plenty of local food and drink, elaborate dancing, religious rituals, and sporting events.

Ancient Traditions:

Festivals aren’t the only cultural highlights of the Haa Valley. This secluded region is also regarded as one of the last strongholds of the ancient Bön religion, which actually predates Buddhism in the Himalayas. There are a few religious sites in the valley still dedicated to local Bön deities. The most well-known of these spots are near the temple complex of Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple. A sacred oak tree marks the spot where a frightening deity once appeared; offerings from two nearby houses were made to appease this wrathful god. Rituals are still performed annually here in what’s known as the Upper House.

Homestays:

Here’s your chance to really get acquainted with the local way of life in the Haa Valley. This part of Bhutan is inhabited mostly by shepherds and farmers who are still practicing a traditional way of life. You can visit a homestead or farm to observe daily customs, work routines, and the simple satisfaction that comes from a life well lived. There are numerous farmhouses scattered throughout the valley where we can arrange a homestay experience for you. By staying overnight with locals and helping out with chores around the farm, you’ll get a valuable insight into rural Bhutan that few tourists can boast.

Hiking and Exploration:

The Haa Valley is packed with superlative day hikes; there’s no better way to explore the surrounding hills. One excellent option is to hike from the town of Haa to the Juneydrak Hermitage, a one-hour tramp through rhododendron forest and across streams. The hermitage is known for housing the preserved footprint of Machig Labdrön, a female Tantric master from the 11th century. You can also enjoy a stroll through the Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve, where you can spot wildlife in dense forests of pine and spruce. No matter where you’re hiking in Haa, keep your eyes peeled for the white poppy: a rare flower found only in this part of Bhutan.

Longer Treks:

If you have time to explore the Haa Valley more thoroughly, consider hiking the Saga La Trek. This route follows a traditional rice trading path and takes two or three days to complete. You’ll trek through deep forests, across wide meadows, and past a number of interesting temples. As you ascend, your efforts will also be rewarded with good views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, two of Bhutan’s most prominent peaks. From the pass of Saga La itself, you can even catch a glimpse of the Tiger’s Nest monastery in the far distance. Reaching a maximum altitude of only 4,000 meters, this is a relatively easy trek suitable for most travelers.

Biking:

Steep trails cut across the green hills of the Haa Valley, winding through tiny villages and past quiet monasteries. It’s no wonder that cyclists are particularly fond of this region of rural Bhutan. There are a number of rewarding routes for mountain bikers who want to explore the valley on two wheels. For example, the 35-kilometer trail connecting the main valley with the village of Haatoe makes for an excellent day trip. It’s even possible to bike from the mountain pass of Chele La all the way down into the Haa Valley!