Nestled in Bhutan’s western frontier, Haa district is a sacred haven steeped in the blessings of ancient saints, enveloped by majestic hills and mountains that stand as silent sentinels over its verdant valleys. Balancing high-altitude terrains with rich cultural traditions, Haa’s economy thrives on both tourism and traditional agriculture. Visitors to Haa are greeted with a warm embrace, offered an immersive holiday experience brimming with authenticity and vivacity. Haa’s cultural tapestry is vividly displayed through its vibrant festivals, traditional dances, and delectable cuisine, providing a holistic immersion into Bhutanese heritage. The Spring Haa Summer Festival, a highlight, offers a glimpse into the district’s nomadic past, preserving customs passed down through generations.
For adventure seekers, Haa presents a playground of possibilities, with trekking routes meandering through pristine forests, alpine meadows, and remote villages. The iconic Nub Tshona Pata Trek promises awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas and unparalleled adventure. Embracing ecotourism principles, Haa prioritizes environmental conservation, offering activities like birdwatching, nature hikes, and sustainable agricultural tours. Through community-based initiatives, locals actively engage in hospitality services, enriching the tourist experience while fostering equitable economic growth.
Here are the Top 4 Day Hikes in Haa.
Haa Panorama Trail:
Total Distance : 18.4km
Max Altitude : 3,106m
Hike Duration : 8 hours
The Panorma hiking begins from Yangthang Lhakhang (2893m) and provides panoramic views of Haa valley, the sacred Meri Puensum and distant peaks, whilst immersing in the pristine pine forests. The scenic trail gently ascends to 3106m and passes through pine forests, pastures, and intact environment and traverses the monasteries of Yanthang (2700m), Katsho Eco-Camp (2994m) and Juneydrak (2908m) before descending into Wangtsa village (2850m).
Meri Puensum Trail:
Toatl Distance : 27 km
Max Altitude : 3,800m
Hike Duration : 9 hours
Nestled in the pristine landscapes of Haa, the Meri Puen Sum region boasts a unique combination of biking and hiking trails that promise an exhilarating adventure amidst breathtaking panoramas. The trail begins at Dumcho and ends at the suspension bridge near Haa Town which is almost 27.41 km. You will need to ascend uphill for about 4-5 hours. As you hike you will come across various streams, bridges, wild mush – rooms, flowers and birds.
The Red Panda Trail:
Toatl Distance : 14.62 km
Max Altitude : 3487m
Hike Duration : 10 hours
The trek starts from Jilam (Red panda Trek Start Point), 3487m and it is almost 14.62 km till Legoten road point. Highly sought after by explorers, naturalists and scholars and popular among tourists, the shy, charismatic and endangered Red Panda can be found along the trail.
Trans Bhutan Trail (Haa-Paro):
Toatl Distance : 17 km
Max Altitude : 3,790m
Hike Duration : 8 hours
This trail is the first leg of the Trans Bhutan Trail. The first 4-5 hours of the trail is considered to a little difficult for those who are not used to hiking. Having said that most of our guests manage to overcome the difficulty even though they are not avid hikers. The hike will begin in Haa Valley and will exit in Paro Valley.
Trans Bhutan Trail is a new hiking trail stretching over 403km across nine Dzongkhags. Kasho village in Haa is the starting point and Trashigang in the Far East, marks the end of the trail. Essentially this legendary hiking trail traces the ancient routes being predominantly used by business people, migratory tribes, government officials of Bhutan.