How to Plan a Paro Bhutan Tour: 10 Tips to Follow for Smooth Travel in 2025

Located in the stunning Paro Valley area, Paro is the seat of the Paro Dzongkhag. The home of the Paro International Airport, as well as the Rinpung Dzong and the famous Taktshang Monastery, Paro is an amazing place to visit in Bhutan and the first destination tourists see when they arrive.

Here, we offer the ultimate guide to Paro Bhutan travel to help you arrange your tour and make the most of your time in Paro.

1. Book Your Flight to Paro in Advance

Taking a flight to Bhutan is the most common way for most travelers. Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan, lies around six kilometers from the center of Paro town, in the deep valley of the Paro Chhu. The airport actually lies right alongside the river banks and is surrounded by the Himalayan peaks that stretch up to more than 5,500 meters above sea level.

Flights to Paro are only available from five countries and are only offered by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Among the available routes are flights from several major travel hubs, including Dubai, Bangkok, and Delhi, so many travelers are only one connection away from the Buddhist kingdom. It's also possible to fly to Paro from Kathmandu as part of a larger tour of the Himalayan region.

It is important to book your flight to Paro well in advance. Flights to Paro are relatively limited, and seats can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Start making your travel arrangements at least three months in advance to secure the best travel dates.

2. Choose the Best Time to Visit Paro

As with most of Bhutan, the best time to visit Paro is from March to June and September to November, which are the peak months for tourism in the kingdom. Paro has four seasons, and the spring and autumn seasons are the best times to travel, as the weather is at its optimum for all the touring and other activities that you can try in the Dzongkhag.

Spring and autumn are also the best times for trekking in the Paro area, and some of the best Bhutan trekking tours begin just north of Paro town. Spring and autumn are also the best time to visit the Tiger’s Nest, on its high cliffside perch above the Paro Valley. The trail that leads up to the monastery is dry and solid, though sometimes a little dusty, and you can make good time on this long uphill climb.

Winter is a popular time for budget travelers to Paro despite being the coldest season. Temperatures may drop to a little below freezing in January, but overall winter temperatures can be compared with those of northwest Europe and the northern states of the US. Places like the National Museum and Tiger’s Nest Monastery are open all year, and with very little snow falling in the winter months in Paro, it is still possible to tackle some of the local treks.

3. Arrange a Half-day Trip to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Paro Taktsang, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. Perched on a hill in the Paro Valley, 3,120m above sea level, it is a legendary site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have arrived on the back of a tigress to meditate in the caves there.

You can visit Tiger’s Nest Monastery on a half-day trip, hiking the route up the mountain while enjoying incredible views of the Paro Valley. The round trip covers around 6.4 km and takes 5-6 hours, including time to explore the monastery.

The monastery is a peaceful and spiritual place. You can explore the meditation caves and tour the monastery. From 900m above Paro, the view of the city and mountains is breathtaking.

4. Don’t Miss Dzongs and Lhakhangs in Paro

Dzongs and Lhakhangs are important religious and administrative structures found all over Bhutan. Dzongs are fortress-like monasteries known for their massive whitewashed walls and intricate woodwork. They’re found in strategic locations on hilltops or at the confluence of rivers. Lhakhangs are temples or monasteries dedicated to Buddhist worship. Some stand on their own, and others are part of larger monastery complexes.

The Rinpung Dzong in Paro, or the Rinchen Pung Dzong as its official name, is one of the high points of Paro Bhutan tours and is well worth visiting. The Dzong, which used to be the meeting hall for the National Assembly, now houses the monastic body and the local government offices, so parts of the Dzong are not open to tourists. The Dzong currently houses around 200 monks and was built in the 17th century on the remains of a fort that was originally constructed by Guru Rinpoche. It contains some of the kingdom’s greatest artwork treasures and is renowned for its stunning architecture.

Kyichu Lhakhang is the oldest and one of the most beautiful temples in Bhutan. The main chapel has roots dating back to the 7th century, and the site has expanded over the years. In 1939, a golden roof was added by the governor of Paro and the 25th Chief Abbot. It is a charming site that attracts pilgrims to circumambulate the temple as part of their spiritual practice.

Drukgyel Dzong is a famous archaeological site in Bhutan, located on a ridge in the upper Paro Valley. Unlike other Dzong, it was built purely for defensive purposes. Originally constructed in 1649, it was in continuous use until 1951, when it was destroyed in a fire. Much of the site is well-preserved and undergoing restoration.

Remember that dzongs and lhakhangs are religious sites. It is important to be respectful when visiting. Wear modest clothing that at least covers your shoulders and knees. Don’t disturb pilgrims or worshippers, and check with your guide about when and where it is appropriate to take photos.

