9 km
from city center 1 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Tiger's Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, is one of the most prominent Buddhist sites in Bhutan. Located 900 metres above the upper cliff in the Paro Valley, this monastery is undoubtedly an architectural marvel. While Bhutan is loaded with monasteries, what makes Paro Taktsang stand apart is its religious and historical significance.

1 km
from city center 2 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

One of the finest examples of architecture, the Rinpung Dzong, also known as the Paro Dzong, has a very spiritual environment. Beautifully lit-up at night, the dzong has many illustrations portraying the life of Buddha. A hike to the top of the fortress welcomes you with the spectacular view of nearby valleys. The dzong also holds the colourful annual festival Paro Tshechu which makes it even more impressive than it already is.

10 km
from city center 3 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Located at approximately 13,000 feet between the valley of Paro and Haa, Chele La Pass is the highest motorable road pass in Bhutan. The pass is famous for the stunning Himalayan views it offers, especially Mt. Jhomolari which is Bhutan’s most sacred peak at 22,000 feet, Tsherimgang mountains, Jichu Drake as well as views of both the valleys, Paro and Haa.

1 km
from city center 4 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

The National Museum of Bhutan is the pride of the country. Flaunting art and traditions, it has six floors, each of them narrating a unique tale from the past. You can see paintings, art pieces, animal masks and many more facets of the rich culture. Constructed in 1649 as a watchtower against Tibetan soldiers, it was converted to the National Museum in 1968, preserving the rich history of Bhutan within its walls ever since.

0 km
from city center 5 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Popularly known as the Iron Chain Bridge, the Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge crosses the Paro Chhu to the Dzong. This 600-year-old bridge was built by Thangtong Gyalpo in the late 1300s, who is said to have built 108 bridges all over Tibet and Bhutan. Made of wood and Iron, this is the first bridge to have ever been built in Bhutan. Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge greets its guests with a fantastic view of the surroundings.

0 km
from city center 6 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Built-in the 15th century by Ngawang Chogyel, Druk Choeding is one of the many magnificent monasteries in Paro. It is also known by the name Tshongdoe temple or Tshongdoe Naktsang. The main attraction of this temple is the presence of a seated statue of Future Buddha called Jampa. It also houses ancient war artefacts. The 16th-century old shrine has a pleasant vibe around which also provides a picturesque panoramic view of the valley. One can also take a walk to the local market nearby.

0 km
from city center 7 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

From fruits and vegetables to organic products, Paro Weekend Market provides the visitors with everything under one roof. Bustling with vendors and buyers, the vibrant market has Bhutanese stamps, antiques, prayer wheels and whatnot, sold away at throwaway prices. It is worth making a visit to this area before leaving the city, watching the dynamics of this beautiful city.

12 km
from city center 8 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Now in ruins, Drukgyel Dzong is a fortress which was built in 1649 to mark the victory of Bhutan over Tibet. If you want to see the fascinating stone work of the Dzongs of the past, then this is the place to go to. On climbing to the top of the ruins, an amazing view of the valley greets you, making it worth the effort.

0 km
from city center 9 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

The lifeline of Paro, the Paro Chhu is a picturesque river worth spending some time at. A tributary of Wong Chhu, the Paro River passes through Paro Taktsang and Paro Dzong, and give both the grand monasteries a glorious look. The step bridge which is built over the Paro River is Nyamai Zam, leading to the Paro Dzong. From this bridge, the view of the river is picturesque and charming. Read more about about the Rivers of Bhutan

10 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Paro Chhu's clean and clear waters are an ideal choice for adventure sports like kayaking and rafting. There are travel companies which organise these activities in the river. Proper security equipment such as lifeboat, belt etc, are provided to you for your safety.

1 km
from city center 11 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Built in the early 15th century, Dumtse Lhakhang provides with an in-depth knowledge of Buddhism to its visitors. It is located between the valleys of Dopshari and Paro and is in the form of a Chorten which is quite rare and exceptional in Bhutan. The monastery contains a few beautiful Buddhist iconographies and paintings. Fascinating travellers with its rich history and intriguing architecture, Dumtse Lhakhang is a must-visit site in Paro.

4 km
from city center 12 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Built-in 7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang is a beautiful monastery of great significance. Also known as Lho Kyerchu or Kyerchu Temple, this monastery is situated in Lango Gewog of Paro in Bhutan. The Jowo temple dates back to the 7th century, gaining the title of one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Legends believe that it was built in one night by the king, which is a miracle in itself. It was among the network of 12 temples out of the 108 temples that were constructed on definite plans.

