Things To Do
in Paro
Paro, Bhutan sits in a verdant valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, with a landscape that feels both sacred and intimate. The town blends fortress-like dzongs with traditional houses, exuding a serene, ceremonial vibe. It is Bhutan’s gateway to iconic sights like Paro Dzong, Ta Dzong, and the famed Taktsang Monastery perched on a cliff.
In Paro, prayer flags flutter above terraced fields as locals welcome visitors to explore culture, history, and dramatic Himalayan scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Paro Taktsang, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The hike to this sacred site will offer breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding peaks. As you traverse the scenic trails, embrace the serene atmosphere that Bhutan is renowned for.
After conquering the hike, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring traditional Bhutanese dishes like ema datshi. Post-lunch, you can take a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan, where artifacts and exhibits narrate the history and culture of the kingdom. Take your time to explore the terraced fields and charming villages that dot the landscape.
As the sun sets, spend your evening walking along the banks of the Paro Chhu (river), allowing the tranquil sounds of the flowing water to soothe your senses. Head back to the town for a fresh dinner featuring local specialties, and feel free to engage with locals at cozy eateries. Conclude your day by enjoying stars twinkling above the mountains, a sight that captures the tranquility of Bhutan.
Start the day with a visit to Drukgyel Dzong, a historical fortress that symbolizes Bhutan's triumph over invaders. The drive to the dzong offers fantastic views of the majestic Himalayas. Take your time to wander through the ruins and enjoy the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Afterward, return to Paro for a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, where you can taste the delectable dishes crafted from local produce. Post-lunch, explore the Paro Rinpung Dzong, a stunning architectural marvel that serves both religious and administrative purposes. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and the intricate murals that adorn the walls.
In the evening, stroll through the quaint streets of Paro town, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Choose a restaurant where you can enjoy a serene dinner with local offerings while soaking up the Bhutanese culture. Finish your day with some reflection on your experiences amid the serene surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $2-5 |
| 🥟Street food snack (momos, small bites) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and sacred sites (dzongs, monasteries, and festivals)
- Stunning Himalayan scenery and accessible trekking options
- Limited nightlife and tourism infrastructure outside Paro/Thimphu
- Altitude and weather can affect trekking plans and accessibility to some sites
- "Kuzu zangpo la" - Hello
- "Tashi delek" - Hello / Good wishes
- "Kadrin chey" - Thank you
- "Namaste" - Hello / Goodbye
Places to Visit in Paro
Visit one of these nice places.
Majestic fortress overlooking the river, offering dramatic angles of dzong architecture with mountain backdrops.
Historic watchtower with exhibition halls; capture the whitewashed walls against a green valley.
Iconic cliffside monastery reached via a steep, rewarding hike and a prime subject for dawn or late afternoon light.
High mountain pass with sweeping panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the Paro valley far below.
Food in Paro
Paro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chili pepper and cheese stew, the national dish, usually served with red rice and available widely in restaurants.
Must-Try!
Spicy minced meat curry, often rich with chilies and herbs; a common accompaniment to red rice.
Pork cooked in a red chili sauce, a hearty and flavorful classic found on many menus.
Buckwheat dumplings stuffed with cheese and spinach, steamed or fried and served with a simple dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, yak butter, cheese, and local snacks; great place to try street-friendly bites and observe daily life.
Casual stalls offering momos, fried dough, and small savory treats; ideal for a quick, tasty bite between sights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes when required, and ask before photographing people or monks; avoid loud talk in sacred spaces and refrain from gestures that could be seen as disrespectful.
A gentle, respectful tone and soft-spoken conversation are appreciated; use two hands when presenting offerings or presenting something to someone older or in a position of respect.
Ask for permission if photographing individuals or sacred sites when required; avoid flash in temple interiors where it’s discouraged.
Safety
Tipping in Paro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; consider modest tips for guides and drivers (roughly $5–$10 per day for guides, $3–$5 per day for drivers) and rounding up small service charges at hotels or restaurants when warranted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August brings warm days with significant afternoon showers due to the monsoon; lush landscapes and vibrant greenery but higher humidity. Pack light clothing, a waterproof layer, and sturdy shoes for wet trails.
September–November is the peak trekking season with clear skies and crisp mornings; ideal for photography and long hikes; temperatures are comfortable.
December–February is cold with possible snowfall at higher elevations; days can be sunny and cool, while mornings and nights are quite chilly. Some higher trails may be treacherous; pack warm layers.
March–May features blooming rhododendrons and pleasant temperatures; great for alpine scenery and shorter hikes; mornings can be misty.
Paro at Night
Hiking in Paro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic cliffside monastery hike near Paro; challenging but incredibly rewarding views.
Scenic multi-day trek from Paro to Punakha; passes through forests, lakes, and high passes.
High mountain pass with sweeping Himalayan vistas; a great day hike from Paro.
Gentle ridge walks with forested scenery and panoramic valley views.
Airports
How to reach Paro by plane.
Main gateway to Bhutan; renowned for its dramatic approach over the valley; serviced by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
Useful international connection with routes to Paro via Druk Air; longer travel time from eastern India.
Major international hub with onward connections to Paro via Druk Air; convenient for many travelers from abroad.
Gateway from Nepal; transfers to Paro via Druk Air are common for regional access.
Nearby Indian airport in the Siliguri corridor; often used to reach Bhutan via overland routes to Phuentsholing or Paro region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Ngalop and Sharchop communities; Dzongkha is the official language with regional dialects.
Predominantly Buddhist with a Hindu minority; temples and monasteries are central to daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national sport of Bhutan; colorful traditional competitions are a common community and cultural event.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; look for Ema Datshi variants with extra vegetables or cheese and request dairy-free alternatives when needed.