Paro is truly one of those places that leaves you breathless. It's located in a stunning valley in Bhutan, and this little town is like coming into a fairy tale. You've got these huge mountains all around you, ancient temples that have been around for millennia, and residents who seem glad to welcome visitors.
It's not just the well-known attractions that make Paro stand out. Yes, there are a few unbelievable temples and monasteries you simply have to visit. Still, it's also the small moments, such as seeing monks doing their everyday thing or accidentally happening upon a local celebration. The air is so fresh and clean here, you'll almost find it disorienting if you've just left a large city.
This Paro Travel Guide will assist you in determining what is worth your time and what could be a tourist trap. There are certainly some Places to see in Paro that guidebooks overlook, and some that live up to every ounce of hype they receive. If you are considering a visit, our Bhutan Tour Packages can spare you a lot of headaches in planning and ensure that you don't miss the best bits.
Paro is a town in the Paro district of Bhutan that is not just a gateway to Bhutan but also a destination in itself. The town is very popular due to its beautiful surroundings, cultural heritage, and special charm. The many places to visit in Bhutan are complemented by this lovely place due to its beauty and remarkable culture.
No doubt that there are plenty of things to do in Paro that you would adore visiting while there. It lies in a valley at an altitude of 2,250m above sea level and is surrounded by the actual green beauty of dense forests. The town is known for the Paro Chhu River passing through it, giving the region fertile land and making it an oasis of natural beauty.
If you still have doubts about whether or not to go to this destination or not, then you should definitely try! It is a lovely destination worth visiting and a gem of Bhutan! Make your experience better while visiting the various destinations to explore in Paro.
Suggested Read: Temples in Bhutan
Before you start your journey to Paro, it's essential to know how to reach Paro. There are two main ways to reach Paro: by air and by road. You must know about this main element from the Paro travel guide! It is extremely important to know which type of travel mode you should choose according to your convenience.
By Air: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Paro International Airport (PBH) is Bhutan’s sole international airport, located approximately 6 km from Paro town and about 54 km from Thimphu. Due to the challenging terrain, only a limited number of pilots are certified to land here, and flights operate under visual meteorological conditions during daylight hours.
- Airlines: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate direct flights from Kolkata to Paro.
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Booking: Flights can be booked through the respective airline websites or authorised travel agents.
By Train and Road: A Budget-Friendly Adventure
While there are no direct trains to Bhutan, you can combine train and road travel:
1. Train to Hasimara:
- Board a train from Kolkata to Hasimara Railway Station in West Bengal.
- From Hasimara, Jaigaon (the Indian town bordering Bhutan) is about 17 km away.
2. Crossing into Bhutan:
- Enter Phuentsholing, the Bhutanese town across the border from Jaigaon.
- From Phuentsholing, Paro is approximately 160 km away, which takes about 4.5 to 5 hours by road.
By Bus: Direct but Lengthy
The Royal Bhutanese Government operates a bus service:
- Route: Kolkata (Esplanade Bus Stand) to Phuentsholing.
- Duration: Approximately 18 hours.
- Frequency: Regular services are available, but it's advisable to check the current schedule and book in advance.
From Phuentsholing, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Paro.
By Road: For the Adventurous Traveller
Driving from Kolkata to Paro is possible:
- Route: Kolkata - Siliguri - Jaigaon - Phuentsholing - Paro.
- Distance: Approximately 1,200 km.
- Duration: Around 26 hours of driving time.
Ensure your vehicle has the necessary permits to enter Bhutan, which can be obtained at the Regional Transport Office in Phuentsholing.
Entry Requirements for Indian Citizens
- Identification: Indian nationals can enter Bhutan with a valid passport or Voter ID card.
- Permits: Entry permits are issued at the border and are required for travel beyond Phuentsholing.
- Tour Guide: While not mandatory for Indian tourists, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience, especially when visiting cultural sites.
