Introduction to Paro Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Paro Valley is the gateway to the Kingdom of Bhutan.
This picturesque valley sits at an elevation of 2,280 meters (7,480 feet). It offers visitors a perfect blend of sacred Buddhist sites, traditional architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
As you approach Paro by air, you’re treated to one of the world’s most spectacular landings. The plane weaves between verdant mountains before descending into the valley.
This dramatic arrival is just the beginning of your Paro adventure.
Why Visit Paro?
Paro represents the essence of Bhutanese culture and spirituality.
The valley houses some of Bhutan’s most sacred temples, monasteries, and historical landmarks. It’s an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the true spirit of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
The valley’s fertile lands have sustained communities for centuries.
Terraced fields, traditional farmhouses, and prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze create a landscape that seems lifted from a storybook.
Top Attractions in Paro
Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Palphug)
No visit to Paro—or Bhutan—is complete without trekking to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Perched precariously on a cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor, this sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours in the 8th century.
The Trek
The hike to Tiger’s Nest is a spiritual journey.
It takes approximately 4-6 hours round trip. The well-marked path climbs through pine forests adorned with prayer flags, past a waterfall, and offers increasingly spectacular views of the monastery.
What to Expect
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Duration: 4-6 hours round trip
- Best Time: March to May and September to November
- Tips: Start early morning, carry water, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and take breaks at the cafeteria halfway point
“The climb to Tiger’s Nest is not just a physical journey, but a spiritual one. Each step brings you closer to understanding why Bhutanese people hold this site so sacred.”
Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of the Heap of Jewels)
This magnificent fortress-monastery dominates the Paro skyline.
It serves as both administrative and monastic center. Built in 1644 by Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong houses 14 shrines and chapels, each adorned with intricate paintings and statues.
Highlights
- The beautifully carved wooden windows and painted murals
- The annual Paro Tshechu festival held here each spring
- The stunning views from the dzong’s courtyard
- Traditional Bhutanese architecture at its finest
National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong)
Housed in a renovated watchtower above Rinpung Dzong, this museum offers an excellent introduction to Bhutanese culture, art, and history.
The circular building features seven floors of exhibits. These include thangkhas (religious scroll paintings), ancient artifacts, and natural history displays.
Must-See Exhibits
- The Temple of the Tree of Wisdom
- Collection of bronze statues and thangkhas
- Traditional Bhutanese household items
- Natural history specimens including Bhutan’s diverse butterfly collection
Kyichu Lhakhang
One of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, Kyichu Lhakhang dates back to the 7th century.
According to legend, King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet built 108 temples in a single day to subdue a demoness. Kyichu Lhakhang is one of only two remaining in Bhutan.
The temple houses an ancient statue of Jowo Shakyamuni (the Buddha of our time) and remains an active place of worship.
The peaceful atmosphere and ancient energy make this a perfect spot for meditation and reflection.
Drukgyel Dzong (Fortress of Victory)
Once a formidable fortress that defended Bhutan against Tibetan invasions, Drukgyel Dzong now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in ruins.
Despite being destroyed by fire in 1951, the remaining walls and structures tell the story of Bhutan’s military history and architectural prowess.
The dzong offers panoramic views of Mount Jomolhari on clear days. It provides insight into Bhutan’s strategic importance in the Himalayan region.
Chele La Pass
At 3,988 meters (13,084 feet), Chele La is Bhutan’s highest motorable pass. It offers some of the most spectacular Himalayan views in the country.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, two of Bhutan’s most sacred peaks.
What to Do
- Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views
- Photograph prayer flags against snow-capped peaks
- Spot Himalayan flora including rhododendrons (spring bloom)
- Picnic with stunning valley views
Cultural Experiences in Paro
Visit a Traditional Farmhouse
Experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality by visiting a local farmhouse. Many Paro families welcome visitors into their homes.
What You’ll Experience
- Learn about traditional Bhutanese architecture
- Try ara (local spirit) and suja (butter tea)
- Witness traditional weaving and cooking
- Understand rural Bhutanese life
Explore Paro Town
The main street of Paro town offers a charming mix of traditional and modern Bhutan.
Highlights
- Local handicraft shops selling thangkhas, masks, and textiles
- Traditional cafes serving ema datshi (chili cheese) and momos
- The weekend market (Saturday/Sunday) where farmers sell fresh produce
- The archery ground where you might witness a competition
Best Time to Visit Paro
Spring (March - May)
- Pleasant weather with blooming rhododendrons
- Clear mountain views
- Paro Tshechu festival (March/April)
- Peak tourist season
Summer (June - August)
- Lush green landscapes
- Monsoon season (rainy)
- Fewer crowds
- Lower prices
Autumn (September - November)
- Clear skies and excellent visibility
- Comfortable temperatures
- Ideal for trekking
- Festival season
Winter (December - February)
- Cold but sunny days
- Snow-capped peaks
- Fewer tourists
- Some high-altitude sites inaccessible
Where to Stay in Paro
Luxury Options
- Uma Paro by COMO: Boutique luxury with spa and wellness programs
- Zhiwa Ling Heritage: Traditional architecture with modern amenities
- Tiger’s Nest Resort: Stunning mountain views and peaceful atmosphere
Mid-Range Options
- Metta Resort & Spa: Comfortable rooms with beautiful gardens
- Tenzinling Resort: Great value with mountain views
- Bhutan Suites: Modern amenities in traditional style
Budget Options
- Local guesthouses and homestays
- Basic hotels in Paro town
- Monastery guesthouses (basic but authentic)
Getting to Paro
By Air
Paro International Airport (PBH) is the sole international airport in Bhutan.
Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kathmandu, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Dhaka, and other cities.
Important Note: Only a handful of pilots are certified to land at Paro due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions. Flights are often delayed or cancelled due to weather, so allow flexibility in your schedule.
By Road
- From Thimphu: 1.5 hours (50 km)
- From Phuentsholing: 4-5 hours (170 km)
Practical Tips for Visiting Paro
Permits and Regulations
- Indian nationals do not need a visa but require permits
- All other nationalities must book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator
- The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is mandatory
- Monasteries may have dress codes (modest clothing required)
Packing List
- Comfortable hiking shoes for Tiger’s Nest
- Warm layers (mountain temperatures can be cool)
- Rain jacket (especially during monsoon)
- Modest clothing for temple visits
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera with extra batteries
Health and Safety
- Altitude: Paro sits at 2,280m – allow time to acclimatize
- Drink plenty of water
- Take it easy on first days
- Travel insurance is recommended
Cultural Etiquette
- Walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls
- Remove hats and shoes before entering temples
- Ask permission before photographing people or religious objects
- Receive items with your right hand or both hands
- Avoid public displays of affection
Sample Paro Itinerary (3 Days)
Day 1: Arrival & Orientation
Morning: Arrive in Paro
Afternoon: Visit Rinpung Dzong and National Museum
Evening: Explore Paro town and enjoy traditional dinner
Day 2: Tiger’s Nest Trek
Morning: Begin trek to Taktsang Palphug
Midday: Lunch at cafeteria and temple visit
Afternoon: Return trek and relaxation at hotel
Evening: Traditional hot stone bath (optional)
Day 3: Valley Exploration
Morning: Visit Kyichu Lhakhang and Drukgyel Dzong
Afternoon: Drive to Chele La Pass for mountain views
Evening: Visit local farmhouse for cultural experience
Beyond the Main Attractions
Haa Valley Day Trip
From Paro, take a scenic drive over Chele La Pass to the beautiful Haa Valley. This lesser-visited region offers pristine landscapes, traditional villages, and the Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple).
Farm-to-Table Experiences
Several organic farms in Paro offer cooking classes and farm tours. Learn to prepare traditional dishes like ema datshi, kewa datshi (potato cheese), and hoentoe (buckwheat dumplings).
Meditation Retreats
For those seeking spiritual experiences, several monasteries and meditation centers in Paro offer short-term retreat programs. Even a few hours of meditation at Kyichu Lhakhang or Tiger’s Nest can be transformative.
Photography Tips for Paro
Best Spots
- Tiger’s Nest viewpoint (first glimpse of monastery)
- Rinpung Dzong from the cantilever bridge
- Paro airport approach (plane window shots)
- Chele La Pass prayer flags with mountains
- Traditional farmhouses against mountains
Best Times
- Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) for warm light
- Early morning for clear views and fewer crowds
- Spring for rhododendron blooms
- Winter for snow-capped peaks
Planning Your Paro Visit
Visiting Paro is more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersion into a culture that has preserved its traditions while embracing mindful progress.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual renewal, cultural discovery, or natural beauty, Paro Valley offers experiences that will stay with you long after you leave.
At Silverpine Bhutan, we’ve been guiding travelers through Paro Valley for over 15 years. Our local guides share stories and insights that bring each site to life, creating deeper connections to this sacred land.
Ready to explore Paro Valley? Browse our tours or contact us for personalized trip planning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paro
How many days should I spend in Paro?
We recommend at least 3-4 days to see the main attractions without rushing. This allows time for the Tiger’s Nest trek, dzong visits, and cultural experiences.
Is the Tiger’s Nest trek suitable for all fitness levels?
The trek is moderate to challenging. While you don’t need to be an athlete, reasonable fitness is required. Ponies are available for the first part of the climb (up to the cafeteria).
What should I wear to visit temples in Paro?
Modest clothing is required—covered shoulders and knees. Remove hats and shoes before entering shrine rooms.
Can I visit Paro independently?
All tourists (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator and pay the Sustainable Development Fee.
When is the best time to see Mount Jomolhari?
October to December offers the clearest views of the sacred peaks. Winter months also provide excellent visibility on clear days.
“The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the universe, to match your nature with Nature.” — Joseph Campbell
Nowhere is this quote more relevant than in Paro, where the rhythm of life flows in harmony with the sacred mountains that cradle this valley.