In a remarkable nod to its pristine beauty and cultural authenticity, Bhutan’s Haa Valley has been named one of the 25 best places to travel in 2025 by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). This recognition positions the lesser-explored region as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking sustainable and meaningful experiences.
Nestled in western Bhutan, Haa Valley is a secluded paradise that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and a commitment to sustainability. The valley, often overlooked by international visitors, is emerging from obscurity to earn its place on the global travel map.
Curating the World’s Best
The list, curated by BBC Travel editors in collaboration with sustainable tourism experts such as the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and the World Travel and Tourism Council, highlights destinations that harmonize tourism with environmental preservation and cultural authenticity.
Among the contributors who helped spotlight Haa Valley was Erin Levi, a US-based freelance travel writer and editor. Known for her expertise in the Himalayas and Bhutan, Levi played a pivotal role in securing Haa’s spot on the prestigious list. She submitted the valley as part of her pitches to BBC Travel editors, emphasizing its unique appeal as a sustainable and community-driven destination.
“While I could have pitched Bhutan as a whole, I thought I would spotlight Haa Valley because it’s often left off itineraries and deserves to be discovered,” Levi explained. “It’s a place where community-based tourism is thriving.”
A Personal Connection to Bhutan
Levi’s relationship with Bhutan dates back to 2010 when she managed the Bhutan Tourism Council’s account in the United States. Over the years, her professional connection deepened into a personal passion for the country. During her third research trip in 2017, she spent four transformative days in Haa Valley, immersing herself in its culture and natural beauty.
“My time at Lechuna Lodge offered deep insights into this lesser-visited region,” she recalled. “I tackled the challenging Meri Puenseum trek, learned to make hoentey—Haa’s unique dumplings—and witnessed a visit from the Je Khenpo.”
Levi describes Haa Valley as a microcosm of Bhutan’s essence: a harmonious blend of ancient traditions, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. “Haa represents everything thoughtful travelers seek in a destination,” she said.
A Rising Star in Sustainable Tourism
Haa Valley’s inclusion in the BBC list underscores Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable tourism. Despite being just an hour’s drive from Paro International Airport, Haa remains one of Bhutan’s least-visited regions, with fewer than two percent of international tourists venturing there. The valley’s isolation until 2002, when it was the last district to open to foreigners, has preserved its charm and authenticity.
Tourists to Haa can enjoy activities like trekking the newly restored 400-kilometre Trans Bhutan Trail, exploring the 11-kilometre Haa Panorama Trail, or embarking on the two-day Joy Bay Tsho Trek, which passes through lush bamboo groves and forests.
Accommodations in the valley reflect its sustainable ethos. Locally run homestays offer visitors a glimpse into traditional rural life, while new ventures like the community-managed Katsho Eco Camp and luxury Sangwa Camp provide immersive yet eco-friendly experiences.
Bhutan’s recent decision to halve its Sustainable Development Fee for international tourists to USD 100 per day through 2027 has further bolstered its appeal, making destinations like Haa more accessible without compromising the country’s low-impact tourism model.
A New Chapter for Haa
Haa Valley’s journey to the global spotlight is a testament to the power of sustainable tourism and thoughtful storytelling. Levi expressed her joy at seeing the valley gain the recognition it deserves. “I have been waiting for the right time to share this extraordinary valley with the world, and I am thrilled it is finally happening,” she said.
With its inclusion in BBC’s Top 25 Travel Destinations for 2025, Haa Valley is poised to welcome more visitors while safeguarding its cultural and natural heritage. For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that resonates with authenticity and sustainability, Haa Valley promises an unforgettable journey.