When to Visit: Paro Travel Guide 2025
The best time to visit Paro largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Bhutan experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season offers something unique to visitors:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Paro when the valleys come to life with colourful blossoms, including the famous rhododendrons. The weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time for trekking and exploring the outdoors.
- Summer (June to August): While summer can be rainy, it's also the time when the countryside is lush and green. The monsoon season makes the landscapes even more vibrant, but it's essential to be prepared for rain if you plan to visit during this time. Bhutan in August should be witnessed because it starts immersing in the autumn season, which enhances its beauty.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn is considered the best time to visit Paro. The weather is cool and comfortable, and the skies are usually clear. This is when major festivals like the Paro Tsechu take place, offering a unique cultural experience.
- Winter (December to February): Winter in Paro can be cold, but it also brings a serene and peaceful atmosphere. If you enjoy snow and don't mind the chilly weather, this is a great time for a quiet and less crowded visit. Also, Bhutan in December is a heaven on earth because of the great, serene views that you get.
So, it is totally up to you which weather would be the most suitable for you! Although you would definitely find the best places to visit in Paro, with so many things to do. Make the most out of your trip and explore the hidden gems with the Paro travel guide.
Suggested Read: Nightlife in Bhutan
Best places to visit in Paro Bhutan
While getting to know all about the Paro travel guide, you must know which best places to visit in Paro Bhutan. You should be able to make the most out of it and enjoy it to the maximum.
- Hike to the temple of fertility.
Going on the hike to the temple of fertility is a journey that blends spirituality with the natural beauty of the landscape. It is one of the most unique experiences on the list of things to do in Paro that you must have.
There is an ancient temple dedicated to fertility that stands as a testament to centuries of tradition. The temple is a great masterpiece of architecture and a place worth visiting in Bhutan!
You need to hike to the temple to witness the real beauty. Many pilgrims and trekkers come over after a long time to seek blessings while also enjoying the aura of the beautiful place. Whenever you plan your trip to Paro, visiting this temple should be on your checklist as main Paro tourist attractions to explore.
- Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery)
The Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger's Nest Monastery, is one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks and a must-visit Paro tourist attractions for all travellers. Bhutan’s monasteries are popular, and undoubtedly, it is one of them that you should visit.
This sacred site, perched on the edge of a cliff at 3,120 meters above sea level, is a challenging hike but offers breathtaking views of the Paro valley.
Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, meditated here for three years, three months, three weeks, and three days.
- Visit museums and shrines
Moving ahead to the Paro travel guide, if you are an enthusiast for some museums and ancient history, there is a lot more to explore here.
One of the must-visit attractions is the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a stunning watchtower known as Ta Dzong. Here, you can explore an extensive collection of artefacts, textiles, and art that tell the story of Bhutan's past, including its unique cultural practices and traditions.
In addition to the museum, Paro is home to some of the most revered shrines and temples in Bhutan. The Paro Taktsang, also known as the "Tiger's Nest," is a sacred monastery perched on the edge of a cliff, offering breathtaking views and a spiritual experience that is second to none.
Paro also has the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, which is believed to have been built to pin down the left foot of a demoness. The tranquillity and history exuding from these religious sites make them a perfect place for introspection and meditation.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Bhutan And Adventure Sports In Bhutan
The bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma, which is located high above the hill, is very clear from above the city. The essence of Buddha's viewpoint in Paro revolves around finding inner peace and enlightenment amidst the natural beauty of Bhutan's landscape.
As one embarks on the arduous hike to reach the monastery, the journey itself becomes a metaphor for the path to enlightenment, challenging yet ultimately rewarding.
The serene atmosphere, prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, and pilgrims who gather here all contribute to a holistic experience that embodies the core principles of Buddhism: mindfulness, self-discovery, and the pursuit of inner harmony.
Buddha's viewpoint in Paro remains a place of deep reflection, meditation, and awe-inspiring beauty, serving as a reminder of the timeless wisdom and serenity that Buddhism imparts to all who seek it.
