A final chapter full of magic, momos, and mountain views
If Punakha stole our hearts, then Paro nestled itself quietly into our souls.
There’s something incredibly charming about this little Himalayan town—from the moment we arrived, it felt like we had stepped into a cozy European mountain village. Quaint streets, boutique shops, inviting cafes, and crisp mountain air—it was everything we didn’t know we were craving.
We checked into Gawaling Hotel, a charming property tucked away in a peaceful corner of Paro. Surrounded by greenery and set apart from the buzz, it offered the kind of serenity that you dream of in the mountains. The rooms were warm and welcoming, and the setting felt almost like a retreat in itself—a perfect base for our time here.
But Paro isn’t just about good looks. It holds Bhutan’s most iconic landmark—the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
We were ready. Trek shoes on, excitement bubbling, and hearts full of anticipation for what was easily going to be the highlight of our journey.
The trek to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) is everything it’s promised to be—and more. Winding trails through pine forests, fluttering prayer flags, sweeping valley views, and that deep, unmistakable silence that only Bhutan offers. There’s a charming café at the halfway point, perfect for resting your legs and soaking in the view.
And if you’re feeling unsure about the climb—ponies are available up to the halfway mark. It’s a great option for those who want to witness the wonder without the full trek.
We each climbed at our own pace, encouraging one another and breathing in the stillness along the way. And finally—there it was. Tiger’s Nest, perched impossibly on a sheer cliff, spiritual and serene. It’s hard to describe what you feel in that moment—part achievement, part awe, part peace. It’s pure Bhutan.
After the descent, we made our way to a 400-year-old Governor’s house, a traditional Bhutanese home filled with beautiful artifacts and timeless charm. But the best part? The hot stone bath that awaited us. Heated river stones infused with Himalayan herbs were dropped into steaming wooden tubs—soaking our tired legs, calming our bodies, and leaving us feeling brand new. It’s not just a bath—it’s a healing ritual you absolutely must experience in Bhutan.
Throughout our stay in Paro, we also discovered a café that stole our hearts (and our appetites): Valley Inn Café. Run by a former Taj Tashi chef, this little eatery served food so delicious, we went back three times. From freshly steamed momos to flavorful red rice, fried noodles, and juicy burgers—every meal was a hit. It was warm, satisfying, and full of flavor—just like Paro itself.
On our final day, we indulged in massages and facials, because why not go out feeling your best?
And for those planning a trip—here’s a little secret. There’s an option to fly out of Paro International Airport, and though it’s more expensive than Bagdogra, it offers something priceless: jaw-dropping aerial views of the Himalayas. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Everest’s summit. Only a handful of pilots in the world are trained to land here, making it one of the most thrilling and scenic flight paths you can ever take.
As we made our way back to Phuentsholing, a gentle stillness came over us. Bhutan had offered us more than just landscapes and landmarks—it gave us clarity, laughter, bonding, and a deep sense of peace.
Paro wasn’t just a farewell. It was a grand finale.
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