Ha, also known as Haa or Has, is a Thromde or town, and the seat of Haa District in Bhutan. Ha is situated in Haa Valley in the west of Bhutan bordering Sikkim. The major economic activity is rice production, yak herding and trade with neighbouring China. Ha accommodates The Indian Military Training Team. Wikipedia
Known for: Remote alpine beauty, ancient shrines, peaceful farming villages, and sacred peaks
Location: Western Bhutan, ~65 km west of Paro, near the border with Tibet
March to May (Spring):
✅ Rhododendrons bloom, mild temperatures, ideal for hiking
September to November (Autumn):
✅ Crystal-clear skies, great mountain views
December to February (Winter):
❄️ Cold and snowy, but tranquil — fewer tourists
June to August (Monsoon):
🌧️ Lush green but wet; some trails may be muddy
🚗 By Road (from Paro):
~2–2.5 hour drive via Chele La Pass (3,988 m / 13,084 ft) — Bhutan’s highest motorable road
Scenic route with stunning views of Mount Jomolhari
Note: No airport in Haa; all visitors arrive by road from Paro or Thimphu
“White Temple” and “Black Temple” — twin 7th-century temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo
Deep spiritual significance; central to Haa’s culture
One of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes
Offers views of Mount Jomolhari, Haa Valley, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind
Great for short hikes and photo stops
Quiet farming villages like Ugyen Dzong, Talung, and Yangthang
Walks through buckwheat fields, pine forests, and over suspension bridges
Cliffside monastery reachable by a short hike
Offers great valley views and is a peaceful retreat for meditation
Visit ancient temples (Lhakhang Karpo/Nagpo)
Drive to Chele La Pass for sunrise or sunset
Take scenic nature walks or village treks
Interact with locals in homestays or farmhouses
Learn about yak herding and buckwheat farming
Lechuna Heritage Lodge – Traditional farmhouse with comfort and charm
Ugyen Homestay – Local experience with meals and culture
Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge – Converted traditional home
Risum Resort – Basic but with lovely views
Yangsum Heritage Lodge – Warm hospitality and traditional Bhutanese meals
Buckwheat pancakes (khuli)
Buckwheat noodles (puta)
Haa red rice
Yak cheese and butter tea
Hoentay – Dumplings stuffed with turnip leaves, cheese, or spinach
Meals are mostly at guesthouses, homestays, or arranged by your guide/operator.
Haa is one of Bhutan’s least-populated regions
Deeply spiritual with a strong connection to Tibetan Buddhism
Known for ap Chundu, the local protective deity
Traditional dress, architecture, and customs are well preserved
🥾 Bring hiking boots and warm layers — especially for Chele La
📵 Limited mobile reception and internet in remote villages
🏡 Book accommodation in advance — options are limited
💵 Cash is essential — no ATMs in the valley
📸 Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks