Paro’s Cultural Bonanza Tour

Rinpung Dzong:

Explore the Rinpung Dzong which the locals call the ‘fortress of a heap of jewels. Built-in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong stands on a hill above Paro Township. It is linked by the traditional cantilever bridge (called the Nemi Zam) over the Pa chu where one may pose for a photograph. Experience a walk up a paved stone path running alongside the imposing outer walls. Once inside the Dzong, you will be welcomed by the monks, architecture, and ancient frescoes.

Ta Dzong:

On a ridge immediately above Rinpung Dzong is the Ta Dzong, built as a watchtower to protect the Dzong from intruders and warring factions. In 1968 Paro’s Ta Dzong was inaugurated as the National Museum, and now holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings, Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps, coins, and handicrafts, together with a small natural history collection.

Kyichu Lhakhang:

Go back in time and history and visit the 7th-century Kyichhu temple. As the name suggests, the temple is a reservoir of peace, where you will feel at peace here. Next to the temple is the house that is now turned into a museum dedicated to the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. One can come across photographs and other artifacts belonging to Rinpoche.

Dzongdrakha Temple:

Often called the mini-Taktsang, Dzongdrakha temples are built on the cliffs above Bondey village. The walk there is not as strenuous as to Taktsang. Legend says one of the temples is built around a levitating monument. Folks built a stronger temple around this monument with the hope that the levitating monument would not fly away into the sky.

Kila Gompa:

If you are as fit as the mountain goat, Kila Gompa awaits you. These magnificent clusters of temples built on the cliffs have been home to nuns for a long time. Kila in Sanskrit means a subjugating spiritual dagger that destroys the negativities. Hike up this temple and subjugate all the negative energies within you. If it does not give you spiritual satisfaction do not worry because you will feel physically rejuvenated after the hike.

Taktsang Monastery:

Often called the Tiger’s Nest, perched on the cliffs, has awestruck many a visitor. “A trip to Bhutan is never complete without climbing to Taktsang”, says one tourist. Indeed it’s true as the journey there fills you with spiritual bliss. For those not choosing the spiritual side, it is the dramatic, artistically built monument that becomes a hiker’s delight. Take a trip to this dramatically set Buddhist relic hanging from a cliff. Experience the uphill climb as you ascend more than two thousand feet from the valley floor.

Dungtse Lhakhang:

The unusual and circular Lhakhang, reminiscent of the Shanag, or the black hat worn by the Bhutanese Black Hat dancers was, built by the great “Builder of iron chain bridges,” Drupthob Thangtong Gyalpo. Experience a visit to this unique temple whose founder was extended an invitation by the two guardian deities of Ap Chundu and Jowo Drakey.

Tachog Lhakhang:

This 14th-century temple located on the base of a mountain across the Pa chu on the Paro-Thimphu highway is a must-visit temple in the Paro valley. Built by the great master architect Thangtong Gyalpo, the temple houses some unique statues. To get to the temple one may walk over the iron chains that span over the Pa chu.

Farm Houses:

Picturesque farmhouses dot the valley amongst fields and hillsides. We welcome you to enjoy the hospitality of the Paro farmers. Thrill yourself as the farmers welcome you to their homes with genuine smiles. The two to three-storied Bhutanese farmhouses are handsome, with colorfully decorated outer walls and lintels, and are traditionally built. A visit to a farmhouse gives an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of a farming family