Perched on a sheer cliff overlooking the Haa Valley, Juney Drak is one of Bhutan’s most striking hermitages. Located north of Katsho village, you can take your car to the base of the hermitage. The short ride from Haa town takes you through narrow roads through the village cluster until you find yourself surrounded by beautiful tall pine trees. Juney Drak is also accessible via the Panorama Hike. The site rewards visitors with sweeping views of the northeastern part of the valley, forested slopes, and distant mountain ridges, making it both a place of contemplation and a visual highlight of Haa.
The short hike of 20 minutes begins as you enter a stupa and then across a small bridge. The hike is a gentle uphill climb through serene pine trees and the forest floor is covered in pine cones and leaves. As you reach the first tall chorten-like structure which also serves as a gateway towards Juney drak, the trail upwards is a little steep with railings on the right. Then you will have to enter through a small door before finally taking you to the secluded temple.
Juneydrak holds deep religious significance due to its strong association with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). Local oral tradition recounts that Guru Rinpoche visited this site while subduing a powerful demon that once threatened the region. During this encounter, he is said to have removed one of the demon’s eyes and a fang, placing them upon the cliff. The impressions can still be seen to this day, serving as enduring reminders of Guru Rinpoche’s triumph over negative forces and his role in establishing the Dharma. Juneydrak also holds a rare connection to Mache Lhabdrön (1055–1132), the renowned Tibetan female tantric master. The hermitage is believed to house her right footprint, while her left footprint is said to be at Pelphug, Paro Taktsang, spiritually linking the two sacred sites. The hermitage is also revered for its many naturally formed sacred images.
Near Juneydrak, a small group of nuns lives in quiet devotion, maintaining a life centered on meditation, prayer, and spiritual discipline. Residing in a modest house close to the hermitage, they spend their days in contemplation, performing daily prayers and caring for the sacred site.
Beyond its religious importance, Juneydrak forms an essential part of Haa’s cultural landscape. The hermitage stands as a reminder of the valley’s long-standing spiritual heritage and its integration with the natural environment. For hikers and pilgrims alike, the journey to Juneydrak is as meaningful as the destination—combining physical effort, spiritual reflection, and awe-inspiring scenery. In this way, Juneydrak continues to embody the harmonious relationship between faith, nature, and tradition that defines the Haa Valley.
Distance: 3.5 km from Haa town/ 18 min
Location: North of Katsho Gewog
Hike Details: 20-30 min hike uphill
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