National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong)
Ta Dzong
A circular watchtower from ancient times, above Paro Dzong, now converted into the National Museum. It displays masks, thangkas, weapons and Bhutan's natural and cultural heritage.
The Bhutan National Museum sits on the hillside above Paro Dzong. Its main building is Ta Dzong, a watchtower built in the 17th century to guard Paro Dzong, and it was converted into a museum in 1968. After the 2011 earthquake damaged it, the building was restored and reopened. Exhibits include masks used in mask dances, thangkas, Buddha statues, ancient weapons and armour, stamps and traditional dress, along with displays on Bhutan's natural ecology and folk customs. From the museum you can walk downhill along an old trail, cross a traditional wooden bridge and reach Paro Dzong, with views over the Paro Valley and the airport. Admission costs a few hundred ngultrum (check on site for current prices). Getting there: about 5 minutes by car from Paro town. Note: photography is not allowed inside the museum. It is usually closed on Mondays and public holidays, so check on site.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–16:30 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest)
- Chele La Pass
- Tachog Lhakhang & Iron Bridge
- Drukgyel Dzong
- Haa Valley (Lhakhang Karpo & Nagpo)
- Motithang Takin Preserve