Ta Dzong
Ta Dzong, located above Rinpung Dzong on the bank of River Mangde is a conch shaped fortress in Paro. Ta Dzong was built under the government of the 2nd Desi, Ngoenpa Tenzin Dugda, to protect the Rinpung Dzong from the unceasing assaults from Tibet and India. In 17th century the once grandiose fortress of Ta Dzong was converted into the National Museum of Bhutan under the command of the 3rd Dragon King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
Housing more than 3000 artifacts dating back to 1500 years, The National Museum of Bhutan has made Ta Dzong a must visit places in Paro Valley for the inquisitive travelers visiting Bhutan.
History of Ta Dzong
The unusual round structure of the Ta Dzong was built with just stone and wood without the aid of any nail. Although made with only stone and wood the structure of Ta Dzong is very strong. Unlike other dzongs in Bhutan, Ta Dzong survived the earthquake of 1714 which lasted for almost 15 days.
Ta Dzong even survived the earthquake of 1896. But strangely, there is no record about the builder who made Ta Dzong. There is an underground passage in Ta Dzong which is believed to connect the tower with Pa Chhu River and was used for supplying water in tower in times of war.
Interesting Fact about Ta Dzong
Did you know? Till date there is no record about the architecture who built Ta Dzong.
Things to see
- Ancient Temples situated in premises of Ta Dzong
- The First King's robes, the Raven Crown, the swords of the Trongsa Penlop Jigme Namgyal and the Third King, in one of the museum's galleries
- Art technology and media room where visitors can watch documentary programs on the history of the Bhutanese monarchy
- Panoramic view of Para Valley from the watchtower of Ta Dzong
Timing of National Museum of Ta Dzong
Tourist who wishes to visit Ta Dzong - National Museum should note its timing.
From Tuesday to Saturday Ta Dzong Museum stays open from 9am to 4pm and on Sunday from 11am to 4pm. Except for Monday and some government holiday Ta Dzong can be visited anytime within the given schedule.
Entry Fee of National Museum of Bhutan
Visitors need to pay a nominal amount of entry fee to visit National Museum of Bhutan of Ta Dzong. The entry fees of National Museum of Bhutan are as follows: 10 Nu for Locals, 50 Nu for tourist from SAARC, 5 Nu for Students and 200 Nu for the Foreign Nationals. There is no entry fee charged for the Monks, Gomchen, Nuns and children below age 10.
Visitors should that the entry fee of National Museum of Bhutan of Ta Dzong is a subject to change.
Places to Visit near Ta Dzong
There are not one but plenty of places to visit near Ta Dzong or the National Museum of Bhutan.
Taktsang Monastery
Situated at a distance of more than 14 km, Paro Taktsang Monastery or the Tiger's Nest is one of the most visited travel destinations near Ta Dzong. Also known as the Tiger's Nest Monastery, it is a remarkable Cliffside monastery dwelled on the upper Paro Valley of Bhutan.
Rinpung Dzong
Listed under the tentative site of UNESCO, Ringpung Dzong is another sightseeing place to visit near the National Museum of Bhutan. Also known as Paro Dzong, this elegant monastery usually stays closed for the mass. But during the auspicious Tshechu Festival, the monastery becomes accessible for all.
Just at a distance of 7 km drive away from Ta Dzong, the three tall statues of Guru Rinpoche, Buddha and Zhabdrang are the favorite attractions of this monastery.
Dungtse Lhakhang
Dungtse Lhakhang is a famous Chorten shaped temple near the National Museum of Bhutan. Also known as Jangsta Dumtseg Lhakhang, it is a three storeys building that represents Hell, Earth, and heaven respectively. Situated at a distance of just 3 km, Dungtse Lhakhang is a must-visit place to visit near Ta Dzong due to its bewildering architecture.
Kyichu Lhakhang
One of the oldest temples in the entire Himalayan region, Kychu Lhakhang is located at a distance of 7 km from Ta Dzong. A big garden, replete with various colorful flowers and apple trees, is what makes the temple more appealing to visit near the National Museum of Bhutan.
Haa Valley & Chele la Pass
Your Paro Tour will stay incomplete if you don't visit Haa Valley and Chele la Pass. Chele la Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, is situated at a distance of 40 km from the National Museum of Bhutan. In Chele la Pass, the frozen river, rhododendron forest, and waterfall and a stunning view of Mt. Jumolhari will undoubtedly make you spellbound.
Just a few kilometers away from the vivid Chele la Pass, Haa Valley is another confounding place to visit near Ta Dzong. Situated amidst the lush alpine forest, paddy fields, mountains, and vast grasslands, Haa Valley is evidently a worth sojourning tourist destination.
Why Should You Visit the National Museum of Bhutan?
If you are having a tour in Paro, touring the National Museum of Bhutan should be in your tour itinerary. And there are a plethora of reasons to visit this amusing monastery.
- You will get to see ancient temples in the premise of the National Museum of Bhutan.
- Get a chance to see the robe of the first king, the sword of the third king Jigme Dorji Wangchuk.
- You can have a miraculous panoramic view of the entire Paro valley.
- You will get a wonderful opportunity to know the history of ancient Bhutan.
Best Tour Packages to visit the National Museum of Bhutan
Bhutan is a scenically blessed country with unending travel destinations. With our affordable yet the best Bhutan Tour Packages, you can explore all the touristy places of Bhutan including Ta Dzong. Some of the lucrative Bhutan Tour Packages are-
- 6 Days affordable Bhutan Tour Package including Thimpu, Paro, as well as Haa Valley & Chele la Pass.
- Cost-effective Bhutan Tour for 8 days covering Paro as well as Punakha, Thimpu, and Phuentsholing.
- 5 Days Bhutan tour Plan to enjoy all the sightseeing places of Paro, Thimpu, and Phuentsholing.
- 7 Days Bhutan Trip to spend a perfect holiday in Paro, Thimpu, and Punakha.
Why Choose Us?
North Bengal Tourism is dedicated to making your next trip full of worthwhile moments. We provide unique itineraries and the best services unmatched in the industry.
Assured Quality Service
Quality and service go hand-in-hand here as we always strive to provide the best service.
24X7 On-Trip Assistance
From helping to choose the best tour plan to on-trip service assistance, we’ll be always there to help.
Best Rate Guaranteed
We always ensure to provide the best value-for-money holiday experience without compromising on service quality.