Paro

Paro is a small valley town in western Bhutan with a population of around 12,000, set at 2,200 metres in a fertile valley edged by terraced rice fields and forested mountains. For many travellers, Paro tourism begins the moment they land at Bhutan’s only international airport located here. The dramatic Tiger’s Nest Monastery clings to a cliff 900 metres above the valley floor and ranks among the top attractions in Paro. The town centre is a single main street lined with traditional whitewashed buildings adorned with painted wooden facades, dragons and symbolic fertility motifs. Key places to visit in Paro include the imposing 17th century Paro Dzong, the National Museum housed in a 16th century watchtower and peaceful riverside walking trails. Most Paro travel guide itineraries suggest a relaxed two day stay before continuing to Thimphu. The best time to visit Paro is March to May for rhododendron blooms or September to November for crisp Himalayan views.