Chele La is one of Bhutan’s most breathtaking mountain passes, offering visitors a rare chance to experience the country’s high-altitude beauty with ease. Located between the Paro and Haa valleys, Chele La sits at an elevation of about 3,988 meters, making it one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. The journey to the pass is as memorable as the destination itself, winding through dense forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron.
As travelers ascend toward Chele La, the air grows cooler and the landscape more dramatic. On clear days, the pass rewards visitors with sweeping views of the Himalayan range, including the majestic peaks of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. These snow-capped mountains rise proudly against the sky, creating a striking contrast with the deep green forests below. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind at the summit, carrying prayers and good wishes across the valleys.
At the summit of the pass, there is a small shed from where you can buy refreshments like teas and thup to warm your insides. Especially during winter when the Pass is blanketed in snow and ice.
Chele La is not only a scenic viewpoint but also a place of spiritual significance. Small shrines and prayer flags line the pass, reflecting Bhutan’s deep connection between nature and faith. Local people often stop here to offer prayers for safe journeys and good fortune. The quiet atmosphere, broken only by the sound of the wind, adds to the sense of peace and reflection.
During spring and early summer, the slopes around Chele La burst into color as wild rhododendrons bloom in shades of red, pink, and white. In winter, the pass is often covered in snow, transforming it into a serene white landscape and offering a completely different kind of beauty.
Whether visited for its panoramic views, cool mountain air, or spiritual calm, Chele La leaves a lasting impression. It stands as a symbol of Bhutan’s untouched natural charm, where mountains, forests, and faith come together in perfect harmony.
Location : Between Paro and Haa
Distance : Appx from Thimphu 77 km/ 2 hrs
Appx from Haa 28 km/ 1 hr