Skip to content
Prayer flags printed with the wind horse, fluttering beneath the eaves
US/CA toll-free +1 888 834 6773
Plan my trip

Paro

Western Bhutan

2,200 m7,218 ft above sea level

Paro is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys, where fertile fields, forested mountains and a rich spiritual heritage come together. The broad valley is nourished by the Paro Chhu River and is known for its terraced rice fields and traditional farmhouses. Paro town, at about 2,200 metres (7,200 feet), is still called Tshongdu by some older residents and people from nearby villages. It is the administrative center of Paro District, whose offices are housed in Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzongkhag Administration)
Despite being home to Bhutan’s only operating international airport, Paro retains a distinctly rural character. The town’s whitewashed buildings, traditional woodwork and unhurried pace make it a gentle introduction to the country. A second international airport is under development at Gelephu as part of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.

The district’s landmarks reflect centuries of religious and political history. Rinpung Dzong, meaning “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,” overlooks the town and river. Built in the 17th century, it serves as a monastic center and the district’s administrative headquarters. Nearby, the traditional Nyamai Zam bridge leads across the river to the dzong. Each year, the dzong becomes the setting for Paro Tshechu, a major religious festival.
Above the valley, Paro Taktsang—Tiger’s Nest Monastery—is perched dramatically on a cliff. It is one of Bhutan’s most revered pilgrimage sites and is associated with Guru Padmasambhava, who is said to have meditated in a cave there. Kyichu Lhakhang, among Bhutan’s oldest temples, is another important place of worship. Farther up the valley, the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong recall Bhutan’s historic defense against Tibetan invasions; on clear days, the area also offers views of Mount Jomolhari.

Paro
Best time to visit
March to May, September to November
Getting there
Paro airport (4.5m) 55Km from Thimphu, 160km from Phuentsholing
Suggested stay
2 nights minimum.

Places in and around Paro

72 places

Groups always run in this order. Inside each group, the must-see picks come first; hikes and places to stay follow the order Windhorse recommends.

Sights and attractions in Paro

20
  1. Sight

    Bumdrak -Taktsang-Paro

    Enjoy the sunrise view, climb higher to the peaks, or hang prayer flags.

  2. Dzongs & Fortresses

    Jela Dzong

    Jela Dzong, perched atop a mountain with commanding views of Paro Valley to the west and Tsaluna valley to the east, is indeed an iconic fortress.Historically known as…

  3. Temples & Monasteries

    Bumdrak

    Bumdrak temple is located at an elevation of 3800m, above Paro Taktsang Monastery in Paro. Bumdra or Bumdrak  literally means "hundred thousand footprints on a cliff".

    3,800 m / 12,467 ft
  4. Temples & Monasteries

    Chumphu Ney

    Chumphu Ney, also known as Chumbu Ney or Chumophug, is situated in the higher reaches of the Dophshari valley in Doteng Gewog, Paro district.

    3,100 m / 10,171 ft
  5. Temples & Monasteries

    Tachog Lhakhang

    Tachog lhakhang means -œtemple of the hill of the excellent horse.-Tachog lhakhang was built in 16th century by Tibetan saint Thangton Gampo.

  6. Stupas & Chortens

    Chhoten Lhakhang

    Chhoten Lhakang is a large Bhutanese style chorten located south of Paro town square. There is a small chapel upstairs.

  7. Dzongs & Fortresses

    Bitekha Dzong

    Bitekha Dzong is located along the way to Haa from Chundzom (river confluence)

  8. Dzongs & Fortresses

    Ugyen Pelri Thang Palace

    Ugyen Pelri Palace is situated below the Rinpung Dzong on a small piece of land beside Pa chhu.

  9. Dzongs & Fortresses

    Drukgyel Dzong

    Drukgyel Dzong, perched atop a ridge in Bhutan's upper Paro valley, stands as a magnificent and historically significant archaeological site.

  10. Dzongs & Fortresses

    Paro Rinpung Dzong

    The construction of the Paro Dzong began in 1644 on the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.

  11. Temples & Monasteries

    Kyichu Lhakhang

    Kyichu Lhakhang is believed to be one of the 108 temples constructed in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet.

  12. Temples & Monasteries

    Druk Choeding Lhakhang

    Druk Choeding temple was built in 1525 by Ngawang Chogyel, one of the prince-abbots of Ralung in Tibet and an ancestor of the Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel.

  13. Temples & Monasteries

    Dumtseg Lhakhang

    A small, unusual temple built as a chorten in the shape of a three-storey mandala, said to have been founded by Thangtong Gyalpo.

  14. Temples & Monasteries

    Kila Gompa Nunnery

    Kila Goempa nunnery, also known as Chele la Gompa, is a tranquil retreat far removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

    3,500 m / 11,483 ft
  15. Museums & Institutions

    National Museum of Bhutan

    The National Museum was established in 1968 and is housed inside a circular Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower.

