Tag Archives: Museum

Tourism

National Museum of Bhutan

The National Museum of Bhutan, housed within the historic Paro Ta-dzong, welcomes you to a captivating journey through Bhutan’s culture and history. Established in 1968, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, offering a window into the Bhutanese way of life.

Unveiling Bhutan’s Past

Step into the museum and embark on a chronological exploration. The exhibits begin by unraveling Bhutan’s ancient past, from the Stone Age tools to fascinating myths and legends. As you progress, delve into the rise of Buddhism and its profound influence on Bhutanese art and architecture.

A Treasure Trove of Bhutanese Art

The museum houses a remarkable collection of Bhutanese art, including exquisite bronze statues, intricate paintings (thankas), and traditional textiles. Explore the evolution of artistic styles and marvel at the craftsmanship that defines Bhutanese heritage.

More Than Just Artifacts

The National Museum offers a well-rounded perspective on Bhutan. Learn about the country’s natural history, explore traditional life through everyday objects, and gain insights into Bhutan’s unique festivals and their significance.

A Restored Landmark

The Paro Ta-dzong itself is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Originally built in 1649 as a watchtower, it was thoughtfully converted into the National Museum in 1968. The building’s renovation, completed in 2019, reinforces its role as a cultural treasure trove.

Tourism

Folk Heritage Museum

Folk Heritage Museum

Welcome to the Folk Heritage Museum, your gateway to understanding Bhutan’s rich rural heritage! Nestled amidst orchards in the heart of Thimphu, our museum offers a unique experience unlike any other.

Step Back in Time

The centerpiece of the museum is a magnificent 3-story, 19th-century rammed mud and timber house. This meticulously restored building wasn’t just chosen for display; it is the display. Walk through its rooms, each serving a distinct purpose, and imagine yourself living the life of a Bhutanese villager a century ago.

  • Ground Floor: Explore the cool, dark storage area used for grains and other necessities.
  • Upper Floor: Discover the secure space where valuables and essential supplies were kept.
  • Top Floor: Immerse yourself in the warmth and light of the living and dining quarters.

Beyond the Walls

The museum extends beyond the historic house, offering a glimpse into the surrounding traditional Bhutanese way of life:

  • Paddy Fields: Witness the heart of Bhutan’s agricultural heritage with its fields of paddy, wheat, and millet.
  • Watermill: Learn about the ingenious water-powered grinding machines used to process grains.
  • Kitchen Gardens: Discover the local vegetables and herbs that formed the basis of the Bhutanese diet.
  • Hot Stone Bath: Uncover the unique bathing tradition that utilized heated stones for warmth.

Interactive Learning

The Folk Heritage Museum goes beyond static displays. We offer a variety of programs to bring Bhutanese culture to life:

  • Exhibits: Explore rotating exhibits that delve deeper into specific aspects of rural life.
  • Demonstrations: Witness traditional skills like butter churning and weaving being brought to life.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in workshops and talks to gain a deeper understanding of Bhutanese heritage.
  • Archery Range: Test your aim on a short-range archery course, Bhutan’s national sport.

Misc

Bhutanese Butter Lamps – Series 2

A set of video images of butter lamps from Bhutan.

Format: DV 720×576

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Butter lamps are a conspicuous feature of Buddhist temples and monasteries throughout the Bhutan. The lamps traditionally burn clarified yak butter.

Each morning lighted butter lamps are offered, representing the illumination of wisdom along with bowls containing pure water which help to focus the mind and aid meditation

To gain merit pilgrims supply lamp oil to the monks in the monastery who manage the actual lamps, which for safety are sometimes restricted to a separate courtyard enclosure with a stone floor.