Things To Do
in Paro
Paro is a picturesque valley town located in the Kingdom of Bhutan, nestled in the eastern Himalayas. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture, Paro is home to iconic landmarks such as the Paro Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger's Nest. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, crystal-clear rivers, and breathtaking mountain peaks, making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Paro is also famous for its annual Paro Tshechu festival, where locals and tourists come together to celebrate Bhutanese culture through traditional dances, music, and rituals.
- "Kuzuzangpo la" - Hello
- "Ngatshang" - Thank you
- "Haa" - Yes
- "Mey" - No
- "Tashi Delek" - Good luck or best wishes
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Enjoy breathtaking views as you hike up the trail.
Explore Paro Dzong, an impressive fortress that showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture. Take some time to relax in the nearby gardens.
Visit a local restaurant for authentic Bhutanese cuisine. Reflect on your day with stunning views of the Paro valley.
Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the Paro Valley from a viewpoint. Enjoy the tranquility of the morning.
Take a leisurely walk along the Paro Chhu river and enjoy the scenic beauty. Capture some memorable photos of the stunning landscape.
Stroll through Paro's main street and shop for local handicrafts. End your day with a traditional hot stone bath.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including the Himalayan mountain range and lush valleys.
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous monasteries and traditional festivals.
- Low population density, providing a peaceful and tranquil environment.
- Unique and preserved Dzong architecture that attracts tourists.
- Commitment to sustainability and Gross National Happiness as a guiding policy.
- Limited accessibility due to its remote location and mountainous terrain.
- Strain on resources due to a growing tourism industry.
- High cost of living compared to neighboring countries.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and agriculture.
- Harsh weather conditions in winter can restrict travel and tourism activities.
Best Activities in Paro
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A challenging yet rewarding hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang monastery, perched on a cliff 3,000 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Explore the beautiful landscapes of Paro Valley through various hiking trails that showcase the region's natural beauty, traditional agriculture, and local culture.
Experience the thrill of rafting on the Paro River, suitable for beginners and experienced adventurers alike, while enjoying the scenic beauty of the river surroundings.
Engage in guided tours of historical sites such as Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum of Bhutan, which allow for exploration of Bhutanese culture and architecture.
Participate in Bhutan's national sport by joining locals in archery matches, an engaging way to experience Bhutanese traditions.
Take advantage of the rich biodiversity in the area by going bird watching, with opportunities to spot rare species in their natural habitats.
Enjoy horseback riding through the alpine meadows and along beautiful trails, making it a fun way to experience the outdoors in Paro.
Tours
Uncover the best of Paro with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Paro
Visit one of these nice places.
Perched on a cliff, this iconic monastery offers stunning views of the Paro Valley and is a must-visit for breathtaking photographs.
The ruins of this historic fortress provide a panoramic view of the mountains and valley, making it an excellent spot for landscape photography.
A viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of the lush valley below, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of Bhutan.
One of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan, Chele La offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and is a fantastic place for stunning landscape photos.
This ancient temple surrounded by beautiful gardens is a serene spot for photography, showcasing Bhutanese architecture and culture.
This fortress-monastery located by the river is not only an architectural marvel but also provides great views of the surrounding landscape.
This unique temple structure is set against a backdrop of the mountains, offering beautiful photo opportunities, especially in the early morning light.
Hiking to this ancient dzong provides not only historical insight but also a vantage point for stunning views over Paro town and beyond.
Food in Paro
Paro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spicy stew made with chili peppers and locally produced cheese, usually served with red rice. Can be found in local restaurants and eateries such as Bukhari at Uma Paro and Sonam Trophel Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Pork cooked with spicy red chilies, radishes, and sometimes spinach or other green leafy vegetables. You can enjoy this dish at places like Bukhari at Uma Paro and Zombala 2 Restaurant.
