Visit Paro, Gateway to Bhutan Himalayan Kingdom
Bhutanese Culture & History, Buddhist Monasteries, National Museum
Sep 14, 2009
Paro claims Bhutan’s only airport and for many visitors, it offers the first glimpse of this tiny Himalayan kingdom, ready to move with the times but keen to preserve its ancient culture.
It’s just over an hour’s drive to Thimphu, the capital, but it would be wise to schedule at least a couple of days to explore the Paro valley. It’s one of the prettiest around with plenty of accommodation and historical sights, from Buddhist temples and monasteries to Bhutan’s National Museum. The ancient Buddhist culture which shaped the kingdom first emerged in the Paro valley.
Taktsang Monastery in the Paro Valley, Bhutan
It’s a fair but rewarding trek up to Taktsang, the most holy site in the kingdom, clinging to the cliff face a sheer 900 metres above the valley floor. Here according to legend, a holy man named Guru Rinpoche meditated in a cave before spreading Buddhism across the Paro valley.
The trail climbs through forests of blue pines and rhododendrons, past waterfalls, shrines and spectacular view points. Prayer flags rustle in the breeze and there’s a log cabin where trekkers can rest. At over 3000 metres, monks shuffle in clouds of incense, lighting oil lamps and chanting mantras. It’s the perfect introduction to the deeply traditional Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan.
Bhutanese Culture, Paro Buddhist Monasteries and Temples
There are several temples in the valley where traditions linger in the semi-darkness, unchanged for centuries. Guides prostrate in front of images of gurus and gods, monks offer blessings with holy water and a peacock feather. Walls are covered in religious paintings and there are horoscopes and giant prayer wheels to spin for luck. Most atmospheric is Kyichu Lakhang built long ago among the paddies to subdue a demon.
Across the covered bridge on the river bank is Rinpung dzong, one of many fortified monasteries traditionally used for religious and administrative purposes. All are stunning with glistening roofs and white sloping walls, temples and courtyards and carved galleries. Paro dzong comes into its own at festival time when masked dancers pounce and twirl on the flagstones and drums and cymbals echo across the hills.
Bhutan Himalayan Kingdom, Culture and History in Paro National Museum
Paro National Museum is housed in the old watch tower above the dzong. Ta Dzong is a circular building, first built in the 17th century. It attracts tourists and locals alike. Photography is not allowed but it’s a must see for anyone interested in Bhutan’s Himalayan culture and history.
Every gallery has a theme, ranging from ancient and modern religious images to weaponry, bronze statues, household items and a unique collection of highly prized Bhutanese stamps. The history of Buddhism is depicted in the temple where visitors should walk barefoot and clockwise.
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