What is there to do in Paro?
Renowned for its many sacred sites, the valley town of Paro is a patchwork of tiered paddy fields and antiquated farmsteads strewn across the lush hillsides. The best known of its ancient edifices is the iconic Paro Taktsang monastery (more commonly referred to as the Tiger's Nest), which clings to the cliffside at the northern end of the valley. Often marking the starting point of Bhutan holidays (as the location of the country’s only international airport), the town offers an excellent introduction to the storied past and intriguing culture of this grand Himalayan kingdom.
Aside from on foot, another of our favourite ways to see the sights of Paro is to join a guide on a mountain bike ride, which allows you to take in the lush landscapes as well as stop at the various dzongs en route. The town’s lifeblood, the Paro Chhu River, snakes its way through the base of the valley and offers thrill-seekers the opportunity to kayak and white-water raft. Make sure not to miss Paro Dzong during your Paro holiday, which is accessed via a small wooden bridge across the river, as well as The National Museum, which displays a fascinating selection of traditional Bhutanese art, including beautiful bronze statues and silk paintings.