Chele La pass and the walk to Kila Nunnery
Chele La sits on the ridge between Paro and Haa, about 35 km and 1.5 hours from Paro town. The top is crowded with prayer flags and, on clear mornings, Jomolhari at about 7,326 m and Jichu Drake appear to the north-west. Rhododendrons flower on the approach in April and May, and yaks graze the slopes in summer.
A path leads down from near the pass through fir forest to Kila Goemba, a group of nuns' quarters and temples clinging to the rock face, in about an hour. The nuns live a life of study and retreat; visit quietly. Walk back up or have the car meet you at the road below.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How high is Chele La?
About 3,988 m, often described as the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. It lies between the Paro and Haa valleys. The air is thin and cold, so walk slowly, especially if you have only just arrived in Bhutan. Keep a warm jacket handy even in summer.
Can I see Jomolhari from Chele La?
On clear days, yes. Jomolhari, at about 7,326 m on the Tibetan border, and Jichu Drake are visible to the north-west, mostly between October and February and early in the morning. Cloud usually builds by mid-morning, and in the monsoon the view is rare.
How difficult is the walk to Kila Nunnery?
Moderate. The path descends about 300–400 m through forest from near the pass in about an hour, and the climb back takes longer. It is uneven in places. Most visitors arrange for the car to collect them at the road below instead of walking back up.
Also in Haa Valley
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