Historic Sites • Religious Sites
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THE 10 BEST Large Group Activities & Things to Do in Paro
Best Group Activities in Paro
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Historic Sites • Religious Sites
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What travellers are saying
- Daphne_ChanKuala Lumpur20 contributionsVisited the Paro Taktsang (3120m) on the 26th January 2023 (Thursday) – Winter
1st time and one time, 4800 steps on foot, we made it! My group of 15 members (including my mum at 74), ALL MADE IT!
Temperature marked at 1c when we were descending at 11.32am.
The whole trek took us 6.5 hours.
I wish to stress that I am not the physically fit, with poor stamina (rarely do exercise, I confess). Have thalassemia (low red blood cell with potential lack of blood oxygen.
1st trek (7.11am – 8.05am) 55 mins
– Foothill carpark to cafeteria (mid-way) 1600 steps required if on foot. We rode the horse.
Horse riding is only till half-way point and for one ascending way only.
Horse riding was risky, undoubtedly. I do agree with some reviews on the potential danger of taking the horse ride. The climb is steep and slippery. The horses’ preferred path is inches within the cliff side.
Frankly, there is no medical facility/1st aid available. And there is no governmental law enforcement/intervention on the operation of the horse-riding and on the assurance of the safety of the riders by the cliff. It is all at the riders’ own risk.
We were asked to sign an indemnity to exempt the horse owners from any responsibility of injury or death.
I was blessed that my tour guide led my horse all the way (some horses were not guided – a horse owner (the local village) handles 3-4 horses/riders per trip). There was not a single trace of fear I felt (fear claimed by many) and I was rather relax (gazing over for the cliff-side view when my horse stopped briefly to catch its breath)
2nd trek (8.12am – 9.23am) 1 hr 10 mins
Cafeteria to closer look-out point of the Paro Taktsang. The hike was uneventfully smooth for us. Nothing thrilling or daunting. Nothing that I could remember of, that instils bad impression. Paced hike, synchronized breathing, that’s about it.
3rd trek (9.23am – 9.56am) 30 mins
Photoshoot point to monastery – have to descend for about 400 steps and ascend 400 steps (stone-cut steps with uneven height) before reaching the entrance of the monastery. (There are more steps inside the monastery, but I bet you won’t mind the stairs anymore after walking through 1600 steps to reach this point).
I have the detail records of time because I was sharing the precious moment with family live, through video calling and texting (time is recorded).
Some reviewers suggest making access to the Paro Taktsang easier (building a rope-way, cable car etc). Some claimed that there is nothing much to see after the strenuous climb, as the temple will be similar to what you could have seen in other Dzongs in Bhutan, and some other Dzongs are even better in their architecture.
However, it is not just the tangible architecture that we value in the visit, isn't it?
For mental pleasure – the positive & healing vibes soaked in, the sense of achievement through the hike, the confidence developed & the spiritual wellness/awareness gained;
For physical pleasure - the views of the NATURE along the way – century-old high-land plants, mountains, abyss, waterfalls, mani stones piled, the primitive transportation (horses carrying the cafeteria’s necessities for business operation), the uneven & rough stone steps and the ‘humble’ dust/mud/animal droppings…
Aren’t these the uncontaminated elements that foreign visitors are pursuing when we visit Bhutan (the last Shangri-la on earth)? Why bother putting up modern ropeway to stain the pureness?
Nevertheless, the temple itself is 628 years old and perched at the cliffside, 10240 feet above the Paro valley (3400m above sea level). It is worth the climb for it (my stance).
Do not hike if the weather is not good. No point wasting the effort. It will be difficult and you won’t see the monastery if you could only reach the mid-point (cafeteria).
I was lucky, weather was good to me, and with not much crowd (probably not as crowded as before covid as reviewed by many). People that I met along the way, the foreign tourists, and the locals (many tour guides, tour drivers and local villages were along) were all encouraging and supportive.
Without nationality distinction, everybody was helpful and reassuring to each other. Isn’t this another intangible pleasure that is priceless?
Wear proper trekking shoe and wear knee protector. Walking stick is essential, use one.
Carry minimum stuff (I had a backpack with some money (notes not coins), HALF bottle of water (250ml only) and some small packets of biscuits/sweets/chocolate). Trust me, even a few mg (not kg) of weight reduction matters. I felt the strain on my back carrying my LIGHT backpack during the horse ride. Thereafter, (with much gratitude) my tour guide carried my bag for me, for the whole journey till I was back at the foothill. I could not thank him enough.
Do not OVER eat and drink before the hike. And try not to eat (just leave the sweet/chocolate btw your palate and tongue to infuse sugar/energy to your system) and drink minimum during the hike. I (comfortably) did not drink at all until descending (the only toilet is at the mid-way at the cafeteria).
I would say, if you are healthy with normal lung capacity, no heart, knee and leg problems, and with determination, you will make it.
This is not necessary only for the young people, the athlete/hiking enthusiast (physically fit) and the bold or hyper-adventurous. I am not of any of these, AT ALL. Neither is my mum (she is 74).
At our comfortable pace, synchronizing with our breathing, and with the bless of Guru Padmasambhava, it is the determination that brings us up to the Paro Taktsang.
Not easy (if it is easy, then it is worthless). But it is not impossible for the average-healthy. Be determined, be safety-conscious.