If you have the opportunity to visit the Paro Tsechu, you'll witness a vibrant and colourful religious festival. This annual event includes masked dances, music, and religious rituals that showcase Bhutanese culture and traditions. It usually takes place in spring, so planning your visit around this festival can be a truly unique experience.
It is one of the most unique things to do in Paro, which anyone should witness. Stating this for the Paro travel guide 2024, so that the travellers have their chance to act on it.
What to Eat: Paro Travel Guide
Bhutanese food is known for its unique flavours and use of chilli peppers. While visiting the beautiful place, you must try some of the dishes that are worth it. Some traditional dishes you must try while in Paro include:
A spicy chilli and cheese stew is considered Bhutan's national dish. It is a delightful combination of spice and creaminess. Made with fresh green chilis, often fiery in intensity, then simmered in the homemade cheese of a cow or a yak.
The result comes out to be mouthwatering, which pleases all the people. This dish showcases the love for spicy food and how amazingly you can have that flavour in your food. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also reflects the deep cultural connection that Bhutanese people have with their land and its unique culinary traditions. It's a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of Bhutanese cuisine, combining simple ingredients in a way that creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
Pork cooked with chilli peppers and radishes. Simmered and stir-fried to create a tantalising aroma, Phaksha Paa has a spicy kick that reflects Bhutan's penchant for chilli-infused cuisine.
This dish is not only a testament to the Bhutanese people's love for robust flavours but also an integral part of their culture and identity, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Bhutan. Talking about the Paro travel guide, don’t let yourself miss these amazing dishes that would make you taste the most different yet delicious things.
Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. These Bhutanese dumplings are offered to tourists, which have a good taste. They are typically made from a simple yet flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and a combination of spices.
Also, many times you would see that the fillings can vary from place to place. So whichever option you choose can be made. They are easily available in restaurants in Bhutan, and you can try these.
Bhutanese red rice is a staple and a healthier alternative to white rice. It is considered to be one mainstay dishes in the Himalayan region. Also, it plays a very central role in the cuisine of people living there.
It is usually prepared by steaming, which results in a very chewy texture and also a very delightful texture.
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Bhutan
A traditional butter tea is often served during religious ceremonies. This one holds a very special place in the hearts of the Bhutanese people. It is a distinctive beverage sold out here for the locals and tourists to taste.
It is made by churning butter and salt into brewed tea, typically using a type of green tea leaves. It is a unique preparation made by some ultimate choices that people love out there.
So, you can find these dishes at local restaurants and hotels throughout Paro. Don't forget to try the local Ara, a traditional Bhutanese spirit made from grains, which is often served to guests.
Make sure you are all ready to try the best dishes made only in Bhutan with the help of the Paro travel guide.
Paro offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular choices for the best resorts and hotels in Bhutan.
Luxury Hotels
Uma Paro: This luxury hotel combines traditional Bhutanese design with modern comfort. It's known for its breathtaking views of the Paro Valley and the Himalayas.
Zhiwa Ling Heritage: This boutique hotel is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, providing an authentic cultural experience with all the amenities you'd expect from a luxury hotel.
Mid-Range Hotels
Hotel Drukchen: A comfortable and reasonably priced hotel with excellent service and a beautiful garden.
Metta Resort and Spa: This resort offers a serene environment with stunning views and modern amenities.
Budget Accommodation
Hotel Olathang: A comfortable and affordable option, perfect for budget travellers.
Tashi Namgay Resort: This budget-friendly resort offers a cosy atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
You can definitely find some of the best options apart from these! But, they are some of the best ones that you can choose. They have this comfy vibe, which will definitely please you as a traveller and can help relax you in the Beautiful place.
Conclusion
Paro, Bhutan's gateway town, offers an enriching and unique travel experience. From the stunning Tiger's Nest Monastery to the vibrant cultural festivals in Bhutan, Paro has a lot to offer visitors. As you explore this beautiful destination, you'll not only immerse yourself in it.
The natural beauty of the Himalayas, but also gain insights into the rich culture and traditions of Bhutan.