0 km
from city center 13 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

The white tower of Chhoeten Lhakhang, situated southeast of Paro's town square, tells a story. A perfect example of beautiful Buddhist artwork, Chhoeten Lhakhang displays a statue of Jowo Sakyamuni in the middle of the chapel. The sculptures of Guru Rinpoche and Chenrezig in the chapel add glory to the Lhakhang.

3 km
from city center 14 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Paro Airport Bird's Eye View Point offers an exquisite view of the entire city. With the Paro International airport being in the top ten stunning airports in the world, you can imagine what's in store for you. Amidst the mountains, the sight is so colourful and vivid that one remains awe-struck by the grandeur of the city.

0 km
from city center 15 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Dzongdrakha Goemba also known as Mini Taktsang, is a serene site located above the Bondey village on the western side of the Paro Valley. Often overlooked by tourists because of its rather old facade, this divine place comprises of four shrines - Drolma (Tara), Guru Rinpoche, Maitreya (the Buddha of the Future) and Tsheringma (Goddess of Longevity). Believed to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche himself, stories related to spirits, saints and magic are narrated here. It is a 20 min drive away from Paro.

16 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Striving to create a contemporary and robust beer culture in the country, the Namgay Artisanal Brewery at an altitude of 2195m in Dumsibu of Paro is the project of the local entrepreneur Dorji Gyeltshen. Realizing his dream of creating 100% locally sourced beer, the brewery offers Apple Cider and six variants of beer namely red rice lagers, craft beers, pilsners, pale and dark ales, milk stout and wheat beer to suit the different palates. The Bhutanese Beer Festival is one of the special occasions in Namgay Artisanal Brewery.

0 km
from city center 17 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Zuri Dzong is one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan dating back to 12th century. Rich in history and royal in values, the cave in the area is believed to be the site where Buddha meditated in the 8th century. Protected by double walls and a bridge, this five-storey building is also an ideal place to hike. Apart from its historical significance, the Zuri Dzong is one of those places where you can enjoy the mesmerising view of Paro Valley.

6 km
from city center 18 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Ugyen Pema Woedling Zangthopelri is unquestionably one of the most spectacular monasteries in Paro. Often left unnoticed by tourists, this sacred site watches the daily hustle-bustle silently from a small corner of the town. The marvellous structures of Buddha and the huge statue of Guru Tshen Geyed inside the monastery is one of its highlights. It's often called the hidden gem of Paro, as it cannot be easily found on maps nor is it open always.

4 km
from city center 19 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

One of the oldest building in Kyichu, the Memorial House is Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche's residence in Bhutan. It leaves every tourist in awe because of its impeccable architecture. It was inaugurated as a museum in 2010 and has been open to tourists since then. There are many intricate statues of Buddha and a lot of paintings portraying the life of Guru Rinpoche.

5 km
from city center 20 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

A marvel to behold, Dasho Nishioka Chorten was built to honour Dasho Nishioka, a Japanese man who introduced modern agricultural techniques and tools in Bhutan. His selfless act brought prosperity to the lives of many people and made the country agriculturally rich. This stupa should not be missed if you want to witness the Bhutanese gratitude for goodness.

0 km
from city center 21 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

One of the most natural sites of Paro Valley, Kila Goemba is a cliffside nunnery in Bhutan. It is the oldest nunnery in the country and a home for Buddhist nun - Anim. Kila Goempa houses around 60 nuns who live in seclusion by choice. The Government officially established it as Anim Dratshang in 1986. Not the best of Architecture but it's sure to offer you a great view of Paro valley from atop. Known for its modesty and simplicity, a half an hour walk here is an enriching experience.

2 km
from city center 22 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Built in the early 1900s, the Ugyen Pelri Palace is an excellent display of Bhutanese architecture at its finest. It was modelled after the Zangto Pelri which was known as Guru Rinpoche's paradise. It currently serves as the residence of the queen mother of Bhutan. The palace is closed to the public. It is situated next to the iconic Five Chortens of Paro, may be viewed in its entirety from the Paro Dzong.

0 km
from city center 23 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Home to Sakyamuni Buddha, a statue that was carried from Lhasa Tibet, Jangsarbu Lhakhang is one among the smallest monasteries in Bhutan. It is located right behind Paro Dzong, which was initially supposed to safe keep the Buddha's statue. As the legend goes, the statue was only kept overnight at Jangsarbu Lhakhang. However, while they tried to move it to its original Lhakhang, it didn't budge. It proved impossible to lift the statue; hence, it became a permanent attraction of the temple.

