Reaching Tango Buddhist Institute, Thimphu, Bhutan
Tango Buddhist Institute is a significant Dzongkha and monastic school located in the northern part of the capital city of Thimphu in Bhutan. For travelers seeking to visit this serene and spiritual site, here are the ways you can reach the Institute:
By Air
The first step to reaching the Tango Buddhist Institute is to fly into Paro International Airport (PBH), the only international airport in Bhutan. It is well connected with flights from several cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Bangkok, and Dhaka. Airlines that serve Paro include Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
From Paro to Thimphu
After landing at Paro Airport, you can hire a taxi or book a car through a travel agency to reach Thimphu, which is approximately 51 kilometers away. The drive should take around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions and weather.
From Thimphu to Tango Buddhist Institute
- By Taxi: You can hire a local taxi from Thimphu which will take you directly to the base of the Tango Monastery. The drive is about 14 kilometers north of Thimphu and can take 30-40 minutes.
- Public Transport: Occasionally there are public buses heading in the direction of the Tango Monastery, but they are infrequent and not very reliable for travelers on a tight schedule.
- Guided Tours: Many visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation to the Tango Buddhist Institute. This can be arranged through your travel agent or hotel in Thimphu.
Hike to Tango Monastery
Once you reach the base, visiting Tango Buddhist Institute involves a moderate hike of about an hour through beautiful pine forests. The path is well-marked and offers a peaceful walk before reaching the monastery, which is situated at an elevation of around 2,800 meters (9,186 feet).
Important Tips
- Ensure that you have all necessary travel permits arranged as Bhutan requires tourists to have a visa, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and Maldives.
- Carry water and snacks for the hike as there are no shops along the path to the institute.
- Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes for the trek.
- Respect the monastic life and follow all local customs and guidelines during your visit.