WHAT IS THE TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY?
Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang or Taktsang Palphug Monastery is one of the most famous and revered monasteries in Bhutan.
Situated in Paro Valley: The monastery is located on a cliffside in the upper Paro Valley in Bhutan. It stands at an elevation of approximately 3,120 meters (10,240 feet) above sea level. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew to this location on the back of a tigress, which gave the monastery its name, “Tiger’s Nest.”
The monastery complex consists of several temples and residential shelters for monks. The buildings are beautifully constructed and blend into the rock face, with wooden balconies offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Any journey to Bhutan remains incomplete without a visit to the iconic Paro Taktsang.
HOW TO GET TO TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY
From Paro Town: The monastery is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of Paro town.
The visit to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery takes a full day. On average, it takes between five and six hours to do the round trip hike. The hike typically takes 2-3 hours one way, depending on fitness levels. Plan on leaving your hotel early around 8 am and arriving back at your hotel around 3 pm.
The hike begins at the base of the mountain, near the parking area. The trail consists of well-maintained paths with steps and railings in steeper sections. It passes through lush forests and offers scenic viewpoints. It is uphill the entire way but not overly steep. It’s very doable for most people, just be prepared to take your time.
There’s a cafeteria about halfway up the trail where you can take a break, rest, and enjoy refreshments. It takes most people between one and two hours. Along the way, stop at various viewpoints along the way to admire panoramic vistas of the Paro Valley and the monastery.
However, for those who cannot hike the entire way, you can hire a horse to carry you most of the way there.
TIGER’S NEST HIKING STATS
- Distance: 6.4 km (4 miles) round trip
- Total Ascent: 600 meters
- Highest Elevation: 3,120 meters (10,232 feet)
- Time: Allow 5 to 6 hours for the entire visit
FIRST VIEWS OF THE TIGER’S NEST
After leaving the cafeteria, the climb is a little easier. The trail is not as steep and gets less monotonous, especially as you near the monastery. As you continue hiking, the trail brings you progressively closer to the monastery.
One of the best views of the hike is at the point where you overlook the monastery. This is where many people snap that iconic photo. From here, it’s a short walk down a stone staircase. You come across a bridge crossing a waterfall.
Once at the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, your guide will take you on a tour of the temples. Backpacks, photography equipment, and shoes are not allowed inside of the monastery. These will need to be left with security staff located just outside of the monastery walls.
After your tour of the Tiger’s Nest, you will hike back the way you came. Make sure you get all the photos you want…this is something you will want to look back on forever.
HELPFUL TIPS
Take Your Time: Don’t rush the hike. Take breaks at the viewpoints to fully enjoy and capture the scenery.
Photography: While photography inside the monastery is not allowed, the viewpoints along the trail offer plenty of opportunities for stunning photos.
Soak in the Atmosphere: Beyond the visual beauty, take a moment to appreciate the spiritual and historical significance of the site.
How fit do you need to be to do this hike? Anyone of average fitness can complete this hike. Take your time, it is not a race. You may want to bring hiking poles to help out your knees on the descent.
What to Bring. Hiking shoes, lots of water, a few snacks, and your camera. You can buy lunch or tea at the cafeteria.
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