Paro

Paro is one of Bhutan’s most stunning valleys and the only place to access the country by air. The valley’s administrative hub, Rinpung Dzong, is among the country’s holiest Dzongs. In this picturesque area, you’ll also find some of Bhutan’s earliest temples, including the Kyichu Lhakhang, built in the 7th century, and Taktshang, also known as Tiger’s Nest, which was constructed in the 17th century. Below are some of our favorite activities to enjoy in Paro.

The National Museum features a diverse collection of artifacts from across the country, spanning different periods, some as far back as 2000 B.C. A tour through the galleries takes visitors through Bhutan’s evolution, from the later Stone Age to a modern Mahayana Buddhist kingdom.

Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, was constructed to protect Paro from Tibetan invasions. The name “Rinpung” means “fortress of a heap of jewels.” This stunning example of Bhutanese architecture now serves as the administrative and monastic center of the Paro district.

Dungtse Lhakhang, built in 1421 by the Tibetan saint Thangthong Gyelpo, is the only temple in Bhutan shaped like a chorten. Its chorten design symbolizes the subduing of demons and the triumph of Buddhism. The temple’s paintings depict the stages of Tantric Buddhist philosophy and feature important deities from the Drukpa Kagyupa School.

Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, dates back to the 7th century when Buddhism began to take root in Bhutan. Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo ordered the construction of monasteries across the Himalayan region to overcome evil spirits and spread Buddhism. Two of these monasteries were built in Bhutan: Kyichu Lhakhang and Jampa Lhakhang in Bumthang.

Sangchokhor Buddhist College, located on a hill northwest of Paro, is a beautiful temple that serves as a teaching center for around 100 monks aged 15 to 30. It is also home to the 14-year-old reincarnation of Terton Drugda Dorji. The temple offers spectacular views of the Paro valley and two impressive altar rooms. Originally built in the 18th century, the temple was rebuilt 30 years ago after a devastating fire. It is fully supported by the government and the four Queens of Bhutan. The lower altar room features a striking statue of Guru Rinpoche, while the upper room is dedicated to the Zhabdrung lineage.

Time: It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Paro town to Sangchokhor, or you can walk downhill from the temple to town, which takes around two hours.

Drukgyel Dzong, known as “The Victorious Fortress,” is an ideal spot to visit late in the afternoon or early evening. Just a 20-minute drive from Paro town, the dzong offers a chance to explore its history. Built in 1649, Drukgyel Dzong commemorates a significant victory over Tibetan forces and aims to prevent further invasions. It also served as an administrative center until it was destroyed by fire in 1951.

A trip to Haa Valley, which was opened to tourists in 2004, offers a more remote experience. The drive takes you through the Chele La Pass, the highest road pass in Bhutan at 3988 meters (13,100 feet) above sea level. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas, and walk among fields of wildflowers like edelweiss. Haa Valley is also home to the blue poppy, Bhutan’s national flower. The valley is covered in fields of millet, barley, potatoes, and wheat, with stunning farmhouses featuring intricate paintings on their cornices.

Notable places in Haa include Chhundu Lhakhang, a shrine dedicated to the valley’s protective deity, Ap Chundu. The temple is home to statues of Chundu and his red-faced counterpart, Jowya. Lhakhang Karpo, which houses the Haa monk body, is also where the annual Haa Tshechu Festival takes place.

Time: The round trip to Haa from Paro takes about five hours.