India to Paro Flight

Mumbai, the bustling metropolis on India's west coast, is a captivating destination for travelers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other GCC countries. Known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and iconic landmarks, Mumbai offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. From the glitz and glamour of Bollywood to the historical charm of its colonial architecture, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Mumbai is during the cooler months from November to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Travelers from the UAE and GCC countries will find the climate comfortable, especially compared to the scorching summer months. Additionally, visiting during festivals like Diwali or the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival can provide a deeper insight into the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Getting There

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) serves as the main gateway to Mumbai. There are numerous direct flights from major cities in the UAE and other GCC countries, making travel convenient. Airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways offer frequent flights to Mumbai. Visitors from the UAE can enjoy seamless Mumbai flight ticket booking and often find cheap flights to Mumbai through various online platforms. Ensure you have a valid visa before traveling, which can be easily obtained online or through Indian consulates.

Where to Stay

Mumbai offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. For luxury stays, consider hotels like The Taj Mahal Palace and The Oberoi, which offer world-class amenities and stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Mid-range travelers can opt for properties like Trident Nariman Point or The St. Regis Mumbai. Budget-conscious visitors will find plenty of comfortable options in areas like Colaba and Bandra, which are also popular among international tourists.

Must-See Places & Experiences

• Gateway of India: An iconic monument and a great starting point for exploring Mumbai.
• Marine Drive: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this famous promenade, especially during sunset.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture.
• Elephanta Caves: Take a ferry ride to this island to explore ancient rock-cut temples.
• Bollywood Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at India's film industry with a guided tour.
• Shopping: Visit bustling markets like Colaba Causeway, Fashion Street, and Chor Bazaar for unique finds.

Local Transportation

Mumbai has an extensive public transportation network, including suburban trains, buses, and auto-rickshaws. For international visitors, taxis and app-based ride services like Uber and Ola are convenient options for getting around. The Mumbai Metro and Monorail also provide efficient connectivity to various parts of the city. From the airport, pre-paid taxi services and ride-hailing apps offer hassle-free transfers to your accommodation.

Food & Dining

Mumbai's culinary scene is as diverse as its population. Must-try local dishes include vada pav, pav bhaji, and bhel puri. For fine dining, consider restaurants like The Table, Masque, and Bombay Canteen, which offer contemporary takes on Indian cuisine. Street food is an integral part of the Mumbai experience, and you'll find some of the best at places like Juhu Beach and Girgaon Chowpatty.

Practical Travel Tips

• Currency: The Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency. Currency exchange services are widely available.
• Language: While Hindi and Marathi are the primary languages, English is widely spoken and understood.
• Safety: Mumbai is generally safe, but it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
• Apps: Download apps like MakeMyTrip for Mumbai flight booking and Zomato for restaurant recommendations.

Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you're drawn by its historical landmarks, vibrant arts scene, or bustling markets, this city promises an unforgettable experience for travelers from the UAE and other GCC countries.

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.