Ever dreamed of walking into an actual Shangri-La? Introducing you to Paro valley, where 900-year-old monasteries sit on impossibly steep rocks; every view is like a postcard.
That monastery? It's a legend. Monks managed to construct it 900 years ago on a flat-out cliff wall. Climbing up will get you sweaty, but you'll get goosebumps when you see it in person. For real.
Things to do in Paro extend beyond the usual tourist fare. Shop weekend markets where grandmothers hawk hand-spun woollen goods, or test locals' skills at archery games (they're unfairly talented). The huge Paro Dzong fort teems with government officials and red-robed monks.
The central road throngs with cafes that sell steaming momos and children dressed in their traditional finery going to school.
Planning to live this experience? Our Bhutan Tour Packages organise everything so you can focus on soaking up the magic. Here’s a list of the top 15 things to do in Paro so you can plan your trip easily.
Best Things to Do in Paro Bhutan – Attractions, Activities & More
1. Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)
If you ask any local or tourist about the must-visit places, they’ll all point to Tiger’s Nest. Sitting dramatically on the edge of a cliff, this monastery is the highlight of Paro Valley. The hike takes 2 to 3 hours through pine forests, prayer flags, and viewpoints that will take your breath away.
The journey is as rewarding as the destination. Once you reach the top, the view is magical. This sacred monastery is one of the top things to do in Paro and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Location: 10 km north of Paro town
- Timings: 8 AM-1 PM & 2 PM-6 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 1,000 per adult; 50% discount for teens; free under 5
- Highlight: 7 km trail, 4-6 hrs round trip. Midway cafes and mule rentals are available, but the last 30 minutes is a steep hike only
2. Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong
Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, is a beautiful fortress that overlooks the Paro River. Built in the 17th century, it’s both a religious and administrative centre. The architecture here is traditional Bhutanese-thick walls, wooden windows, and painted courtyards.
During the Paro Tsechu festival, the dzong becomes even more vibrant with colourful dances and local celebrations. This is one of the top attractions in Paro and a great way to dive into Bhutanese culture.
- Location: Central Paro, near the old wooden Nyamai Zam bridge
- Timings: Mar-Oct 8 AM-6 PM; Nov-Feb 8 AM-4:30 PM; note an hour break at lunchtime
- Entry Fee: No fixed fee; suggested donation INR100 per person
3. Explore the National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong)
Located just above the Paro Dzong, this museum is inside a round stone tower that was once used as a watchtower. Inside, you'll find ancient weapons, stamps, religious art, and masks used in traditional dances. It’s one of the best things to do in Paro if you enjoy learning about history and heritage.
Outside the museum, the views of Paro Valley are just as impressive as what’s inside.
- Location: Above Rinpung Dzong
- Timings: Summer (Mar-Oct) 9 AM-5 PM; Winter (Nov-Feb) 9 AM-5 PM (ticket counter closes at 4 PM)
- Entry Fee: INR500 per tourist; locals INR100; monks & students free
4. Discover Kyichu Lhakhang
This small, peaceful temple is one of the oldest in Bhutan. Built in the 7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang is a place of strong spiritual energy. Local people come here daily to spin the prayer wheels and offer butter lamps.
It’s a must-visit if you're interested in calm and quiet places. Among the things to explore in Paro Valley, this sacred temple is a meaningful stop.
- Location: 5 km southeast of Paro town
- Timings: 9 AM-12 PM & 1 PM-4:30 PM
- Entry Fee: INR500 for foreigners; free for children under 5; discounted for teens
5. Walk Through Drukgyel Dzong Ruins
Drukgyel Dzong was once a mighty fortress built to celebrate a military victory. Though now in ruins, it still stands proudly with views of distant snowcapped peaks on clear days.
The location is peaceful, and the stone pathways give you a sense of what life might have been like centuries ago. It’s one of the best things to do in Paro Bhutan, if you love old structures and quiet trails.
