Paro

Paro (2,200m / 7217ft.)

The beautiful valley of Paro, located at an altitude of 2,200 meter is one of the most important cultural regions of Bhutan. From various old monasteries, national museum to the breathtaking view of Chomolhari Mountain and Pa Chhu (Wikipedia Article) River, Paro has always remained a traveler’s delight.

Rinpung Dzong
Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district.

Ta Dzong (National Muesum)
One time watch tower built to defend Rinpung Dzong is serving as the National Museum of the country. It holds fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps.

Drukgyel Dzong
This Dzong, with a delightful village nestling at its foot, was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan invaders. The glory of Drukgyel Dzong remained even when its was destroyed by fire in 1951. On a clear day, one can see the commanding view of Mount. Jhomolhari from the village, below the Dzong.

Kyichu Lhakhang
It is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to 7th century (the other is Jambey Lhakahng in Bumthang)

Druk Choeding
Constructed in 1525, this beautiful temple located in the valley of Paro is the house of Jampa, who is considered as the future Buddha. Also inside the temple, you will get to see some of the classic collections of Bhutanese traditional weapons.

Dumtseg Lhakhang
It is the only Buddhist monastery in Bhutan built as a Chorten. Constructed in 1421, this temple is symbolized to ward off evil spirits and gain the essence of Buddhism for well-being of the people in this country.

Taktshang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest)
It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’..The site has been recognized as a most sacred place and visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutaness at least once in their lifetime.