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DRIVE TO PARO
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey – 4 hours’ drive approx
After enjoying breakfast, embark on a scenic drive along the picturesque highway to Paro.
Paro is a stunning valley steeped in rich culture and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. It hosts some of Bhutan's oldest temples, monasteries, the National Museum, and the country's sole international airport. To the north, Mount Chomolhari (7,314 meters) stands majestically in pristine white, while its glacial waters cascade through deep gorges to form the Paro River, known locally for its fertile terraced fields that yield the famous red rice.
Following a delightful lunch, visit Ta Dzong, initially constructed as a watchtower and now housing the National Museum. The museum boasts an extensive collection that includes antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weaponry and armor, household artifacts, and a diverse assortment of natural and historical treasures.
The Ta Dzong visit is followed by a short walk along the trail leading to Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, which translates to the "fortress of the heap of jewels." This dzong boasts a long and captivating history. Along the wooden galleries that line the inner courtyard, you'll find exquisite wall paintings depicting Buddhist tales, such as the four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount Sumeru, and cosmic mandalas.
Later a stroll through the city centre, you’ll find traditional Bhutanese architecture lining the streets, with quaint shops selling handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Cozy cafés and local eateries invite you to pause and sample Bhutanese flavors, while the gentle pace of life makes it easy to soak in the surroundings. With views of the Paro Dzong and the river flowing nearby, this exploration adds a delightful, unhurried touch to your journey.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m/7480 feet)
Start Time
Oct 17