Paro is one of the most scenic places in Bhutan. It sits in a valley surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests. The town has a mix of history, culture, and nature. It is the entry point for most visitors since Bhutan’s only international airport is here. Paro is a good place for cheap travel because it has free attractions, stunning viewpoints, and affordable hiking options.
Free Things to See and Do
Paro has many free activities for travelers on a budget. The town itself is worth exploring. Traditional Bhutanese buildings line the streets, and the local market is a good place to see daily life. There are small shops selling handicrafts, spices, and local textiles.
For great views, walk up to the Drukgyel Dzong ruins. This fortress was built in the 17th century and offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s history. On clear days, you can see Mount Jomolhari in the distance. Another free viewpoint is at the Paro Dzong, where you can overlook the river and valley. The hike up to Kila Gompa Nunnery, located on a cliffside, is also free. It is a peaceful place with stunning mountain views.
Main Attractions
The most famous site in Paro is Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang). This temple sits on a cliff about 900 meters above the valley. The hike takes around two to three hours, with viewpoints along the way. It is the most visited place in Bhutan and an important religious site.
Paro Dzong, also called Rinpung Dzong, is another highlight. It is a large fortress that serves as a monastery and government office. The wooden architecture and courtyard make it one of the most impressive buildings in Bhutan. Next to it, the Nyamai Zam Bridge is a traditional wooden bridge that crosses the Paro River.
Access Information
It used to be mandatory to hire a travel guide in Bhutan. This does not apply anymore (from 2022). There is a fee for tourists, current info is $100 per day to stay in Bhutan (+ some free days after that, you need to do your own research).
Book your stay now on our partner website!
You will be redirected to the chosen website for booking. Stay22 is our affiliate partner, we earn commission from bookings.
Off the Beaten Path
For those looking for cheap travel and quieter spots, Paro has several hidden gems. The Dzongdrakha Monastery is often called the “mini Tiger’s Nest.” It is built on a rock face but is easier to reach than Taktsang. Few tourists visit, making it a peaceful place.
The Haa Valley, located about two hours from Paro, is one of Bhutan’s least-visited areas. It has rolling hills, traditional villages, and scenic roads. Travelers who want a break from tourist sites can explore this valley. There are homestays and guesthouses for those who want to stay overnight.
Chele La Pass is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. It connects Paro to the Haa Valley. The pass offers panoramic views of the mountains and is covered in prayer flags. It is a great place for a short trek or a picnic.
Other Things to Do
For those interested in Bhutanese history, the National Museum of Bhutan is worth a visit. It has artifacts, paintings, and religious items that explain the country’s past. The building itself was once a watchtower for Paro Dzong.
Hot stone baths are a unique experience in Bhutan. These baths use river stones heated in a fire to warm the water. Many local guesthouses offer this, and it is a relaxing way to end a day of hiking.
The Paro Tsechu festival, held every spring, is one of Bhutan’s biggest festivals. Monks perform masked dances in the courtyard of Paro Dzong. The event attracts many locals and visitors. For those looking for cheap travel, this is a great time to experience Bhutanese culture without paying extra for special events.
Seasons Info
Paro has a mild climate, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do. The peak season is from March to May and September to November. These months have clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Spring is the best time for hiking, while autumn offers colorful landscapes. However, this is also when prices are highest.
The shoulder season, June and December, is a good time for cheap travel. June has some rain, but it is still possible to visit major attractions. December is cold, but the sky remains clear, and tourist numbers drop.
The off-season, January and February, is winter. Snowfall can close some mountain passes, but Paro itself remains accessible. It is the quietest time for visitors, and accommodation prices are lower. This is the best time for budget travelers who do not mind the cold.
Conclusion
Paro is a great place to experience Bhutan’s culture and nature. It has famous sites, hidden monasteries, and stunning views. For those looking for cheap travel, Paro offers many free attractions and affordable outdoor activities. Whether visiting in peak season or off-season, there is always something to see and do in this beautiful valley.
Book your flight on our partner website!
You will be redirected to kiwi.com website for search and booking. Kiwi.com is our affiliate partner, we earn commission from bookings.
Prices info
To visit Bhutan, you need to pay a daily fee which is relatively high (currently $100 per day). You do not need to hire a local guide anymore. On the other hand, the prices of everything are much lower than in western countries.
Food and water safety
It’s recommended for tourists to opt for bottled or boiled water to avoid any potential risks. When it comes to food, Bhutan offers a unique culinary experience, but it’s advisable to eat from reputable and hygienic establishments and only eat vegetables and fruit which can be peeled or properly washed.
Customs, laws, safety
Customs and laws in Bhutan can be different than in EU and US so do your research before your stay.
We have marked Bhutan as difficult destination. It is because the country is not very touristy so there is a language barrier and you will find the country is very different from western countries. Things like organising where to stay and transportation are complicated. The culture is very different and we believe you need to be an experienced traveler to go to Bhutan.
If you are beginner and still want to go, there are local guides (who used to be mandatory) so if you hire someone for the whole of your stay, research customs, and listen to the guide, you can probably go.
– Bhutan is not LGBTQIA+ friendly, homosexuality is illegal in the country.
Important info
– Safety – US Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
– UK, EU and US citizens need visa to visit Bhutan
– Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid vaccinations are recommended (consult with your doctor)
– Read our Cheap travel tips
– You can find weather by month, difficulty level, and LGBT friendliness in our Data tables.
– You can join Couchsurfing for free accommodation
– Follow us on social media for every day suggestions:
Digital nomads
Bhutan is not an ideal destination for digital nomads. Internet connection is not widely available and there is a high fee for tourists to stay in the country.