Last Updated on March 1, 2024
Paro valley is well famous as the most picturesque and greenest valley of Bhutan. Filled with scenic beauty and boasting of several myths and legends, it is a must to explore the beautiful valley of Paro.
The most fertile valley of Bhutan is famous for its terraced fields that produce red rice. There are some excellent reasons to visit the valley with the quaint town and explore it on foot.
There is a lot to do and see here, the sacred sites of monasteries, historic fortresses and ruins and the orchards and the terraced fields. Look for the best Bhutan Tour Packages and plan a great trip to this amazing valley.
Here are some good reasons to explore the true Bhutanese gem with the serene Paro River.
1. Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang Temple
If you love Buddhist temples and folktales, then you must visit the Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang Temple in Paro. There are several local legends behind the famous temple.
Your trip to Paro would remain incomplete if you do not visit this stupa-temple. saint Thangtong Gyalpo built the temple in 1421 and what is unique about the temple is its chorten form which is rare in Bhutan. The Buddhist iconography depicted on the chorten will leave you mesmerized.
2. Rinpung Dzong Monastery
Rinpung Dzong Monastery is also known as Paro Dzong and is an excellent example of Bhutanese architecture. The structure that is made without the use of any nails and with fantastic precision stand seven today! It is truly amazing to see the interlocked structures stand firmly even without nails.
Rinpung Dzong means the ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’ and showcases beautiful paintings, rich wooden carvings and statues of that era. You can go just below the Dzong to click breathtaking pictures from Nyamai Zam wooden bridge.
3. Taktsang Lhakhan
Taktsang Lhakhang is one of the most iconic sights of Bhutan and famous as the Tiger’s Nest. As a major tourist attraction in Paro, what makes the monastery alluring is its remote location amidst the stunning green valley.
Trek to Taktsang Lhakhang for an unforgettable experience and as the trek is moderately difficult and going to take three to four hours, make sure that you are fit and used to trekking. This monastery was built in 1692 and is about ten km from the main town.
4. Druk Choeding Temple
Druk Choeding Temple was made in 1525 by an ancestor of the Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Ngawang Chhogyel. He was one of the prince-abbots of Ralung who built the town temple. This temple is also known as Tshongdoe temple and preserves the ancient war artifacts.
It houses Gyenyen, Jampa, the deity who is the future Buddha, and Gyenyen, the local protector. After visiting the temple, one can explore the local market, and watch Bhutanese local archery show.
5. Chele La pass
Chele La pass is about 2 hours’ drive from Paro and links Paro to other valleys of Bhutan. It is the highest motorable pass of the country, and from here you can enjoy picturesque views of steep mountains with snowcapped peaks and towns cushioned in its gorgeous green valleys.
The pass is located at the height of at 3810 m above sea level. One can hike or drive through the thick woods to reach the peak point of Chele La pass to enjoy the majestic views around. Feast your eyes on the complete panoramic view of Paro and the Haa valleys as well as the views of Mt. Jomolhari and Mount Jitchu Drake.
6. Airport View Point
Another tourists attraction is the Airport View Point and what makes it unique as not all planes or airlines are allowed to land here in Bhutan. There are very few certified pilots who enjoy the rich and land at the challenging airport of Paro. Thus, when you land, you have just made a thrilling journey.
From the Airport View Point of this tiny airport located on the Himalayan ranges. you can enjoy the stunning scenic sights and vistas.
7. Zuri Dzong Fort
Zuri Dzong happens to be the oldest dzong of Bhutan, and the ancient fortress was built in the mid-fourteenth century. It is indeed a fine example of architecture as the tall edifice of the fortress was built way back in ancient times and stands even today, protected by the double walls and a bridge.
It is must to visit the Zuri Dzong Fort and the chapels with murals that are dedicated to Zaa, the Buddhist protector. Enjoy gazing at the panoramic views of the Paro valley from the Dzong’s vantage point.
8. National Museum
If you want to comprehend the heritage of Bhutan truly, then pay a visit to the National Museum that showcases the well-preserved artifacts from across the country.
This is a great way to not only understand the tradition of Bhutan but also study the country’s evolution from as early as 4000 B.C. The museum lies very close to Paro Dzong and was made in a 17th-century watchtower.
Here you will come across vast collections of paintings, stamps, fine arts, and more. Other than that, you will get to see the traditional dresses, handicrafts, and jewelry of Bhutanese.
9. Paro’s microbrewery
When in Paro, do not miss the chance to visit the microbrewery here and try out the local flavors. Some of the popular crafts that are a hit among the locals and the tourists include Bhutan Red Rice Lager and Bhutan Dark Ale. Bhutan Red Rice Lager is made from the red rice while Dark Ale is brewed from the roasted, burnt grains.