Insider Journeys: COMO Uma Paro, Bhutan

Overview

COMO Uma Paro is one of two COMO properties in Bhutan - the other is located in Punakha Valley – and is only 15 minutes from the Paro International Airport. It has an enviable position on a private expanse of hillside overlooking Paro Valley, complete with forested walking trails and a large field for activities. The boutique COMO Paro hotel is one of the best places to stay in the valley, with the property featuring Paro’s only full-service spa and wellness centre including a pool – a definite plus when you plan to hike while staying here. There is an excellent restaurant and bar onsite, with the option to stay on a bed and breakfast, half-board or full-board basis with à la carte dining included.

COMO Uma Paro has a mix of guest rooms housed in the main hotel building – which also features the restaurant, bar, reception and wellness centre – and a number of private villas dotted along a hillside above the main building. The additional benefit of staying in a villa includes the complimentary mini-bar, separate living and dining area plus massage room, and the beautiful hillside view from the spacious terrace. By contrast, the rooms and suites in the main building have the convenience of being close to all the facilities, but they lack the space and other extra perks of the villas.

What we loved

The dining at Bukhari Restaurant at COMO Uma Paro is exceptional, so much so that the restaurant is a favourite of Bhutan’s Royal Family who frequently dine here. The menu features authentic local dishes – try the momos, red rice and local cheese dishes – alongside modern international cuisine. The COMO Shambhala menu is also available for nutritious lighter options. Breakfast includes a generous continental selection as well as cooked à la carte options.

We also loved the people at COMO Uma Paro (and COMO Uma Punakha). The staff were genuine and generous, always quick with a smile and offer to help. One afternoon we mentioned we were curious about Bhutanese darts and archery, and they jumped at the chance to take us out to the field and host us in their national game. Our guide, Kheydrup, was wonderful too – extremely competent, professional and heartfelt in his desire for us to experience the best of Bhutan’s culture and natural landscapes. A common thread amongst the COMO team, and many we met in Bhutan, was a sense of pride in sharing their country and culture with us, and a gratitude that we had come to visit. It was truly humbling.

What surprised us

There were many lovely surprises during our visit to COMO Uma Paro, from the most delicious welcome tea served on arrival, to the special pre-dinner drinks around the outdoor fireplace one evening with a local musician playing for us. Upon checking into our villa, we also discovered the large space not only contained a great living and dining area separate to the master bedroom suite, but it also featured its own massage room set up with two tables ready for us should we feel the need. And, we did. Two therapists later helped ease our sore muscles post hike - it was so nice being able to relax afterwards without leaving the comfort of our villa. Highly recommend the villa for this reason alone!

Worth noting - we also learnt the drinking water in many areas of Bhutan is not safe to drink, so bottled distilled water is readily available in the rooms and villas at COMO Uma.

Recommended experiences

Let’s start with the obvious – Tigers Nest Hike is a must-do walk for anyone visiting Paro. Given the altitude, it is recommended to hike up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery at the end of your journey, or after at least two days of acclimatising in Paro or another valley. Walk into Luxury’s journeys are structured in this way.

Another experience we highly recommend while at COMO Uma Paro is the walk to Zuri Dzong, which is accessible on foot from the hotel on a short section of the Trans Bhutan Trail. It makes for a perfect day one stroll while you’re still acclimatising, as it takes just 30 minutes to reach a wonderful viewpoint overlooking Paro Valley. From the viewpoint, you have the option to continue a short distance further to reach the historic watch tower which is now a museum, and the adjacent Paro (Rinpung) Dzong.

What’s Nearby?

Many guests like to extend their Bhutan journey with a stay at COMO Uma Punakha, the sister property to COMO Uma Paro. Nestled among rice terraces and overlooking the Mo Chhu River, it offers a peaceful contrast to Paro - the kind of place where time seems to slow down and nature takes centre stage.

For a touch of local charm, Gangtey Lodge in the Phobjikha Valley is another wonderful option. Surrounded by sweeping glacial valleys and pine forests, it combines Bhutanese architecture with luxurious touches and offers breathtaking views of the Gangtey Monastery.

If your travels take you back to Thimphu, consider a stay at Six Senses Thimphu - often called the “Palace in the Sky.” It’s the ideal blend of contemporary design, mountain views, and mindful luxury to round out your Bhutan adventure.