Bhutanese cuisine is a reflection of the country's rich cultural heritage and the Paa Chhu River region in Paro is no exception. Agriculture has always been an integral part of Bhutanese life and this is visible in the dishes from Paro. The cuisine here is shaped by the rocky mountain terrain and the fertile valleys, where red rice is cultivated along with buckwheat and barley. Dairy from the yak is another staple in the Bhutanese diet, often used to prepare traditional dishes. Chili peppers, not merely a seasoning but a key ingredient, make Bhutanese cuisine famously fiery, especially with the national dish, Ema Datshi. Due to the river and its surrounding environment, trout is one of the few seafood types consumed in this landlocked region.
When traveling to Paro, food lovers can immerse themselves in traditional Bhutanese flavors while ensuring they respect local customs and dietary practices. There are a variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available that exclude cow non-veg food, adhering to the region's food culture and religious beliefs.