Paro International Airport

Love this airport Nationally relevant architecture Small and efficient What I like the most is that straight from plane you step off onto the apron and walk to the terminal kind of freely, meanwhile other planes are taxing. It is the most intimate experience of being on the apron I ever had. No other airport allows passengers to just walk over the apron like that. The experience of customs, luggage and etc is super pleasant and friendly.

this is not an airport, this is a museum! The main airport for the country of Bhutan is located just a few miles from the Capitol city and serves as a launching point for anyone wanting to hike tigers nest. There is only one runway and the approach flying in is very unique as it follows the contour of the valley coming close on both sides as the valley is very narrow. Once landing, you walk into the terminal to clear a very easy immigration process as long as you had your visa preapproved. The airport inside and outside is decorated in Bhutan style and is absolutely gorgeous. We took selfies on the tarmac of the outside of the buildings and then couldn’t stop taking additional photos inside as it was just spectacular. Even the baggage claim carousels have the center island filled with replicas of famous monasteries and temples from around the country. These miniature models are truly works of art. The main flagship airline has an exceptionally good safety and maintenance history, has fantastic customer service, and utilizes new airbus aircraft, including the 319 and 321. I would definitely recommend flying in here.

Paro International Airport, nestled in a deep Himalayan valley beside the Paro Chhu River, is Bhutan’s only international airport and one of the most challenging in the world. Sitting at an elevation of 2,235 meters (7,332 feet), it is famous for its thrilling approach that requires pilots with special certification due to the steep mountains surrounding the runway. The airport’s history traces Bhutan’s path to modernization. Initially built in 1968 for military helicopter use, Paro saw the establishment of Drukair, the national airline, in 1981, followed by its first commercial flight to Kolkata in 1983. Over the years, the runway was expanded, new aircraft were introduced, and a modern terminal was completed in 1999. In 2011, Bhutan Airlines became the nation’s first private carrier, further boosting connectivity. Today, Paro is served exclusively by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, linking Bhutan with major Asian cities such as Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Dhaka, and Singapore. Despite its limited flight routes, the airport is celebrated for its breathtaking landings, excellent safety record, and efficient, compact layout. Travelers often describe arriving at Paro as both a thrilling challenge and a spectacular introduction to Bhutan’s dramatic landscape—an experience as memorable as the destination itself.

One of the most scenic airports in the world! Paro International Airport is surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan mountains, making both landing and takeoff an unforgettable experience. The airport is clean, well-managed, and reflects the peaceful charm of Bhutan. A perfect welcome to the Land of the Thunder Dragon!

My first impression is that the airport is similar to the one at Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. It is well maintained and clean, with all services necessary for an international airport with no frills. It has a reputation of being the most dangerous airport in the world for landing and take-off, so I included a video of the takeoff for the viewer’s own judgment.

One of the most beautiful yet tricky airports in the world. It is often mistaken as “dangerous” airport but in fact it is not! The landing approach to align with the runway makes it a but difficult for pilots but as a passenger all you can do is admire the beauty! Airport is small compared to other high traffic major airports in the world but no one can match the aesthetic of Paro international airport. Placed in the middle of two hills, it makes a grate urban landscape. It feels like an upmarket boutique than a busy airport. It truly reflects Bhutanese culture and architecture in both exterior design and interior. Check in process, immigration and boarding is as smooth as it can be. All the staff members as helpful and polite.

​Paro International Airport is not just a place of transit; it is the official start of your journey into the Land of the Thunder Dragon. The thrilling visual flight, coupled with the immediate immersion into beautiful Bhutanese culture upon stepping out onto the tarmac, makes PBH a globally unique destination. ​Recommendation: Highly recommended. This airport alone is reason enough to visit Bhutan. Be sure to book a window seat (ideally on the left side when flying in from the West/South) and keep your camera ready (respecting all flight safety rules, of course!).

A very small airport ( less than a few meters from immigration to departure gate) but with two cafes, a book store and even a post office where you can make 12 pcs of stamps with your own photo at Nu500 and post it immediately. There are also 2-3 small souvenir shops where you can buy some herbs/ organic products. On arrival, besides exchange local currencies, there are two shops selling data SIM cards before entering the public area of the arrival hall and so you’ll never miss the chance to buy mobile phone SIM cards. Mine cost Nu1100 for unlimited data for 7 days, there are also 3 different kinds of package to suit different needs. The signal of mine is very stable all the way during the trip.