Paro
Paro District
Paro is one of Bhutan's most picturesque valley towns and is considered the cultural heart of the nation. It serves as the gateway for international visitors and is home to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang). This historic town is renowned for its traditional architecture, sacred temples, and majestic Dzongs (fortress-monasteries).
Practical Travel Guide for Paro
Make your journey smoother with essential practical information to read before traveling.
Visa Information
All visitors require a visa before travelling to Bhutan (except for nationals of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives). As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).
Adapter Type
Dzongkha
Getting Around
Visitors typically rely on pre-booked private transport (car and driver) through a tour operator for the duration of their stay, as this is the primary way to explore Paro and Bhutan. The town itself is small and easily walkable. Public transport consists of local buses but is infrequent.
Local Flavors
Bhutanese cuisine is characterized by its spiciness and rich flavors. Chilies are often treated as a vegetable, not just a spice. In Paro, you can find authentic Bhutanese restaurants as well as hotel dining that caters to international palates.