I am thankful.Written 15 February 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Namgay Adventure TravelsThimphu, Bhutan86 contributionsA beautiful and historically significant traditional building with
a large complex of temples, shrines, and administrative offices, intricate carvings, colorful paintings, and beautiful architecture.Written 19 January 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - yakholidaysintlThimphu3 contributionsThis is a must visit site on the way to Haa valley from Paro. To enjoy the scenery and views, one must travel in the morning or evening. You can also see Mt. Jomolhari if the weather is clear. The view from the sky burial site above the pass is even better.Written 10 March 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Namgay Adventure TravelsThimphu, Bhutan86 contributionsParo's river is considered as an important ecological, cultural and economic resource and it is protected by the government of Bhutan and local communities.Written 19 January 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Vinod MonteiroBangalore124 contributionsThere are displays of videos regarding the culture and wild life of Bhutan which is playing contentiously on the video screen. But currently the museum is not in this building as it is under repair.Written 2 December 2019This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Namgay Adventure TravelsThimphu, Bhutan86 contributionsExquisite architecture, elaborate carvings, and vibrant murals.
The temple is a significant spiritual and cultural site, and it's not surprising that many people find it to be a peaceful and uplifting place.Written 19 January 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Namgay Adventure TravelsThimphu, Bhutan86 contributionsPraying for courage, strength and good luck to face life's challenges? The Dzongrakha temples have it all! Standing above the beautiful Dzogdrakha village, these holy temples provide blessings from the three sister goddesses of long life. Stop by for a serene experience of prayer, offering and peacefulness to rejuvenate your spirit!Written 6 February 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Namgay Adventure TravelsThimphu, Bhutan86 contributionsWhen it was a large stronghold, the Dzong was renowned for its exquisite architecture and elaborate sculptures. But after a fire devastated it in the early 20th century, it was abandoned and left to deteriorate. The Dzong's remains are still present and are a well-liked destination for travelers to Bhutan. The remnants of the stronghold provide tourists with a fascinating look into the surrounding mountains and valley, as well as information about Bhutan's past and present.Written 19 January 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Ang, Nan & Dar @ Bhutan 17-25 Mar 201920 contributionsJangtsa Dumgtseg Lhakhang [zlum brtshegs lha khang] is a Buddhist temple in western Bhutan. The temple is notable as it is in the form of a chorten, very rare in Bhutan. It is located on the edge of a hill between the Paro valley and the Dopchari valley, across the bridge from Paro. The Buddhist iconography depicted in the Chorten is considered a unique repository of the Drukpa Kagyu school.Written 27 March 2019This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Eliza59Jonesboro, AR3 contributionsThis was absolutely the best trip- the trip of a lifetime. From the moment we started planning this trip to the time we were dropped of at the Paro airport by our fantastic guide and driver Dorgey and Ten Zin the trip was entirely worry free and amazing. Thinly took care of all of the details pretrial including flights, visas and hotels. It was worry free. Dorgey and Ten Zin took awesome care of us and pampered us beyond belief. From the wonderful creek side picnics to the knowledge and sharing of their culture and country by them it was a fantastic experience. The country is a beautiful and friendly place and unlike any I have been to and was sad to leave such a wonderful peaceful and unique place.Written 18 March 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- paulina i4 contributionsThis is the most magnificent tour I have ever experienced! My only regret was that I wasn’t able to stay longer and experience the beauty in Bhutan more. From the moment I inquired, Ms. Chimi was attentive and answered all my questions clearly. After I booked, I didn’t have to worry about anything! Her price point is more than fair for the service, the tour, the hotels, the food, and the people you meet. In fact, everything I experienced was the best. My tour guide and driver, Passang and Kinley, were so funny and great storytellers! It didn’t feel like a tour. It felt like I was visiting friends in Bhutan. I won’t say more about the places I visited as one should really visit and experience for themselves. The pictures below doesn’t give justice to its magic.Written 13 February 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Jenna F5 contributionsKarma and his team at Bhutan Mountain Holiday are the absolute best! Karma is very responsive and was so helpful with even the smallest of details in planning our trip to Bhutan. He made the planning process very smooth and adjusted our itinerary as necessary to accommodate our family of 4 (we were traveling with a 6 and 2 year old). Once we landed in Paro, we were greeted by Mr. Bista (our guide for the week) and Mr. Toshi (our driver). Both we excellent, very professional and made our week holiday very memorable. Mr. Bista's extensive knowledge of the country made for a rich experience, and Mr. Toshi was an extremely good and careful driver. 10/10 would recommend Bhutan Mountain Holiday to anyone planning to visit Bhutan!Written 14 November 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- The Urban NomadBengaluru, India95 contributionsTashi is gem of a Travel agent, professional yet flexible and not money minded! The recent trip to Bhutan with Amedewa was simply outstanding! Tashi customised the 10 day trip as per our choice and budget , took our advice to book hotels and made everything necessary to make the group trip memorable. During the trip two families could not visit Phobjikha due to heath issues and had to drop at the last moment and Tashi was kind enough to get some refund from the hotels!
He also arranged a 10 seater vehicle as per our request. The driver, Mr Winchen and the guide, Mr.Norbu were assigned to us by Amedwa. And we found these gentlemen are phenomenal! They made sure we cover all interesting places to get enough footage for "Bhutan Travel Series " of my channel "The Urban Nomad"
I would definitely going back to Bhutan and surely take help of Tashi! The Amedewa Tours and Treks is highly recommend!Written 4 February 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Dilip CharegaonkarNavi Mumbai, India9 contributionsOur stay at the hotel was one of the best experiences in Bhutan. Mr. Thinley the owner took personal care of all guests. The bf and dinner were nice. The rooms clean and spacious. Service was excellent. The hotel is located near attractions like he Clock Tower. We used the taxi recommended by them throughout our trip and received good information from the driver Phuntso. Will stay there again.Written 20 March 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Kush U7 contributionsAmazing experience. Excellent service. Vehicle provided was so comfortable and the drivers were so attentive and responsive. Most convenient and enjoyed trip ever. Host is very much reliable. Would definitely recommend.Written 13 May 2019This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
