Sitting pretty at an altitude of 2200 metres above sea level, Paro is the gateway to beautiful Bhutan. Planes make an incongruous sight, flying low as they prepare for landing in this Himalayan oasis, home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries. Resting on the banks of the Paro River, there is plenty to observe in this traditional town, from quaint farmhouses scattered across the valley to emerald green terraced paddy fields . For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, a great day excursion is to trek to the famous Tiger's Nest Temple, on the face of a sheer 1000-metre-high cliff. This acclaimed temple houses the National Museum, which shows hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artefacts and artwork. It's advised to do this at the end of a trip, once travellers have acclimatised.