Paro Taktsang, Paro

Perched on the edge of a cliff at a dizzying height of over 3,000 meters, Paro Taktsang is a breathtaking monastery that has become the cultural icon of Bhutan. Also known as the Tiger's Nest, this sacred Vajrayana Himalayan Buddhist site is located near the city of Paro and offers a mystic blend of spirituality and natural beauty.

The origins of Paro Taktsang date back to the 8th century when, according to legend, Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, meditated in the caves here for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours. It is said that he flew to this location on the back of a tigress, hence the name Tiger's Nest. The monastery itself was built in 1692, around the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated, and has been a pilgrimage site for Buddhists ever since.

The journey to the monastery is as remarkable as the destination itself. Visitors must undertake a challenging hike that takes about two to three hours from the base to reach the monastery, traversing through pine forests and occasionally catching glimpses of the stunning Paro valley below. Despite the arduous trek, the path is well-trodden by devotees and tourists alike, who are drawn to the monastery’s spiritual significance and its dramatic location.

The structure of Paro Taktsang clings to the granite cliff and seems to be an extension of the mountain itself. The architecture is a marvel, with white buildings topped with golden roofs, and a complex of temples and residential buildings interconnected by staircases and balconies. Inside, the monastery houses many sacred shrines and a collection of priceless religious artifacts.

Paro Taktsang is not only a testament to human faith and architectural ingenuity but also a sanctuary for meditation and reflection. Visitors are advised to respect the sanctity of the site and the monks' way of life during their visit. Photography inside the temples is generally prohibited to preserve the tranquility and sacredness of the space.