Number of tourists visiting the National Museum in Paro is going up every year. It has recorded over 2000 tourists within just three month this year. In 2010, over 32,000 tourists were recorded. However, the number last year was slightly down because of the damage caused by the earthquake to the Museum. The earthquake destroyed the wall of the Ta Dzong and it had to be closed for few months.
“Every year there is about 30-35 percent increase in the number of tourists and our target is that by 2015, we are targeting the visiting of tourist to around 100,000 every year including SAARC countries, others and locals,” said Phuntshok Tashi, Director, National Museum.
The Director said besides earning revenue, the Museum also imparts valuable knowledge to the visitors on Bhutanese culture. “I personally observed that in the past years, the visitors are not only interested in the mountains and landscapes but they also want to know the real and unique culture,” the Director added.
Tourists from all walks of life visit the Museum. The peak season is from March to June and September to November.
The Museum houses over 4000 artifacts from ancient arms to household items and masks. It was established in 1968 and was opened to the visitors since early 1980s.
