PBH: The Most Unique Airport In The World
Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. I’ve already written about how Paro is considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world, but it also happens to be the most beautiful…and unique.
Paro International Airport – Unique
As you step off the airplane in Paro, you are greeted by a unique fleet of aircraft neatly parked in a row, fresh air, and a terminal building unlike any I have ever seen.
You’ll also be greeted by a massive picture of the King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuc, the Queen Jetsun Pema, and the Crown Prince, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuc. Portraits of state leaders are not unique to Bhutan, but images of the royal family of Bhutan are present everywhere.
The new arrivals terminal was dedicated in 2015 by the king.
Stepping inside, your first photo opportunity is a sign welcoming you to Bhutan and underscoring how lush and green much of Bhutan is compared to its neighbors in the region like India and Nepal.
A VIP Lounge that was closed
Inside the arrivals hall, you are met with more unique architecture, portraits of royal family members, a tree that reaches up to the skylight above, and music playing in the background.
Religious symbols on the ceiling
Look at the ornate details on the immigration counter:
Your “Sustainable Development Fee” (currently $100 per day for travelers 13 and over and $50 per day for travelers 6-12 years old) must be paid online before entering and will be processed at the immigration counter. I will address this in a separate post.
Beyond immigration, there are beautiful models of fortress-like structures called Dzongs that are preset in Bhutan.
There’s a duty free shop…alcohol is very expensive in Bhutan:
…and also a warning not to take any antiquities out of the country without permission.
There are no rental car counters…foreigners are (generally) not permitted to drive. Instead, you will meet your pre-arranged guide outside the baggage hall.
Paro Airport has a beautiful arrivals facility that underscores what a unique country Bhutan is.
It was time to explore Bhutan.