Nestled within the majestic Himalayas, Paro is a captivating town in Bhutan known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic landscapes. The history of tourism in Paro, and Bhutan as a whole, is relatively recent, with the kingdom cautiously opening up to foreign visitors in the 1970s.
Before the 1970s, Bhutan remained largely isolated from the rest of the world, preserving its rich cultural heritage and pristine natural environment. In an effort to maintain its traditions and protect its environment, the Bhutanese government has always taken a measured approach to tourism, embodying the principle of "High Value, Low Impact."
1974 marked a significant year for Bhutan with the coronation of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. This historic event also coincided with Bhutan cautiously opening its doors to tourism. In a move to promote controlled interaction with the outside world, the first group of paying tourists was invited to witness the grand celebration.
Since these initial steps, tourism in Paro, as well as other parts of Bhutan, has developed in a sustainable fashion. The concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which prioritizes the well-being of its citizens over economic growth, dictates tourism policy in Bhutan. All tourists (except for nationals from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) are required to pay a daily tariff that covers accommodation, food, transportation, guide services, and sustainable development efforts.
The Bhutanese government introduced the Minimum Daily Package to ensure that the revenues from tourism are redistributed to benefit the population and contribute to the conservation of the kingdom's cultural and natural heritage. This policy has helped maintain a low volume of high-quality tourism, preserving the authenticity and exclusivity of the Bhutanese travel experience.
Paro is home to many key attractions that have contributed to its growing popularity amongst discerning travelers. The iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang Palphug Monastery), perched on the side of a cliff, is a spiritual and architectural landmark. The Rinpung Dzong and National Museum also draw visitors interested in Bhutan's history and art.
In recent years, the latest trend in tourism has been a shift towards experiential and sustainable travel. Tourists visiting Paro now seek authentic experiences that allow them to connect deeply with the local culture, partake in traditional Bhutanese festivities, and embrace eco-friendly practices. There's an increasing interest in homestays, locally guided hikes, and organic culinary experiences.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on tourism worldwide, and Paro was no exception. Bhutan's cautious approach to health and safety led to the temporary suspension of international tourism to safeguard its citizens and visitors. As the situation improves, the kingdom looks forward to welcoming tourists back, with an emphasis on health and wellness tourism and reconnecting people to nature, aligning with their GNH philosophy.
The history of tourism in Paro is a testament to Bhutan's commitment to balancing development with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. Those fortunate enough to visit this Himalayan gem are certain to find a nation rich in tradition, spirituality, and natural wonder—a travel experience that goes far beyond the ordinary.