Haa Town, nestled in the Haa Valley of Bhutan, is a hidden gem known for its untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is one of the least visited areas in the country, preserving its traditional way of life. The town is divided into two sectors: the northern part, which houses the central bazaar, shops, and restaurants, and the southern part, which contains military training camps1.

Haa is famous for its pristine alpine forests, tranquil mountain peaks, and nomadic herders who showcase their unique lifestyle at the annual Haa Summer Festival. The festival is a vibrant celebration featuring traditional sports, religious performances, and local cuisine, including the heady local liquor, Ara1. The valley is also home to the rare White Poppy, a flower endemic to Haa and found nowhere else in the world.

For adventure seekers, Haa offers excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, with breathtaking views of Bhutan’s rugged landscapes. The town is accessible via a scenic two-hour drive from Paro, crossing the Chelela Pass, Bhutan’s highest road pass.

Haa Valley is one of Bhutan’s most picturesque and culturally rich regions. Nestled in the southwestern part of the country, it covers an area of 1,706 square kilometers and is surrounded by the districts of Paro, Chhukha, and Samtse.

Historically, Haa Valley was known for its animist traditions, where locals once offered animal sacrifices to their deities. However, in the 8th century, Guru Padmasambhava transformed these practices into peaceful Buddhist traditions. Today, the valley is home to sacred sites like Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), located at the foothills of the revered Meri Puensum mountains.

Haa Valley was opened to foreign tourists in 2002, making it a relatively unexplored gem. It is famous for its annual Haa Tshechu festival, held at Lhakhang Karpo, where locals celebrate their rich traditions. The valley is also a paradise for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views from Chele La Pass (3,988 meters), where visitors can admire Mount Chomolhari and Jichu Drakey.