Thimphu to Paro
Your options
Ways to make the journey
1–1.5 h
The standard way. Most itineraries combine this short transfer with sightseeing: Simtokha Dzong on the way out of Thimphu, the confluence at Chhuzom, the iron-chain bridge at Tachog Lhakhang, and lunch in Paro. With stops it becomes a relaxed half-day. Your guide and car are already with you for the trip, so there is no separate cost beyond the day rate.
1–1.5 h
Paro airport is in the Paro valley, so many travellers arriving by air drive straight to Thimphu for the first nights and return to Paro at the end, or the other way round. Your guide meets you at arrivals. Even this transfer needs a licensed guide under current rules. Flights depend on visibility, so leave time before onward connections.
Worth a stop
- Simtokha Dzong, built in 1629 by the Zhabdrung
- Chhuzom confluence and its three chortens
- Tachog Lhakhang and the iron-chain bridge associated with Thangtong Gyalpo
- Viewpoint over Paro airport runway
- Paro town and Rinpung Dzong
Questions people ask
Good to know
How far is Paro from Thimphu
About 55 km, which takes 1–1.5 hours by car on a good two-lane highway. The road follows the Wang Chhu down to Chhuzom and then climbs gently up the Paro valley past the airport. With stops at Simtokha Dzong and Tachog Lhakhang, most people make it a half-day. It is one of the easiest drives in Bhutan.
Do Indians need a route permit for Paro
No. The Entry Permit issued at Phuentsholing, at Paro airport or online covers Thimphu and Paro. Route permits are needed for places beyond them, such as Punakha, Haa, Phobjikha or Bumthang, and are issued in Thimphu on working days. A licensed guide is still required. Check current status before you travel.
What is Tachog Lhakhang
Tachog Lhakhang is a temple on the far bank of the Paro Chhu on the Thimphu–Paro road, associated with Thangtong Gyalpo, the 15th-century Tibetan saint and bridge builder. You reach it by an iron-chain footbridge rebuilt in the traditional style. The temple is privately owned by a family linked to his lineage, so ask your guide whether it is open.
Should I stay in Thimphu or Paro first
If you fly in, Thimphu first and Paro last usually works best: you acclimatise in town before the Tiger's Nest hike, and you sleep near the airport before your flight. If you arrive overland from Phuentsholing, Thimphu is the natural first stop anyway. Paro first suits trips that start with the Druk Path Trek.