This itinerary is designed for those who wish to explore and appreciate Haa valley’s natural wonders
Day 1: The Sacred Valley in Nature
Morning: The Guardians of the Valley Begin your exploration at Lhakhang Karpo (White Chapel) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Chapel). These 7th-century temples are situated at the foot of the Meri Puensum (Three Brother Hills). Nature Focus: Walk the forested kora (circumambulation) path connecting the two temples. The blue pine and cypress forests here are excellent for spotting the Yellow-billed Blue Magpie and the Spotted Nutcracker.
Lunch: The “Haap” Energy Meal Stop at a local farmhouse to try Hoentey (buckwheat dumplings) and Kaapchi Jaapa (roasted wheat flour with butter tea). These calorie-dense ancient foods are the traditional fuel for high-altitude trekking.
Afternoon: The Talung Valley Walk Drive to the upper reaches of the Talung Valley for a gentle afternoon hike.
Day 2: Road trip to Tergo La
Drive to Tergo La to enjoy the stunning panoramic highland mountain views of Haa. Tergo La stands at 4200 m but it is mostly covered in heavy mist in the summer and late monsoon months of the year. Start early to catch the crisp morning light. The drive toward Tergo La takes you through shifting forest zones, moving from blue pine to dense fir and rhododendron. If the views are clear, have your local homestay arrange packed lunches and hot tea. Enjoy your meal with the stunning mountain views at Tergo la. As you approach the pass, stop at the treeline. This is the prime habitat for the Hill Partridge and the Spotted Nutcracker. Keep your binoculars ready for the Fire-tailed Sunbird, often seen darting through the rhododendrons.
Nature Lover’s Packing List for Haa
- High-Quality Binoculars: Essential for the Tergola-Gakiling birding corridor.
- Layered Clothing: Temperatures in Haa can swing 20 degrees between sunrise and noon.
- Field Guide: A copy of the Birds of Bhutan or the recent Tergola to Gakiling Survey Report.
- Sturdy Trekking Boots: Necessary for the damp, mossy forest floors of the lower valleys.