Top Things to Do in the Paro | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Paro

Places To Visit In Paro

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge

Popularly known as the Iron Chain Bridge, the Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge crosses the Paro Chhu to the Dzong. This 600-year-old bridge was built by Thangtong Gyalpo in the late 1300s, who is said to have built 108 bridges all over Tibet and Bhutan. Made of wood and Iron, this is the first bridge to have ever been built in Bhutan. Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge greets its guests with a fantastic view of the surroundings.

Founded by Thangtong Gyalpo, the Tago Lhakhang stands out in the tiny village of Bondey, 6kms from Paro. It is beside the main road near the Bondey bridge and can be easily spotted because of its unusual structure. Situated on the eastern side of the Paro Chhu, the most striking feature of this shrine is the circular chapel on its upper floor.

Popularly known as Tachog Lhakhang or ‘temple of the hill of the excellent horse’, the Tamchoe Monastery stands on a mountain base at an altitude of 2156m along the highway connecting Paro and Thimphu. Overlooking the Paro Chhu, this Dzong is located between Chhuzom and Isuna village and dates back to 1420 when architect saint Thangtong Gyalpo built it after having a vision of Avalokiteshvara in the guise of Balaha-an (spiritual horse) during meditating. Read More

Built in the early 1900s, the Ugyen Pelri Palace is an excellent display of Bhutanese architecture at its finest. It was modelled after the Zangto Pelri which was known as Guru Rinpoche's paradise. It currently serves as the residence of the queen mother of Bhutan. The palace is closed to the public. It is situated next to the iconic Five Chortens of Paro, may be viewed in its entirety from the Paro Dzong.

Ugyen Pema Woedling Zangthopelri is unquestionably one of the most spectacular monasteries in Paro. Often left unnoticed by tourists, this sacred site watches the daily hustle-bustle silently from a small corner of the town. The marvellous structures of Buddha and the huge statue of Guru Tshen Geyed inside the monastery is one of its highlights. It's often called the hidden gem of Paro, as it cannot be easily found on maps nor is it open always. Read More

Zuri Dzong is one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan dating back to 12th century. Rich in history and royal in values, the cave in the area is believed to be the site where Buddha meditated in the 8th century. Protected by double walls and a bridge, this five-storey building is also an ideal place to hike. Apart from its historical significance, the Zuri Dzong is one of those places where you can enjoy the mesmerising view of Paro Valley. Source Read More

Amorgos

Amorgos is right in the centre of the Cyclades, considered one of the most spectacular islands among the Cycladic islands. You can explore the hidden gems of the islands and experience a truly authentic Greek village set up. This secluded island is also one of the sites where the 1988 movie, ‘Le Grand Bleu’ was shot. Amazingly clean beaches with sapphire-like waters, ancient trails, hidden caves and tranquil bays make for an experience you cannot miss. It is not just another popular coastal beach, as it has a rich cultural and geographical history that archaeologists have uncovered. The island dates back to the early Cycladic era and has still managed to preserve its traditional aspects. You can observe the slow and peaceful lives of the locals by taking a walk around its reticulate alleys. While promenading along the narrow paths, you will appreciate the views of the tall hills surrounding the island or choose to unwind in a cozy bar after a day of sightseeing. You can also visit the 13th century castle or one of the monasteries on the island to admire its architecture. It differs from other Greek island due to its relatively elevated terrain, which offers a picturesque view of the Aegean Sea. Read More

Antiparos Island

One of the most beautiful islands in the group of Cycladic islands, Antiparos island is located right in the middle of the Aegean Sea. It is known for its beaches, water sports activities, nightlife and historical sites. The Antiparos island is not crowded like Paros but has a more secluded set-up. The beautiful beaches on Antiparos island offer swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and other water sports. With the signature crystalline water of Greece, soft golden sand, calm water and pleasant sun, they make for a good day out in the sun. The Antiparos island is also home to a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Antiparos cave, the only vertical cave in entire of Europe. The cave is stunning, with stalactites and stalagmites. In fact, it houses a stalagmite, aged nearly 45 million years old. The island's most animated aspect is its capital, Chora, with its eclectic nightlife. Chora is cosmopolitan in the most definitive sense with its wide range of clubs, bars, taverns, restaurants, and cafés. However, Chora has not lost its charm because of its rich traditional Cycladic architecture, prominently in the form of a Venetian castle and a majestic fortress. Read More

Cave of Antiparos

The cave of Antiparos is the most prominent tourist site on the tiny island of Antiparos. It is the only vertical cave in Europe with a depth\ of approximately 85 meters. It is also known as the cave of Agios Ioannis Church. What is extraordinary about this cave is the display of stunning stalactites and stalagmites, which form various shapes. It is also home to the oldest stalactite in Europe, estimated to be nearly 45 million years old. Along with a picturesque view of beaches and hills, the Aegean Sea lies beneath your feet. You can observe the various inlets, the stunning Soros beach, huge rocks weathered by time and sea, and a panoramic view of Paros island. It exhibits the natural wonder of Paros in an exquisite fashion. However, it was only in the 15th century AD that the cave was explored by the French. Archaeologists have discovered that the cave was used as a refuge site and, subsequently, also, as a place of worship during the Geometric and Classical Era. As you enter the cave, you can also visit the Agios Ioannis Spiliotis Chapel, from the 18th century. Read More

Faragas Beach

Located on the southern side of Paros, the Faragas beach is known for its azure waters, soft golden sand and lush vegetation that flanks the coast of the beach. It is protected by winds and currents due to the rocky formations that surround it. It is one of the lesser crowded beaches in Paros which provides greater privacy to visitors looking to relax alone.You can even enjoy water sports like snorkelling, kayaking or surfing on the beach. You can spend a day lounging in the sun, enjoying drinks from the bar and relish delicious seafood from the restaurant at the beach. If you are an explorer, you can click stunning photographs of the mountains surrounding it, go swimming in the shallow waters of the beach or explore the isolated coves. Despite being secluded, the beach is equipped with luxury and comfort with its range of facilities. It has beach bars, sunbeds, and umbrellas for rent, showers as well as toilets. The beach has plenty of parking space and is easily accessible by road. Read More