If you are going to visit Bhutan and want to stop in Paro and admire its natural beauty, then we tell you about 10 beautiful places for which Paro is famous.
1. Punakha Dzong
– Description: Built in 1637, Punakha Dzong is the largest and most majestic dzong in Bhutan. It serves as both an administrative center and a religious sanctuary, boasting intricate architecture and beautifully decorated prayer halls.
– Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM
– Entry Fee: No charges
2. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
– Description: This Buddhist temple, completed in 2004, was commissioned by the Queen Mother to promote peace and harmony. It features stunning architecture and houses an enormous statue of Vajrakilaya, a Buddhist deity.
– Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
3. Ritsha
– Description: Ritsha is a charming Bhutanese village known for its unique rice-growing techniques and beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the vineyard during harvest seasons and admire the village monastery’s magnificent architecture.
– Best Time to Visit: All year round
4. Mo Chhu
– Description: Mo Chhu, or the Mother River, is a significant river in Bhutan. It offers thrilling kayaking and river rafting experiences and provides breathtaking views as it winds through rice paddies and alongside Punakha Dzong.
5. Chimi Lhakhang
– Description: Built in the 14th century, Chimi Lhakhang is a revered Buddhist monastery associated with Drukpa Kunley, a legendary monk. The temple is adorned with phallus symbols and is believed to ward off evil spirits.
– Entry Fee: None
– Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
6. Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang
– Description: This temple and nunnery complex houses a 14-foot statue of Avalokiteshvara and offers panoramic views of Punakha valleys. It features black marble blocks depicting the 84 Mahasiddhis, enhancing its religious significance.
7. Jigme Dorji National Park
– Description: As Bhutan’s second-largest national park, Jigme Dorji National Park boasts diverse biodiversity and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. Visitors may spot red pandas, blue sheep, and even snow leopards and Bengal tigers.
8. Dochula Pass
– Description: Dochula Pass, located at 3100 meters, offers breathtaking views of valleys and is adorned with 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. It hosts the annual Dochula Druk Wangyel festival and provides a glimpse of Bhutan’s highest mountain peak, Gangkar Puensum.
9. Koma Tsachu
– Description: Koma Tsachu water springs, located inside Jigme Dorji National Park, offer therapeutic hot spring baths. Visitors can enjoy the natural pools and the surrounding scenic beauty after a short hike from Punakha.
10. Limbhukha Village
– Description: Limbhukha Village, known for its tradition of peace, is set amidst the serene Punakha valley. The village celebrates the Serda festival, symbolizing peace, and offers a tranquil escape from city life.
These ten places in Punakha showcase the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual significance of this ancient capital of Bhutan.