- Location: 14 km northwest of Paro on the road to Chele La Pass
- Timings: Usually accessible daylight hours; no ticket
- Entry Fee: Free
6. Drive to Chele La Pass
This is one of the highest road passes in Bhutan, located at about 3,800 meters above sea level. The drive itself is beautiful-twisting through forests of rhododendron and pine. When you reach the top, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and if the sky is clear, you can spot Mount Jomolhari.
Many people visit Chele La Pass for its serene atmosphere and photo-worthy views. Among the things to explore in Paro Valley, this scenic mountain pass is unforgettable.
- Location: 32 km from Paro, at 3,800 m altitude
- Timings: Open year-round, though winter snow may block roads
- Entry Fee: None
- Highlight: Pray‑flag‑draped pass with Mt Jomolhari views
7. Cross Tachogang Suspension Bridge
On your way to Paro from Thimphu, stop at this lovely iron bridge built hundreds of years ago. It’s full of colourful prayer flags and offers a beautiful view of the river below.
After crossing the bridge, you can visit the Tachogang Lhakhang, a small but spiritual temple. It’s one of those unique things to do in Paro that only a few tourists know about.
- Location: On Paro-Thimphu road, just below Tachogang Lhakhang
- Timings: Always open
- Entry Fee: Temple visit INR300 per adult
8. Shop at Paro Weekend Market
If you're in Paro over the weekend, visit the Paro Weekend market. It’s not very big, but you’ll find everything from fresh vegetables to handmade crafts. You can pick up souvenirs like Bhutanese scarves, local snacks, and even herbal tea.
Interacting with locals here is fun and makes shopping one of the top attractions in Paro for culture lovers.
- Location: Paro Town Square
- Timings: Friday-Sunday mornings until early afternoon
- Entry Fee: Free- just shop and enjoy!
Archery in Bhutan is not just a sport -it’s a celebration. Men gather on the fields, sing songs, and shoot arrows over long distances. Watching it is fun, but trying it yourself is even better!
Many hotels offer archery experiences for tourists. If you're looking for fun and cultural top activities in Paro, don’t miss this.
- Location: Local grounds around Paro; ask hotels or guides
- Timings: Matches usually afternoons
- Cost: Often included in hotel/activity fees; otherwise small local fee
10. Relax with a Traditional Hot Stone Bath
After a long hike or day out, treat yourself to a hot stone bath. In Bhutanese tradition, river stones are heated in a fire and placed in a wooden tub filled with water and healing herbs.
Locals believe it helps with body pain and stress. This is one of the best things to do in Paro Bhutan, if you want to relax the Bhutanese way.
- Location: Most guesthouses in Paro offer this
- Timings: On demand-book ahead with your stay
- Cost: Varies (INR500- 1,000) depending on the guesthouse
11. Walk Around Paro Town
Paro’s town centre is small but very charming. You can walk around easily, explore local shops, enjoy a cup of butter tea, or visit bookstores and cafes.
This may sound simple, but it’s one of the most authentic things to do in Paro. You’ll get a feel of everyday life in Bhutan.
- Location: Central Paro
- Timings: Shops & cafes open 9 AM-6 PM daily
- Entry Fee: Free
12. Visit Dungtse Lhakhang
Dungtse Lhakhang is not like other temples in Bhutan. It was built in the shape of a stupa and is filled with beautiful wall paintings. It’s a hidden gem in Paro and not many tourists visit it.
If you want to explore something offbeat, this is one of the more unique things to do in Paro.
- Location: Near the old bridge on the Paro River
- Timings: 9 AM-5 PM
- Entry Fee: Free or small donation suggested
13. Enjoy the View from Airport Lookout Point
Paro Airport is known for its tricky landings due to the surrounding hills. Watching a plane land or take off is exciting and makes for some great photos.
There’s a popular viewpoint where you can watch this safely. This is a surprising addition to the list of things to do in Paro, but a fun one!
14. Taste Local Bhutanese Dishes
Bhutanese food is spicy and full of flavour. Try "Ema Datshi" (chilli cheese), red rice, momos (dumplings), and suja (butter tea). Many restaurants in Paro serve set meals that let you try a little bit of everything.
Food is a big part of travel, and tasting it should be high on your list of top things to do in Paro Bhutan.
