Bhutan to Singapore

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.

Singapore is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable experience for travelers from the United Kingdom. This vibrant city-state, nestled at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, is renowned for its seamless blend of modernity and tradition. From its world-class shopping districts to its lush green parks, Singapore offers a unique multicultural environment where diverse cultures and beliefs coexist harmoniously. Whether you're exploring the historic colonial core or relaxing on the serene beaches of Sentosa, Singapore has something for everyone.

Best Time to Visit

For visitors from the United Kingdom, the ideal time to visit Singapore is between February and April. During these months, the weather is relatively dry and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Avoid the monsoon season from November to January, as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans. If you’re interested in experiencing local festivals, consider visiting during Chinese New Year in January or February, or the Great Singapore Sale in June and July.

Getting There

Singapore is well-connected to the United Kingdom with frequent flights from major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. The primary international gateway is Changi Airport (SIN), which is one of the busiest and most efficient airports in the world. Airlines such as British Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates offer direct flights to Singapore. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and check visa requirements before booking your flight. For cheap flights to Singapore, consider booking in advance and keeping an eye out for special deals.

Where to Stay

Singapore offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. For luxury seekers, Marina Bay Sands and The Ritz-Carlton provide exceptional service and stunning views. Mid-range travelers can opt for hotels like Park Hotel Clarke Quay or Hotel G Singapore, which offer comfort and convenience. Budget-conscious visitors will find plenty of options in areas like Little India and Chinatown, where hostels and budget hotels provide affordable yet comfortable stays.

Must-See Places & Experiences

Singapore is brimming with attractions that cater to all interests:
• Gardens by the Bay – Marvel at the futuristic Supertree Grove and the stunning Flower Dome.
• Marina Bay Sands – Visit the SkyPark for panoramic city views.
• Sentosa Island – Enjoy the beaches, Universal Studios, and Adventure Cove Waterpark.
• Singapore Zoo – Experience the Night Safari and River Safari.
• Chinatown – Explore the rich heritage and vibrant markets.
• Orchard Road – Indulge in shopping at world-class malls.

Local Transportation

Getting around Singapore is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transportation system. From Changi Airport, you can take the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) to the city center. The MRT network covers most of the city, making it easy to reach major attractions. Buses and taxis are also readily available. For a unique experience, consider taking a river taxi along the Singapore River.

Food & Dining

Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse culinary scene. Must-try dishes include:
• Hainanese Chicken Rice
• Chili Crab
• Laksa
• Satay
• Char Kway Teow
For an authentic dining experience, visit hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat. If you prefer fine dining, restaurants such as Odette and Burnt Ends offer exquisite meals.

Practical Travel Tips

• Currency: The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is used.
• Language: English is widely spoken.
• Safety: Singapore is known for its safety and cleanliness.
• Apps: Download Grab for taxi services and Google Maps for navigation.
• Electrical Outlets: Singapore uses Type G sockets, the same as the UK.

Singapore is a destination that promises a memorable experience for travelers from the United Kingdom. With its rich cultural heritage, modern attractions, and diverse culinary offerings, it’s no wonder that Singapore is a top choice for international visitors.