  16. Temples & Monasteries

    Dzongdrakha Gompa

    Dzongdrakha Goemba, a visually stunning yet lesser-visited cliffside retreat is located off the Paro–Cheli La road, with a history tied to Guru Rinpoche's battles against local demons.

  17. Temples & Monasteries

    Shama Lhakhang

    Shama Lhakhang is situated next to Taktsang but is not directly accessible from there.

  18. Temples & Monasteries

    Zangdopelri

    The Zangdopelri temple is situated on a spur of a cliff, approximately 125 meters higher on the opposite side, separated by around 200 meters as the bird flies.

  19. Temples & Monasteries

    Ugyen Tsemo

    The Ugyen Tsemo temple is located 220 meters higher and directly above Taktsang on the summit of the cliff.  Ugyen' refers to Taktsang, and 'Tsemo' means 'on the…

  20. Temples & Monasteries

    Taktsang – Tigers Nest

    No journey to Bhutan is complete without a visit to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest—the country’s most iconic and sacred landmark.

    3,120 m / 10,236 ft

Restaurants in Paro

4
  1. Restaurants

    Brioche Café

    A bakery café run by a pastry chef: tarts, croissants, cakes and apple crumble from local and organic ingredients, plus masala tea and seasonal ice cream.

  2. Restaurants

    Phangguu Paro

    A cosy, traditional dining room serving Bhutanese dishes such as khuley buckwheat pancakes, ezay chilli paste and sikam paa, opposite Paro's Rinpung Dzong.

  3. Restaurants

    Sonam Trophel Restaurant

    A family-run Paro institution since 1993, serving home-style Bhutanese cooking, momos and Chinese-style dishes. The set lunch is a favourite.

  4. Restaurants

    Taktsang Cafeteria

    The halfway stop on the Tiger's Nest hike, with butter tea, milk tea, khapse biscuits and a simple Bhutanese buffet at mealtimes, and views of the monastery.

Shops in Paro

1
  1. Markets & Crafts

    Paro Weekend Market

    Paro market is very vibrant during weekend .The market has got the small stalls and big shops selling the best at reasonable prices.The market not only offers fashionable…

Hikes & Treks around Paro

1In the order Windhorse recommends
  1. Trek, 10 days

    Chomolhari to Laya Gasa Trek

    Refer description of Chomolhari treks from our website to check the description of trek preceding Laya.

    92.3 kmChallenging

Where to stay in Paro

46In the order Windhorse recommends
  1. Resort

    Tashi Namgay Resort

    Garden resort by the river, an easy walk from the main street.

    3-star resortWindhorse uses this hotel4.5 km from town
  2. Hotel

    Dewachen Resort

    The Dewachen Resort is located 20 minutes from the airport in Paro on a gentle slope overlooking the picturesque Paro valley.

    3-star hotelWindhorse uses this hotel
  3. Hotel

    Hotel Drukchen

    Hotel Drukchen is design in a complete Bhutanese style.

    3-star hotelWindhorse uses this hotel3 km from town
  4. Hotel

    Base Camp Hotel

    Base camp hotel is located 14 km from Paro town (2500 m) situated in ideal and serene location harmony with the nature, located at the end point of Paro valley.

    3-star hotel
  5. Hotel

    Bhutan spirit sanctuary

    Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary is located high in the beautiful Neyphu valley in Paro. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary is a 5 star boutique luxury-resort , it has stylish rooms with wooden decor.

    5-star hotel
  6. Tented camp

    Bumdra Camp

    Besides the scenic beauty of Himalayan ranges you will be visiting the two most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Bhutan, Bumdra and Taktshang Monastery.

    3-star tented camp
  7. Eco lodge

    Dharma Lodge

    Dharma Lodge is located at Satsam Chorten, Paro.

    2-star eco lodge
  8. Resort

    Dharma Resort

    Dharma Resort has a restaurant, bar, a shared lounge and garden in Paro. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a barbecue.

    3-star resort
  10. Hotel

    Gawaling Hotel

    Gawaling Hotel is one of the finest three-star luxury hotels in the country and hosts a roster of international clients.

    3-star hotel
  11. Resort

    Golden roots resort

    Golden roots Resorts & spa in Paro is set amidst seven acres of lush pine forest and green lawns.

    3-star resort
  12. Resort

    Golden roots, resort and spa

    Golden roots Resorts & spa is a newly constructed spa resort The resort is set amidst seven acres of lush foliage and green lawns.

  13. Resort

    Himalayan Keys Forest Resort

    Himalayan Keys is nestled in the forest, and you get your own private cottage! Perfect for those seeking a peaceful and quiet getaway with modern luxury.

