Dobji Dzong:

Dobji Dzong, also known as the Fortress of the White Prayer Flags, is a historic monastery and fortress located in Bhutan. Situated on a ridge overlooking the picturesque Thimphu Valley, it dates back to the 16th century and is believed to be one of Bhutan's oldest dzongs. The fortress was initially constructed to serve as a strategic defense point and later became a monastic institution. Dobji Dzong is renowned for its distinctive Bhutanese architectural style, featuring whitewashed walls, intricate woodwork, and a series of prayer flags. The dzong is an important cultural and religious site, attracting visitors for its historical significance and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Lhakhang Karpo:

Lhakhang Karpo, or the White Temple, is a historic Buddhist monastery in Haa Valley, Bhutan. According to legend, the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo released two birds-a white one and a black one—to find auspicious locations for building temples in the 7th century. The site where the white bird landed became the location of Lhakhang Karpo, symbolizing purity and auspiciousness.

The temple is renowned for its beautiful white facade and traditional Bhutanese architecture. It serves as a significant religious site for locals, hosting annual festivals and community gatherings. Recently, Lhakhang Karpo has undergone renovations and extensions, preserving its historical significance while enhancing its structure for future generations. The monastery, along with its sister temple Lhakhang Nagpo (the Black Temple), highlights the balance between spiritual and worldly realms.

Lhakhang Nagpo:

Lhakhang Nagpo, or the Black Temple, in Haa Valley, is one of the two temples built by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. According to legend, the Emperor released two doves, one white and one black, from his heart to find auspicious locations for the temples. The black dove landed at the site where Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple, was built, while the white dove landed where Lhakhang Karpo, the White Temple, now stands. The Black Temple is said to have been constructed atop a lake, and there is a doorway in the temple floor that is believed to be a passage to the underworld of the water spirit (tshomen/mermaid). The temple also houses a shrine dedicated to the local deity, Dado Chen. This mysterious place, steeped in myths and legends, is probably one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and is one of the best places to visit in Haa Valley.

Located close to the large Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) complex, the Black Temple is about a 15-minute walk along the footpath above the White Temple. You can also drive to the temple, but the walk is highly enjoyable. It is a highly recommended place to visit in Haa Valley.