Paro to Haa-valley

Route Options: The most recommended route is via the Chele La pass. This pass is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. It is situated 13,000 ft above sea level, between Paro and Haa Valley. The roads on this route are amidst mountains and make for a scenic drive.

The Chele La pass is located 35 kms from Paro, and is 26 kms from Haa Valley, on the Bondey-Haa highway. The drive is through dense forests and is full of steep turns. The drive is a risky affair during monsoons and winter. The roads can be slippery during winter due to the presence of snow and ice. There are also chances of an avalanche. 

Time taken: Driving from Paro to Haa Valley should take around 2 hours to cover the distance of 65 kms.

One can also hike to the highest point on the Chele La pass. There are views of snow-clad Himalayan mountains. These mountain slopes are covered with White Poppy, unique to this region. The beautiful towns and valleys of Paro and Haa can also be viewed from this pass. Although the temperature can get to a very low 1°C, the breathtaking view is worth braving the cold. 

If the weather is clear, there are also chances of viewing the spectacular Mt. Jomolhari from the Chele La pass. 

Cost: Apart from driving your car, there is also the option of hiring a taxi. Outside the airports and Central bus stations, one can find taxi drivers offering services at fixed rates. Several taxi companies operate in Bhutan, along with local taxi drivers. The most preferred cab services in Bhutan are by NE Taxi. They provide services between most districts in the country. The costs vary depending on the type of vehicle and number of people. The company has several options to choose from as well. The typical taxi fare from Paro to Haa Valley is 1060 Nu. 

Road Conditions: Travelers must be careful while making this journey as there are no restaurants on top of the Chele La pass. There are also few pit-type toilets along the way. 

Driving from Paro to Haa Valley is the most preferred option as the bus timings and schedules are not convenient. The only disadvantage is that the roads along the route are very curvy and can make for a risky ride. It can also cause motion sickness. Due to the hairpin bends and one-way lanes along the way, high speeds are not recommended. The driving speeds in the Kingdom of Bhutan have been limited to 50 km/h.

To drive in Bhutan, an inner-line permit must be obtained at Thimphu. To save time and help tourists, the Tourism Council of Bhutan has introduced an online permit system for travelers from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives.

The Distance between Paro and Haa is approximately 65 kms. 

Bus Options Available: There is only one direct bus that operates between Paro and Haa. Dhug transport departs Paro at 9 AM and reaches Haa at 3 PM. The services, of a 22-seater bus, are available only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. 

Time Taken: While travelling from Haa to Paro, Dhug transport services are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The 22-seater bus departs Haa at 9 AM and reaches Paro at   2:30 PM. Therefore the time taken is 6 hours. 

Cost: The cost of this  journey between Paro and Haa is 121 Nu. Bookings must be made in advance due to the limited seats available on these buses.