The Himalayan town of Paro, located in a valley surrounded by more than 4.000-meters high snow-capped mountains, is the main gateway to the last Kingdom of the Himalayas and – for most visitors – the first introduction into the incredible culture, history and nature of Bhutan.
Travellers often spend a day or two in Paro (see our short 7-day itinerary), but one could easily spend a week or more exploring the magnificent natural surroundings or simply recharging their batteries in one of the resorts and spas inspired by traditional architecture.
Tip: If you can afford it, indulge yourself and stay in Zhiwa Ling Hotel where you can enjoy unparalleled views of Tiger’s Nest.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
One of the most iconic sites in the country, the impressive temple complex that has become appears as if it was miraculously placed on an almost vertical cliff 900 meters above the valley of Paro. Getting to the monastery requires some effort but the 2-hour hike through old juniper and rhododendron forests filled with colourful prayer flags provides worthwhile views over the valley and hides numerous Buddhist mythical stories and legends. Hike at your own pace and stop at any of the various benches and cafeterias on the way up. Alternatively, you can also arrange a pony ride up to the monastery for a fee.
The monastery was built on top of the cave where Guru Rinpoche, a Tibetan monk who is credited with having introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated for 3 years, 3 months, 3 weeks, 3 days and 3 hours. To visit the four-temple complex, you must remove your shows and cover your shoulders and knees (as with any other Buddhist temple and monastery). The temples house ornate paintings depicting Buddhist mythology and ancient artifacts. One of the most important artifacts, the sacred ritual dagger used by Guru Rinpoche is stored behind an intricate gilded door in the inner cave of the complex.
Tip: For a spectacular view of the valley which few visitors enjoy, continue hiking up to Machig-phu Lhakhang, a small temple where pilgrims come to pray for their children.
Tip: For photography enthusiasts and those trying to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit the temple is in the early morning hours (usually before sunrise). However, the sun does not reach the temple till around noon, so you may want to stay longer to see it bathing in the sunlight.
Kyichu Lhakhang temple
The unusual circular temple of Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest in the country dating back to the 7th century. The temple is built on the site where King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet pinned down the legs of a demoness who was trying to prevent the spread of Buddhism. The interior is richly decorated with detailed paintings depicting the story of how King Sogtsen Gampo managed to subdue the demoness and helped spread Buddhism throughout Tibet and the Himalayas. The temple is dimly lit, adding to its mysterious charm.
Tip: Behind the temple you can find people throwing rocks, trying to reach the top of a small wall. If you manage to keep your rock on the top without it falling down, your wishes will come true.
Paro Dzong
This impressive fortress/monastery in Paro, also known as Rinpung Dzong, was like all dzongs in Bhutan, originally built to protect the valley from Tibetan invaders. Today it houses the city’s monastic body and government officials. While several of the smaller temples inside this dzong are closed to visitors, the impressive architecture and richly decorated carvings alone are worth a visit. Once inside it won’t take you long before you understand why this dzong was chosen to be featured in the Little Buddha movie.
Ta Dzong
Above Paro Dzong, its circular watchtower (Ta Dzong) houses a spectacular collection of the most elegant thangkas (hand paintings of Bhutanese religious and cultural motifs), colourful festival masks and more than 200 artefacts from throughout the country. This museum provides an excellent introduction into the Bhutanese history and culture.
Drukgyal Dzong
On the outskirts of Paro, sitting atop a hill overlooking beautiful paddy fields, lies the ruined fortress of Drukgyal Dzong. Like many temples and monasteries in Bhutan, this dzong succumbed to the fire of a butter lamp. The large inner courtyard provides a glimpse of how large this temple once was.
Note that efforts to reconstruct parts of the temple started in 2016 and will continue for some time, meaning that the interior is off-limits. A walk around the exterior is possible, though, and will take you past ruined walls and the watchtower which offers impressive views of the valley below.
Hot stone bath
After all the hiking and exploration, try to relax “Bhutan style”. Combining Ayurvedic science with traditional Tibetan medicine, hot stone baths are the perfect way to leave all your worries and sore feet behind. There are plenty of places in Paro to indulge in this special spa treatment, from traditional farmhouses to luxury hotels. However, the preparation of the bath can take a few hours, so make sure to reserve yours ahead of time.
Tip: Our favourite hot stone bath is in Naksel Boutique Hotel – a 5* boutique hotel in the middle of beautiful juniper forests with views over the valley.
Mingle with the locals
Despite being one of the busiest places in Bhutan, Paro has kept its small-town charm. Its main street, covered in cobble-stone, and the colourful stores found on either side have almost a medieval feel. The main road is also a perfect spot for people-watching. But, to experience one of the biggest passions of the Bhutanese people, head to one of the nearby archery grounds and marvel at the precision and skills of the local archers. Maybe you’ll even get a chance to try out your talent in this beloved national sport.
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