Druk Choeding

Also known as Tshongdoe Naktshang, the quiet and peaceful Druk Choeding is the town temple and an important historical site. It was built in 1525 by Ngawang Chhogyel (1465–1540), one of the prince-abbots of Ralung in Tibet and an ancestor of the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.

Look for his mural to the right of the inner entrance. The main statue is of a seated Jampa (future Buddha). Also present is the local protector Gyenyen, surrounded by a fearsome collection of old Bhutanese shields and weapons.

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Nearby attractions

1. Five Chortens

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On the road at the foot of the Paro Dzong, beside the Ugyen Pelri Palace, are five square chortens that were built in memory of the first king of Bhutan,…

2. Archery Ground

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After a visit to Paro's weekend market or Druk Choeding temple, it's well worth wandering down to this local archery ground to see if there's a…

3. Paro Weekend Market

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Paro's weekend market isn't very large but it has a traditional feel and is a fine introduction to some of Bhutan's unique local products, from organic…

4. Chhoeten Lhakhang

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The tower-like Chhoeten Lhakhang is southeast of Paro's town square. The caretaker may allow you to visit the upstairs chapel, which features a central…

5. Ugyen Pelri Palace

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The secluded wooded compound of the Ugyen Pelri Palace, built by the Paro penlop Tshering Penjor in the early 1900s, is now a residence of the Queen…

6. Six Chortens

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This line of six chortens marks the entrance into Paro town.

7. Nyamai Zam

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Below Paro Dzong, this traditional wooden covered bridge is a reconstruction of an older bridge, which was washed away in a flood in 1969. Earlier…

8. Paro Dzong

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Paro Dzong ranks as a high point of Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley,…