Paro

Paro, in western Bhutan, is the country’s cultural heart and home to its only international airport. Just an hour’s drive from the capital, Thimphu, the valley is dotted with rice paddies, apple orchards, and traditional homes with intricate woodwork. Surrounded by scenic valleys and rivers, Paro is rich in history and spirituality, with landmarks such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Paro Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang. The Paro Tshechu is among Bhutan’s grandest festivals, featuring colorful masked dances, traditional music, and the unfurling of the giant thangka. With its natural beauty, ancient sites, and welcoming atmosphere, Paro is both Bhutan’s gateway and a center of culture and heritage.