Haa Valley: A Hidden Gem Among BBC’s Top 25 Travel Destinations for 2025

Haa Valley, one of Bhutan’s most untouched and least explored regions, has earned a prestigious spot on the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) list of the 25 best places to travel in 2025. Recognised for its pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable tourism, Haa Valley is now stepping into the global spotlight.

A Destination Rooted in Sustainability

BBC Travel editors collaborated with leading sustainable travel organizations, including the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, Sustainable Travel International, and the World Travel and Tourism Council, to curate this exclusive list. The selection highlights destinations that seamlessly blend tourism with environmental preservation and cultural authenticity.

Among the key contributors to Haa Valley’s recognition is Erin Levi, a seasoned travel writer and editor with expertise in the Himalayas and Central Asia. With extensive experience writing for publications such as BBC Travel, The New York Times, and Lonely Planet, Levi played a crucial role in bringing Haa Valley to international attention.

A Personal Connection to Bhutan

Levi’s deep connection to Bhutan began in 2010 when she managed the Bhutan Tourism Council’s account in the United States. Over the years, her professional engagement evolved into a deep personal passion. During her third research visit to Bhutan in 2017, she spent four days in Haa Valley, an experience she describes as transformative. Staying at Lechuna Lodge, she embarked on the Meri Puenseum day trek, learned to make hoentey (Haa’s signature dumplings), and even witnessed a visit from Je Khenpo.

Reflecting on her decision to spotlight Haa Valley, Levi shared, “While I could have pitched Bhutan as a whole, I wanted to highlight Haa because it’s often overlooked despite its incredible offerings. With the rise of community-based tourism and the introduction of luxury accommodations like Sangwa Camp, Haa is primed for sustainable exploration.”

Exploring Haa Valley’s Untouched Beauty

Nestled in western Bhutan, Haa Valley remained closed to international visitors until 2002, making it one of the last districts to open its doors to tourism. Despite being just an hour’s drive from Paro International Airport, fewer than two percent of international visitors make their way to this secluded paradise.

For those seeking authentic and sustainable travel experiences, Haa Valley offers numerous opportunities. Visitors can explore ancient trails such as the newly restored 400-kilometre Trans Bhutan Trail and the scenic 11-kilometre Haa Panorama Trail. Adventure seekers can embark on the two-day Joy Bay Tsho Trek, which winds through bamboo groves, dense forests, and serene pastures.

Haa Valley’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its tourism infrastructure. Locally run homestays offer visitors an intimate glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life, while eco-friendly accommodations like the community-run Katsho Eco Camp and the luxury Sangwa Camp provide immersive yet responsible travel experiences.

Bhutan’s Commitment to Responsible Tourism

Bhutan’s dedication to sustainable tourism has been a key driver of its global appeal. Recently, the government halved the Sustainable Development Fee for international tourists to USD 100 per day through 2027. This initiative makes visiting destinations like Haa more accessible while preserving Bhutan’s low-impact tourism ethos.

For Erin Levi, Haa Valley encapsulates everything that makes Bhutan extraordinary—untouched landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and heartfelt hospitality. “Haa represents everything thoughtful travellers seek in a destination,” she remarked.

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. This hidden gem is finally getting the recognition it deserves, inviting travellers to experience Bhutan’s beauty in its purest form