Tour
Overview
The Haa Valley is one of western Bhutan's least-visited and most unspoilt destinations — a deep, forested valley flanked by high ridges, with a small traditional town, two ancient temples, and a way of life that has changed very little in centuries. Until 2002, Haa was completely closed to tourists. Today it remains far quieter than Paro or Thimphu, making it the best option for visitors who want to see Bhutan beyond its most familiar circuit.
The valley's two most important sites stand side by side in the town: Lhakhang Karpo (the White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (the Black Temple). Both are believed to have been built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo — the same king who built Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang — as part of a series of temples designed to pin down a supine demoness across the Himalayan region. They are among the oldest temples in Bhutan and are still active places of worship.
Reaching Haa from Paro requires crossing Chelela Pass — at 3,988m, one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. In late April and May, the hillsides around Chelela are blanketed in rhododendron bloom. In autumn, the views of the Bhutanese Himalayan chain from the pass are exceptional. The drive itself — through pine forests, past yak herders, and over the high ridge — is one of the most scenic in western Bhutan.
Tour Highlights
& Key Facts
Lhakhang Karpo — White Temple
One of Bhutan's oldest temples, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The White Temple is dedicated to the deity Gyalpo Pelchen Ngabo and is the primary pilgrimage site in the Haa Valley — an active temple with monks in residence.
Lhakhang Nagpo — Black Temple
Standing beside the White Temple, the Black Temple is dedicated to Ape Chundu — the protective deity of the Haa Valley. Its dark exterior contrasts sharply with its neighbour and it houses some of the valley's most sacred relics. The Haa Tshechu festival is held at both temples annually.
Chelela Pass (3,988m)
One of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan, connecting Paro and Haa valleys. In April–May, the pass is surrounded by rhododendron blooms. In autumn, the views of the Himalayan range — including Jomolhari (7,326m) — are among the best from any road in Bhutan.
Haa Town & Local Life
A small, quiet Bhutanese town with a traditional bazaar, local restaurants, and craftspeople. The town sits at approximately 2,700m and retains the authentic atmosphere of a provincial Bhutanese community with very little tourist infrastructure — which is exactly its appeal.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
The Haa Valley and the forested slopes of Chelela Pass are excellent for birdwatching — blood pheasant, satyr tragopan, and Himalayan monal are among the species found here. The valley also supports populations of red panda, bear, and snow leopard in its higher reaches.
Expert Private Guide
Your licensed Found Bhutan guide brings the valley's history, mythology, and living culture to life — including the story of the Rigsum Gonpo trio of chortens that guard the valley entrance, the legend of Ap Chundu, and the significance of Haa's unique position as a border valley with Tibet.
Tentative
Itinerary
Morning — Paro to Chelela Pass: Depart from your Paro hotel after breakfast. The drive to Chelela Pass (3,988m) takes approximately 1.5 hours through pine forests and open ridgelines. Stop at the pass for the prayer flag arrays, the views of Jomolhari and the Haa Himalayan range, and in late April–May, the rhododendron bloom that covers the hillside. Descend into the Haa Valley.
Midday — Lhakhang Karpo & Lhakhang Nagpo: Arrive in Haa town and visit the twin temples — Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple) — built in the 7th century and still active places of worship. Your guide explains the mythology of the protective deity Ap Chundu, the Rigsum Gonpo chortens at the valley entrance, and the significance of Haa as one of Bhutan's oldest sacred valleys. Lunch at a local Haa restaurant.
Afternoon — Haa Town & Return: Explore the traditional bazaar and farmhouses of Haa town at your own pace. The quiet streets, absence of tourist shops, and genuinely local atmosphere offer a rare glimpse of Bhutanese provincial life. Return via Chelela Pass to Paro by evening.
Meals: Lunch included · Transport: Private vehicle throughout · Distance: Paro–Haa approximately 65km via Chelela Pass
Our itineraries are always customisable. Add a short hike from Chelela Pass, a visit to the old Haa Dzong, or a picnic at the pass if conditions allow. Speak with your Found Bhutan tour specialist to tailor the day.
Inclusions &
Exclusions
Tour Package Inclusions
- Bhutan SDF
- Bhutan VISA Fee
- Luxury (SUV) Vehicle for 1-2 Pax
- Hi-Roof for 3-7 Pax
- Coaster Bus for more than 7 Pax
- Professional & Experienced Driver
- All transportation within Bhutan
- English-speaking expert local Tour Guide
- All three Meals
- Packed Lunches
- Bottled Mineral Water throughout the tour
- Seasonal Fruits
- Accommodation in 3-stars and above Hotels
- Local SIM Card
Tour Package Exclusions
- International Air fare
- Single room supplement charges
- Entrance fees for Museums and Monuments
- Any Personal Expenses
- Tips/gratuities
- Cost arising out of events beyond our control
- Cost for any services not mentioned in the "TOUR PACKAGE INCLUSION"
Tour
Cost
The total cost of the tour will vary based on the number of days, PAX, types of activities, accommodation & fooding, and the places you intend to visit. Our final rates will be shared based on your itinerary requirements.
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Cancellation Policy
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