Taktsang Monastery – A trekking bliss

There is something magical about Bhutan, the simple yet mesmerizing land somehow manages to comfort your soul and the serenity of nature will fill it with peace. The delightful climate, the breath-taking views and the majestic monasteries will leave you spellbound. The towering mountains - some of their peaks covered by the clouds, green valleys, the rivers meandering its way and fields filled with vivid flowers add to the sheer elegance of Bhutan.

Taktsang Monastery popularly called as the Tiger’s Nest is located in Paro at an elevation of over 10,000 feet and is one of the most magnificent creations that you will ever witness. Perched on a crag in the side of a mountain, it is Bhutan’s utmost revered monastery and an iconic landmark. The trek to Tiger’s Nest is something that countless travel buffs and trekkers have marked it in their wish list and are hopeful to tick it off from their bucket list. Taktsang Monastery is the mainstay of Bhutan attractions and it can be spotted from some parts of the city – it is so high up that it looks like a tiny white dot. There is a legend that Guru Rinpoche arrived at this spot on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours in the 8th century.

The Taktsang Monastery adventure starts when the guide shows up at the parking lot which feels way far from the monastery since you can barely manage to see it. Just to note – it is cool to trek it up all by yourself but it is recommended to opt for a guide who keeps explaining the remarkable history and other significant details along the way. On an average, it takes around 5 - 6 hours to do the round trip hike including 1 hour to tour the monastery. It is suggested to start by 7 or 8 am so that the trek can be finished by 1 or 2 pm.

At the outset, there are vendors selling Bhutanese souvenirs, hiking poles and this is the place to hire a horse if necessary. Due to its location, the only way to get to the monastery is by hiking or one can hire a horse which will go till a certain point and then you will have to hike the remaining part. In the beginning, the trek goes through the forest. Once out of the forest area, it’s an uphill trek for the remaining route. At some turns along the way, you can take a pit-stop and enjoy the spectacular views of Paro town and catch glimpse of the Tiger’s Nest which still seems so far away. After hiking almost for an hour, you will reach the cafeteria and can fix yourself with some quick refreshment. As the climb continues, feel the fresh mountain air, pass by plenty of colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind and witness some stunning views over the valley as you get higher.

After trekking for another hour, you will reach the photo stop point offering one of the best views of the hike by overlooking the monastery. Snap some memorable and iconic photos here! To reach the monastery, walk down few staircases, cross a small bridge and then make a slightly strenuous climb up. Before entering the Taktsang Monastery, you will have to deposit your cameras, backpacks, shoes and other equipment. Upon entering the divine realm, the spirituality takes over you. Each of the rooms is decorated with images of Buddhist deities. The smell of incense fills the air and occasional chants from monks nearby will bring you solace. Once you are ready to head down, the downhill trek is same way you came up. Bhutan Itinerary is incomplete without a visit to the Tiger’s Nest. The magnificent architecture, the sacred ambience and the impressive views along the way will make the climb worth it!

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