Haa is a small district located in western Bhutan and is known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and stunning landscape. Here are some of the top places to visit in Haa:
Lhakhang Karpo
Situated in the Uesu Gewog, which is located in the southern region of Haa district, between three famous mountains. Today, the temple stands tall, comparable to the Haa valley fortress, overlooking the revered Haa river. Lhakhang Karpo is home to sacred images of Sangye Tshepamey and Ap Chhundu, who are the main deities of the Haa valley.
In addition to being a religious site, Lhakhang Karpo also serves as a Buddhist school. Every year in mid-July, the temple courtyard hosts an annual festival where thousands of locals and tourists gather to witness mask dances and local performances. The festival is a vibrant celebration of Bhutanese culture and spirituality, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting the Haa district.
Lhakhang Nagpo
Situated in Dumchoe village, Lhakhang Nagpo lies 15 minutes beyond Lhakhang Karpo. One can reach this temple by walking for 15 minutes or driving for 10 minutes. Besides the temple, there is a small lake that adds to its serene beauty. Lhakhang Nagpo is home to the guardian deity, Da Do Chen, who is worshipped by the locals. This temple serves as the seat for Da Do Chen and is an important religious site in the Haa district.
Haa Town
It is a small and peaceful town with a population of around 2,500 people. The town is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains and lush forests.
There are a few shops and restaurants in the town, where visitors can try some local delicacies and purchase souvenirs.
Haa town is also a convenient base for exploring the surrounding countryside, with plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives to enjoy. The town is easily accessible by road from Paro or Thimphu, with a journey time of around 2-3 hours.
Yangthang village
Yangthang Village is a small traditional Bhutanese village located in the Haa Valley of Bhutan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,800 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green hills and forests. The village is home to around 120 households and has a population of around 600 people.
Visitors can experience the local culture by taking part in homestays, where they can stay with a local family and learn about their way of life. The village is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking, with many trails leading to nearby hills and mountains.
One of the major attractions in Yangthang Village is the Yangthang Lhakhang, a 14th-century Buddhist temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. The temple is decorated with beautiful paintings and carvings and is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike.