Paro

PARO

Set in vast open valley at the base of magnificent mount Jomolhari, Paro is home to the only international airport in the country. The picturesque valley is adorned with two storied traditional Bhutanese houses in the middle perfectly manicured rice fields. The valley is famous for its beauty and its significant monasteries. One such monastery is the astounding Tiger’s nest.

Find on map

Tiger’s nest

Suspended precariously at 900 meters above Paro valley, Taktshang monastery or tiger’s nest is one of the most visited attractions in Bhutan. The founding of the monastery is credited to one of the most revered Buddhist masters, Guru Padmasambhava. Legend has it that Guru rode a flying tigress to the site and meditated for three years, three months and three days inside a cave on the site. The monastery has never failed to awe the visitors. Visitors from foreign lands even on the shortest of the duration do not leave the country without hiking to the monastery. The arduous but rewarding hike of 3 hours takes the hikers through lush pine forest and arrays of colorful fluttering prayer flag. Once at the top hikers can enjoy a panoramic view of the whole valley below which is an out of this world experience.

Paro Dzong

Paro Dzong or Rinpung Dzong is located on a small ridge resembling a pile of jewel, just before entering the town. A traditional cantilever bridge leads to the Dzong over the Pa Chu (Paro River) flowing under it with a zeal to meet with the Thimphu Chu at Chuzom (river confluence). Initially Dzongs were built as defense forts to safeguard the valley and very usually constructed very strategically. Today the Dzongs hold annual masked dance festivals and are used as the residence for the central monk body and offices of the district administration. The famous Paro Tshechu or the masked dance festival is also held at the courtyard of the Dzong annually.

Paro national Museum

Originally built as a watch tower in 1649, the Paro Ta Dzong is situated on a ridge just above the Paro Dzong. Watch towers were built to safeguard the fortress and to look for enemies invading so are usually circular in shape with irregularly small windows. Some accounts state that the fourth floor of the tower was used as a prison cell for prisoners. The tower is said to have a secret passageway that leads directly to the Paro River and were mainly used to bring water during times of war.

The Tower is now one of the most significant museums in the country and also a must visit attraction for travelers. Tools from 17^th century, antique arms, ancient Thangka scrolls, an egg laid by a mule, stone axe are some of the rare artifacts on display at the national museum.

Geography

Paro Dzongkhag is situated in the Paro Valley, surrounded by high mountains and deep valleys. The district is located at an average altitude of around 2,200 meters (7,200 feet). Paro River flows through the valley, adding to its natural beauty. The district shares borders with Haa Dzongkhag to the west, Chukha Dzongkhag to the south, and Thimphu Dzongkhag to the east.

Culture

Paro Dzongkhag is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. The iconic Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest, is one of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan, perched precariously on a cliffside. Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), a fortress-monastery, is another significant landmark in the district. Paro Tshechu, an annual religious festival, attracts locals and tourists alike and showcases vibrant masked dances.

Activities

Agriculture is the primary economic activity in Paro Dzongkhag. The fertile Paro Valley supports the cultivation of crops like rice, wheat, barley, and potatoes. The region is also known for its production of apples, which are exported to other parts of Bhutan. Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, providing employment and income-generating opportunities.

Tourism

Paro Dzongkhag is a popular tourist destination in Bhutan due to its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Besides Paro Taktsang and Paro Dzong, visitors can explore other historical sites such as Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. The district offers opportunities for hiking, trekking, and exploring the surrounding mountains and valleys. Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s sole international airport, is also located in the district.