Journal · Haa
The White and Black Temples of Haa
Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, two temples of the Haa valley that tradition dates to the 7th century.
The story
Tradition says the Tibetan emperor Songtsen Gampo released two pigeons, one white and one black, to choose where to build. The white pigeon landed at the foot of three hills, the Meri Puensum, and Lhakhang Karpo, the White Temple, was built there. The black one landed a little way off, where Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple, stands.
Today
Lhakhang Karpo was rebuilt from 2010 to 2017 on the King's command. Lhakhang Nagpo is smaller and darker, and is said to stand over a lake.
Before you go
The two are a few hundred metres apart, so you can see both in an hour.
Sources
Checked October 2026. Where sources disagree, we say so or leave the detail out. Opening times and rules change, so your guide confirms on the day.