5. Spend 3 Days Exploring the Essence of Paro

For most travelers to Bhutan, they spent 2 nights in Paro, including the first arrival day, the last departure day and a full day to trek up to the Taktshang Monastery. Since the flights to Bhutan always land at Paro International Airport in the morning, the rest of the day is enough for you to visit Paro Rinpung Dzong and some other sited in Paro.

Sample Itinerary for 3 Days Paro Tour:

Day 1: Upon arrival, you will visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong Museum.

Day 2: You can enjoy a full-day trek to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery and have a hot stone bath in a farmhouse or have a free walk in the town.

Day 3: Get to Paro airport and take the flight to your next destination.

Of course, there are more attractions and activities you can do in Paro. Just feel free to customize your trip with us. Our local travel experts will recommend more things to do according to your needs.

6. Experience the Vibrant Paro Tschedu Festival in April

One of the best times to visit Paro is during the Paro Tshechu Festival in April. It is the biggest event in the city and runs from the 10th day of the 2nd month in the Bhutanese Calendar. In 2025, it will fall on April 6th-12th, lasting five days.

The festival is held at the Rinpung Dzong. Cham mask dances are the heart of the festival. Monks and performers wear elaborate masks and colorful costumes to act out stories of Buddhist teachings. There will be lots of authentic food to enjoy and a festive and welcoming atmosphere. The highlight of the final day is the unveiling of a Thongdrol, a massive silk painting of Guru Rinpoche that is believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings.

7. Explore the Hidden Gem in Paro - The Haa Valley

The Haa Valley is one of Paro’s best-hidden gems. Located around 65km west of the city, it takes two hours to reach by car. The valley was only opened up to tourism in 2002 and remains an undeveloped area where you can see tranquil scenes of traditional life and picturesque scenery.

On the drive there, you will cross Chele-la pass at 3,998m and have great views of Mount Cholohari. The wooded hills in the surrounding area are perfect for hiking or mountain biking. Temples like Lhakhang Karpo, the White Temple, and Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple, dot the area. The ancient buildings date back to the 7th century and house spiritual treasures.

Yangthang Village is 3km from Haa Town and is a hub for activities and attractions. It is the starting point of the hike to Yangto Goenpa and biking excursions around the valley. The village has excellent homestays, beautiful campsites, and a hot stone bath you can enjoy.

8. Choose from Economic 3-star Hotels to Luxury Hotels in Paro

Accommodations in Paro range from clean and comfortable 3-star hotels to 5-star luxury accommodations. At a minimum, you can expect excellent service and all the amenities you need for a great tour.

Among the 3-star hotels, you’ll find affordable lodgings with comfortable rooms often furnished with traditional Bhutanese wooden designs. Many establishments are family-owned and operated and offer spas or cultural experiences. You can find places with great views of the Paro Valley, as well as traditional and international fare, served in on-site restaurants.

Luxury hotels in Paro offer world-class service and facilities. You can stay in spacious rooms decorated with traditional Bhutanese décor. Onsite fine dining, wellness centers, and hot stone baths provide luxury services to enjoy.

9. Stay in a Homestay in Paro for an Authentic Local Culture Experience

Homestays in Paro are a popular option for many travelers to Bhutan and cost no more than your low-end three-star hotel. Homestays also allow you to experience the local Bhutanese culture better, as you will be staying in a local home with the family that lives there. You will eat with them, sleep in the house, and travel with your guide and driver during the day. For those who want to learn more about the unique Bhutanese culture, this is the best option.

10. Last but Not Least, Book Your Paro Bhutan Tour Through a Licensed Tour Operator

Book your Paro tour through a licensed tour operator is important for a hassle-free travel experience. Visiting Bhutan is a fascinating and unique experience, and a well-established, reputable tour operator like Bhutan Vista will ensure that you have a smooth trip.

Our professional travel consultants will work with you to plan a fully customized itinerary that delivers the best experience of Paro. You’ll go deeper than what’s in the guidebooks to see hidden gems and have authentic experiences. With all the arrangements taken care of, you can enjoy worry-free travel and be able to immerse yourself in the rich, ancient culture of Bhutan.

Conclusion

Paro is one of the main tourist areas of Bhutan and is where you can find many of the kingdom’s best treks, which can often be completed from autumn right through to the end of spring. It’s a great year-round destination, with great weather in the high season and still lots to enjoy in the low season for traveling on a budget.

No matter when you visit, you will find that Paro is the best introduction to the Buddhist Kingdom and a gateway to adventure for the lifetime Bhutan tour.