Paro at 7,000 feet is beautiful valley which encapsulates within itself rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, country's only airport and the National Museum. Mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges to form the Pa Chu (Paro river). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom, producing a bulk of the famous red rice from its terraced fields
Drugyal 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
led by Mongolian Warlord, Gushri Khan. Historically and strategically this
Dzong withstood all its glory and had captured western eyes in 1914 vide National
Geographic magazine. The glory of Drugyal Dzong remained even when it was
destroyed by fire in 1951. On a clear day, one can see the commanding view
of Mount Chomolhari from the village, below the Dzong.
Paro Rinpung Dzong
Also known as "fortress of the heap of jewels", it was built during
the time of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646. The approach to the Dzong is
through a traditional covered bridge called the Nemi Zam. A walk through the
bridge to the Dzong, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view of the architectural
wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. It is also venue of the Paro
Tshechu, held once a year in spring.
Ta Dzong
On a ridge immediately above the Rinpung Dzong is the Ta Dzong, built in 1951
as a watchtower. Unlike the rectangular shape of the Dzongs, Ta Dzong is round,
more like parts of a European castle. Since 1967 the Dzong was re-established
as the National Museum and holds a fascinating collection of art, relics,
religious thangka paintings and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps.
Kyichu Lhakhang
The origin of Kyichu Lhakhang dates back to the seventh century, it is one
of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Bhutan (the other is Jambay Lhakhang
in Bumthang). Kyichu Lhakhang is composed of twin temples, the first temple
was built by Buddhist Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and
in 1968, H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, arranged for a second
temple to be built alongside the first one, in same style.
Paro Airport
