Paro Taktsang — the Tiger’s Nest — clings to a granite cliff 900 metres above the Paro Valley. It is Bhutan’s most photographed sight and, for many travelers, the emotional heart of the entire journey. Here is how to make the climb well.
The trail. The hike is roughly 3 hours up and 2 hours down, gaining about 520 metres of elevation. It is moderate rather than technical: a well-worn path through blue pine forest, past prayer wheels and fluttering flags, with a teahouse roughly halfway offering a place to rest and the first clear view of the monastery across the ravine.
When to go. Start early — ideally by 8am — to reach the top before midday cloud rolls in and before the trail warms. Spring and autumn offer the clearest skies; winter is quieter and often dusted with snow.
What to bring. Sturdy shoes with grip, layers you can shed, at least a litre of water, and sun protection. Horses can carry you to the halfway teahouse, but the final ascent — a series of stone steps down into the ravine and back up to the monastery — must be done on foot.
Inside. Photography is not permitted within the temple, and modest dress is required (shoulders and knees covered). Take the time to sit. Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated in a cave here in the 8th century, and the stillness at the top rewards those who linger.