9 km
from city center 24 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

One of the many sacred monasteries in Paro is Dra Karpo which means splitting of rock. Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated at this temple, where you'd find a huge stone which had been shifted from the mountainside to the altar room. One of the highlights of the place are the footprints imprinted on the rocks. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche split a rock into pieces, revealing an evil spirit hiding in it.

0 km
from city center 25 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

The Archery Grounds in Paro hold traditional archery games occasionally. As archery is the national sport of Bhutan, the archers take great pride in the sport. It is quite captivating to see these skilled sportsmen on the archery ground stand at a distance of more than 100 metres and shoot the bird's eye flawlessly.

0 km
from city center 26 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

The festival ground outside Paro Dzong is the site of the Paro Tshechu, the most colourful festival of Paro. Held here every year, it is on this sacred ground that the monks perform different kinds of masked dances and re-enact scenes from the past.

4 km
from city center 27 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Located on the hillside above Paro, Gonsaka Lhakhang is a beautiful monastery you must visit. From here you can see the meditation cave of Pha Drun Drung who was the founder of the Dzong. The picturesque scenery down the valley is an unmatched view. It is situated at a walkable distance from Zuri Dzong. 

4 km
from city center 28 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Often overlooked by tourists due to its rather simple appearance, Pena Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Built-in the 7th century, the statue of Jowo Nampar Namse, a saint believed to have magical powers to fulfil people's wishes, is the main highlight of this blessed monument. It is closely located past Dumtse Lhakhang on the east side and can be visited on your way there.

1 km
from city center 29 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

A replica of an old bridge which was washed away in 1969 by a flood, Nyamai Zam is a wooden bridge situated just below Paro Dzong. An epitome of perfection, this 20-metres long bridge flaunts Bhutanese wooden craftsmanship. Providing a great view of Paro Chhu, Nyamai Zam is a great site to click a perfect selfie.

1 km
from city center 30 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

A Buddhist monastery in Paro, Pelri Goemba is located above Tago village, in the south-eastern region of Paro. This Nyingmapa-school chapel once got in a feud with Kagyu school, the dominant school at the time. Due to this dispute, the monastery had to be reduced in size. But even after going through these issues, the place has not lost its charm and serenity.

0 km
from city center 31 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Built in the memory of Ugyen Wangchuck, the first king of Bhutan, Five Chortens are truly a spectacular sight in Paro. Located beside the Ugyen Pelri Palace, Five Chortens add glory to the Paro Dzong and make for a picturesque view. A marvel not to be missed, they are situated amidst peaceful environment and should be visited once if you are in the area.

0 km
from city center 32 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

An example of architectural perfection, Paro welcomes its visitors with the glorious six chortens at the town's border. A Chorten of a stupa is an important religious Buddhist monument. It holds relics or even preserved bodies of lamas. Spending some time here and clicking pictures of the beautiful chortens would add splendour to your photo album.

2 km
from city center 33 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

One of the most modest temples in Paro, Khangkhu Lhakhang is a religious shrine overflowing with faith and peace. Located on the west bank of Paro Chhu, the place is so pure and pious that a few minutes spent here recharge one's energy for the rest of the day.

5 km
from city center 34 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

A 400-year-old quaint temple located on the west side of the river in Bondey Village, Bondey Lhakhang is left unnoticed by tourists on many occasions due to its simple and sober looking structure. Along with its architectural marvel, this monastery just past the Cheli La is known for its serene and calm atmosphere.

0 km
from city center 35 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Founded by Thangtong Gyalpo, the Tago Lhakhang stands out in the tiny village of Bondey, 6kms from Paro. It is beside the main road near the Bondey bridge and can be easily spotted because of its unusual structure. Situated on the eastern side of the Paro Chhu, the most striking feature of this shrine is the circular chapel on its upper floor.

1 km
from city center 36 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

At an altitude of 2285 meters, the Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang with its rare golden chorten peak in the shape of an umbrella is quite a rare architectural digest in Bhutan. Chorten is a Tibetan term meaning ‘Stupa’ and is a significant religious monument built to represent the physical presence of Lord Buddha.

37 out of 37
Places To Visit in Paro

Popularly known as Tachog Lhakhang or ‘temple of the hill of the excellent horse’, the Tamchoe Monastery stands on a mountain base at an altitude of 2156m along the highway connecting Paro and Thimphu. Overlooking the Paro Chhu, this Dzong is located between Chhuzom and Isuna village and dates back to 1420 when architect saint Thangtong Gyalpo built it after having a vision of Avalokiteshvara in the guise of Balaha-an (spiritual horse) during meditating.