NATIONAL MUSEUM PARO

If you want to learn about the Bhutanese culture, history and traditions, there is no other place better than the National Museum of Bhutan. The current national museum used to be a watchtower. For insights into Bhutanese culture, history, and traditions, the National Museum of Bhutan stands unparalleled. Housed in a former watchtower, it offers a captivating journey through the nation's heritage. A highlight of Bhutan tour packages, this museum showcases artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that illuminate Bhutan's rich cultural tapestry. Visitors delve into the country's past, gaining a deeper understanding of its traditions and values. A visit here is an essential part of any Bhutan tour, enriching travelers' experiences with invaluable knowledge.

Located in the town of Paro, the National Museum of Bhutan is one of the best places to witness the cultural history of Bhutan. The museum was built in the year 1968 and located in the city of Paro. The popular museum in Bhutan is a place where you can see all the memorable artefacts and historical objects of Bhutan. 

It is located above Paro Dzong and exhibits the country’s evolution from the Stone Age to becoming a modern Mahayanist Buddhist and multicultural kingdom. The cultural museum is a place which has in store a collection of artworks and some of the most fascinating specimens of Bhutanese bronze statues and paintings. 

The circular-shaped museum has six storeys which are divided into various art galleries. One of the star attractions of the National Museum of Bhutan is one of the fascinating events of nature when a mule laid down an egg which is kept here. The place is a must-visit for history lovers where you get to see the past of Bhutan in the most creative way of display.

For a perfect getaway, choose the ideal Family Trip To Bhutan.

How To Reach

1. By Bus: No information available  

2. By Rail: No information available as there is no train route. 

3. By Road: To reach the National Museum of Bhutan by road, one can take a cab from the airport and reach there by driving through Paro-Thimphu Highway.

Bhutan awaits! Book your unforgettable Bhutan Honeymoon Packages today.

Other Essential Information

1. Location: Paro, Bhutan. The museum is located above Paro dzong. 

2. Opening Hours: During the summer season (March To October) the visiting hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Ticket counter closes at 4.30 PM). During the winter season (November-February), the visiting hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Ticket counter closes at 3.30 PM)

3. Entry Fee: 

- Local: Nu. 10

- SAARC Country Citizens: Nu. 25

- Non-SAARC Country Citizens: Nu. 150

- Bhutanese Students: Nu. 5

- Monks, Nuns, Gomchens (Lay monks) and Children under 10 yrs: Free

4. Best Time: The best time to visit the National Museum of Bhutan is during the spring months of March to May. This is a good time for tourism and you can visit a number of tourist attractions in Bhutan along with the National Museum of Bhutan. 

5. Distance from Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Paro International Airport which is located 9.5 kilometres away from the National Museum of Bhutan. 

Visiting Bhutan in a group? Enjoy convenience and savings with Bhutan Group Packages.

History of National Museum of Bhutan

The construction of the National Museum of Bhutan started in the year 1968 with the reconstruction of Ta Dzong. The museum was originally built as a watchtower in 1649 for protection against Tibetan soldiers during times of war. The former Ta Dzong was also used as a shelter for soldiers and a reformatory for the rival army. Later, it was converted into a museum housing all the memorable artefacts and historical objects of Bhutan along scientific lines.The building for National Museum of Bhutan was built under the patronage of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king of Bhutan 1968. It was in ruins until the 1950s due to lack of maintenance.

During the year 2011, the National Museum of Bhutan was ruined due to an earthquake. It was only in 2016 that it was reopened for visitors after its reconstruction process was over. The National Museum of Bhutan has a display of over 3000 works of Bhutanese art. These works of art represent the cultural vibrancy of Bhutan for a period of more than 1500 years. Some of the popular objects related to the history of Bhutan which you can see here include daggers, headdresses, thunderbolts, robes, cymbals and musical instruments. 

Traveling to Bhutan? Treat yourself to unparalleled luxury with Luxury Bhutan Holidays.

Architecture of National Museum of Bhutan

The architecture of National Museum of Bhutan boasts of a six-storey building which is designed in a circular shape. With white painted walls which are 2.5 metres thick in its interior, the National Museum of Bhutan has safely preserved some of the most fascinating objects related to the history of Bhutan. When Ta Dzong was renovated to make way for the construction of the National Museum of Bhutan, it was designed with art galleries and storage spaces where the ancient artefacts can be kept safely in order to conserve their value.

Places to Stay near National Museum of Bhutan

1. Gangtey Palace Hotel: With the views of Paro Valley, Gangtey Palace Hotel is a beautiful resort to enjoy the natural beauty of Bhutan. It offers elegant private rooms for the guests along with a lavish garden and multiple other amenities. 

2. Kichu Resorts: Kichu Resorts in Paro is known for its quaint ambience where you can enjoy a serene and private getaway. Some of the reasons to choose Kichu resorts for staying in Paro include its facilities like spa, lounge, restaurant, outdoor sports, entertainment activities etc. 

3. Golden Roots Resort and Spa: Sprawling amidst a backdrop of lush green landscape, Golden Roots Resort and Spa is a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It has 33 rooms and offers multiple amenities to offer a comfortable stay to all the guests.

Southeast Asia on your travel list? Browse Southeast Asia Tours Packages for a truly memorable visit.

Places to Eat near National Museum of Bhutan

1. Brioche Cafe: This is a sweet little cafe in Paro which is known for serving delectable pastries and espresso. The pastry shop is one of the favourite places among the locals and also equipped with WiFi. Some of the must-try dishes at Brioche Cafe are apple pie, blueberry cakes and fruit tarts. The shop is managed and owned by Rupa who has worked with a five-star hotel. 

2. Paro Pizza: A must-visit for pizza lovers, Paro Pizza is located near the National Museum of Bhutan where you can go for a quick bite. Some of the famous dishes here are exotic veggie pizza and seafood pizza.

3. Bhukari at Uma by COMO: This is an award-winning restaurant near the National Museum of Bhutan which serves a wonderful fine-dining experience. You get to try Bhutanese and international delicacies that are made from seasonal and local products of Bhutan. 

Ready to explore Asia? Asia Trip Package​ offer an easy way to see the region’s top highlights.