Paro is a town in western Bhutan, set in a fertile Himalayan valley and home to Bhutan’s main international gateway, Paro Airport, known for its short, mountain-flanked runway and challenging approaches. It is a compact introduction to Bhutanese culture and mountain scenery, with major religious sites close to town.
The standout pilgrimage stop is Paro Taktsang, a clifftop Bhutanese monastery known as Tiger’s Nest and reached by a steep trail with dramatic mountain views. In the valley, Rinpung Dzong is Paro’s fortress-monastery and a festival venue with ornate chapels and administrative offices, while Kyichu Lhakhang is one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
For local history and collections, the National Museum (Ta Dzong) occupies a circular watchtower with displays of Bhutanese art, weapons, and regional history. Beyond town, the Drukgyel Dzong ruins sit above the Paro valley for quieter hiking and panoramic views, and longer routes like the Chomolhari Trek head toward the sacred Himalayan peak Jomolhari on the Bhutan, Tibet border.
