Paro Valley
A sacred and historical space complemented by terraced paddy fields and quaint farmhouses
Discover iconic Paro
The historical town of Paro lies at the centre of Paro Valley along the banks of the Paro Chu River, and is blessed in rich sites and ancient buildings.
Forming part of the core of exceptional destinations in Bhutan, Paro is both the name of the district as well as a town located within the region. Recognised as one of the most fertile as well as historic valleys of Bhutan, it is home to as many as 155 temples and monasteries dating back to the 14th century and also Bhutan’s sole international airport. This pretty destination is covered with terraced paddy fields and quaint farmhouses scattered throughout the valley while its upper reaches boast coniferous forests.
Among its many temples, Paro is most famous for the iconic Taktsang Lhakhang (also known as the Tiger’s Nest), situated at the northern end of the valley. It is also home to the National Museum, which displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artefacts and artwork.
Why we love it
Tiger’s Nest Monastery
The iconic Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest), clings to a sheer cliff face high above Paro Valley. The monastery’s seven temples are clustered around a cave where Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Vajrayana Buddhism, is said to have meditated after flying there on the back of a tiger. It is an approximate 2 km hike to the monastery (around 2 – 3 hours).
The National Museum
The National Museum of Bhutan (or Ta Dzong, which means ‘watchtower’), with its fine exhibition of statues, paintings, sacred masks and costumes, is located in a former seven-story watchtower on a hill. Shaped like a conch shell, the circular building was reopened as a cultural museum in 1968 and preserves Bhutanese architectures, values, and lifestyles.
Sensational local cuisine
Relish in some of Paro’s most delicious street food, such as a piping-hot traditional Bhutanese steamed momo dumpling or milk and vegetable jaju soup. Along with an array of locally-inspired and seasonal restaurants, including Bukhari Restaurant and Tou Zaiga Restaurant, while visiting Paro make sure to tuck into some of the best local flavours of Bhutan.
Adventure activities abound
From mountain biking, trekking, whitewater river rafting, and kayaking, Paro offers an array of exciting activities suited to all adventure types while showcasing the very best of Paro’s natural beauty. The Snowman Trek, in particular, is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in the world, but at a height of 5,400 m (17,716 ft), the view makes it all worth it.
Tailormade travel in Paro
We tailor itineraries around your specific interests and expectations.
Our expert travel specialists are able to personalise a range of experiences for individual travellers, groups, incentives, families, and special interest groups. Our team is committed to thrilling you and will create and recreate itineraries until they find your perfect Asian experience.
Places to stay
Carefully selected accommodation just for you.
Our preferred partners are carefully selected suppliers who are rigorously scored, and continuously evaluated, to ensure that you visit only the highest quality properties, with the very best services.
Experience Paro
Browse a few of our favourite things to do in Paro.
We take you off the beaten tourist track and introduce you to Bhutan’s hidden gems, provide unrivalled cultural interactions and special access to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
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