- Location: Cafes and restaurants in town
- Timings: Meals served from 10 AM-8 PM
- Cost: Set meals range from INR150- 400
15. Attend Paro Tshechu (Festival)
If you’re lucky to visit Paro in spring, you’ll get to attend the Paro Tshechu. This colourful festival is filled with traditional mask dances, music, and spiritual blessings.
Everyone dresses in traditional clothing, and the atmosphere is lively and joyful. If you're looking for meaningful things to do in Paro, this is a cultural experience you shouldn't miss.
- Location: Rinpung Dzong courtyard
- Timings: 3-5 days, usually in March/April (2nd lunar month)
- Entrance: Usually free or small donation; check with organisers
16. Join a Traditional Bhutanese Cooking Class
Why just eat Bhutanese food when you can learn how to make it? Take a half-day cooking class with a local family or chef. You'll learn to cook dishes like ema datshi, buckwheat pancakes, and jasha maroo (chicken curry). This is one of the top things to do in Paro for food lovers and cultural explorers.
- Location: Farmhouse near Paro (most are within 20 km of town)
- Timings: About 4 hours, including local market shopping
- Fee: Varies by group size (approx. INR 2,500-3,500)
17. Take a Short Hike to Zuri Dzong Viewpoint
If Tiger’s Nest feels too long or crowded, the Zuri Dzong trail is perfect. It’s a peaceful, 1.5-hour loop through forests with birdsong and stunning views over Paro Valley. You’ll also see a fortress believed to be centuries old. It's one of the things to explore in Paro Valley if you love quiet nature walks.
- Location: Hill above Paro, a short hike from Ta Dzong (National Museum)
- Timings: 9 AM-5 PM, daily
- Fee: No entrance fee
18. Spend an Evening at a Local Cultural Show
Several places in Paro host traditional dance and music performances for tourists. It's not touristy’s authentic. You'll watch masked dances, listen to traditional instruments, and enjoy folk tales told through movement. This is one of the unique things to do in Paro that combines fun with local art.
- Location: Cultural centres or hotels in Paro town
- Timings: Usually 6 PM-8 PM
- Fee: INR 500-1,000
19. Visit a Local School or Monastery to Interact with Monks
Many schools or smaller monasteries welcome respectful visitors. Spend time talking with young monks, learning about their day-to-day life, and maybe even join a short prayer session. It's a soul-touching and educational experience of the best things to do in Paro Bhutan if you enjoy meaningful travel.
- Location: Small monasteries or schools around Paro (ask your guide/host)
- Timings: Mornings or afternoons, 9 AM - 4 PM, by appointment
- Fee: Usually free
20. Cycle Through the Countryside
Rent a bicycle and explore the backroads of Paro. Ride past rivers, farmlands, and small villages where you can stop and chat with locals. It’s an eco-friendly, peaceful way to discover Bhutan. For adventure lovers, this is a fantastic option among the top activities in Paro.
- Location: Paro town bike rentals, look for “Kona Bikes” (2 km east)
- Timings: Rentals are available 8 AM-5 PM
- Fee: Around INR 300-500/day
Bonus Ideas for Your Paro Trip
If you have extra time, here are a few more suggestions:
- Visit a local farmhouse for a traditional meal.
- Take a short nature walk along Paro Chu River.
- Learn a few Bhutanese words from locals.
- Try traditional weaving or wood carving workshops.
These may not be headline attractions, but are still among the most heartfelt things to do in Paro.
Final Thoughts
Paro is more than just a tourist destination. It’s a place where time moves slowly, smiles are genuine, and nature is untouched. Whether you’re climbing cliffs to reach monasteries, soaking in a hot bath, or simply walking through quiet streets, this town makes you feel at peace.
From ancient temples and fortress-monasteries to cultural experiences and scenic treks, the top things to do in Paro Bhutan offer a perfect mix for every kind of traveller. It’s not just about ticking off places-it’s about soaking in the spirit of Bhutan.
So if you’re ready to discover the magic of the Himalayas, start with Paro- it might just change the way you look at travel.
