Bhutan to Dubai 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.

Dubai is a city that seamlessly blends modern luxury with rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for travelers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other GCC countries. Known for its towering skyscrapers, opulent shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife, Dubai offers an array of experiences that cater to all types of visitors. The city's history, dating back to ancient trading routes, is preserved in its museums and historic sites, providing a glimpse into its storied past.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months from November to March. This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts various events and festivals, including the Dubai Shopping Festival in January, which attracts visitors from around the world. While summer months can be extremely hot, many indoor attractions and shopping centers are air-conditioned, making it possible to enjoy the city year-round.

Getting There

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the primary gateway to the city, offering excellent connectivity with direct flights from major cities in the UAE and other GCC countries. Airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai provide frequent services, making it easy to find cheap flights to Dubai. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months, and check visa requirements before booking your Dubai flight ticket.

Where to Stay

Dubai offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxurious hotels like Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm to more affordable options in Deira and Al Barsha, there is something for everyone. Popular areas for tourists include Downtown Dubai, home to the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, and Jumeirah Beach, known for its stunning coastline and beach resorts.

Must-See Places & Experiences

• Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world, offering breathtaking views from its observation deck
• The Dubai Mall: A shopping paradise with over 1,200 stores, an aquarium, and an ice rink
• Dubai Fountain: A captivating water show set to music, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa
• Palm Jumeirah: A man-made island featuring luxury hotels, restaurants, and beaches
• Dubai Creek: Explore the historic heart of Dubai with traditional markets and dhow cruises
• The Desert: Experience a desert safari, complete with dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional Bedouin camps

Local Transportation

Getting around Dubai is convenient with various transportation options available. The Dubai Metro is a fast and affordable way to travel between major attractions. Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced, while ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem offer additional convenience. For a unique experience, consider taking an abra (traditional boat) across Dubai Creek.

Food & Dining

Dubai's culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, reflecting its diverse population. Must-try dishes include shawarma, falafel, and hummus, available at local eateries and street food stalls. For a fine dining experience, visit restaurants like Zuma, Nobu, and Al Mahara. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a traditional Emirati meal at Al Fanar Restaurant or Arabian Tea House.

Practical Travel Tips

• Currency: The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted.
• Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is commonly spoken.
• Safety: Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, but always exercise common travel precautions.
• Apps: Download apps like RTA Dubai for public transport information, Zomato for restaurant reviews, and Visit Dubai for tourist information.

Whether you're booking a Dubai flight ticket or planning your itinerary, this Dubai travel guide for United Arab Emirates (UAE) & Other GCC Countries travelers will help you make the most of your visit to this dynamic city.