About Paro

Overview

Paro is the western Bhutan valley where most visitors arrive, at Paro International Airport, the country's only international airport. The town is a few streets of painted wooden shopfronts below Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum in the old Ta Dzong watchtower. The valley holds some of Bhutan's oldest temples, including Kyichu Lhakhang, and the hike up to Taktsang, the Tiger's Nest monastery on a cliff above the valley, is the reason many people plan the trip. Thimphu is about 1 to 1.5 hours away by road.

Best Time to Visit Paro

Plan your trip around the right season

Mar-MayBest Window

Why visit

Mild days, rhododendrons on the hills and the Paro Tshechu festival in spring.

Keep in mind

Festival dates fill flights and hotels early.

Oct-NovBest Window

Why visit

Clear skies after the monsoon and good walking weather for Taktsang and Chele La.

Keep in mind

Peak season, with higher demand for flights and rooms.

Dec-Feb

Why visit

Clear, dry days and fewer visitors.

Keep in mind

Cold nights, and snow can close Chele La.

Jun-Sep

Why visit

Green valley and lower demand.

Keep in mind

Monsoon rain makes the Taktsang trail muddy, and cloud can delay flights into Paro.

How to Reach Paro

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Paro International Airport is just outside town, with Drukair and Bhutan Airlines flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati and other cities. By road, cross from Jaigaon in West Bengal to Phuentsholing, then drive to Paro, usually 5 to 6 hours; the nearest Indian railway stations for Jaigaon are Hasimara and New Alipurduar, with New Jalpaiguri and Bagdogra airport further away. Indian travellers do not need a visa but must get an entry permit at Phuentsholing or Paro airport, showing a valid Indian passport or voter ID card; it can also be applied for online in advance. Indian tourists pay a Sustainable Development Fee of INR 1,200 per person per night, with children aged 6 to 12 at half rate and children 5 and under exempt.

Getting Around Paro

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Most visitors move around in a hired car with a driver or with their tour operator. Paro town is small enough to walk, and Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum are a short walk uphill from the main street.

Best Areas to Stay in Paro

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Paro town

Short stays and evening walks

Hotels around the main street and the road to the dzong, close to restaurants and a short drive from the airport.

Upper Paro valley

An early start for Taktsang

Resorts and farmhouses up the valley on the road towards Drukgyel Dzong, closer to the Taktsang trailhead.