Discover Chele La, Bhutan's highest drivable pass, nestled between the Paro and Haa valleys. At 3,988 metres, it offers stunning Himalayan views, including the revered Mount Jomolhari. The area, rich in flora and fauna, is perfect for hiking and soaking in the vibrant prayer flags' colours. A scenic route through dense forests makes the journey as captivating as the destination.
Perched between the Paro and Haa valleys at 3,988 metres, Chele La Pass is Bhutan's highest motorable road. This scenic pass offers dramatic views of the Himalayan ranges, including the revered Mount Jomolhari. Built-in the 1990s, the narrow, winding road through Chele La is both thrilling and challenging. It is also primarily known for its sharp turns and steep drops. The pass is a vital link between two of Bhutan's most picturesque valleys and has been an important trade route for centuries.
Chele La is also a destination that offers immersive experiences in nature and Bhutanese culture. Hikers and adventure seekers frequent this pass to enjoy the rich biodiversity, including rare alpine flora and fauna. The area is dotted with colourful prayer flags that add to its spiritual ambience, making it a popular spot for both meditation and photography. During the Bhutan tour, one can often see locals engaging in traditional practices and rituals, providing a deeper insight into the cultural heritage of Bhutan.
Highlights
• Experience Bhutan's highest drivable road at Chele La Pass, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
• Trek through diverse trails lined with colourful prayer flags, enhancing the spiritual journey.
• Spot exotic birds like the Blood Pheasant and Himalayan Monal in their natural habitat at dawn.
• Capture the striking beauty of vibrant rhododendrons and rare alpine flora across the landscape.
• Meet and interact with local herders, learning about their traditional lifestyles and daily activities.
How To Reach
1. By Road: Chele La Pass is located 38.3 kilometres from Paro. It takes you from an elevation of 7,000 feet to 12,500 feet above sea level. The road is quite steep and winding compared to other drives in Bhutan.
2. By Car: From the city centre of Paro, Chele La is about 38.3 kilometres away via the Bondey-Haa Highway. The route involves a scenic drive on Bhutan’s well-maintained roads, which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. This route climbs through dense spruce and larch forests before reaching the pass. It also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
3. By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Paro and can be hired for a round trip to Chele La. They offer a convenient way to travel, especially for those looking to travel directly to the pass without stops.
4. On Bike: For the more adventurous, motorbiking to Chele La can be an exhilarating experience. The route from Paro is via the Bondey-Haa Highway, and the ride can be quite thrilling as the road ascends to the high mountain pass.
5. On Foot: Trekking to Chele La could be an option for trekkers and hiking enthusiasts. Depending on the starting point, this would typically start from a nearby village and could take a full day or more.
Best Time To Visit
Chele La is accessible all year round, offering unique experiences each season. This makes it versatile for planning your visit at any given time of the year.
1. Best season: Spring (March to May) is an ideal time to visit Chele La Pass as the weather is mild and the blooming rhododendrons add vibrant colours. These months provide clear skies and comfortable temperatures for hiking and photography.
2. Best Day of the Week: Weekdays (Monday to Thursday) are less crowded, enhancing the serene experience of the high-altitude pass. Quieter days mean more time to enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains without rushing.
3. Best time of the Day: Early morning, just after sunrise, is ideal to visit Chele La Pass. Temperatures are cooler, and the light is perfect for capturing the Himalayan backdrop during this time. Early hours also offer a higher chance of clear views before the afternoon clouds roll in.
Other Essential Information
1. Dress warmly and in layers, as temperatures at high elevations can drop suddenly and dramatically.
2. Check weather forecasts before your visit, as conditions can change quickly at high altitudes.
3. Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes, as trails can be rough, steep, and challenging.
4. Bring sufficient snacks and water, as there are no facilities to purchase food or drinks on the pass.
5. Respect the environment by taking all rubbish back with you to keep the area pristine and untouched.
6. Be prepared for strong, chilling winds at the pass, which are common and can suddenly increase.
7. Consider the effects of altitude sickness and take it slow, especially if you are not used to high elevations.
8. Use sunscreen and wear a hat, as UV levels can be high even on cloudy days, risking sunburn.
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