Opening Hours Daily

9.00am to 5.00pm
Last Admission: 4:00 pm

The National Museum is open throughout the week except on government and local holidays.

Admission Fees

Preserving Bhutan’s Richest Lessons in Art, Spirituality, and Himalayan Splendour

Originally constructed in 1649 as a strategic watchtower to safeguard Paro Dzong from potential invasions, the National Museum of Bhutan stands as a testament to the nation’s cultural resilience and heritage. Over the centuries, this historic structure has undergone a remarkable transformation. In 1968, it was repurposed as the National Museum under the patronage of His Majesty the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, to house Bhutan’s most treasured artifacts.

In 2011, a devastating earthquake caused significant damage to the museum, threatening both its collection and structure. Full restoration efforts commenced in 2014 with the support of the Government of India, and the museum officially reopened on June 24, 2020.

Today, the museum serves as a vital custodian of Bhutan’s spiritual, artistic, and historical legacy. Its vast collection of over 3,000 items, including sacred relics, royal heirlooms, and cultural artifacts, provides an immersive window into the Kingdom’s rich traditions and enduring values. The museum plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing Bhutan’s profound cultural narrative with visitors from around the world.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum regularly hosts temporary artist exhibitions, which play a significant role in promoting the local arts scene and fostering a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s evolving cultural identity. These temporary exhibitions not only enrich the cultural offerings of the museum but also encourage dialogue between Bhutan’s historical heritage and its contemporary artistic expressions. Furthermore, they support the museum’s mission to be a dynamic cultural center, engaging visitors with the creative spirit of Bhutan and its ongoing cultural evolution.