Travel Guide to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Paro, Bhutan

Overview of Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Tiger’s Nest Monastery (also known as Paro Taktsang) is one of Bhutan’s most revered places, as well as one of its most iconic landmarks. Perched on the side of a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley floor, it is a significant site of pilgrimage and a symbol of Bhutanese cultural identity.

Getting to Paro, Bhutan

Before you can start your journey to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, you must first reach Paro, Bhutan. This can generally be done by air or by road.

By Air:

The easiest and most direct way to get to Paro is to fly into Paro International Airport (PBH). It is well-connected with regular flights from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, and Dhaka. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the two main carriers operating flights to and from Paro.

By Road:

If you are traveling by road, you'll likely be coming from India through one of the border towns, such as Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar. From these points, you can hire a car or take a bus to reach Paro, but make sure to have your visa and entry permit ready as they are checked at the border.

Reaching Tiger’s Nest Monastery from Paro

Once in Paro, the journey to Tiger’s Nest Monastery usually starts from the base camp, which is approximately 12km from Paro Town. Here's how to get there:

By Taxi or Bus:

You can hire a taxi or catch a local bus from Paro to the base of the mountain where the trek to Tiger’s Nest begins.

Trekking to Tiger’s Nest:

The only way to truly reach the monastery is by foot or on horseback. It is a challenging trek that takes about 2 to 4 hours to ascend. Although horses can take you part of the way, the final approach must be on foot. The trail is well-maintained but steep, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Make sure to carry water and snacks for the journey and to dress respectfully, as Tiger’s Nest is a sacred site.

Tips for Visiting

• Start Early: Begin your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat of the afternoon.
• Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insight into the history and significance of the monastery.
• Entry Fee: Visitors are required to pay an entry fee; it’s generally included in the overall tour package price if you are on a guided tour.
• Dress Code: Dress modestly as Paro Taktsang is a religious site; shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Permits: Bhutan has a daily visitor tariff and requires most tourists to obtain a visa. Ensure your travel arrangements include all necessary permits.
• Photography: Photography inside the monastery is not allowed, but you can take photographs of the exterior and the surrounding landscapes.

Important Considerations

Remember that Bhutan prioritizes sustainable tourism to preserve its culture and environment. When planning your trip, consider the impact of your visit and choose services that support responsible travel.