India to Paro

Mumbai is a dazzling metropolis that captures the essence of India’s vibrant culture and dynamic economy. As the financial capital of the country, Mumbai offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it an attractive destination for visitors from Australia. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets, enjoying the coastal views, or immersing yourself in Bollywood glamour, Mumbai promises an unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Visit

For travelers from Australia, the ideal time to visit Mumbai is between November and February. During these months, the weather is cooler and more comfortable, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Avoid the monsoon season from June to September, when heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans. The winter months also coincide with numerous festivals, including Diwali and Christmas, adding to the city's festive charm.

Getting There

Mumbai is well-connected to Australia with direct flights from major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) serves as the primary gateway, offering seamless connectivity. Airlines such as Qantas, Air India, and Singapore Airlines frequently operate flights on this route. Ensure you have a valid visa before departure, as Australian citizens require a tourist visa to enter India. It's advisable to book your Mumbai flight tickets in advance to secure the best deals.

Where to Stay

Mumbai offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. For luxury seekers, the Taj Mahal Palace and The Oberoi provide opulent stays with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Budget travelers can opt for comfortable yet affordable hotels like The Residency Hotel or Hotel Suba Palace. Areas such as Colaba, Bandra, and Juhu are popular among international tourists for their vibrant atmosphere and proximity to major attractions.

Must-See Places & Experiences

Mumbai is home to iconic landmarks and cultural hotspots that should not be missed.
• Gateway of India
• Marine Drive
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
• Elephanta Caves
• Haji Ali Dargah
• Siddhivinayak Temple
• Juhu Beach
• Bollywood studio tours
For a unique experience, explore the bustling markets like Chor Bazaar and Colaba Causeway, where you can shop for antiques, jewelry, and local crafts.

Local Transportation

Getting around Mumbai is relatively easy with various transportation options available. From the airport, you can take prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Uber and Ola. The city's suburban railway network is extensive but can be crowded during peak hours. BEST buses and auto-rickshaws are also convenient for short distances. For a hassle-free experience, consider hiring a private car for the day.

Food & Dining

Mumbai's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of flavors, reflecting its diverse population. Must-try dishes include Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, and Bhel Puri. For fine dining, visit restaurants like The Table and Trishna, known for their exquisite seafood. Street food is an integral part of Mumbai's culture, so don't miss out on local favorites at Juhu Beach and Girgaon Chowpatty.

Practical Travel Tips

When visiting Mumbai, keep these practical tips in mind:
• Currency: The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Currency exchange services are available at the airport and major hotels.
• Language: Hindi and Marathi are widely spoken, but English is commonly used in tourist areas.
• Safety: While Mumbai is generally safe, be cautious of your belongings in crowded places.
• Useful Apps: Download apps like MakeMyTrip for flight bookings, Ola for local cabs, and Zomato for restaurant recommendations.

With its rich cultural heritage and modern attractions, Mumbai is a city that promises an enriching experience for travelers from Australia. Book your cheap flight tickets to Mumbai and embark on a journey of discovery.

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.