Today is the highlight of your trip as you embark on a hike to the Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. After an early breakfast, you will be driven to the base of the trail that leads to the monastery. The hike begins with a gradual ascent through pine forests, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.
As you climb higher, you will catch your first glimpse of the Tiger’s Nest, perched dramatically on the edge of a sheer cliff. The trail becomes steeper as you approach the monastery, but the views of the Paro Valley below and the surrounding mountains make the effort worthwhile.
The hike to the monastery takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. Along the way, you will stop at a small teahouse, where you can rest and enjoy panoramic views of the monastery. From here, the trail continues upward, eventually leading to a series of steps that take you to the entrance of the monastery.
Taktsang Monastery is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, flew to this site on the back of a tigress in the 8th century and meditated here for three months. The monastery complex consists of several temples and meditation caves, each with its own significance. The interiors are adorned with beautiful murals and statues, and the spiritual atmosphere is palpable.
After exploring the monastery and taking in the views, you will descend back to the valley floor. The descent takes about 1.5-2 hours. Upon reaching the base, you will be driven back to Paro for lunch.
In the afternoon, you can relax at your hotel or explore more of Paro town at your leisure. Dinner will be served at your hotel. Overnight in Paro.