Paro,
Bhutan’s very own valley town, is one of the widest valleys in Bhutan and is home to a large number of rice fields. It is also a very religious town, with as many as 155 temples and monasteries located here. Owing to its unique culture and variety in terrain, there are numerous things to do in Paro.
Also, Paro has the country’s only international airport, which is in close proximity to most of the top tourist attractions. That and the many luxury resorts in the area make Paro one of the best
travel destinations in Bhutan. The numerous things to do in Paro often attract travelers who like to experience the cultural side of their destination.
Tiger’s Nest
Few kilometers drive from Paro, it is a steep climb to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang), a monastery clinging the side of a rocky cliff at the elevation of 3120m above the sea level and 3000 feet above the Paro valley in Bhutan. Tiger’s nest is on the side of the mountain overlooking Paro Valley in Bhutan.
The trail to Taktshang is well constructed and maintained with fresh and cool mountain air. You will ascend a thousand of steps and it gives plenty of opportunities to admire the breathtaking views. The two and half hour stroll up the mountains to Tiger’s nest (Taktshang) is through forests of rhododendron and pines with many birds and smaller animals to be enjoyed.
National Museum of Bhutan
It is always a good thing to learn about the history and culture of any place you visit, and the same goes for this valley town, Bhutan’s National Museum, located in Paro, houses depictions of some of the greatest saints and leaders in Bhutan, as well some of the historically significant traditional masks and costumes. In addition to all this, you also get the VIP view to the best sunset watching spot in the whole of Paro. These interesting things are what makes visiting the museum one of the best things to do in your Paro vacation.
Kyichu Lhakhang Temple
 |
| Photo Apisak Kanjanapusit |
Kyichu Lhakhang (also called Lho Kyerchu and Kyerchu) is a majestic seventh-century temple revered as one of the most magnificent sites of worship in Bhutan. Located in the town of Paro, some sources reference the temple as one of the oldest in the nation; others name it the oldest.
The original temple is said to have been built overnight on the left foot of a colossal ogress, otherwise referred to as a demoness, who intercepted the spread of Buddhism as she lay across the land. It is thought to be one of over 100 temples established to overpower her so Buddhism could flourish far and wide.
Paro Craft Market
For all you shopaholics who want to do some shopping in
Paro, do not expect three-story malls or designer boutiques here. However, you can shop or some locally made handicrafts like handbags, lanterns, clothes, and wall decorations as well, either for your own home or as souvenirs. There are also a few cafes nearby where you can enjoy some sweet tea and pastries.
Drukgyel Dzong
For much of human history, the land that makes up modern
Bhutan was recognized as the territory of Tibet. It was not until the early-to-mid-17th century, when Bhutan and Tibet went to war and Drukgyel Dzong was built, that things began to change.
In 1634, a Tibetan refugee by the name of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal rose to power in Bhutan and led an army to victory over Tibet in the Battle of Five Lamas. Through this war the Bhutanese state was effectively born, and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal became its first ruler.
Local Food
One of the top things to do in Paro is relishing some delicious local cuisine. If you love street food, almost every street has some street vendors selling delicious piping hot momos, along with their special soup, a Bhutanese specialty.
If you are looking for a finer dining experience, you can check out some of the best restaurants in Paro, like the Bukhari Restaurant, which has a sophisticated menu that focuses on healthy eating, and Tou Zaiga Restaurant, which has some of the best local flavours of Bhutan, like Ema Datshi, as well as some western food.
Source Internet
