Start early for the 4-6 hrs drive to Chele La Pass which is 3,988masl, the HIGHEST road pass in Bhutan ! snaking upwards through blue pine and rhododendron forests for 35 km. On a clear day the view sweeps away to the snow-dome of Bhutan's second highest peak, Mt Jhomolhari ( 7,314masl ) and down to the Haa Valley.
And so, Group B (consisted or 3 persons in our group ) started off on their leisure day sightseeing tour and picnic with a rainbow in the bright blue sky .
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| a promising day for Group B |
Kila Goemba is a serene retreat for 32 Anim ( Buddhist nuns ) who lead an undisturbed life of religious studies,prayers and meditation. The nunnery is one of the 7 oldest nunneries in the Kingdom.
The Haa Valley is one of the most picturesque places in the Kingdom, spread over an area of 1706 sq km. During pre-Buddhist era, Haa Valley was known for its animist tradition. The inhabitants offer animal blood to the local deities. However this practise was transformed into peaceful Buddhist tradition in the 8th Century by the Guru. However traces of this belief system are still noticed in the forms of festivals and rituals. The Haa valley was opened to tourists in 2002.
The drive to Haa Valley crosses 3988 masl Chele La Pass, from where we can have a superb view of Mt Chomolhari and Jichu Draky. But it is the least visited area in Bhutan due to the lack of infracture for tourists.
a very scenic drive . .
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| " High country Marlboro Man " . .the original ! |
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| cool running river-best spot for picnic |
Picnic at Chele la Pass. Then go on to Katsho village and Katso Lhakang.
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| packed picnic lunch |
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| By the river |
HAPPY FACES at TAKSHANG MONASTERY CAFETERIA, waiting for Group A return from their " tears n sweat hike" . . . poor guys. . waited almost 3 hrs !!
