Bhutan to Delhi Flight

Paro was a historical province, often referred to as the last kingdom in the Himalayas among the nine historical provinces of Bhutan. The old province was similar to the present day town limits, occupying the western lands of Bhutan. The Paro Dzong houses the administrative headquarters of the Paro Province.

The present day Paro is a picturesque valley town in the heart of Bhutan, situated on the banks of the river Paro Chhu. It extends from the Paro Chhu and the Wang Chhu, up till Mt. Jomolhari near the Tibetan border in the north. The town is surrounded by precious mountain valley views of untouched natural habitat. The city town isn’t a very old one; the main strip was built in 1985. With the passing years, the painted wooden cafes, restaurants, shops, and other establishments in Paro have begun to come under the shadow of mass concretisation. However, the charm of the city is still intact. The town is flanked by the Paro Dzong on the north-west, while the popularly known as the Tiger’s Nest lies nearby. Incidentally, Paro is the only Bhutanese town to have an international airport.

How to reach Paro

By Air – The main airport in Paro is the Paro International Airport. National carriers and other airlines operate flights to Paro from New Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Bangkok, etc. If you’re flying from other countries, it is advisable to first take a flight to one of the abovementioned cities and then a connecting flight to Paro.

By Train – One can reach Paro by train from West Bengal, India. Trains run from Kolkata to Paro.

By Road – One can drive to Paro via the international borders from India, but an international driving permit costing INR 400 is required, along with all the relevant documents of the car and the driver’s license. A valid visa is required for everyone entering Bhutan. Paro is a 32-hour drive from India’s capital Delhi. Buses also ply from the border at Phuntsholing.

What to do in Paro

Paro is the poster child of Himalayan aesthetics, with mountains, cliff-clinging monasteries, and sturdy fortresses, and it is a beautiful amalgamation of traditional Bhutanese and modern cultural habits. The area itself houses many sacred and historical sites, left to explore either by foot or the easily available taxis in the main town area. Exploring Paro Valley is considered one of the most exhilarating experiences in Bhutan, what with its lush green surroundings and uphill hikes. Paro is the part of Bhutan that is tailor-made for the nature lover looking to explore and relax in peace and quiet.

However, the main bazaar, the hub of tourist attractions, is an image of chaos, concrete, and activity. The “golden triangle” of Bhutanese tourist destinations is formed by Paro, Jakar, and Punakha.

Be it hiking or drinking and making merry at a café, Paro has something for every kind of traveller, and here are the top things to explore in Paro:

Taktsang Palphug Monastery

Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest)

Chele La Pass

Rinpung Dzong

Paro Taktsang

Dzongdrakha Temple

Kyichu Lhakhang

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge

National Museum

Drukgyel Dzong

Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche Memorial House

Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang

Ugyen Pema Woedling Zangthopelri

Major Airports in and near Paro

One among the four airports in the Kingdom of Bhutan, the Paro International Airport is the sole international airport in the country. Situated at an elevation of 2,235 m, and surrounded by peaks at an elevation of 5,500 m, the Paro International Airport is one of the most challenging airports in the world to fly in and out of. The national carriers, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, fly daily to Paro. All international flights to Paro land here. One can get flights to Paro from cities like Kolkata, New Delhi, Kathmandu, and Bangkok.

MakeMyTrip offers a wide range of flights to Paro. One can easily use the website to book a flight to Paro or from Paro, with the major airport being a hub for domestic and international airlines. MakeMyTrip flights to Paro can be availed at highly discounted rates during festivals and off seasons.

Delhi, the capital of India, offers a fascinating blend of historical grandeur and modern vibrancy, making it an enticing destination for travelers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other GCC countries. The city is a tapestry of diverse cultures, rich heritage, and bustling markets, providing a unique experience that beautifully contrasts the ancient with the contemporary.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Delhi is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. During these months, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. This period also coincides with several festivals, including Diwali and Holi, offering a glimpse into the vibrant Indian culture.

Getting There

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the primary gateway to Delhi, with excellent connectivity from major cities in the UAE and other GCC countries. Airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways offer frequent flights to Delhi. For hassle-free travel, ensure you have a valid visa, which can be obtained online through the e-Visa system for Indian tourist visas.

Where to Stay

Delhi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. For luxury seekers, areas like Connaught Place and Aerocity house some of the finest hotels, including The Leela Palace and JW Marriott. Budget travelers can find comfortable stays in Paharganj and Karol Bagh, which offer affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels.

Must-See Places & Experiences

Delhi is home to numerous iconic landmarks and attractions:
• Red Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of India's rich history.
• Qutub Minar: The tallest brick minaret in the world, showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture.
• India Gate: A war memorial and popular picnic spot.
• Lotus Temple: Known for its unique flower-like structure and serene ambiance.
• Humayun's Tomb: A precursor to the Taj Mahal and another UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Akshardham Temple: A stunning architectural marvel and cultural complex.

For a cultural immersion, visit Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi, where you can experience the city's vibrant street life and sample local delicacies.

Local Transportation

Delhi boasts a well-developed public transport system. The Delhi Metro is the most efficient way to navigate the city, connecting major tourist spots. Taxis and app-based ride services like Uber and Ola are widely available. For a more local experience, try the auto-rickshaws, but remember to negotiate the fare beforehand.

Food & Dining

Delhi is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse culinary landscape. Must-try dishes include:
• Butter Chicken: A rich and creamy chicken dish.
• Chole Bhature: Spicy chickpeas served with deep-fried bread.
• Parathas: Stuffed flatbreads available in various fillings.
For fine dining, visit restaurants like Indian Accent and Bukhara. Street food enthusiasts should not miss the delicacies at Chandni Chowk and the Paranthe Wali Gali.

Practical Travel Tips

• Currency: The Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and throughout the city.
• Language: Hindi is the primary language, but English is widely spoken and understood.
• Safety: Delhi is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay cautious, especially in crowded areas.
• Useful Apps: Download apps like Zomato for food recommendations, Ola and Uber for transportation, and Google Maps for navigation.

Delhi flight ticket booking is convenient and can be done through various online platforms. Look out for cheap flights to Delhi and book in advance to secure the best deals. Enjoy your journey to this magnificent city that promises an unforgettable experience.