Paro International Airport (PBH)

Paro, BT 🇧🇹 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

VQPR

IATA

PBH

Elevation

7364 ft

Region

BT-11

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: VQPR

Local Code: Not available

Location: 27.4032° N, 89.424599° E

Continent: Asia

Type: Large International Airport

Keywords: སྤ་རོ་གནམ་ཐང༌། paro gnam thang

What Travelers Say

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Online Reviews Summary

Paro International Airport (VQPR (PBH)) generally receives very positive reviews from travelers, who often describe it as a unique and charming gateway to Bhutan. Despite its reputation for challenging landings, visitors are consistently impressed by the airport's efficiency, cleanliness, and distinctive traditional Bhutanese architecture, which provides an immediate immersion into the local culture upon arrival.

What Travelers Love
  • Scenic Arrival and Departure: The flight into and out of Paro offers breathtaking, unparalleled views of the Himalayan mountains and the Paro Valley, often described as thrilling and awe-inspiring.
  • Unique Architecture and Ambiance: The airport's design beautifully reflects traditional Bhutanese art and architecture, making it feel more like a boutique gateway or a historical site than a typical international airport.
  • Efficient and Friendly Service: Travelers frequently praise the fast and smooth immigration and baggage handling processes, with polite and helpful staff.
  • Clean Facilities and Free WiFi: The terminal is noted for its cleanliness and offers free and fast Wi-Fi, along with clean restrooms and comfortable waiting areas.
  • Basic but Adequate Amenities: Despite its small size, the airport provides essential services including a coffee shop, snack shops, souvenir and craft stores, a liquor store, currency exchange, and duty-free shopping.
Common Complaints
  • Limited Operating Hours and Potential Delays: Due to the challenging landing conditions, flights operate only during daylight hours and under clear weather conditions, leading to potential delays or cancellations, especially during monsoon or winter fog.
  • Basic Facilities (for some): While many appreciate the simplicity, some travelers note the amenities are basic compared to larger international airports, with limited food and retail options.
  • Strict Entry Time to Terminal: Passengers cannot enter the airport terminal until two hours before departure time.
  • High Parking Fees (Historical Complaint): In 2017, there were complaints regarding unreasonably high parking fees and a tiered zone system at the airport.

Paro International Airport offers a remarkably charming and efficient experience, particularly noted for its stunning mountain approach and culturally rich design. While its operational limitations due to challenging geography mean fewer amenities and strict flight conditions, the overall sentiment remains highly positive, with the airport itself often considered a highlight of the Bhutanese travel experience.

Last updated: 54 days ago
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Airport Routes

Paro International Airport (PBH) offers 19 flight routes operated by 2 airlines. Major carriers include Drukair-Royal Bhutan Airlines and Bhutan Airlines. Popular destinations from Paro include Gaya, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Int'l, Indira Gandhi Int'l, Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Int'l and Tribhuvan Int'l.

Route Network Map

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Popular Flight Routes

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Top Airlines

Operating at Paro International Airport

Airlines by Flight Activity

Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
14 353 14 Jan 29, 2026
5 183 5 Jan 29, 2026

For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
15/33 7431 ft 98 ft ASP Active

Type Description Frequency

Ident Name Type Frequency
PR Paro NDB 410 kHz
PRO Paro VOR 108400 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

Taxis are readily available at the taxi stand located just outside the airport terminal. Fares are generally fixed or negotiated, not metered, so it is advisable to agree on the price with the driver before starting your journey. While taxis are an option, most international tourists will have transportation pre-arranged by their tour operator.

Rental Cars

Self-drive car rentals are not available for tourists in Bhutan. All travel for tourists must be organized through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. This pre-booked package includes a private vehicle with a dedicated driver and a guide for the entire duration of the trip. These arrangements must be made prior to your arrival.

Public Transportation

There are no public buses or trains that directly serve Paro International Airport. The main public bus station is located in Paro town, which is a 10-15 minute drive from the airport and requires a taxi to reach. Public transport is generally not utilized by tourists as their transportation is included in their mandatory tour package.

AI-Generated Content: This ground transportation information was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Prices, schedules, and availability may change; please verify with official airport or transportation provider websites before traveling.

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