Plizio Visual Lab
Paro Rice Terraces
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Agriculture
The Paro Rice Terraces are a defining feature of the cultural landscape in western Bhutan. The Paro Valley is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,200 meters and is known for its fertile soils and pleasant climate. The red rice grown here is a staple food in Bhutan and thrives particularly well in the cool mountain air. The terraced fields are irrigated with mineral-rich glacial water, which is channeled down from the mountains through an ingenious system of canals. Agriculture here is still largely conducted in a traditional manner, often using oxen and manual labor. Depending on the season, the appearance of the terraces changes from lush green in summer to golden yellow in autumn. These terraces are not only an important source of food but also an example of sustainable land use in a mountain region. They offer a photogenic sight, especially with the surrounding monasteries and farmhouses in the background.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: |White Lotus Art Gallery · Chorten · ལྷ་ཁང
- Nearby: Tsimasham (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 3 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 12 | 32 | 60 | 108 | 153 | 259 | 207 | 134 | 51 | 3 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Paro Rice Terraces in Paro Valley, Bhutan, are an agricultural masterpiece that transforms the fertile Himalayan slopes into an intricate terraced landscape. They form the backbone of local rice production and define the region's cultural heritage and remarkable scenery.
Visiting
The rice terraces can be visited year-round, with the best time during the growing season and autumn harvest. Hiking trails wind through the terraced fields, allowing visitors to experience the landscape up close, though they should not step onto the fields.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the hiking trail along the Paro River, offering a broad view of the terraced fields and surrounding mountains. Temples on the hills, such as Taktshang Monastery, also provide an elevated perspective over the rice terraces.
Local products
The region primarily grows red rice, a traditional Bhutanese staple. At local markets in Paro, travellers can purchase this as well as other items like chili peppers, cheese, and handicrafts from local farmers.
Active season
The rice terraces are most alive during the planting season from June to July and the harvest in September and October. In autumn, the landscape turns into a golden sea, especially photogenic and accompanied by cultural festivals.
Nearby
Combine the rice terrace visit with Taktshang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) and Paro town. A trip to the National Museum of Bhutan also provides deep insight into the country's history and culture.
Geography
Facts
- The primary cultivation area for Bhutanese red rice.
- Located at an average altitude of 2,200 meters.
- Irrigation is provided by mineral-rich glacial meltwater.
- Traditional farming methods are still widely practiced.
- The terraces define the scenic beauty of the Paro Valley.
- The rice is a central part of Bhutanese diet and export.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Paro Rice Terraces (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When are the terraces greenest?
During the summer months (June-August), the rice is in full bloom.
When is harvest time?
Harvest usually takes place in October, when the fields turn golden.
Can you walk on the fields?
Please stay on the designated paths to avoid damaging the crops.
What kind of rice is grown here?
Mainly Bhutanese red rice, which is typical of the region.
Where is the best view?
From the road to Taktsang monastery, there is a great view over the valley.
Paro Rice Terraces: where is it located?
Paro Rice Terraces is located in Bhutan.
Paro Rice Terraces: what is there to see?
Highlights include |White Lotus Art Gallery, Chorten, ལྷ་ཁང.
Paro Rice Terraces: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
Paro Rice Terraces: why is it worth visiting?
The Paro Rice Terraces are a defining feature of the cultural landscape in western Bhutan.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Bhutan →
Nearby cities
Thimphu
Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan, known for its blend of traditional culture and modernity without traffic lights.
Bogra
One of the oldest cities in Bengal, known as the 'Capital of North Bengal' and famous for its archaeological heritage.
Tsimasham
Tsimasham is the headquarters of Chukha district, strategically located along the main highway between Thimphu and the Indian border.
Haa
Haa is a small, secluded town in western Bhutan, nestled in a deep valley near the border with Tibet.
Khulna
An industrial city in southwestern Bangladesh, serving as the main gateway to the Sundarbans mangrove forest.
Rangpur
One of the major cities in northern Bangladesh, known for its agricultural importance and historical sites like Tajhat Palace.
Pabna
An important city in western Bangladesh, known for its hosiery industry and mental health hospital.
Jessore
A historic city in southwestern Bangladesh, known for its date palm juice and as the first district liberated in 1971.
Jhenaidah
A district in western Bangladesh known for its agricultural diversity and several historical mosques and temples.
Laya
An isolated high-altitude village at 3800 meters, home to the semi-nomadic Layap people known for their unique conical bamboo hats.
History & landmarks
🗺️
Phajoding Monastery
A massive monastery complex high above Thimphu, reached by a steep hike.
Cheri Monastery
The first monastery in Bhutan, built in 1620.
Tango Monastery
A high-altitude Buddhist center founded in the 15th century.
Buddha Dordenma
A gigantic Buddha statue towering over Thimphu.
Dochula Pass
A scenic mountain pass featuring 108 memorial chortens.
Taktsang Monastery
Known as the Tiger's Nest, the monastery clings to a steep cliff above the Paro Valley.
Kila Nunnery
The oldest nunnery in Bhutan, often referred to as the female Tiger's Nest.
Sundarbans
The largest contiguous mangrove forest in the world is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the endangered Bengal tiger.
Nature
More places
National Seed Centre Paro
An important facility for preserving agricultural diversity and providing high-quality seeds to Bhutanese farmers.
🗺️
Bjemina Industrial Estate
An industrial estate near the capital Thimphu, focusing on light industries, wood processing, and construction materials.
Tashichho Dzong
A Buddhist monastery and fortress on the northern edge of Thimphu, serving as the seat of the Bhutanese government since 1952.
Dechen Phodrang Monastery
This historical monastery was the original site of the Tashichho Dzong until it was relocated.
Changangkha Lhakhang
One of the oldest temples in Thimphu, established in the 12th century.
National Memorial Chorten
A prominent monument in Thimphu, built in 1974 to honor the third King of Bhutan.
Semtokha Dzong
The oldest surviving fortress in Bhutan, built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
Kyichu Lhakhang
One of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo according to legend.