    3-star resort
  15. Hotel

    Hotel Dorji ling

    Hotel Dorji-Ling is a tourist standard hotel located in Paro, which is a historic town and home to many sacred places.

  16. Hotel

    Hotel Gakyidiana

    Hotel Gakidiana is located in the heart of the Paro town with 28 rooms (10 with King beds and others with two/twin beds.

    3-star hotel
  20. Hotel

    Hotel Ratna Vara

    The Hotel Ratnavara is set in the heart of Paro Town.

    3-star hotel
  22. Hotel

    Jagathang Village Inn

    Jagathang Village Inn is a 4-Star boutique Hotel situated at one of the best locations of the valley that offers an astounding view of the valley.

  23. Hotel

    Kuenphen Hotel and Spa

    Hotel Kuenphen offers a good option for a couple of days stay in the town.The rooms are clean and the service is quick.The menu is affordably priced and…

    4-star hotel
  24. Hotel

    Le Meridien, Paro, Riverfront

    Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront is the perfect destination which offers life time opportunity to live and experience the countrys exotic culture and natural beauty with a mix of…

    5-star hotel
  25. Resort

    Metta Resort

    Metta Resort in Paro Bhutan is a 3-star luxury resort located in the sacred city of Paro. The resort is an amazing spot for enjoying a calm and peaceful.

    4-star resort
  26. Resort

    Ngayabling Resort

    Ngayabling resort is purely a traditional Bhutanese designed building with wood and stone framed structure.

    3-star resort
  27. Hotel

    Norwang Villa

    We are located in a peaceful village of Nichuphu ,Satsham Paro Bhutan. Our hotel has a great view of Taktshang monastery which is famously known as the Tiger Nest.

    3-star hotel
  28. Hotel

    Paro Grand

    Hotel Paro Grand is situated on the south side of the airport, near the village of Bondey, with a scenic view overlooking the river.

    4-star hotel
  29. Homestay

    Paro village homestay

    Traditionally set up home for you, amidst apple orchard where you will experience peace and serenity with spectacular view.

  30. Hotel

    Pema Yangsel Hotel

    Located in Paro, Hotel Pema Yangsel offers 3-star accommodation with a bar. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service.

  31. Resort

    Rema Resort

    Rema Resort located on a hill top Overlooking the stunningly picturesque Valley of Paro offers an ideal space for any visitors looking for a quiet and peaceful place to stay.

    4-star resort
  32. Hotel

    Riig Kuen

    One of the more aesthetically pleasing accommodation options in Paro.

    3-star hotel
  34. Resort

    Six Sense Hotels, Resorts and spa

    Perched high on the ridge above Paro Dzong, this uber-luxury resort and spa of 20 rooms was due to open in 2017. The views and facilities should be equally fantastic.

  35. Hotel

    Six Senses Paro

    Six sense is a 5 star luxury resort with a fresh, original look, spellbinding scenery and architecture. Living area opens up to panoramic view of the valley.

    5-star hotel
  36. Resort

    Spirit Of Bhutan Resort

    Spirit of Bhutan Resort is a Bhutanese themed resort in Paro offering the best in modern amenities with traditional Bhutanese hospitality.

    4-star resort
  37. Resort

    Taktsang Boutique Resort

    Taktsang View Resort and Spa is one of picturesque hotels with the best location, good views and a free and open space.

  38. Hotel

    Taktsang Paradise hotel

    The hotel is close to the Tiger’s Nest and one can get a room facing it. It’s far from the city centre though but close to the airport.

  39. Hotel

    Tashiling Hotel

    At Tashiling Hotel you’ll be 2.4 km (1.5 mi) from Rinpung Dzong and 2.6 km (1.6 mi) from Bhutan National Museum.

  40. Tented camp

    The Tigers Nest Camp

  41. Farmstay

    Tshering Farmhouse

    Tshering farmhouse combines comfortable accommodation with family feeling.The place is situated in little outskirts of Paro town but the hospitality of the hosts makes it worth the travel.

  42. Boutique hotel

    Tshongdue Boutique

  43. Resort

    Tshrim Resort

    Tsherim resort is one of the finest resorts in Paro. It has a fine tradition of hospitality excellence with massive wooden beams and antique furnishings.

    3-star resort
  44. Resort

    Yanki Resort

  45. Eco lodge

    Yewong Eco lodge

    Yewong Eco Lodge exudes charm. Its relaxing atmosphere supported by traditional Bhutanese hospitality with dedicated lodge team ensures quality experience for esteemed guests.

    3-star eco lodge
  46. Resort

    Zhideychen Resort

    The Zhideychen Resort is located 20 minutes from the airport in Paro on a gentle slope overlooking the picturesque Paro valley.

    3-star resort

Where to stay in Paro, with levels, guest reviews and a map

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributorsTap a pin or a row to link them

Trips that visit Paro

0 Trip(s) on shortlist