These are buckwheat dumplings stuffed with turnip greens and cheese. You can try authentic Hoentay at traditional eateries like Sonam Trophel Restaurant and Tashi Namgay Resort.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Paro better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a variety of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. It's a great place to sample snacks like momos (dumplings), phaksha paa, and other local delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting religious sites or local communities, it is important to dress modestly. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Traditional Bhutanese clothing, such as the gho for men and kira for women, is also appreciated.
Be mindful of local customs, such as removing your shoes before entering homes or temples. Avoid touching sacred objects and be respectful when taking photographs, especially in religious places.
In Bhutanese culture, the right hand is considered clean and is used for giving and receiving items, as well as when eating. It is courteous to use your right hand whenever possible to show respect and consideration for local practices.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Paro with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Paro
Ensure a smooth experience
In Paro, Bhutan, tipping is not a traditional practice; however, it has become more common, especially in the tourism sector. Visitors are encouraged to tip service workers such as guides and drivers as a sign of appreciation for good service. Typically, a small amount (around 10% of the bill for restaurants or a few dollars for guides) is considered appropriate.
Payment in Paro can be made in cash or through credit/debit cards in larger hotels and restaurants. The local currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), and it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments or shops. ATMs are available in Paro, but they may have limits on withdrawals, and it's wise to check in advance if they accept foreign cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Paro.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Paro, as the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Rhododendrons bloom, making the landscapes vibrant. This season is ideal for trekking and enjoying outdoor festivals.
Summer in Paro can be warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 25°C. This is the monsoon season, bringing heavy rainfall. While the lush greenery is beautiful, road travel may be disrupted. Visitors can expect fewer crowds and lower prices.
Autumn is another prime season for visiting Paro, featuring clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning fall foliage. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. This season marks several important festivals, including the Paro Tsechu, making it culturally vibrant.
Winter is the coldest season in Paro, with temperatures often dipping below 0°C at night. Snowfall can occur, particularly in higher elevations. While it's less crowded, visitors can enjoy tranquil landscapes and the opportunity for winter sports in nearby areas.
Paro at Night
Hiking in Paro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent Buddhist monastery perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding hike to reach it.
A trek that takes you to the base of Mount Jomolhari, featuring stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and traditional Bhutanese villages.
A hike to the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong provides historical insights and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
A beautiful valley famous for its black-necked cranes and scenic hiking trails through open fields and dense forests.
A hiking spot accessible from Paro, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas and opportunities to explore alpine vegetation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Paro through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Paro by plane.
The only international airport in Bhutan, located in Paro, serving as the main gateway to the country.
Located in Kathmandu, Nepal, it is the busiest airport in the country and serves as a hub for international flights to Bhutan.
Located in Chennai, India, this airport is a major international gateway in southern India, with flights connecting to various international destinations, including Bhutan.
Located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, it serves as a primary international airport for flights connecting to South Asia, including Bhutan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Paro, consisting primarily of the Ngalops, who are known for their distinct cultural traditions and language.
A minority group primarily residing in the southern regions, with a significant presence in Paro, often involved in agriculture and trade.
A significant demographic involved in religious activities, contributing to the cultural heritage of Paro, particularly around key religious sites.
Individuals from surrounding regions who migrate to Paro for job opportunities, particularly in agriculture and tourism.
The Soul of Paro
Discover the essence of Paro through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Archery is the national sport of Bhutan. It is widely played in Paro and is celebrated with traditional tournaments that are often community events.
Football is a popular sport in Paro, with many local clubs and schools participating in regional tournaments and matches.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Paro, with local courts available for play and tournaments occasionally held.
Various traditional games such as khuru (dart throwing) and degor (a kind of ball game) are played, reflecting the local culture.
Given the scenic mountainous terrain, hiking and trekking are popular recreational activities that attract both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bhutanese cuisine traditionally includes meat, many places in Paro offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives using fresh, local produce, and dairy.
Rice is a staple in Bhutanese cuisine, making many dishes naturally gluten-free. However, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when ordering.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Paro with these cultural adventures.
